113 East Lemon Ave., Monrovia 626-359-0946
Type: Argentinean & Italian (I kid you not!)
Quality: !!! Price: $-$$ Ambience: ***
They claim to serve authentic Argentinean and Italian cuisine. Many Argentineans have European lineage, so it wouldn't surprise me. They have 17 different types of empanadas, including, beef (Criolla), basil (Albahaca), and their "Tango", which contains Chili chipotle, tomatoes, potatoes, onions, and cheese. You can order them a la carte for $2.50 each, or you can order a dozen for $24.50.
I ordered the Tango, beef, and basil. The crusts were flaky. I thought the beef was just OK, but I really liked the basil and Tango. The bread dip was also good--white vinegar, garlic, parsley, onions, and red chile. The initial batch of bread was free, but they charged us for additional bread.
Dinner specials average $10-$11. Pizzas are about $10 (12 inches). French roll sandwiches are either $8.95 or $9.95. Salads range from $6.50 to $9.95. I've heard that they sell in the Monrovia Farmers Market on Fridays. It is closed on Sundays.
1313 Huntington Dr., Duarte 626-359-1594
Type: El Salvadoran
Quality: !!! Price: $-$$ Ambience: !
Pupusas are similar to empanadas. They were pretty good here, but the place is an absolute hole-in-the-wall. Although it's a restaurant, the owners try to sell a bunch of other knick-knacks as well, such as cologne and perfume. They're trying to make a living, so I can't really complain. These pupusas are are bit on the expensive side: $2.05 for each a la carte. Well, they're expensive compared to what you can get them for near downtown Los Angeles. They were quite tasty.
Avoid the burritos, tacos, and hamburgers. This is an El Salvadoran restaurant, not a Mexican nor an American one! You can find better burritos, tacos, and hamburgers in many other locations.