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Salvadoran restaurant in Graham, North Carolina
What should I order at El Carbonero?
What to order
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Pupusas
Mentioned repeatedly as the best pupusas people have had, praised for their crisp edges, soft middle, great cheese and flavor combinations, and excellent salsa and curtido accompaniment. Multiple variations like zucchini and cheese, breakfast, bean and cheese, spinach and cheese, and chicken and cheese were specifically highlighted.
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Pollo Giovanni
Frequently recommended for its delicious flavor, perfectly spiced rice, and cheesy broccoli topper. Several reviewers called it their favorite dish and praised the taste and quality.
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Casamiento (rice and beans)
Described as 'out of this world' and the best rice and beans some reviewers have ever had, indicating it is a standout side dish.
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4
Tacos
Specifically steak and chicken tacos were mentioned as well-seasoned and delicious, with positive remarks on taste and quality.
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5
Yuca Frita Combinada
Called very good and enjoyed for its authentic preparation.
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6
Arroz Texano
Recommended as an amazing dish by a reviewer, suggesting it is worth trying.
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7
Lemonade
Not a dish, but repeatedly praised for being fresh squeezed and very good, enhancing the overall meal experience.
Details
Hours
| Monday | 9 AM to 8:30 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 9 AM to 8:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 9 AM to 8:30 PM |
| Thursday | 9 AM to 8:30 PM |
| Friday | 9 AM to 8:30 PM |
| Saturday | 9 AM to 8:30 PM |
| Sunday | 9 AM to 8:30 PM |
About El Carbonero
Pupusas, tamales & other Salvadoran specialties are prepared in an unassuming space.
Amenities
Service options
- Delivery
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Great coffee
- Serves local specialty
Popular for
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Healthy options
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Vegetarian options
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Counter service
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Quiet
- Trendy
Crowd
- Family-friendly
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
Parking
- Free parking lot
- Free street parking
- Usually plenty of parking
Frequently asked
What is El Carbonero known for?
El Carbonero is best known for its pupusas, especially versions with cheese, zucchini and cheese, bean and cheese, spinach and cheese, and chicken and cheese. Reviewers also praise the curtido, warm tomato salsa, and the fresh, homemade flavor that makes the pupusas stand out.
What dishes are most recommended at El Carbonero?
The most recommended items are the pupusas, chicken tamales, Pollo Giovanni, casamiento, and steak tacos. Reviewers also mention chicharrones, yuca frita combinada, chile rellenos, and flan as dishes worth ordering.
What is the atmosphere like at El Carbonero?
The atmosphere is casual, cozy, and quiet, in an unassuming space rather than a fancy dining room. It works well for solo dining, families, and groups, and reviewers note that the food is made to order and the service is friendly.
Is El Carbonero good value, and what is the price range?
El Carbonero is in the $10 to $20 range, and reviewers call the prices reasonable. The portions and made-to-order Salvadoran food are described as worth the trip, especially for pupusas, breakfast, and weekday specials.
When is the best time to visit El Carbonero?
Weekends can get full, while weekdays have specials, so a weekday visit may be easier if you want a quieter meal. Reviewers also note that breakfast is available all day, which makes it a good option if you want pupusas or breakfast items outside the morning hours.
Is parking available at El Carbonero?
Yes. Free parking lot, Free street parking, Usually plenty of parking is available.
Does El Carbonero have vegetarian options?
Yes, El Carbonero offers vegetarian options.
Is El Carbonero kid-friendly?
Yes, El Carbonero is good for kids.
