Nice ambience since I get into the place, very clean, nice service and food just great, carne asada well cook and tender, i would say even better than Los Ranchos decent portions for a cheaper price flavor just delicious house made tres leche was heaven, queso frito and tostones very delightful, tostones remind me my hometown santo Domingo
(4)
Milton G.
this is a great little restaurant, and the food still keeps a bit of that home made taste that is almost impossible to duplicate, waiting staff is great and the owner is almost always there to make sure everything goes alright. it felt good to shake his hand and congratulate him for the good food and service, you cant do that anymore anywhere. it is on a corner in a shopping plaza, there is always parking available but expect some wait during peak times, the most i have waited is 15 minutes which is nothing compared to other places i have had to wait. please do not leave without trying their Pio V dessert, it is to die for!
(5)
Alex P.
One of Miami's best every day restaurants. Delicious Nicaraguan food presented in an upscale manor. I've gone to this place soooo many times and keep coming back for their perfect rice, churrasco, maduros, cacao, and tostada.
(5)
David A.
I have been here several times and the food is great. The decor on the inside is surprisingly nice, and the waiters were good too. Nothing I had here was out of this world, but that's not to say it is not worth a visit :)
(3)
Max T.
I have been here several times and prefer the place over the ranchos across the street. The meats are well cooked and the decor is surprisingly modern for a sweetwater restaurant. The prices are fair and the service is good. I usually go for carne asada with gallo pinto and i would stick to the meats at any Nica place.
(4)
Jose S.
This place is a great deal. The food is amazing. We showed up about 30 minutes to close and the service was excellent. The waitress was friendly and was fluent in English and Spanish. We were a party of 6, we walked in and were seated immediately. They waisted no time bringing us bread and water. They had 3 different sauces on the table that were delicious on the bread one of them was chimichurri the other was some chopped pickled onions and the third was spicy chopped carrots in a vinegar sauce. I ordered the churrasco medium with gallo pinto rice and ripe fried plantains. My wife ordered the sirloin tips in jalapeño sauce both of our dishes were amazing. We ordered a carafe of house wine for $20 and it was great. I'm from Miami so I always expect really good food which Miami frequently delivers and this place lived up to my expectations. Don't be scared off by its location (small cheesy strip mall). In my opinion it is one of the best Nicaraguan restaurants I've been to with excellent prices.
(5)
Sabrina L.
I tried this place a couple of weeks ago during an office dinner, and it was a nice experience. The decor is modern and appealing. Our waiter was very professional and suggested different items from the menu, for those of us who are not too familiar with Nicaraguan food. I ordered a grilled fish with lemon sauce , two sides included black beans with rice and plantains. The dish was tasty but the fish was a bit too lemony for my taste. The plantains were sooo good! Everyone at the table seemed to really enjoyed their dishes, a lot of them had to take some food home, because the quantity is major! A dish can easily be shared. I will be giving this place another try!
(3)
Bob S.
I was in town for one evening, and had arrived a bit late due to S. Florida traffic and road construction. Fortunately, what was late for me was normal business hours for Madrono. Prices were reasonable, and everything I had, from the ceviche to the churrisco to the bunelos was terrific. Service was spot on. Other reviewers have pretty much covered the bases, I had a -bit- of a time finding it, look for the Walgreens at the corner of 107th and Flagler -- from there, it's easy.
(4)
Larissa G.
The food was good and very fresh. However, what surprised me the most was the service. They were on top of us (in a good way) the whole time. At some point my son dropped his spoon and 3 seconds later someone showed up with a replacement. Very polite staff, service was fast, and their 3 leches is beyond amazing !!
(5)
Vanessa M.
This restaurant offers authentic Nica food. I am from Nicaragua and can guarantee that this restaurant offers the best of the best. The food is delicious and the service is wonderful. They make you feel at home. If you want to try true authentic Nicaraguan food you need to go to this restaurant, no other Nica restaurant or fritanga comes close to the quality of food and service of Madrono. Everyone is very polite ; they also offer a wonderful takeout service.
(5)
Luis A.
Best Nicaraguan food in town. Service is excellent and food is great. Los Ranchos has nothing on this place. Been going there for years and never been disappointed. Keep it up! Thanks
(5)
Aracelly C.
I love my Nica food and this place has it all .The place is nice the decor is contemporary and the waiters are always on point.Their sauces are great and their dessert Tres Leche is the best.
(5)
Mimi M.
This place is so yum and its perfect for a big meal when your wallet does not participate. I love this restaurant, the service and the location. I wish they had a spicier orange sauce like Fritanga Mombino does but the Jalapeno Tirras and Queso Frito are to die for. The sangria is very good here.
(4)
Michelle G.
This restaurant is across from Los Ranchos and with identical good options, I want sure how this would compare. However, I was not disappointed! While the quality is top notch, the prices were extremely affordable. If in the area, definitely stop by for some delicious Nicaraguan fare. You will not be disappointed!
(4)
R.c. K.
This is an ok restaurant. To cut to the chase, I cannot give it more than 3 stars because of the quality of the meat. A little tougher than I expected, and lacking in flavor (before piling on the chimichurri). There is no shortage of places in Miami to get churrasco. Because of this fact, I will not return here. However, if you do want to go, many of the other items were pretty good and the server was very nice.
(3)
Mandy H.
They decorate the whole restaurant with IKEA furniture. I found it very funny. First time experience, our waiter does speak English. But I just found him extremely rude. When you ask him about lunch special. May be he doesn't want anyone to order lunch special. He just walk away and said Oh I have to come back to you. If you sit down and look at the menu, you will find the last page of Rules (their own restaurant rules). for example each table only can split 2 checks. (first time I see in S FL) Because of the horrible service I don't think I will go back
(1)
Jackie T.
I love this place! If you're looking for authentic Nicaraguan food that is not overpriced (like el Novillo or Los Ranchos), this is the place to go. You'll find all the traditional dishes including carne asada, churasco, salpicon and even oxtail soup. The service is friendly and efficient and the place is always clean. I've never been dissapointed with anything I've had here. If you go and you've never had Nicraguan food, I recommend going with carne asada accompanied by gallo pinto (rice and beans). As an appetizer I'd go with repocheta (which is a thin corn tortilla stuffed with melted cheese and served with a cabbage salad and sour cream). If you want something lighter and are diet conscious, go with salpicon (shredded beef with diced green peppers and onions and seasoned with salt and lime juice), rice, and a boiled plantain. The orange/carrot juice is refreshing and tastes homemade. As for desserts, definitely the tres leches. This is an excellent lunch or dinner place.
(5)
Roger A.
Best Nicaraguan food hands down!!
(5)
Indy O.
Let me begin by saying that I absolutely love the food in this place. The food is always great! Have been going for years before they remodelled it. The bandeja madrono is great has a little of everything carne asada, pork, gallo pinto, tacos, maduros, vigoron. It's more than enough for 2 people. The carne asada is great!! The sopa de cola is amazing! The breakfast is fantastic! I love everything I have tried. The reason why I give it a 3 star is the service. I have to say that the service has gone downhill. Ever since they decided to become a bit classier & started including tip it was all downhill from there. To wait for 5 minutes for your waiter to get your drink order is not acceptable!!!! The only thing that they need to do is improve that one thing. They are all very nice just seems you wait far too long for service.
(3)
Danny F.
Contrary to others, the food is only what you make of it. Like life! No, just kidding. It does depend on what you order. Get the wrong menu choice, you'll be overcharged for something you could have gotten at any fritanga for 2 dollars less! However, don't mind the frou frou pseudo-modern interior design, order something good and you'll be more than happy. My personal favorite is the bistec entomatado with white rice and french fries. The sauce is incredible, the meat is tender (medium well), and the rest is pretty good too. SO, though this place may not have stellar hosts or the best look, you can get an incredible taste of Nicaragua, if you order the right thing. If your confused, just ask your waiter!
(4)
Ari S.
Great Nicaraguan restaurant. Service was excellent. I had a seafood dish, some type of fish with a shrimp lobster sauce, I would definitely recommend.
(3)
Katie C.
Yummy and reasonably priced. Only down side is that it gets packed and quick. I would suggest to get there before 12PM or after 1:30PM. If not, you are looking at a 15-20 minute wait.
(4)
Monica W.
Loved it! Great food, fantastic service and VERY good prices! We started with a Ceviche de pescado and a Nicaraguan Ceviche, both fresh and delicious, for our main course we had the platter (bandeja) which had a little (a lot really) of some of the main starters, and the churrasco. The food was fresh, well cooked and truly delicious. For dessert we had te Pio 5 (I think that is the name) and it was fabulous, we also had the tres leches (not as good). Additionally we had coffee and two very cold beers, and the bill came to $78 including tip! There was so much food that we took leftovers home and had enough for lunch for two next day. The service was outstanding, the service and the food were on par with a 5 star restaurant and the prices with a two star restaurant. Perhaps the only negative side to this place is its location and the view, but both can easily be ignored once you have the food is placed in front of you!
(5)
Daniela M.
Service is GREAT, food is AMAZING. Better than any Nicaraguan fritanga. It's been remodeled and it looks great now. It's awesome for a casual dinner.
(5)
Arleen C.
Went there on a late Sunday afternoon for a late lunch/early dinner with daughter and her husband. The place was pretty packed and the host, which I am so sorry I don't have his name, was wonderful. Told us it would be a few minutes and he was right. They seated us and, after we settled in we found out that one of the chairs was sorta in the way and I was going to be moving all the time or being tripped with every two minutes. So, we asked if we could move and there was absolutely no problem...5 stars for that. Our waiter, sorry no name either, wasn't as good as our host or as the water boy, but he wasn't horrible....3 stars for him. When we finally figured out what was what in the menu, we ordered our food and we waited and chatted. Our food arrived and it was all delicious...5 stars for that. Nicaraguan son in law was in heaven and we enjoyed it too.
(3)
Tiana F.
I have been coming here for a long time since about 2004. their food and prices are perfect. i enjoy much better than "los ranchos" that is way too pricey and misses the mark sometimes. the madrono platter is really big and has everything you want and have convinced my husband to share it once or twice but he mostly eats the churrasco (duh) and he enjoys it with gallo pinto. everything I eat here is delicious and their portions are very generous. the service has always been a little slow. last visit, hubby and I sat at bar, and we waited about 5 minutes for water and more for our server to take our order. not cool. you get an awesome bread basket and a little salad with your entree. they make a great thousand-island-like dressing that is delicious for the salad. I highly recommend this place. You may have to wait to be seated, especially wknd lunch, and then wait to get your server to look at you, but the food is delicious.
(4)
Martica B.
Perfect place for a quick, filling, and inexpensive lunch. My fiance and I have been here several times and their service and quality of the food is consistent. We have ordered the carnitas de pollo y carne and the tilapia with shrimp sauce - both are delicious. The size of the plates is not huge, but they are filling and adequate for a lunch plate. The pricing is amazing for the taste of the food and the options you have. The will bring you a bread basket with different sauces to eat while waiting for your lunch. We always order el queso frito which is a decent size of fried white cheese, absolutely delicious! The place is small but intimate. They keep it very well maintained and clean. The service is awesome!
(5)
Jordan N.
This place is average. Very average. I was a bit disappointed, because this place has been hyped up by a lot of people I know. And not only that, but the cleanliness, a nice-looking menu and the "trendier" decor (you'll know what I mean if you've gone to Nicaraguan fritangas around Miami) also hyped up my expectations - but they all came down when the food was really very typical of Nicaraguan fritanga fare. Just because of the pretentiousness this place seems to want to have without realizing what they're really offering, I'm taking away an extra star. If you want the same stuff, go to another fritanga, save maybe more than a buck and two, bear with the more downscale environment, and get the same food or better! As for the food, there was a lot of beans, plantains, and a really subpar salad was served with my carne asada. But to credit it where it's due, the carne asada had a good citrusy flavor that is not common in other fritangas I've visited. And the tres leches was not that bad, but it was not homemade either. You can find the same stuff elsewhere ("manufactured" for your convenience, of course). And on top of that, I didn't find the staff to be well knowledgable in customer service although the water glass never went empty. Oh, and 15% tip is automatically added to the bill here. Overall, I'm definitely not returning to this establishment.
(2)
Len D.
This is a pretty good Nicaraguan restaurant, that reminded me of Los Ranchos that is actually a block away. I like this place a lot better. They try to give a fine dining vibe with the servers and the decor/furniture. It works. One thing that was weird, was the manager or maybe he's the owner. He just sits at the corner of the restaurant, just smiling.....judging.....watching....look at the baby.... He did make sure the waiters did their job and the waiters were very attentive. I think because of that guy. We started with an appetizer of yuca and pork chunks. We also had chicken tacos. The tacos were pretty bad, actually. They were actually worse than what I can find in the isles of a supermarket. The pork was really good though. It wasn't chewy like some other places. It kind of melted in your mouth. The yuca was nice too. It wasn't overcooked (which I prefer) and it had a good texture. I had the breaded fish. It had an excellent breading, it didn't come apart when I cut it up. It was nice and light breading too. The fried chicken my girl ordered was the same. The plates on the table were kinda weird though. They move and spin very easily (only the entree plates). It's like eating on an air hockey table. Seriously, if your there. Take one finger and slightly spin it, weird. I had a cappuccino and it was sweeter than usual (a good thing). Usually I have to add extra sugar to get it to my liking, but I think they add chocolate powder or something. It was kinda chocolaty. My girl liked how they gave a sugar candy stick to stir in the cream.
