El Cilantrillo Restaurant – Mexican
This vibrant destination immerses diners in the soulful flavors of Puerto Rico, where the air is thick with the savory scent of sizzling longaniza and golden-fried alcapurrias. The kitchen masterfully balances crunch and sweetness, serving up towering samplers of crispy plantain spiders and corn fritters alongside warm fried cheese drizzled in tropical guava salsa. It is a festive, communal experience that honors island traditions through hearty portions and authentic techniques, making every meal feel like a spirited Caribbean celebration.
3628, West Vine Street, 34741 +14072014505 https://www.elcilantrillo.com/0Cuisine: Mexican
Price range: $$
Dietary options: high-protein, keto, low-carb, gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free, vegan, vegetarian, diabetic, pescatarian, plant-based, sugar-free, whole30, paleo, atkins, high-fiber, low-cholesterol, south-beach, clean-eating, carnivore, low-fodmap, aip, candida, slow-carb, lectin-free
Currently open
Hours
- Monday - Thursday
- 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM
- Friday - Saturday
- 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
- Sunday
- 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Menu
Appetizers
Bold appetizers made to open your appetite and start conversations.
- El Esmayao Sampler: Crispy pork chunks, fried chicken bites, Puerto Rican sausage, sweet corn fritters, fried cheese, and tostones
- Fried Cheese: Crispy fried cheese
Mofongos
Iconic Puerto Rican dish made with fried green plantains mashed with garlic and oil.
- Mofongo with Fried Pork Chunks: Mashed green plantains with garlic and oil, filled with crispy pork chunks
House Plates
Signature creations—hearty, bold, and unapologetically Puerto Rican.
- El Cilantrazo (Serves 2–4): Skirt steak, Kan Kan pork chop, grilled chicken breast, longaniza, fried pork chunks, yucca, French fries, and mamposteao rice
From the Sea
Fresh, coastal side of Puerto Rican cuisine.
- Stuffed Whole Snapper (Chillo Relleno): Whole red snapper fried golden, stuffed with choice of protein, finished with garlic or Creole sauce
Beverages
Tropical spirits and handcrafted mixers.
- Passion Fruit Mojito: Mint, rum, lime, and tropical passion fruit (parcha)