If you’re heading toward La Unión or exploring the east side of El Salvador, Merendero El Conacaste is one of those local food gems you’ll be glad you stopped at.

We came here on a recommendation from Rodolfo’s mom’s friend who lives in the area and when locals tell you where to eat, you listen 🙌. We arrived just before 7am when they opened, and there was already a long line of people waiting, which tells you everything you need to know. This is clearly a favorite breakfast spot for the community.

They offer a generous buffet-style breakfast where you can pick and choose what you’re craving, or you can go for one of their ready-made combos if you want something quick and easy. We had classics like casamiento, eggs, and other traditional dishes, everything tasted very homemade, comforting, and full of local flavor. And it’s very affordable too.

The only small downside is that since it’s buffet-style, some dishes can cool down quickly, so don’t expect everything to be piping hot, but honestly, the taste more than makes up for it.

NOTE: Breakfast starts on the left side of the restaurant at 7-10 AM and after that they start serving lunch on the right side after 10 AM.

If you’re planning an early road trip east, we highly recommend starting your morning here.