(4)
Jessie G.
Love this place. I could just skip the entrees and order off their appetizer menu. Everything tastes great and the service is always good. Our whole family loves coming here. Genuine Nica food.
(4)
Liz L.
This place is really good. The place is clean, the food tastes amazing, and the service is excellent. My mom and I love this place.
(4)
Immer R.
Great little place to grab a quick bite. As everyone knows there are tons of these types of restaurants throughout the tri-county area, but I give it three stars because they've put some effort into making the place look nice (even though it might be ikea style furniture as another reviewer put it.) I've had the steak lunch special and its a good deal for about 9 or 10 bucks. You get a salad, an 8oz steak, and choice of side (rice & beans, fries, mashed potatoes, etc...) If i lived in the area and didn't feel like cooking, I'd probably hit this place up for dinner a few times a month.
(3)
Mikhaela M.
This place is great. We found it while passing through the outskirts of Miami. Food is very good, service is top notch. Decor is spotless Miami style, servers are dressed in white with long white aprons. The portions are large and the menu is fairly affordable. Very glad to find it.
(4)
edwin p.
if your nicaraguan, you are picky with food. In my case, i love madrono, its been great since i first went in 2000. baby churrasco is the best ever. natural juices are second best, put the two together and you got yourself a great meal. note:15% tip added always
(5)
luis s.
I came here with my dad and automatically thought to myself Oh jesus this place is gonna suck. To my surprise it didn't! At first I noticed that the chef or cook whatever you want to call them was a woman. Apparently that's how the culture is in Nicaragua. The staff was very attantive and pleasant. For starter we had the typical Nica dish fried cheese which was really good. After that we had Vacio cut steaks and salad the steaks was nice and juicy and perfectly cooked. After that we topped off our meal with a coffee and called it a day. This is a great spot for lunch or dinner.
(4)
Raquel S.
We all know Nicaraguan food is tasty but trying to find a Nicaraguan restaurant that serves great breakfast is hard to find but at El Madrono serves an authentic Nica breakfast. Stop by and enjoy!!!!
(4)
Ana Z.
What a good surprise. My friends took me to this restaurant to have a late breakfast and I absolutely loved it. The food is unique, their combos are very inexpensive and they give you lots of food, and not any quality of food, everything was very fresh and tasty! Mis amigos me llevaron a este restaurante y que buena sorpresa. La comida es unica, los combos son muy baratos, recibes grandes cantidades y no es comida de cualquier calidad, es muy fresca y deliciosa.
(5)
Martha L.
This is by far my favorite place in Miami for Nica food. We don't mind driving 30 minutes to come here every chance we get and everyone we've brought here (regardless of background) ends up coming back on their own! And for those Nicas who might want to take home some antojitos, go to la Pulperia next door - it's owned by the same family!
(5)
Mike B.
This place has changed alot in the past few years. The service is excellent. The food is fantastic. Looks very classy inside. They also have good lunch specials. The carne asada and gallo pinto is a home run out of the park, I highly recommend it.
(5)
Thomas M.
I've seen this gem grow from plastic chairs to diamonds, but the service and atmosphere have not changed. The food just keeps getting better. The place is owned by a Nicaraguan family and the food is just amazing. If you are a tourist you must try this place. Try; - fried cheese, ceviche, fried pork chunks. Signature Dish is Churrasco (flat latin steak) always satisfies. Also try the Gallo Pinto, traditional Nicaraguan Rice and Beans, very tasty and healthy compared to Cuban Rice. Their deserts if you have room are excellent. Very good quality, not common for inexpensive small holes in the wall. Other recommendation is B'Fast on the weekends be there early as the line stretches around the building to the street, yes to the street.
(5)
Yurena R.
Awesome food! Awesome service! Very nice decor and atmosphere.
(5)
Nicholas A.
Cafe Madrono was bigger than I thought it would be. My girlfriend and I came in with a fair sized group of Yelpers, so I wasn't sure we'd be seated immediately. Since it was Thursday, though, I had no worries. The restaurant was pretty much empty, so all was well. I had Nicaraguan pork chops with grilled onions and rice with fries. One thing Madrono does well is value for money. My plate was covered with food and it was all about 8 bucks, and with side salad even! The chops were fine, but the rice was dried out and the fries would have been forgettable had it not been for some awesome pink sauce the brought to the table. It tastes like a close cousin to Spanish ali-oli. Desert was the biggest disappointment. My gf and I split a tres leches which we're sure was not made in house. Other people had good luck with Nicaraguan coffee, served with peculiarly salty mini-cookies. Madrono is a fine place to go if you're in the area, but not really worth any kind of special trip
(3)
Lilyvania M.
This place has some of the best Nicaraguan food you'll find in Miami! I highly recommend you try the bandeja de antojitos (appetizer platter) because you get a little bit of everything and is good enough for two people to share. I like the family atmosphere and how the owners have changed the place over time. If you haven't tried Nica food in Miami, then this is the place to try it.
(4)
Dina A.
I looove this place! We order lunch from here at least once a week and the food is always spectacular! Mind you, we only order one menu staple: carne asada with jalapeno sauce. It makes my eyes water every time I take a bite of this delicacy. The meat is always tender and flavorful and the white sauce adds a subtle spiciness that enhances the already wonderful flavor. The tajadas are always crunchy and salty/sweet, which it's exactly how I prefer them. We also love the taquitos. They come with a side of a type of cole-slaw and a white sauce which are to die for! Definitely try this place during lunch or dinner....you won't be disappointed!
(5)
EM V.
cacao! and nacatamal! and that purple drink! this place makes me wish i was nica. no actually i take that back. The beef is really good though I always order the appetizers for a meal cause i am very fond of beans and tortillas. My only bad experience here was with the ceviche, i thought it was weird. and this place only became "pretentious" very recently, so its a little sad, but i guess they wanted a facelift. food tastes the same. delicious.
(4)
Kelly O.
Had dinner here last night and it was good. I tried the nacatamal which was surprisingly good and filling. The fried cheese was fried cheese which in my book is always delicious. The baby churrasco was cooked nicely and had a good flavor. I especially enjoyed it with the pickled jalapeños with onions. However, someone else ordered the camarones enchilado and they really were not that good. The desserts are not homemade which I don't like. The service was good and our waiter was kind (not rude at all, like other reviews stated).
(3)
Oscar S.
I'm giving 5 stars because this restaurant has a perfect balance between food quality, decoration, cleanliness, service and price. It is perfect to go once or even twice a month with the family or some friends. And yes, you can find better restaurants than this one, but also more expensive. I find Madrono to be one of the best restaurants I have visited on its price range ($9 to $16).
(5)
cindy w.
In Miami where tons of Latin eateries open up, ethnic restaurants live and die by the loyalty of their patrons. Madrono was servicable but didn't leave me a reason to come back. It was my first introduction to Nicaraguan food but looking at the menu I didn't find stuff I couldn't get elsewhere at other latin restaraunts. I ordered a small plate of tacos for an appetizer-style meal and I was given 3 deep-fried taco "rolls", so that was different. Tried the passion fruit soda that was awesome. Don't try the desserts, they look like they were manufactured elsewhere and not made on site, especially the tres leches.
(3)
Ame C.
If you want awesome Nicaraguan food this is definitely the place. There is usually a wait (since all the Nicaraguans in the area come here to eat) but it's worth the wait. The service is WONDERFUL and the food is even better. If you're in Miami you should take a detour to eat here. You won't regret it!!!
(5)
Nelson R.
When i walk into a restaurant, the last thing that impresses me is the decor. I have been to some pretty fancy and some not so fancy restaurants and the decor does not always relate to the service, food, price. I have been returning to madrono for a few years now and I have to say this place is not a fritanga-style place. 2 different animals. Madrono, from my experiences has very friendly, efficient and fast service. if you like beef, I strongly recommend trying the puntas de filete a la jalapena (sirloin tips in jalapena sauce) for seafood the pescado tipitapa ( a whole snapper with a creole-style sauce on top), the beef tongue in a wine sauce, and their soups are very hearty and flavorful with tons of veggies. I am not too fond of the ceviches myself, that I will leave to the Peruvians who are the masters of it. If you like coffee coolers or chai tea, you will then love cacao. I do not think too many people are familiar with this drink. An alternative to 3 leches is Pio V or bunuelos which are probably more authentic Nicaraguan. Enjoy Madrono.
(5)
Blue A.
Since meeting my Nicaraguan fiance I have been exposed to the deliciousness that is Nica food. Traveling with her to her motherland has spoiled me. EVERYTHING there is so delicious! The meat, the tomatoes, the lettuce, even the SODA tastes better - but we live here in Miami so we are always looking for the Nica Food fix. Been to Madrono a few times. Some things I have had: Churrasco - Great steak! The chimi-churri sauce takes it to the next level! Camarones Enchilados - The shrimp creole is just alright. I've had better. Tacos - 3 rolled up tacos. We had the beef - not bad! Frijoles Molido - Puree of red beans with "crema" on top. Really good, especially to use to dip the tacos in. Queso Frito - translates to fried cheese - and its freakin' delicious. Gallo Pinto - the accompanying rice and beans that comes with entrees is decent - better than most places. Maduros - Fried plantains are good. Tres Leche - The delicious 3 milk dessert here is one of the best I have had. The cake is fluffy, the milk is just right - it's easy to make this TOO sweet, but they make it perfect. Although the food is good, the waiters are always nice and attentive I can't seem to rate this place more than 3 stars. Maybe it's the location - not in the best area, and in a very crowded strip mall. The food just doesn't leave me wanting to go back the next day. Maybe my exposure to authentic Nica food has made my taste skewed - but I can live with that. Getting married in March......In Nicaragua.....so I will have a good week to indulge in the deliciousness.
(3)
Mayda P.
The baby churasco was cooked exactly how I ordered medium rare and the tres leche was to die for! I will be back very soon.
(4)
Monica B.
For starters, the service was great. We sat down and they immediately took our order and served us some yummy bread and salad. I ordered the baby churrasco and it was honestly one of the best I have had. The queso frito was amazing and the desserts were also very good. The quality and price exceeded my expectations and I will definitely be coming back soon!
(5)
Ary R.
Great food and service! The churrasco is delicious! Great attention and very good family environment. Have visited multiple times over the years and I have never had a complain on the food or the staff.
(5)
Kyle M.
I have eaten Nica food of multiple levels. First, you have your Fritangas which is your fast food type. Next up, you have the sit down, but not too expensive choice which is Charcoals. At the top of the Nica food chain, you have Los Ranchos. Right in the middle of Charcoals & Los Ranchos is where I would place Madrono. I had heard so much about it over the years that it sat bookmarked waiting for a Nica craving. We ended up with a table tucked in the far back corner which didn't seem ideal. We were kind of ignored for quite a long time but I don't know if it was because one server seemed to be handling all the tables. Once we got the servers attention, we ordered up some grub. The food was very well cooked & seasoned just right. The chicken & churrasco were both good sized portions & the gallo pinto had just the right amount of salt. For dessert, we had caramel flan. It wasn't the best I'd ever had but it wasn't bad either. Everyone agreed the food was on par with the pricing but the service was a bit lacking as was our out of sight table. Would I go again? Sadly, probably not. It's a little bit of a drive & the service we got was just a bit underwhelming.
(3)
Nathalie P.
Great service! Great atmosphere! And great food what else could you want? Carne asada is highly recommended and they have daily lunch specials! And a very unique home made salad dressing. My husband does not like salad he never eats salad anywhere else and he will actually eat the salad here... Also the tres leches is one of the best I've had . It's a must when we come here!
(5)
Gina Z.
3.5 stars strictly for the food! 15+ hours after driving home from Tennessee to Miami, my hubby requested I find us a delicious Fritanga to have dinner. (*Non-Nicaraguan Speaking Folk: Fritanga (n.) - a restaurant where home-style, Nicaraguan culinary greatness is created.) Considering I've been to several fritanga's in Miami, I had a pretty tall expectation of what this place would be like. Upon arriving, the dinning room was PACKED & while many servers passed by us as we stood at the entrance looking dazed & confused, not one of them stopped to ask if we needed a table. Not a good start. Eventually we got sat by the BUSSER who brought over garlic-buttered bread & waters. When the server finally made his way to us, no introductions occurred but he was quick to rush us to get our food in before "the kitchen closed". Mind you it was Sunday night 845ish-PM. *rolls eyes* To try & get through the meal without further irritation, I ordered 2 sangria's for my husband & I, in addition to an appetizer, Queso Frito (Fried Nicaraguan Cheese) & our meals, Carne Asada. I quickly realized there was no bartender & wondered who'd make the sangrias? Shortly after, I saw our waiter grabbing a premade gallon of Sangria & pouring that over a few glasses which had canned cocktail fruit at the bottom. *heart slowly begins to crack* Surprisingly, they were drinkable. Not a sangria I'd come back & order again, but hey, for $5, it got the job done. The Queso Frito was absolutely delicious. (when is it not?!) The cabbage salad that was brought with it, however, was more on the sweeter side which is nowhere near the mark of what this salad should taste like. I proceeded to eat a "house salad" that probably should've stayed at home - 1 piece of each veggie group is hardly a salad, my friends. The Carne Asada with Gallo Pinto & maduros arrived; sensational Gallo Pinto. The "Carne Asada" was more of a grilled Churrasco, however, I slathered some of their homemade Chimichurri on it for a grand slam bite. A+ on the Chimichurri. The ratio of prices & portions were pretty fair considering they're aiming for an "upscale" fritanga feel, but with low prices. The service reamined at a "below average" point throughout my entire meal - no water refills, no napkins or even a walk-by to see if everything was okay - No Bueno. Sadly, while everything was well cooked, I don't feel I had anything memorable that would make me return anytime soon. If I were in the area & nothing else seemed appetizing or open, though, I'd probably revisit.
