It doesn't stop at a wonderful menu built upon always fresh - always homemade ingredients; not only is El Rincon Criollo's food delicious and sumptuous - but the surroundings make one feel as if they have walked off Sepulveda and are setting down for a feast off a beach. The walls are covered with paintings imported from Cuba and done by Cuban artists. There may be other Cuban restaurants in Los A
ngeles, but none catch the true flavor of the native land known as the 'pearl of the Antillas', Cuba was the place to go for food, fun, music and gambling. Politics might have gotten in the way a few years ago, but the food and style the emigres brought was fantastic - A cultural mix of Spain, South America, France and the Caribbean. El Rincon Criollo in Spanish means "the creole corner," and this little corner (actually - 2 doors in from the corner) on Sepulveda is the place to enjoy lunch or dinner anytime. The value is obvious and the portions are generous. Known for roast chicken dishes and the leanest firmest lechon (pork) dishes are also served with rice, black beans, plantains and lots of wonderfully seasoned onions. Eleven seafood dishes including a fresh variety of sautéed fish and shrimp in a tasty Cuban sauce are wonderful. Imported sodas, fresh home-made Sangria and fresh lemonade are all on hand with an extensive beer and wine list (including various mixed "cocktails"). Fresh coconuts and fruit juices round-out the beverages.
