We came across El Bayu de Wela Sara while looking for a place to meet up and dine with longtime friends visiting the Hollywood area after a cruise. Lou said he was in the mood for some Real Latin Food.  I had already been planning a visit to this restaurant in the near future therefore, what better time than now to give it a try?  From the moment that you walk in you are immersed in the color and flair of the décor which is representative of the beautiful island that is Puerto Rico complete with island songwriters and their popular music as well as traditional.  Immediately upon entering there is a small sit-down counter followed by a larger seating area. 

Shortly after we were seated Barbara, our server, came and answered all of our menu questions and took our drink orders. For appetizers, we ordered the Alcapurrias which are a Puerto Rican snack made with grated green bananas or taro root (or a combination of both) that are stuffed with corned beef, picadillo – (seasoned ground beef), crab, or chicken, then fried. Ours were stuffed with picadillo – spiced ground beef with tomatoes. We also ordered Piononos which are stuffed plantain cups made with maduros, seasoned beef picadillo, held together with egg, and topped with a bit of cheese.  Both Appetizers were simply delicious and beautifully presented.  

For our entrees, we ordered two Mofongos one was Chicken Breast in a garlic butter sauce, the other, Shrimp in garlic butter sauce, and a Can Can (Pork) Chop which is a typical creation from the island of Puerto Rico, this dish is characterized by the fact that the skin and fat are left on the chop, resulting in a perfect combination full of flavor and great texture.  Both Mofongos were out of this world. Doris said that is perhaps the best Mofongo that she has ever tasted.  Without a doubt, the Can Can Chop is the King of Pork Chops.  All of the dishes were plentiful and absolutely delicious.  We decided to opt for the 2 traditional flans – a traditional flan and a coconut flan.  Both desserts were home runs!

This is a place that we will be revisiting again and again.  The food, the service, and atmosphere were all on point.  We can’t wait to return with more friends, framily, and family.  

Tips & Notes:

·       There is plenty of “on the street” parking as well as a local parking garage.

·       The Mofongo is absolutely the best anywhere..

·       Save room for the flan.

Address: 1917 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, FL 33020

Phone: 954-367-2706

Web: Elbayudewelasara.com