(3)
Chiyon Y.
Madroño never disappoints. They're always very busy for lunch... Can't blame them since they have amazing lunch specials. That said, lunch service is a bit slow and subpar. Their prices are affordable, and it's good quality food. I always get the Carne Asada, which comes with a side salad, moros (rice cooked with beans) and tajadas (thinly sliced fried green plantains). The Carne Asada is very tender and you can taste a bit of the acidity in their marinade. Their chimichurri is one of the best and the picked veggies w/jalapeño brings it all together for me. If it weren't for the service, I'd rate it 5 stars.
(4)
Cesar L.
This was my first time here and based on previous reviews I was ready for a nice experience. Let me go straight to the point. We were seated immediately, the runner took 30 seconds to stop by with the garlic bread, special sauce and water...after that things went down hill. The service was not bad, but while waiting 15 minutes for someone to take our order, I counted 9 total waitress/water chatting and rolling silverware. We ordered the sampler as appetizer and I won't lie here, it was tasty and generous portion. We also ordered the baby Churrasco medium well, which means some pink areas in the middle..not bloody like it was served, The wife was not able to eat it once she saw blood on her meat. Our waiter never stop by the table to follow up after the food was served, I tried to call him several times to order a beer, but forget about it. The restaurant had no more than 6 tables and for the ratio of employees then it shouldn't have been a problem to keep up with our table of two. Other reviews here compared this place to Los Ranchos a block away. NO WAY, while food has potential, there is absolutely no comparison when it comes to the quality of food and service. Nothing against young adults running this place, but I strongly recommend to go spend your hard earned money at Los Ranchos if you desire excellent Nicaraguan food. The upcoming of this place needs attention, the decor is not the best and the ceiling's got a handful of tiles with water leak and evident mold.
(1)
Alcides M.
The restaurant is not that big, and only 5 tables were in use. Yet, the waiter took close to 10 minutes to acknowledge us. He never smiled, and was not so pleasant. There were how ever like 5 bus boys, who were at least smiling. I asked one of then how come everybody look so miserable, and answered that they were expecting 3 big parties, and because of that reason they were super worried. I have waited tables in the past, and their reasoning seemed ridiculous. The food was alright. The cabagge salad (vigoron), was old, and the chicharron seemed to come from a bag from the gas station. I was so dissapointed. By the way, I must state that I am Nicaraguan, and the food is better at other places around Miami. If the service would have been better, I don't think the quality of the food would have matter that much.
(3)
Manny M.
This place is fantastic, I love coming here the food and service is superb. I normally get the grilled chicken or carne asada and it's absolutely delicious. They are very attentive and the prices are extremely reasonable. If you're hungry and in the area I highly recommend this place.
(5)
Anuar U.
The attention was good the food excelent and the price was fair. The only issue was at last when I have to pay they were charging me $7.50 on taxes for a check of $30 it is ridiculous an error of 8x 30 equal $2.40. I dont know if they were trying to include the tip and make me think that it was not included and pay the tip again short story is they need a computer system to give an accurate check they shoud make enough money to cover it.
(4)
Norma G.
Where to start? I was craving some real good Nicaraguan food and really didn't feel like going to a fritanga, so I looked around and found this place which had decent reviews and realized I've never been to but saw other fellow Yelpers liking it so...what the heck! I went at an odd hour (around 4pm), too late for lunch and too early for dinner LOL , but went anyways. The place was kinda empty, which I don't really mind, we were greeted and seated promptly, no complaints there. Our waiter was patient as it took us a while to decide what to eat, since I'm from Nicaragua, every time I go to a Nicaraguan restaurant I want to have one of everything, ugh! Takes me forever to decide and then I kinda had to help my boyfriend decide also. We started with Vigorón, very simple dish but somehow very yummy too, reminds me of Granada. Then we decided to have steaks, we ordered a baby Churrasco and the carne asada, ummmm they looked almost the same and I don't really know the difference, but overall both dishes were yummy, even though I had a complaint about the Gallo Pinto (rice and beans, like moros) it was too dry for my taste, I would probably stick to white rice next time. Our dessert was A M A Z I N G !!!! It's called Pio Quinto, it has a custard on top, and rum cake in the bottom, whoa!!! By the time we finished we were tipsy from it LOL!!! Nah!!! It was delicious. And also had 2 cortaditos, perfect size and frothy! All in all it was a great meal. Can't do that very often for sure....no way.... I would recommend this place to my fellow Yelpers that don't know much about Nica Food!!! Go ahead and try it! You won't be disappointed ;)
(4)
Jorge M.
Good Nicaraguan restaurant located in Sweet Water in a section largely populated by Nicaraguans. Located in a strip mall on Flagler which has plenty of parking. Nice size restaurant with a bar but didn't see any alcohol just beer and wine. There is no outside seating just indoors. We came on a Sunday afternoon and the place was packed. We waited about 15 minutes for a table for two. As soon that we were seated the busboy brought us water, special sauces, and garlic bread. We started with the fried tacos made with shredded chicken in a flour shell. It comes with a side of cabbage salad topped with sour cream. Then my mom had the Pollo ala plancha. That's grilled chicken breast with gayo pinto and maduros. I had the bacon wrapped filet mignon with gayo pintos and maduros. The bacon wasn't that crispy but the filet was tender and juicy. The gayo pintos was good as well as the maduros. The service was good and staff was friendly. One of the better Nicaraguan restaurant in the area.
(4)
Emilce R.
The restaurant looks very nice and modern inside. I ordered baby churrasco with gallo pinto, maduros, and fried cheese. The food was amazing! The baby churrasco was very tender and the plantains were soft and very sweet. The service, however, was not on par with the food. For that I give the restaurant 4 stars instead of 5.
(4)
Frances P.
Great Service! Churrasco meat was tender. Needed a little flavor but overall good food!
(4)
Carl-Frederick F.
Crowded but worth the wait...food is on point,perfect portions.Ccarne asada well cooked,rice a little dry but still flavorful .Overall great experience
(4)
Allan V.
This place is awesome hands down! If you haven't been here I would recommend that you do.
(5)
Andy N.
Absolutely a wonderful restaurant, 4 1/2 stars. I'm not one with intense Nicaraguan experience with food but I know what I like and don't like, and this, I like. Initially upon walking in here with my hun, we seriously thought we were so under dressed for this place. In retrospect, driving in to this plaza didn't give a hint of such interior. Big plus in my book, you don't need to dress up to eat up! While scanning the menu you'll notice that if not all but majority of the menu is in Spanish, so if you hadn't already pick it up from being in soflo, you should soon because you'll be missing out! (Or just ask your server, that works too) She had the Antojito de Queso Frito, which is their deep fried cheese -- hold up, yes ..deep ..fried ..cheese. I'll give you a moment to mentally digest it. Make sure you eat it while it's hot because you know, cheese, cooling, not the same. It is also served with a cabbage salad and plantain of your choosing of how it's prepared, we ended up picking the chips since I picked maduros for my dish. I had the Indio Viejo and their rice & beans. It very much reminded me of ropa vieja but with a thicker sauce that was perfect with a half spoon of rice. Entrees come with salad and their house dressing on the table which was what we ended our main dishes with, refreshing. I was craving for some rice pudding but sadly they ran out so we had the Pio Quinto instead and it was the bomb diggity. Rice pudding what? We took a little petty dip with our spoon in the top layer custard and you can instantly taste the rum, and as you may suspect, it sank all the way down to the cake, which made it all the more worth it. Try it! They also have a lunch special with select dishes, different for each day, so we'll be back for that for sure (and for my rice pudding fix as well!)
(4)
Clare S.
Always come here for the carne asada, very good and tender. Ive also had the ribs which are very delicious as well. The prices are just a little more than what you would pay at a fritanga but the quality of the food is way better. Love their chimichurri and spicy sauce. The service is always very good, they are very attentive. I really used to love the breakfast here, wish they would bring it back. This is more of a mom and pops place so in my opinion way better than what they serve at Los Ranchos. If you're looking for good nica food, this is the place to go to.
(4)
Kat V.
Sophisticated restaurant, good customer service. The carne asada is always on point as well as the sauces. They sell cacao. Love this place! The plaza doesn't look that high end but inside is really decent!
(5)
Mari M.
This has to be one of our favorite restaurants! The food is always exceptional and the service is on point. Our server, Cesar is the best...super attentive and accommodating. My husband and I drive all the way from our home on SW 120 ST just to get our fix of this super yummy place!! Try the nacatamal (best in town) and the churasco & Moros w/ a side of salsa jalapena. Wow!! Will be back very soon.. :-)
(5)
Alejandro G.
Real nice food. Having spent 6 years of my childhood in Managua I can attest that this is some of the best Nica food in Miami. I always order los camarones al ajillo. The gallo tinto, yuca sancochada, repollo (coleslaw type cabbage), salsas, and other sides such as the patacones and quesos are fire. Definitely worth a visit if you are in Miami. I will be back again lol. :) And for those who don't like seafood they have great meat options as well. My friends always get the surtido and leave happy. The surtido comes with everything a hungry person can dream of and its the perfect meal for when your dying of hunger after work or the gym! If you are on a diet then get the ceviches. I have tried each one and can say the shrimp ceviche is the best :). I am super picky about food and so my 5 stars should mean a lot. SO GO AND EAT WELL. Buen provecho. Tengo una flojera asi q no voy a escribir mucho en español. Les digo que la comida sabe riquÃsimo y hay q lanzarse pa alla para probarla. Provechito.
(5)
Allie S.
I loved this place. Definitely the best nica food in all of Miami. I have been coming here for about 7 years I have never had an bad experience the foods is always fresh. I will say this try the sangria here it's one of the better ones I have had in a while.
(5)
Alicia H.
Delicious!!!! On a whim my boyfriend and I stopped in after a trip to the mall, not being from the area we yelped it, and the reviews don't lie, this place is awesome!!! We couldn't decide what was better the food or the price! Service was great, we waited 15mins but would've waited an hour it was that good!
(5)
Ileana M.
Dining out with my family can always be quite the task because everyone wants something different, but this is a favorite among all of us! And when we want good quality Nicaraguan food, we come here & they do not disappoint. It will not break your bank and you will not leave hungry. Do not let the location fool you! It is a little neighborhood gem in Sweetwater. Recommendations: as an appetizer, the "corn island" - a corn tamale with soft cheese & sour cream. Entrees try the Churrasco & Carne Asada of course! Or if you're feeling adventurous, go for the "Pescado a la Tipitapa" - what a fish! Or if it's just 2 of you & you're not that hungry, go for the "Bandeja" - a sampler of their best! And for a drink - go for the Sangria! A 1/2 Carafe will only set you back $10- other places charge you $8 or $9 for just a glass. Service is great! And let's be honest - good Nicaraguan places are very limited so this is a place to treasure. Los Ranchos is NOT AT ALL what it used to be- it has fallen from grace. New ownership & renovations have in my opinion ruined that place!! So please go out and enjoy this place as much as my family has.
(4)
Jesus M.
The food is excellent! It has great Nicaraguan flavor. The churrasco was great, a bit thin, but still a good size and tasted good. The servers and staff were all good, quick and helpful. It took a while to get a seat around 10pm on a Saturday but it was worth it. The only downfall was the nasty individual who farted next to our table not once but twice with no shame; eat at your own risk. Overall it was great, recommend the bakery next door too! Great nica food on one corner.
(5)
Fitfatkid S.
The Breakfast was really good, to bad they stopped doing it. Try this place you'll love it. The staff is very attentive and the service is great. I have Never been disappointed.
(5)
Keith P.
I am not a virgin to good meat restaurants. I know exactly how I want my carne asada/steak cooked and prepared and how exactly it should taste. It should be tender, succulent, and flow with natural juices--and the carne asada at Madrono Restaurant does just that. It meets your standards in every possible way (tenderness, juiciness, price), and for $10 (excluding tax and tip), it is definitely worth every bite. Completely heaven for your average "meatophile". Only thing I wish is that this piece of carne asada was bigger. Aside from the carne asada, I have tried the chicha, gallo pinto, and maduros here. The chicha tastes very traditional and is a bright pink. The maduros are sweet and savory. A good size. The gallo pinto is also plentiful and crisp. I highly recommend a side of cream to go with the gallo pinto. It adds a creaminess to your rice that puts it over the edge, nearing 6 Yelp stars if there was such a thing. If you are looking for delicious and traditional Nicaraguan food, I would highly recommend Madrono Restaurant. Their menu is diverse and so are their price ranges. If you are going to just watch a friend eat, definitely do it because aside from good food, the waiters are also quite good looking!
