Our Expert's Take
Flama Llama has quickly become a beloved spot in San Diego, and it's easy to see why. The tamarind wings are a standout dish, boasting a perfect crispiness that harmonizes beautifully with the sweet and sour flavors. The attention to detail in each dish is commendable, particularly in the garlic noodles, which transport diners back to the cherished noodle dishes found in San Francisco. Meanwhile, the Cuban sandwich is elevated by an exceptional sauce that leaves a lasting impression.
The restaurant's warm ambiance and attentive service from Emily, Chase, and April further enhance the dining experience. The generous portion sizes ensure that guests leave satisfied, making Flama Llama a worthwhile destination for both locals and visitors. Whether you're in the mood for a casual meal or a special occasion, this establishment promises to deliver memorable flavors and a welcoming atmosphere.
At a Glance
Pros
- Crispy tamarind wings with a perfect sweet and sour balance.
- Generous portion sizes that leave you satisfied.
- Friendly and attentive service from the staff.
Cons
- Can get busy during peak hours, leading to longer wait times.
- Limited outdoor seating options.
What Diners Are Saying
"Excellent food and service from Emily, Chase, and April. Tamarind wings were especially crispy with great balance of sweet and sour. Garlic noodles reminded me of SF style noodles. Cuban sandwich came with an amazing sauce. Great portion sizes as well. Highly recommended."- Du Pham
"Such delicious food! The atmosphere is really nice. Music not too loud, food great, vibes! The best thing on the menu is definitely the fried plain plantains. Savory, sweet, overall amazing!! I really recommend coming to this place. Our servers were April and Emily, they were sweet! Our food came fast, and no wait for the table. Really recommend!"- Elza Pavlovich
"We came to celebrate Peruvian Independence Day 🇵🇪 and to try Flama Llama for the first time. The food was delicious and authentic and our servers, Chase and Luke were friendly and gave us great service. We'll definitely be back to try more dishes!"- Teresa Zavala
"Update: Came back to get the lomo saltado and try the elotes. Food was still good, fries weren't as crisp, more on the soggy side this time around. Service was slow but friendly. Tried the yuzu lemonade, it was sweet and refreshing - perfect for summer heat. ------------------------ Thanks Cean for the wonderful service! You were quick, efficient and accommodating. They offer a free dessert with a picture of your empty dish We came a little before noon, right before lunch rush. We ordered the lomo saltado, mojo pork and tamarind wings with the maracuya and cincha morada. Loved the maracuya - sweet, tangy, refreshing. Liked the Chicha morada but not my taste - a hit of spice and mild sweetness. Wings were crispy, warm and tangy. This one was a must get! Lomo saltado: meat was tender and the veggies were soft. A little on the saucy side with a delicious side of allo verde. Fries were wedge style and just ok. Mojo pork was great, plantains were sweet and lightly fried. Overall, we loved our experience here and would come back again."- Karyn Yu Paxton
"Coming straight from Peru and having lived in Oregon most of my life, I hadn’t found a truly good Peruvian restaurant, until I came to Flama Llama. First of all, the people are amazing. I had great conversations with Chase, Emily, and Columba, and their warmth really made me feel at home. I initially thought the setting was the best part, but then the food came and wow! That stuff was bomb asf! The wait time was super short, too. It felt like it only took about five minutes after I ordered. If you're in the San Diego area, Flama Llama is definitely the place to be!"- Anthony
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there parking available at Flama Llama?
Yes, there is street parking nearby, but it can be limited during busy hours.
What is the dress code at Flama Llama?
The dress code is casual, making it a comfortable spot for a relaxed dining experience.
What is the best dish to try at Flama Llama?
You shouldn't miss the tamarind wings and the Cuban sandwich, both highly praised by regulars.