(5)
Mari H.
I love the carne asada!!!! Delish My husband had the fish with shrimp sauce Amazing!!! Great food Great price!!!! And great service!!! Will be back as many times I can!!!!
(5)
Henry M.
This place gets 5 stars because the service is awesome. The staff is very attentive. Your waiter is never that far if you need something. And the times that I've gone, I've never really needed to wait to be seated. Then again I've never gone during peak hours like lunch. The food is good. The gallo pinto here is actually the best I've had. It definitely tastes home made. Tastes way better than the surrounding Fritangas. Portions are excellent and you definitely walk out feeling full. Or you can definitely expect to take some home.
(5)
Jonathan F.
This is one of the best places I've been to in Miami. Great food, the place is clean and well decorated, service is good. AND the price is just right. You can have a full meal for less than $12.
(5)
Natassia M.
This is one of my favorite lunch spots whenever I can make it out of the office before noon (getting to the restaurant after 12 will guarantee you'll have to wait for a table). The specials are great... $7 for Carne Asada with 2 sides and a drink (my favorite). The food is delicious and the service is fast. It's a must-try!
(4)
Kyrene G.
Great Nicaraguan food. Taste like its homemade and it is very reasonably price. I would definitely recommend! The carne aside is wonderful, the pork fillet on the grill is my favorite. All the sides are delicious also!
(5)
Nathaly L.
There was a 15 minute wait, at this establishment hidden in a shopping center. Apparently plenty of people know about this place because a line began forming outside as soon as our names were placed on waiting list.(and i checked out the reviews on yelp) I was actually excited because that meant it has to be good right? i realized when living in south beach, she has the tendency to take you hostage(yes, i do believe she is female). you no longer want to cross the bridge and even downtown seems to be too far of a drive. I used to laugh at those beach snobs and now i have become one. But i started yearning for department stores and other specialty stores that the beach will never have. I miss target, Michael''s, dollar tree, and even home depot. I miss pulling into a parking lot where i have so many parking options i have the luxury of being picky. Miami has pulled me out of la la land and now i find myself escaping on 395 every weekend to places i took for granted for so many years. Walking in you notice its a small restaurant with a few tables. The staff was very nice including the manager with the EXCEPTION of our waiter. We had the grumpiest waiter ever. He was the only one with a face and attitude that said he was doing our table a favor by taking our order. In his defense he was like this to all his other tables...I did take some comfort in that (i originally thought he was annoyed at my less than perfect Spanish). Unfortunately being a vegetarian at any latin american restaurant is torture. But i went with my Dad and for anyone with a traditional Cuban dad its basically required to be a latin american restaurant. Anyway, i had the gallopinto (rice/beans cooked together) and traditional yuca (which is boiled) which i loove. and in a Nicaraguan restaurant its typical for the rice or yuca to have a lil side of a shredded cabbage slaw (not creamy American coleslaw ). My dad and his gf had churassco it comes with gallo pinto (the trad. rice) and one other side. He got a side of platano verde chips(i forget what the named it on menu but basically those crunchy plantain chips) and she opted with french fries. When our food came, he did not give her the fries but the same side my dad ordered, i immediately brought it to his attention and he took her side of rice and plantains grudgingly and was left with her steak. No cuban person i have ever met will want to eat their steak with out their rice. We started eating since it would get cold, and i kept my mouth shut for 5 minutes. Was there an apology? no. Did he try rushing the order? no. Did he stop by our table to update us? no.After 10 minutes, i could see her disappointment and when the manager was near i explained and after a minute she had her rice and fries. The french fries were delicious. Just out of the fryer, crunchy, and delicious. I def. recommend It doesn't bother me that he got the order wrong, it happens no big deal. But he took her plate away without a word. the gallopinto was fine it was on the same plate next to chips (should have been fries). I have been in that situation before, and the waiter always, always leaves the plate with you tells you to go ahead and stay with it and puts a rush on whatever was missing. If she would have waited her steak would have been cold. As if our plan all along was to get some free plantain chips! maybe he was having a really, really, really bad day and forced to come into work. but with that attitude i wish he would have stayed home. my party said the steak was good. it was cooked to the right temp. the gallo pinto tasted authentic, the yuca was just like i remembered and the fries were addicting. i would come back here, and avoid this waiter. If were rating the food alone 4 stars.
(3)
Leilani D.
When I used to live out west, I probably came here at least once every couple of weeks. There isn't much great food west of I-95 but the food at Madrono is amazing. It's located in a grungy strip mall, but once you step inside it's pretty easy to forget about. The restaurant is nicely updated, wait staff is well dressed and attentive, and the food is phenomenal. Also, very reasonably priced considering the portions are massive and the food quality. I usually started off with a ceviche - either de pescado (fish) or the vuelve a la vida (mixed seafood in a light red sauce). I almost always order the bistec encebollado (steak smothered in onions), put the puntas de filete (beef tips) in salsa de jalapeno is excellent if you like a little spice, and the bistec mixto (steak with onions and tomatoes in their sauce) was also great. Realistically, there are very few things that you will order here that won't rock your world. If you happen to find yourself in the food desert that is this area of Miami, Madrono will definitely be your oasis.
(5)
Caleb M.
Its a good lunch venue that can get busy after 12. The restaurant has good daily lunch specials. Service is good and typically fast. As a starter you get bread with the salsa plate. If you order a lunch special it comes with two sides a salad and a soda.
(4)
Michael G.
The carne asada is great. I have been here about 6 times and it never dissapoints. The spicy orange sauce is a must especially mixed in the gallo pinto. Writing this review is making me want to go today for lunch. It gets pretty busy around noon so go earlier or expect to wait a little. The food comes out fast, it taste fresh, and the serving sizes are great. For somewhere around $8 you get a nice portion of carne asada, a small salad, gallo pinto, maduros, and a soda. Great deal. I have had some of the appetizers and they were great. This is another place that the food taste like your grandma made it. Give this place a try, it will not dissapoint.
(5)
B G.
Great cheap and fast nica food!!!! Amazing service and speed. Cheap lunch specials and prices are just unbeatable. Great little gem in sweetwater. Carne asada is just devine!!!!
(5)
Michelle L.
Hadn't been back in a while and still oh so good. Started with the antojitos de queso appetizer that comes with tostones, fried cheese, and slaw. Then we had our carne asada with maduros and gallo pinto. I recommend the carne asada over the baby churrasco. The way it is prepared is tastier. Their gallo pinto is really good. We also had a carafe of white sangria. Food is still on point and I rather come here than Los Ranchos, anytime and the service is impeccable. Keep it up!
(5)
Maryuri B.
This place is wonderful! Great food and great service! I usually get the carne asada. I come to this place weekly. You can't beat the quality of food for the price. I actually tried this place because of Yelp and I agree with the reviews. I recommend it. I've brought several people myself.
(5)
Bella M.
Don't get fooled by their location lol! The food is great and service is excellent. The staff is very attentive and friendly. Not overpriced (lunch specials). I usually get carne asada and/or camarones al ajillo. I just like to keep it simple since I am not really a fan of Nicaraguan food based on previous experiences but this restaurant is a must go!
(4)
Camilo V.
Great experience. Delicious food and greatly priced, also, best service I've had in a while. I never even noticed my cup was half empty before they were filling it up. Very nice waitresses. Ordered the Repocheta as an appretizer and the carne asada as a meal. Will definitely come back
(5)
G L.
place is good food good customer serv very nice
(5)
ROSE J.
I decided to try this place due to the reviews and my craving for carne asada. the food was good and the prices are reasonable. the service was good but very rushed which never sits well. I would come back again.
(3)
Gaby B.
Its hard for me to really put into words just how much i love this restaurant. To put it simply ... It freaking ROCKS ! I have been a loyal costumer of El Madrono since 2001, when my mom married a Nicaraguan man. If there is one thing (now that they're divorced) I can appreciate this man for , it is for introducing me to this restaurant. It is a truly authentic place, you know the food is going to be excellent if there are women cooking it ! The churrasco and Gallo pinto are bursting with flavor, maduros , queso frito, ceviche, tacitos and repocheta are the BEST! Throw on some chimichurri and picante and you are set. Oh yeah, the bread they bring out is great also ( put picante and chimichurri on it) Cacao is a must for desert. Service is always pleasant , you will not be disappointed This is one of my favorite places because i know i will always leave so full and satisfied
(5)
Vanessa T.
I am Nicaraguan, and I love to represent. So whenever I have to recommend a restaurant that serves authentic, delicious, and Yelp-5 star worthy Nicaraguan food, I always tell that person to visit Madrono. It is a restaurant like Madrono that makes me proud to represent my Nicaraguan heritage because at Madrono they pay attention to detail, offer great customer service, have amazing takeout service, and are located at a great location-- the heart of Sweetwater, Little Managua. I have been here more than a dozen times when I am craving a juicy churrasco, with superb gallo pinto, and this place offers all types of dishes to satisfy your Nicaraguan cravings. Their pitahaya and the rest of their juices are also delicious, and they offer the most authentic Nicaraguan dishes I have ever tried in Miami, and they aren't excessively oily as you would find in most fritangas. If you come here, I recommend you to try their holy trio of sauces. The first sauce is their chimichurri which will add a special flavor to your meal. The second sauce is their pickled spicy onion which will add that special spice. The last sauce is their special orange sauce which is basically made of liquified onions and carrots. It is healthy and savory. If you are in a hurry, you can order food to go at the pick-up station right next to the restaurant. They will have your food ready at 15 minutes tops. If you want to try Nicaraguan food at its finest, I highly recommend you visit Madrono. The food is fairly priced, authentic, and the menu offers a wide variety of dishes. The servers are also friendly and treat you with true hospitality. And the adventure continues...
(5)
Mima A.
im a true nicaraguan.im very dissapointed how this nicaraguan restaurants have skimped on the punta de jalapeno sauce.they water it down no jalapenos it was cream with water.i use to like eating here but today was not great.my plantains were old and chewy.service was slow.waited for water for ever.the bread was stale.my friends chicken was tiny.i will keep looking for a good nicaraguan restaurant.
(1)
Rosario P.
I was raised in Nicaragua so when it comes to Nicaraguan food I have high standards. This place serves authentic nicaraguan food and the service is great. If you go during lunch time, make sure to try out the "Salpicon" Its a 'cold' meat served with white rice and 'maduro' (fried plantain). I've been to various nicaraguan restaurants and no other seems to get it 'just right" the way El Madrono does. If you go during dinner, make sure to order a Churrasco. I usually have it with Gallo Pinto (Rice and beans) and queso frito (Fried cheese) and I would ask for Crema (A nicaraguan version of sour cream) on the side. I believe they charge you extra for the 'crema' but trust me when I say you'll want it with your meal! I add it to the gallo pinto and to the maduros. If you still have room for dessert after the churrasco make sure to order a tres leches. I am very picky about tres leches, because a lot of places make them overly sweet, but this place has it down to T! The prices are reasonable and the restaurant was recently renovated. The bathrooms are ALWAYS clean (which is a major pet peeve of mine) and the staff is very friendly!
If I could give this place 6 stars, I would. Fabulous food, impeccable service, reasonable prices. Favorite dishes: the tacos appetizer, lomito de cerdo a la parilla, and the pescado meunière. Amazing. They have some of the best sweet plantains in town, and there are a lot of those in Miami, so that's saying something! During the lunch and dinner rush it can get quite busy, and the wait might be about 15 minutes.
(5)
Gina M.
This restaurant was simply, GREAT! My family and I recently visited this restaurant while on vacation in Miami and my fiancee and I were thoroughly impressed with the level of service received. This is the first restaurant I have ever been to where they change your silverware 3 to 4 times in one sitting. The waiters were very attentive and pleasant. The food quality is great and it is reasonably priced. I will be sure to make this restaurant a "must eat" spot every time I visit Miami.
(5)
Alexander B.
5 stars for service, 5 stars for food, 5 stars for ambiance, amazing place! For being a local restaurant, this place knows what they are doing. The restaurant is spotless. We had the corn tamale appetizer with cuajada and crema, and then fried cheese with slaw and Mariquitas. Everything was spot on! I even asked for a side of chicharrones for only $1, which was a great side to have. Me and by wife both had the carne asada, full of flavor and perfect portion. And the prices? Cheap!!!!! I would recommend this place to anyone wanting to try some great Nicaraguan food without the crazy prices.
(5)
Angelica A.
My husband was born in Nicaragua. In Frisco we don't usually get too many options for Nicarguan food, but in Miami there are plenty. We picked this place because of the good reviews and we're glad we did. The food is authentic and it's delicious. The fries cheese is crunchy on the outside but warm and gooey on the inside, a perfect combination. The sopa de res is really good and comforting. The service is also great. Waiters are quick to fill up your glass of water and are polite. My cousin ordered chicken tacos but somehow waiter heard chicken tenders but she still enjoyed her meal. Def recommend this place for Nicaraguan food.
(5)
hamilon s.
Better than Los ranchos. Better service, Better food, Better cost. Must try puntas de filete en salsa jalapeño.
(5)
Rebecca C.
I have heard about this place for quite awhile now and been wanting to try it. So finally on my last night in Miami til I was home-bound to Loiusiana, I finally got the opportunity to check Madrono out with some close friends. So this place is a Nicaraguan restaurant and while it looks fancy inside, is actually affordably priced. The food is plentiful and tasty. The service was very friendly. And if you are looking to try traditional Nicaraguan cuisine they have a section just for that with plate sizes ranging from small to large. They also have some desserts to try but I wasn't blown away and I've found the authentic stuff (bunuelos) to be much, much better. But otherwise, there menu items are pretty good with a large range of seafood options too. My faves were the creole fish with shrimp and their gallo pinto (black beans with rice) and plantains perfectly completed it. Definitely a great place to check out if you are in the mood for something new.
(4)
Martica B.
Perfect place for a quick, filling, and inexpensive lunch. My fiance and I have been here several times and their service and quality of the food is consistent. We have ordered the carnitas de pollo y carne and the tilapia with shrimp sauce - both are delicious. The size of the plates is not huge, but they are filling and adequate for a lunch plate. The pricing is amazing for the taste of the food and the options you have. The will bring you a bread basket with different sauces to eat while waiting for your lunch. We always order el queso frito which is a decent size of fried white cheese, absolutely delicious! The place is small but intimate. They keep it very well maintained and clean. The service is awesome!
(5)
Jordan N.
This place is average. Very average. I was a bit disappointed, because this place has been hyped up by a lot of people I know. And not only that, but the cleanliness, a nice-looking menu and the "trendier" decor (you'll know what I mean if you've gone to Nicaraguan fritangas around Miami) also hyped up my expectations - but they all came down when the food was really very typical of Nicaraguan fritanga fare. Just because of the pretentiousness this place seems to want to have without realizing what they're really offering, I'm taking away an extra star. If you want the same stuff, go to another fritanga, save maybe more than a buck and two, bear with the more downscale environment, and get the same food or better! As for the food, there was a lot of beans, plantains, and a really subpar salad was served with my carne asada. But to credit it where it's due, the carne asada had a good citrusy flavor that is not common in other fritangas I've visited. And the tres leches was not that bad, but it was not homemade either. You can find the same stuff elsewhere ("manufactured" for your convenience, of course). And on top of that, I didn't find the staff to be well knowledgable in customer service although the water glass never went empty. Oh, and 15% tip is automatically added to the bill here. Overall, I'm definitely not returning to this establishment.
(2)
Len D.
This is a pretty good Nicaraguan restaurant, that reminded me of Los Ranchos that is actually a block away. I like this place a lot better. They try to give a fine dining vibe with the servers and the decor/furniture. It works. One thing that was weird, was the manager or maybe he's the owner. He just sits at the corner of the restaurant, just smiling.....judging.....watching....look at the baby.... He did make sure the waiters did their job and the waiters were very attentive. I think because of that guy. We started with an appetizer of yuca and pork chunks. We also had chicken tacos. The tacos were pretty bad, actually. They were actually worse than what I can find in the isles of a supermarket. The pork was really good though. It wasn't chewy like some other places. It kind of melted in your mouth. The yuca was nice too. It wasn't overcooked (which I prefer) and it had a good texture. I had the breaded fish. It had an excellent breading, it didn't come apart when I cut it up. It was nice and light breading too. The fried chicken my girl ordered was the same. The plates on the table were kinda weird though. They move and spin very easily (only the entree plates). It's like eating on an air hockey table. Seriously, if your there. Take one finger and slightly spin it, weird. I had a cappuccino and it was sweeter than usual (a good thing). Usually I have to add extra sugar to get it to my liking, but I think they add chocolate powder or something. It was kinda chocolaty. My girl liked how they gave a sugar candy stick to stir in the cream.
(4)
Immer R.
Great little place to grab a quick bite. As everyone knows there are tons of these types of restaurants throughout the tri-county area, but I give it three stars because they've put some effort into making the place look nice (even though it might be ikea style furniture as another reviewer put it.) I've had the steak lunch special and its a good deal for about 9 or 10 bucks. You get a salad, an 8oz steak, and choice of side (rice & beans, fries, mashed potatoes, etc...) If i lived in the area and didn't feel like cooking, I'd probably hit this place up for dinner a few times a month.
(3)
Mikhaela M.
This place is great. We found it while passing through the outskirts of Miami. Food is very good, service is top notch. Decor is spotless Miami style, servers are dressed in white with long white aprons. The portions are large and the menu is fairly affordable. Very glad to find it.
(4)
edwin p.
if your nicaraguan, you are picky with food. In my case, i love madrono, its been great since i first went in 2000. baby churrasco is the best ever. natural juices are second best, put the two together and you got yourself a great meal. note:15% tip added always
(5)
luis s.
I came here with my dad and automatically thought to myself Oh jesus this place is gonna suck. To my surprise it didn't! At first I noticed that the chef or cook whatever you want to call them was a woman. Apparently that's how the culture is in Nicaragua. The staff was very attantive and pleasant. For starter we had the typical Nica dish fried cheese which was really good. After that we had Vacio cut steaks and salad the steaks was nice and juicy and perfectly cooked. After that we topped off our meal with a coffee and called it a day. This is a great spot for lunch or dinner.
(4)
Raquel S.
We all know Nicaraguan food is tasty but trying to find a Nicaraguan restaurant that serves great breakfast is hard to find but at El Madrono serves an authentic Nica breakfast. Stop by and enjoy!!!!
(4)
Ana Z.
What a good surprise. My friends took me to this restaurant to have a late breakfast and I absolutely loved it. The food is unique, their combos are very inexpensive and they give you lots of food, and not any quality of food, everything was very fresh and tasty! Mis amigos me llevaron a este restaurante y que buena sorpresa. La comida es unica, los combos son muy baratos, recibes grandes cantidades y no es comida de cualquier calidad, es muy fresca y deliciosa.
(5)
Martha L.
This is by far my favorite place in Miami for Nica food. We don't mind driving 30 minutes to come here every chance we get and everyone we've brought here (regardless of background) ends up coming back on their own! And for those Nicas who might want to take home some antojitos, go to la Pulperia next door - it's owned by the same family!
(5)
Mike B.
This place has changed alot in the past few years. The service is excellent. The food is fantastic. Looks very classy inside. They also have good lunch specials. The carne asada and gallo pinto is a home run out of the park, I highly recommend it.
(5)
Thomas M.
I've seen this gem grow from plastic chairs to diamonds, but the service and atmosphere have not changed. The food just keeps getting better. The place is owned by a Nicaraguan family and the food is just amazing. If you are a tourist you must try this place. Try; - fried cheese, ceviche, fried pork chunks. Signature Dish is Churrasco (flat latin steak) always satisfies. Also try the Gallo Pinto, traditional Nicaraguan Rice and Beans, very tasty and healthy compared to Cuban Rice. Their deserts if you have room are excellent. Very good quality, not common for inexpensive small holes in the wall. Other recommendation is B'Fast on the weekends be there early as the line stretches around the building to the street, yes to the street.
(5)
Yurena R.
Awesome food! Awesome service! Very nice decor and atmosphere.
(5)
Nicholas A.
Cafe Madrono was bigger than I thought it would be. My girlfriend and I came in with a fair sized group of Yelpers, so I wasn't sure we'd be seated immediately. Since it was Thursday, though, I had no worries. The restaurant was pretty much empty, so all was well. I had Nicaraguan pork chops with grilled onions and rice with fries. One thing Madrono does well is value for money. My plate was covered with food and it was all about 8 bucks, and with side salad even! The chops were fine, but the rice was dried out and the fries would have been forgettable had it not been for some awesome pink sauce the brought to the table. It tastes like a close cousin to Spanish ali-oli. Desert was the biggest disappointment. My gf and I split a tres leches which we're sure was not made in house. Other people had good luck with Nicaraguan coffee, served with peculiarly salty mini-cookies. Madrono is a fine place to go if you're in the area, but not really worth any kind of special trip
(3)
Lilyvania M.
This place has some of the best Nicaraguan food you'll find in Miami! I highly recommend you try the bandeja de antojitos (appetizer platter) because you get a little bit of everything and is good enough for two people to share. I like the family atmosphere and how the owners have changed the place over time. If you haven't tried Nica food in Miami, then this is the place to try it.
(4)
Dina A.
I looove this place! We order lunch from here at least once a week and the food is always spectacular! Mind you, we only order one menu staple: carne asada with jalapeno sauce. It makes my eyes water every time I take a bite of this delicacy. The meat is always tender and flavorful and the white sauce adds a subtle spiciness that enhances the already wonderful flavor. The tajadas are always crunchy and salty/sweet, which it's exactly how I prefer them. We also love the taquitos. They come with a side of a type of cole-slaw and a white sauce which are to die for! Definitely try this place during lunch or dinner....you won't be disappointed!
(5)
EM V.
cacao! and nacatamal! and that purple drink! this place makes me wish i was nica. no actually i take that back. The beef is really good though I always order the appetizers for a meal cause i am very fond of beans and tortillas. My only bad experience here was with the ceviche, i thought it was weird. and this place only became "pretentious" very recently, so its a little sad, but i guess they wanted a facelift. food tastes the same. delicious.
(4)
Ary R.
Great food and service! The churrasco is delicious! Great attention and very good family environment. Have visited multiple times over the years and I have never had a complain on the food or the staff.
(5)
Emilce R.
The restaurant looks very nice and modern inside. I ordered baby churrasco with gallo pinto, maduros, and fried cheese. The food was amazing! The baby churrasco was very tender and the plantains were soft and very sweet. The service, however, was not on par with the food. For that I give the restaurant 4 stars instead of 5.
(4)
Gina Z.
3.5 stars strictly for the food! 15+ hours after driving home from Tennessee to Miami, my hubby requested I find us a delicious Fritanga to have dinner. (*Non-Nicaraguan Speaking Folk: Fritanga (n.) - a restaurant where home-style, Nicaraguan culinary greatness is created.) Considering I've been to several fritanga's in Miami, I had a pretty tall expectation of what this place would be like. Upon arriving, the dinning room was PACKED & while many servers passed by us as we stood at the entrance looking dazed & confused, not one of them stopped to ask if we needed a table. Not a good start. Eventually we got sat by the BUSSER who brought over garlic-buttered bread & waters. When the server finally made his way to us, no introductions occurred but he was quick to rush us to get our food in before "the kitchen closed". Mind you it was Sunday night 845ish-PM. *rolls eyes* To try & get through the meal without further irritation, I ordered 2 sangria's for my husband & I, in addition to an appetizer, Queso Frito (Fried Nicaraguan Cheese) & our meals, Carne Asada. I quickly realized there was no bartender & wondered who'd make the sangrias? Shortly after, I saw our waiter grabbing a premade gallon of Sangria & pouring that over a few glasses which had canned cocktail fruit at the bottom. *heart slowly begins to crack* Surprisingly, they were drinkable. Not a sangria I'd come back & order again, but hey, for $5, it got the job done. The Queso Frito was absolutely delicious. (when is it not?!) The cabbage salad that was brought with it, however, was more on the sweeter side which is nowhere near the mark of what this salad should taste like. I proceeded to eat a "house salad" that probably should've stayed at home - 1 piece of each veggie group is hardly a salad, my friends. The Carne Asada with Gallo Pinto & maduros arrived; sensational Gallo Pinto. The "Carne Asada" was more of a grilled Churrasco, however, I slathered some of their homemade Chimichurri on it for a grand slam bite. A+ on the Chimichurri. The ratio of prices & portions were pretty fair considering they're aiming for an "upscale" fritanga feel, but with low prices. The service reamined at a "below average" point throughout my entire meal - no water refills, no napkins or even a walk-by to see if everything was okay - No Bueno. Sadly, while everything was well cooked, I don't feel I had anything memorable that would make me return anytime soon. If I were in the area & nothing else seemed appetizing or open, though, I'd probably revisit.
(3)
Chiyon Y.
Madroño never disappoints. They're always very busy for lunch... Can't blame them since they have amazing lunch specials. That said, lunch service is a bit slow and subpar. Their prices are affordable, and it's good quality food. I always get the Carne Asada, which comes with a side salad, moros (rice cooked with beans) and tajadas (thinly sliced fried green plantains). The Carne Asada is very tender and you can taste a bit of the acidity in their marinade. Their chimichurri is one of the best and the picked veggies w/jalapeño brings it all together for me. If it weren't for the service, I'd rate it 5 stars.
(4)
Kyle M.
I have eaten Nica food of multiple levels. First, you have your Fritangas which is your fast food type. Next up, you have the sit down, but not too expensive choice which is Charcoals. At the top of the Nica food chain, you have Los Ranchos. Right in the middle of Charcoals & Los Ranchos is where I would place Madrono. I had heard so much about it over the years that it sat bookmarked waiting for a Nica craving. We ended up with a table tucked in the far back corner which didn't seem ideal. We were kind of ignored for quite a long time but I don't know if it was because one server seemed to be handling all the tables. Once we got the servers attention, we ordered up some grub. The food was very well cooked & seasoned just right. The chicken & churrasco were both good sized portions & the gallo pinto had just the right amount of salt. For dessert, we had caramel flan. It wasn't the best I'd ever had but it wasn't bad either. Everyone agreed the food was on par with the pricing but the service was a bit lacking as was our out of sight table. Would I go again? Sadly, probably not. It's a little bit of a drive & the service we got was just a bit underwhelming.
(3)
Nathalie P.
Great service! Great atmosphere! And great food what else could you want? Carne asada is highly recommended and they have daily lunch specials! And a very unique home made salad dressing. My husband does not like salad he never eats salad anywhere else and he will actually eat the salad here... Also the tres leches is one of the best I've had . It's a must when we come here!
(5)
Cesar L.
This was my first time here and based on previous reviews I was ready for a nice experience. Let me go straight to the point. We were seated immediately, the runner took 30 seconds to stop by with the garlic bread, special sauce and water...after that things went down hill. The service was not bad, but while waiting 15 minutes for someone to take our order, I counted 9 total waitress/water chatting and rolling silverware. We ordered the sampler as appetizer and I won't lie here, it was tasty and generous portion. We also ordered the baby Churrasco medium well, which means some pink areas in the middle..not bloody like it was served, The wife was not able to eat it once she saw blood on her meat. Our waiter never stop by the table to follow up after the food was served, I tried to call him several times to order a beer, but forget about it. The restaurant had no more than 6 tables and for the ratio of employees then it shouldn't have been a problem to keep up with our table of two. Other reviews here compared this place to Los Ranchos a block away. NO WAY, while food has potential, there is absolutely no comparison when it comes to the quality of food and service. Nothing against young adults running this place, but I strongly recommend to go spend your hard earned money at Los Ranchos if you desire excellent Nicaraguan food. The upcoming of this place needs attention, the decor is not the best and the ceiling's got a handful of tiles with water leak and evident mold.
(1)
Frances P.
Great Service! Churrasco meat was tender. Needed a little flavor but overall good food!
(4)
Carl-Frederick F.
Crowded but worth the wait...food is on point,perfect portions.Ccarne asada well cooked,rice a little dry but still flavorful .Overall great experience
(4)
Allan V.
This place is awesome hands down! If you haven't been here I would recommend that you do.
(5)
Alcides M.
The restaurant is not that big, and only 5 tables were in use. Yet, the waiter took close to 10 minutes to acknowledge us. He never smiled, and was not so pleasant. There were how ever like 5 bus boys, who were at least smiling. I asked one of then how come everybody look so miserable, and answered that they were expecting 3 big parties, and because of that reason they were super worried. I have waited tables in the past, and their reasoning seemed ridiculous. The food was alright. The cabagge salad (vigoron), was old, and the chicharron seemed to come from a bag from the gas station. I was so dissapointed. By the way, I must state that I am Nicaraguan, and the food is better at other places around Miami. If the service would have been better, I don't think the quality of the food would have matter that much.
(3)
Norma G.
Where to start? I was craving some real good Nicaraguan food and really didn't feel like going to a fritanga, so I looked around and found this place which had decent reviews and realized I've never been to but saw other fellow Yelpers liking it so...what the heck! I went at an odd hour (around 4pm), too late for lunch and too early for dinner LOL , but went anyways. The place was kinda empty, which I don't really mind, we were greeted and seated promptly, no complaints there. Our waiter was patient as it took us a while to decide what to eat, since I'm from Nicaragua, every time I go to a Nicaraguan restaurant I want to have one of everything, ugh! Takes me forever to decide and then I kinda had to help my boyfriend decide also. We started with Vigorón, very simple dish but somehow very yummy too, reminds me of Granada. Then we decided to have steaks, we ordered a baby Churrasco and the carne asada, ummmm they looked almost the same and I don't really know the difference, but overall both dishes were yummy, even though I had a complaint about the Gallo Pinto (rice and beans, like moros) it was too dry for my taste, I would probably stick to white rice next time. Our dessert was A M A Z I N G !!!! It's called Pio Quinto, it has a custard on top, and rum cake in the bottom, whoa!!! By the time we finished we were tipsy from it LOL!!! Nah!!! It was delicious. And also had 2 cortaditos, perfect size and frothy! All in all it was a great meal. Can't do that very often for sure....no way.... I would recommend this place to my fellow Yelpers that don't know much about Nica Food!!! Go ahead and try it! You won't be disappointed ;)
(4)
Jorge M.
Good Nicaraguan restaurant located in Sweet Water in a section largely populated by Nicaraguans. Located in a strip mall on Flagler which has plenty of parking. Nice size restaurant with a bar but didn't see any alcohol just beer and wine. There is no outside seating just indoors. We came on a Sunday afternoon and the place was packed. We waited about 15 minutes for a table for two. As soon that we were seated the busboy brought us water, special sauces, and garlic bread. We started with the fried tacos made with shredded chicken in a flour shell. It comes with a side of cabbage salad topped with sour cream. Then my mom had the Pollo ala plancha. That's grilled chicken breast with gayo pinto and maduros. I had the bacon wrapped filet mignon with gayo pintos and maduros. The bacon wasn't that crispy but the filet was tender and juicy. The gayo pintos was good as well as the maduros. The service was good and staff was friendly. One of the better Nicaraguan restaurant in the area.
(4)
Andy N.
Absolutely a wonderful restaurant, 4 1/2 stars. I'm not one with intense Nicaraguan experience with food but I know what I like and don't like, and this, I like. Initially upon walking in here with my hun, we seriously thought we were so under dressed for this place. In retrospect, driving in to this plaza didn't give a hint of such interior. Big plus in my book, you don't need to dress up to eat up! While scanning the menu you'll notice that if not all but majority of the menu is in Spanish, so if you hadn't already pick it up from being in soflo, you should soon because you'll be missing out! (Or just ask your server, that works too) She had the Antojito de Queso Frito, which is their deep fried cheese -- hold up, yes ..deep ..fried ..cheese. I'll give you a moment to mentally digest it. Make sure you eat it while it's hot because you know, cheese, cooling, not the same. It is also served with a cabbage salad and plantain of your choosing of how it's prepared, we ended up picking the chips since I picked maduros for my dish. I had the Indio Viejo and their rice & beans. It very much reminded me of ropa vieja but with a thicker sauce that was perfect with a half spoon of rice. Entrees come with salad and their house dressing on the table which was what we ended our main dishes with, refreshing. I was craving for some rice pudding but sadly they ran out so we had the Pio Quinto instead and it was the bomb diggity. Rice pudding what? We took a little petty dip with our spoon in the top layer custard and you can instantly taste the rum, and as you may suspect, it sank all the way down to the cake, which made it all the more worth it. Try it! They also have a lunch special with select dishes, different for each day, so we'll be back for that for sure (and for my rice pudding fix as well!)
(4)
Clare S.
Always come here for the carne asada, very good and tender. Ive also had the ribs which are very delicious as well. The prices are just a little more than what you would pay at a fritanga but the quality of the food is way better. Love their chimichurri and spicy sauce. The service is always very good, they are very attentive. I really used to love the breakfast here, wish they would bring it back. This is more of a mom and pops place so in my opinion way better than what they serve at Los Ranchos. If you're looking for good nica food, this is the place to go to.
(4)
Kat V.
Sophisticated restaurant, good customer service. The carne asada is always on point as well as the sauces. They sell cacao. Love this place! The plaza doesn't look that high end but inside is really decent!
(5)
Mari M.
This has to be one of our favorite restaurants! The food is always exceptional and the service is on point. Our server, Cesar is the best...super attentive and accommodating. My husband and I drive all the way from our home on SW 120 ST just to get our fix of this super yummy place!! Try the nacatamal (best in town) and the churasco & Moros w/ a side of salsa jalapena. Wow!! Will be back very soon.. :-)
(5)
Alejandro G.
Real nice food. Having spent 6 years of my childhood in Managua I can attest that this is some of the best Nica food in Miami. I always order los camarones al ajillo. The gallo tinto, yuca sancochada, repollo (coleslaw type cabbage), salsas, and other sides such as the patacones and quesos are fire. Definitely worth a visit if you are in Miami. I will be back again lol. :) And for those who don't like seafood they have great meat options as well. My friends always get the surtido and leave happy. The surtido comes with everything a hungry person can dream of and its the perfect meal for when your dying of hunger after work or the gym! If you are on a diet then get the ceviches. I have tried each one and can say the shrimp ceviche is the best :). I am super picky about food and so my 5 stars should mean a lot. SO GO AND EAT WELL. Buen provecho. Tengo una flojera asi q no voy a escribir mucho en español. Les digo que la comida sabe riquÃsimo y hay q lanzarse pa alla para probarla. Provechito.
(5)
Allie S.
I loved this place. Definitely the best nica food in all of Miami. I have been coming here for about 7 years I have never had an bad experience the foods is always fresh. I will say this try the sangria here it's one of the better ones I have had in a while.
(5)
Alicia H.
Delicious!!!! On a whim my boyfriend and I stopped in after a trip to the mall, not being from the area we yelped it, and the reviews don't lie, this place is awesome!!! We couldn't decide what was better the food or the price! Service was great, we waited 15mins but would've waited an hour it was that good!
(5)
Ileana M.
Dining out with my family can always be quite the task because everyone wants something different, but this is a favorite among all of us! And when we want good quality Nicaraguan food, we come here & they do not disappoint. It will not break your bank and you will not leave hungry. Do not let the location fool you! It is a little neighborhood gem in Sweetwater. Recommendations: as an appetizer, the "corn island" - a corn tamale with soft cheese & sour cream. Entrees try the Churrasco & Carne Asada of course! Or if you're feeling adventurous, go for the "Pescado a la Tipitapa" - what a fish! Or if it's just 2 of you & you're not that hungry, go for the "Bandeja" - a sampler of their best! And for a drink - go for the Sangria! A 1/2 Carafe will only set you back $10- other places charge you $8 or $9 for just a glass. Service is great! And let's be honest - good Nicaraguan places are very limited so this is a place to treasure. Los Ranchos is NOT AT ALL what it used to be- it has fallen from grace. New ownership & renovations have in my opinion ruined that place!! So please go out and enjoy this place as much as my family has.
(4)
Jesus M.
The food is excellent! It has great Nicaraguan flavor. The churrasco was great, a bit thin, but still a good size and tasted good. The servers and staff were all good, quick and helpful. It took a while to get a seat around 10pm on a Saturday but it was worth it. The only downfall was the nasty individual who farted next to our table not once but twice with no shame; eat at your own risk. Overall it was great, recommend the bakery next door too! Great nica food on one corner.
(5)
Fitfatkid S.
The Breakfast was really good, to bad they stopped doing it. Try this place you'll love it. The staff is very attentive and the service is great. I have Never been disappointed.
(5)
Manny M.
This place is fantastic, I love coming here the food and service is superb. I normally get the grilled chicken or carne asada and it's absolutely delicious. They are very attentive and the prices are extremely reasonable. If you're hungry and in the area I highly recommend this place.
(5)
Keith P.
I am not a virgin to good meat restaurants. I know exactly how I want my carne asada/steak cooked and prepared and how exactly it should taste. It should be tender, succulent, and flow with natural juices--and the carne asada at Madrono Restaurant does just that. It meets your standards in every possible way (tenderness, juiciness, price), and for $10 (excluding tax and tip), it is definitely worth every bite. Completely heaven for your average "meatophile". Only thing I wish is that this piece of carne asada was bigger. Aside from the carne asada, I have tried the chicha, gallo pinto, and maduros here. The chicha tastes very traditional and is a bright pink. The maduros are sweet and savory. A good size. The gallo pinto is also plentiful and crisp. I highly recommend a side of cream to go with the gallo pinto. It adds a creaminess to your rice that puts it over the edge, nearing 6 Yelp stars if there was such a thing. If you are looking for delicious and traditional Nicaraguan food, I would highly recommend Madrono Restaurant. Their menu is diverse and so are their price ranges. If you are going to just watch a friend eat, definitely do it because aside from good food, the waiters are also quite good looking!
(5)
Mari H.
I love the carne asada!!!! Delish My husband had the fish with shrimp sauce Amazing!!! Great food Great price!!!! And great service!!! Will be back as many times I can!!!!
(5)
Henry M.
This place gets 5 stars because the service is awesome. The staff is very attentive. Your waiter is never that far if you need something. And the times that I've gone, I've never really needed to wait to be seated. Then again I've never gone during peak hours like lunch. The food is good. The gallo pinto here is actually the best I've had. It definitely tastes home made. Tastes way better than the surrounding Fritangas. Portions are excellent and you definitely walk out feeling full. Or you can definitely expect to take some home.
(5)
Jonathan F.
This is one of the best places I've been to in Miami. Great food, the place is clean and well decorated, service is good. AND the price is just right. You can have a full meal for less than $12.
(5)
Natassia M.
This is one of my favorite lunch spots whenever I can make it out of the office before noon (getting to the restaurant after 12 will guarantee you'll have to wait for a table). The specials are great... $7 for Carne Asada with 2 sides and a drink (my favorite). The food is delicious and the service is fast. It's a must-try!
(4)
Kyrene G.
Great Nicaraguan food. Taste like its homemade and it is very reasonably price. I would definitely recommend! The carne aside is wonderful, the pork fillet on the grill is my favorite. All the sides are delicious also!
(5)
Nathaly L.
There was a 15 minute wait, at this establishment hidden in a shopping center. Apparently plenty of people know about this place because a line began forming outside as soon as our names were placed on waiting list.(and i checked out the reviews on yelp) I was actually excited because that meant it has to be good right? i realized when living in south beach, she has the tendency to take you hostage(yes, i do believe she is female). you no longer want to cross the bridge and even downtown seems to be too far of a drive. I used to laugh at those beach snobs and now i have become one. But i started yearning for department stores and other specialty stores that the beach will never have. I miss target, Michael''s, dollar tree, and even home depot. I miss pulling into a parking lot where i have so many parking options i have the luxury of being picky. Miami has pulled me out of la la land and now i find myself escaping on 395 every weekend to places i took for granted for so many years. Walking in you notice its a small restaurant with a few tables. The staff was very nice including the manager with the EXCEPTION of our waiter. We had the grumpiest waiter ever. He was the only one with a face and attitude that said he was doing our table a favor by taking our order. In his defense he was like this to all his other tables...I did take some comfort in that (i originally thought he was annoyed at my less than perfect Spanish). Unfortunately being a vegetarian at any latin american restaurant is torture. But i went with my Dad and for anyone with a traditional Cuban dad its basically required to be a latin american restaurant. Anyway, i had the gallopinto (rice/beans cooked together) and traditional yuca (which is boiled) which i loove. and in a Nicaraguan restaurant its typical for the rice or yuca to have a lil side of a shredded cabbage slaw (not creamy American coleslaw ). My dad and his gf had churassco it comes with gallo pinto (the trad. rice) and one other side. He got a side of platano verde chips(i forget what the named it on menu but basically those crunchy plantain chips) and she opted with french fries. When our food came, he did not give her the fries but the same side my dad ordered, i immediately brought it to his attention and he took her side of rice and plantains grudgingly and was left with her steak. No cuban person i have ever met will want to eat their steak with out their rice. We started eating since it would get cold, and i kept my mouth shut for 5 minutes. Was there an apology? no. Did he try rushing the order? no. Did he stop by our table to update us? no.After 10 minutes, i could see her disappointment and when the manager was near i explained and after a minute she had her rice and fries. The french fries were delicious. Just out of the fryer, crunchy, and delicious. I def. recommend It doesn't bother me that he got the order wrong, it happens no big deal. But he took her plate away without a word. the gallopinto was fine it was on the same plate next to chips (should have been fries). I have been in that situation before, and the waiter always, always leaves the plate with you tells you to go ahead and stay with it and puts a rush on whatever was missing. If she would have waited her steak would have been cold. As if our plan all along was to get some free plantain chips! maybe he was having a really, really, really bad day and forced to come into work. but with that attitude i wish he would have stayed home. my party said the steak was good. it was cooked to the right temp. the gallo pinto tasted authentic, the yuca was just like i remembered and the fries were addicting. i would come back here, and avoid this waiter. If were rating the food alone 4 stars.
(3)
Anuar U.
The attention was good the food excelent and the price was fair. The only issue was at last when I have to pay they were charging me $7.50 on taxes for a check of $30 it is ridiculous an error of 8x 30 equal $2.40. I dont know if they were trying to include the tip and make me think that it was not included and pay the tip again short story is they need a computer system to give an accurate check they shoud make enough money to cover it.
(4)
Leilani D.
When I used to live out west, I probably came here at least once every couple of weeks. There isn't much great food west of I-95 but the food at Madrono is amazing. It's located in a grungy strip mall, but once you step inside it's pretty easy to forget about. The restaurant is nicely updated, wait staff is well dressed and attentive, and the food is phenomenal. Also, very reasonably priced considering the portions are massive and the food quality. I usually started off with a ceviche - either de pescado (fish) or the vuelve a la vida (mixed seafood in a light red sauce). I almost always order the bistec encebollado (steak smothered in onions), put the puntas de filete (beef tips) in salsa de jalapeno is excellent if you like a little spice, and the bistec mixto (steak with onions and tomatoes in their sauce) was also great. Realistically, there are very few things that you will order here that won't rock your world. If you happen to find yourself in the food desert that is this area of Miami, Madrono will definitely be your oasis.
(5)
Caleb M.
Its a good lunch venue that can get busy after 12. The restaurant has good daily lunch specials. Service is good and typically fast. As a starter you get bread with the salsa plate. If you order a lunch special it comes with two sides a salad and a soda.
(4)
Michael G.
The carne asada is great. I have been here about 6 times and it never dissapoints. The spicy orange sauce is a must especially mixed in the gallo pinto. Writing this review is making me want to go today for lunch. It gets pretty busy around noon so go earlier or expect to wait a little. The food comes out fast, it taste fresh, and the serving sizes are great. For somewhere around $8 you get a nice portion of carne asada, a small salad, gallo pinto, maduros, and a soda. Great deal. I have had some of the appetizers and they were great. This is another place that the food taste like your grandma made it. Give this place a try, it will not dissapoint.
(5)
B G.
Great cheap and fast nica food!!!! Amazing service and speed. Cheap lunch specials and prices are just unbeatable. Great little gem in sweetwater. Carne asada is just devine!!!!
(5)
Michelle L.
Hadn't been back in a while and still oh so good. Started with the antojitos de queso appetizer that comes with tostones, fried cheese, and slaw. Then we had our carne asada with maduros and gallo pinto. I recommend the carne asada over the baby churrasco. The way it is prepared is tastier. Their gallo pinto is really good. We also had a carafe of white sangria. Food is still on point and I rather come here than Los Ranchos, anytime and the service is impeccable. Keep it up!
(5)
Maryuri B.
This place is wonderful! Great food and great service! I usually get the carne asada. I come to this place weekly. You can't beat the quality of food for the price. I actually tried this place because of Yelp and I agree with the reviews. I recommend it. I've brought several people myself.
(5)
Bella M.
Don't get fooled by their location lol! The food is great and service is excellent. The staff is very attentive and friendly. Not overpriced (lunch specials). I usually get carne asada and/or camarones al ajillo. I just like to keep it simple since I am not really a fan of Nicaraguan food based on previous experiences but this restaurant is a must go!
(4)
Camilo V.
Great experience. Delicious food and greatly priced, also, best service I've had in a while. I never even noticed my cup was half empty before they were filling it up. Very nice waitresses. Ordered the Repocheta as an appretizer and the carne asada as a meal. Will definitely come back
(5)
G L.
place is good food good customer serv very nice
(5)
ROSE J.
I decided to try this place due to the reviews and my craving for carne asada. the food was good and the prices are reasonable. the service was good but very rushed which never sits well. I would come back again.
(3)
Gaby B.
Its hard for me to really put into words just how much i love this restaurant. To put it simply ... It freaking ROCKS ! I have been a loyal costumer of El Madrono since 2001, when my mom married a Nicaraguan man. If there is one thing (now that they're divorced) I can appreciate this man for , it is for introducing me to this restaurant. It is a truly authentic place, you know the food is going to be excellent if there are women cooking it ! The churrasco and Gallo pinto are bursting with flavor, maduros , queso frito, ceviche, tacitos and repocheta are the BEST! Throw on some chimichurri and picante and you are set. Oh yeah, the bread they bring out is great also ( put picante and chimichurri on it) Cacao is a must for desert. Service is always pleasant , you will not be disappointed This is one of my favorite places because i know i will always leave so full and satisfied
(5)
Monica B.
For starters, the service was great. We sat down and they immediately took our order and served us some yummy bread and salad. I ordered the baby churrasco and it was honestly one of the best I have had. The queso frito was amazing and the desserts were also very good. The quality and price exceeded my expectations and I will definitely be coming back soon!
(5)
Mima A.
im a true nicaraguan.im very dissapointed how this nicaraguan restaurants have skimped on the punta de jalapeno sauce.they water it down no jalapenos it was cream with water.i use to like eating here but today was not great.my plantains were old and chewy.service was slow.waited for water for ever.the bread was stale.my friends chicken was tiny.i will keep looking for a good nicaraguan restaurant.
(1)
Vanessa T.
I am Nicaraguan, and I love to represent. So whenever I have to recommend a restaurant that serves authentic, delicious, and Yelp-5 star worthy Nicaraguan food, I always tell that person to visit Madrono. It is a restaurant like Madrono that makes me proud to represent my Nicaraguan heritage because at Madrono they pay attention to detail, offer great customer service, have amazing takeout service, and are located at a great location-- the heart of Sweetwater, Little Managua. I have been here more than a dozen times when I am craving a juicy churrasco, with superb gallo pinto, and this place offers all types of dishes to satisfy your Nicaraguan cravings. Their pitahaya and the rest of their juices are also delicious, and they offer the most authentic Nicaraguan dishes I have ever tried in Miami, and they aren't excessively oily as you would find in most fritangas. If you come here, I recommend you to try their holy trio of sauces. The first sauce is their chimichurri which will add a special flavor to your meal. The second sauce is their pickled spicy onion which will add that special spice. The last sauce is their special orange sauce which is basically made of liquified onions and carrots. It is healthy and savory. If you are in a hurry, you can order food to go at the pick-up station right next to the restaurant. They will have your food ready at 15 minutes tops. If you want to try Nicaraguan food at its finest, I highly recommend you visit Madrono. The food is fairly priced, authentic, and the menu offers a wide variety of dishes. The servers are also friendly and treat you with true hospitality. And the adventure continues...
(5)
Blue A.
Since meeting my Nicaraguan fiance I have been exposed to the deliciousness that is Nica food. Traveling with her to her motherland has spoiled me. EVERYTHING there is so delicious! The meat, the tomatoes, the lettuce, even the SODA tastes better - but we live here in Miami so we are always looking for the Nica Food fix. Been to Madrono a few times. Some things I have had: Churrasco - Great steak! The chimi-churri sauce takes it to the next level! Camarones Enchilados - The shrimp creole is just alright. I've had better. Tacos - 3 rolled up tacos. We had the beef - not bad! Frijoles Molido - Puree of red beans with "crema" on top. Really good, especially to use to dip the tacos in. Queso Frito - translates to fried cheese - and its freakin' delicious. Gallo Pinto - the accompanying rice and beans that comes with entrees is decent - better than most places. Maduros - Fried plantains are good. Tres Leche - The delicious 3 milk dessert here is one of the best I have had. The cake is fluffy, the milk is just right - it's easy to make this TOO sweet, but they make it perfect. Although the food is good, the waiters are always nice and attentive I can't seem to rate this place more than 3 stars. Maybe it's the location - not in the best area, and in a very crowded strip mall. The food just doesn't leave me wanting to go back the next day. Maybe my exposure to authentic Nica food has made my taste skewed - but I can live with that. Getting married in March......In Nicaragua.....so I will have a good week to indulge in the deliciousness.
(3)
Mayda P.
The baby churasco was cooked exactly how I ordered medium rare and the tres leche was to die for! I will be back very soon.
(4)
Rosario P.
I was raised in Nicaragua so when it comes to Nicaraguan food I have high standards. This place serves authentic nicaraguan food and the service is great. If you go during lunch time, make sure to try out the "Salpicon" Its a 'cold' meat served with white rice and 'maduro' (fried plantain). I've been to various nicaraguan restaurants and no other seems to get it 'just right" the way El Madrono does. If you go during dinner, make sure to order a Churrasco. I usually have it with Gallo Pinto (Rice and beans) and queso frito (Fried cheese) and I would ask for Crema (A nicaraguan version of sour cream) on the side. I believe they charge you extra for the 'crema' but trust me when I say you'll want it with your meal! I add it to the gallo pinto and to the maduros. If you still have room for dessert after the churrasco make sure to order a tres leches. I am very picky about tres leches, because a lot of places make them overly sweet, but this place has it down to T! The prices are reasonable and the restaurant was recently renovated. The bathrooms are ALWAYS clean (which is a major pet peeve of mine) and the staff is very friendly!
If I could give this place 6 stars, I would. Fabulous food, impeccable service, reasonable prices. Favorite dishes: the tacos appetizer, lomito de cerdo a la parilla, and the pescado meunière. Amazing. They have some of the best sweet plantains in town, and there are a lot of those in Miami, so that's saying something! During the lunch and dinner rush it can get quite busy, and the wait might be about 15 minutes.
(5)
Gina M.
This restaurant was simply, GREAT! My family and I recently visited this restaurant while on vacation in Miami and my fiancee and I were thoroughly impressed with the level of service received. This is the first restaurant I have ever been to where they change your silverware 3 to 4 times in one sitting. The waiters were very attentive and pleasant. The food quality is great and it is reasonably priced. I will be sure to make this restaurant a "must eat" spot every time I visit Miami.
(5)
Alexander B.
5 stars for service, 5 stars for food, 5 stars for ambiance, amazing place! For being a local restaurant, this place knows what they are doing. The restaurant is spotless. We had the corn tamale appetizer with cuajada and crema, and then fried cheese with slaw and Mariquitas. Everything was spot on! I even asked for a side of chicharrones for only $1, which was a great side to have. Me and by wife both had the carne asada, full of flavor and perfect portion. And the prices? Cheap!!!!! I would recommend this place to anyone wanting to try some great Nicaraguan food without the crazy prices.
(5)
Angelica A.
My husband was born in Nicaragua. In Frisco we don't usually get too many options for Nicarguan food, but in Miami there are plenty. We picked this place because of the good reviews and we're glad we did. The food is authentic and it's delicious. The fries cheese is crunchy on the outside but warm and gooey on the inside, a perfect combination. The sopa de res is really good and comforting. The service is also great. Waiters are quick to fill up your glass of water and are polite. My cousin ordered chicken tacos but somehow waiter heard chicken tenders but she still enjoyed her meal. Def recommend this place for Nicaraguan food.
(5)
hamilon s.
Better than Los ranchos. Better service, Better food, Better cost. Must try puntas de filete en salsa jalapeño.
(5)
Rebecca C.
I have heard about this place for quite awhile now and been wanting to try it. So finally on my last night in Miami til I was home-bound to Loiusiana, I finally got the opportunity to check Madrono out with some close friends. So this place is a Nicaraguan restaurant and while it looks fancy inside, is actually affordably priced. The food is plentiful and tasty. The service was very friendly. And if you are looking to try traditional Nicaraguan cuisine they have a section just for that with plate sizes ranging from small to large. They also have some desserts to try but I wasn't blown away and I've found the authentic stuff (bunuelos) to be much, much better. But otherwise, there menu items are pretty good with a large range of seafood options too. My faves were the creole fish with shrimp and their gallo pinto (black beans with rice) and plantains perfectly completed it. Definitely a great place to check out if you are in the mood for something new.
(4)
Rocio D.
Nice ambience since I get into the place, very clean, nice service and food just great, carne asada well cook and tender, i would say even better than Los Ranchos decent portions for a cheaper price flavor just delicious house made tres leche was heaven, queso frito and tostones very delightful, tostones remind me my hometown santo Domingo
(4)
Milton G.
this is a great little restaurant, and the food still keeps a bit of that home made taste that is almost impossible to duplicate, waiting staff is great and the owner is almost always there to make sure everything goes alright. it felt good to shake his hand and congratulate him for the good food and service, you cant do that anymore anywhere. it is on a corner in a shopping plaza, there is always parking available but expect some wait during peak times, the most i have waited is 15 minutes which is nothing compared to other places i have had to wait. please do not leave without trying their Pio V dessert, it is to die for!
(5)
Alex P.
One of Miami's best every day restaurants. Delicious Nicaraguan food presented in an upscale manor. I've gone to this place soooo many times and keep coming back for their perfect rice, churrasco, maduros, cacao, and tostada.
(5)
David A.
I have been here several times and the food is great. The decor on the inside is surprisingly nice, and the waiters were good too. Nothing I had here was out of this world, but that's not to say it is not worth a visit :)
(3)
Max T.
I have been here several times and prefer the place over the ranchos across the street. The meats are well cooked and the decor is surprisingly modern for a sweetwater restaurant. The prices are fair and the service is good. I usually go for carne asada with gallo pinto and i would stick to the meats at any Nica place.
(4)
Jose S.
This place is a great deal. The food is amazing. We showed up about 30 minutes to close and the service was excellent. The waitress was friendly and was fluent in English and Spanish. We were a party of 6, we walked in and were seated immediately. They waisted no time bringing us bread and water. They had 3 different sauces on the table that were delicious on the bread one of them was chimichurri the other was some chopped pickled onions and the third was spicy chopped carrots in a vinegar sauce. I ordered the churrasco medium with gallo pinto rice and ripe fried plantains. My wife ordered the sirloin tips in jalapeño sauce both of our dishes were amazing. We ordered a carafe of house wine for $20 and it was great. I'm from Miami so I always expect really good food which Miami frequently delivers and this place lived up to my expectations. Don't be scared off by its location (small cheesy strip mall). In my opinion it is one of the best Nicaraguan restaurants I've been to with excellent prices.
(5)
Sabrina L.
I tried this place a couple of weeks ago during an office dinner, and it was a nice experience. The decor is modern and appealing. Our waiter was very professional and suggested different items from the menu, for those of us who are not too familiar with Nicaraguan food. I ordered a grilled fish with lemon sauce , two sides included black beans with rice and plantains. The dish was tasty but the fish was a bit too lemony for my taste. The plantains were sooo good! Everyone at the table seemed to really enjoyed their dishes, a lot of them had to take some food home, because the quantity is major! A dish can easily be shared. I will be giving this place another try!
(3)
Bob S.
I was in town for one evening, and had arrived a bit late due to S. Florida traffic and road construction. Fortunately, what was late for me was normal business hours for Madrono. Prices were reasonable, and everything I had, from the ceviche to the churrisco to the bunelos was terrific. Service was spot on. Other reviewers have pretty much covered the bases, I had a -bit- of a time finding it, look for the Walgreens at the corner of 107th and Flagler -- from there, it's easy.
(4)
Larissa G.
The food was good and very fresh. However, what surprised me the most was the service. They were on top of us (in a good way) the whole time. At some point my son dropped his spoon and 3 seconds later someone showed up with a replacement. Very polite staff, service was fast, and their 3 leches is beyond amazing !!
(5)
Vanessa M.
This restaurant offers authentic Nica food. I am from Nicaragua and can guarantee that this restaurant offers the best of the best. The food is delicious and the service is wonderful. They make you feel at home. If you want to try true authentic Nicaraguan food you need to go to this restaurant, no other Nica restaurant or fritanga comes close to the quality of food and service of Madrono. Everyone is very polite ; they also offer a wonderful takeout service.
(5)
Luis A.
Best Nicaraguan food in town. Service is excellent and food is great. Los Ranchos has nothing on this place. Been going there for years and never been disappointed. Keep it up! Thanks
(5)
Aracelly C.
I love my Nica food and this place has it all .The place is nice the decor is contemporary and the waiters are always on point.Their sauces are great and their dessert Tres Leche is the best.
(5)
Mimi M.
This place is so yum and its perfect for a big meal when your wallet does not participate. I love this restaurant, the service and the location. I wish they had a spicier orange sauce like Fritanga Mombino does but the Jalapeno Tirras and Queso Frito are to die for. The sangria is very good here.
(4)
Michelle G.
This restaurant is across from Los Ranchos and with identical good options, I want sure how this would compare. However, I was not disappointed! While the quality is top notch, the prices were extremely affordable. If in the area, definitely stop by for some delicious Nicaraguan fare. You will not be disappointed!
(4)
R.c. K.
This is an ok restaurant. To cut to the chase, I cannot give it more than 3 stars because of the quality of the meat. A little tougher than I expected, and lacking in flavor (before piling on the chimichurri). There is no shortage of places in Miami to get churrasco. Because of this fact, I will not return here. However, if you do want to go, many of the other items were pretty good and the server was very nice.
(3)
Mandy H.
They decorate the whole restaurant with IKEA furniture. I found it very funny. First time experience, our waiter does speak English. But I just found him extremely rude. When you ask him about lunch special. May be he doesn't want anyone to order lunch special. He just walk away and said Oh I have to come back to you. If you sit down and look at the menu, you will find the last page of Rules (their own restaurant rules). for example each table only can split 2 checks. (first time I see in S FL) Because of the horrible service I don't think I will go back
(1)
Jessie G.
Love this place. I could just skip the entrees and order off their appetizer menu. Everything tastes great and the service is always good. Our whole family loves coming here. Genuine Nica food.
(4)
Liz L.
This place is really good. The place is clean, the food tastes amazing, and the service is excellent. My mom and I love this place.
(4)
Jackie T.
I love this place! If you're looking for authentic Nicaraguan food that is not overpriced (like el Novillo or Los Ranchos), this is the place to go. You'll find all the traditional dishes including carne asada, churasco, salpicon and even oxtail soup. The service is friendly and efficient and the place is always clean. I've never been dissapointed with anything I've had here. If you go and you've never had Nicraguan food, I recommend going with carne asada accompanied by gallo pinto (rice and beans). As an appetizer I'd go with repocheta (which is a thin corn tortilla stuffed with melted cheese and served with a cabbage salad and sour cream). If you want something lighter and are diet conscious, go with salpicon (shredded beef with diced green peppers and onions and seasoned with salt and lime juice), rice, and a boiled plantain. The orange/carrot juice is refreshing and tastes homemade. As for desserts, definitely the tres leches. This is an excellent lunch or dinner place.
(5)
Roger A.
Best Nicaraguan food hands down!!
(5)
Indy O.
Let me begin by saying that I absolutely love the food in this place. The food is always great! Have been going for years before they remodelled it. The bandeja madrono is great has a little of everything carne asada, pork, gallo pinto, tacos, maduros, vigoron. It's more than enough for 2 people. The carne asada is great!! The sopa de cola is amazing! The breakfast is fantastic! I love everything I have tried. The reason why I give it a 3 star is the service. I have to say that the service has gone downhill. Ever since they decided to become a bit classier & started including tip it was all downhill from there. To wait for 5 minutes for your waiter to get your drink order is not acceptable!!!! The only thing that they need to do is improve that one thing. They are all very nice just seems you wait far too long for service.
(3)
Danny F.
Contrary to others, the food is only what you make of it. Like life! No, just kidding. It does depend on what you order. Get the wrong menu choice, you'll be overcharged for something you could have gotten at any fritanga for 2 dollars less! However, don't mind the frou frou pseudo-modern interior design, order something good and you'll be more than happy. My personal favorite is the bistec entomatado with white rice and french fries. The sauce is incredible, the meat is tender (medium well), and the rest is pretty good too. SO, though this place may not have stellar hosts or the best look, you can get an incredible taste of Nicaragua, if you order the right thing. If your confused, just ask your waiter!
(4)
Ari S.
Great Nicaraguan restaurant. Service was excellent. I had a seafood dish, some type of fish with a shrimp lobster sauce, I would definitely recommend.
(3)
Katie C.
Yummy and reasonably priced. Only down side is that it gets packed and quick. I would suggest to get there before 12PM or after 1:30PM. If not, you are looking at a 15-20 minute wait.
(4)
Monica W.
Loved it! Great food, fantastic service and VERY good prices! We started with a Ceviche de pescado and a Nicaraguan Ceviche, both fresh and delicious, for our main course we had the platter (bandeja) which had a little (a lot really) of some of the main starters, and the churrasco. The food was fresh, well cooked and truly delicious. For dessert we had te Pio 5 (I think that is the name) and it was fabulous, we also had the tres leches (not as good). Additionally we had coffee and two very cold beers, and the bill came to $78 including tip! There was so much food that we took leftovers home and had enough for lunch for two next day. The service was outstanding, the service and the food were on par with a 5 star restaurant and the prices with a two star restaurant. Perhaps the only negative side to this place is its location and the view, but both can easily be ignored once you have the food is placed in front of you!
(5)
Daniela M.
Service is GREAT, food is AMAZING. Better than any Nicaraguan fritanga. It's been remodeled and it looks great now. It's awesome for a casual dinner.
(5)
Arleen C.
Went there on a late Sunday afternoon for a late lunch/early dinner with daughter and her husband. The place was pretty packed and the host, which I am so sorry I don't have his name, was wonderful. Told us it would be a few minutes and he was right. They seated us and, after we settled in we found out that one of the chairs was sorta in the way and I was going to be moving all the time or being tripped with every two minutes. So, we asked if we could move and there was absolutely no problem...5 stars for that. Our waiter, sorry no name either, wasn't as good as our host or as the water boy, but he wasn't horrible....3 stars for him. When we finally figured out what was what in the menu, we ordered our food and we waited and chatted. Our food arrived and it was all delicious...5 stars for that. Nicaraguan son in law was in heaven and we enjoyed it too.
(3)
Tiana F.
I have been coming here for a long time since about 2004. their food and prices are perfect. i enjoy much better than "los ranchos" that is way too pricey and misses the mark sometimes. the madrono platter is really big and has everything you want and have convinced my husband to share it once or twice but he mostly eats the churrasco (duh) and he enjoys it with gallo pinto. everything I eat here is delicious and their portions are very generous. the service has always been a little slow. last visit, hubby and I sat at bar, and we waited about 5 minutes for water and more for our server to take our order. not cool. you get an awesome bread basket and a little salad with your entree. they make a great thousand-island-like dressing that is delicious for the salad. I highly recommend this place. You may have to wait to be seated, especially wknd lunch, and then wait to get your server to look at you, but the food is delicious.
(4)
Kelly O.
Had dinner here last night and it was good. I tried the nacatamal which was surprisingly good and filling. The fried cheese was fried cheese which in my book is always delicious. The baby churrasco was cooked nicely and had a good flavor. I especially enjoyed it with the pickled jalapeños with onions. However, someone else ordered the camarones enchilado and they really were not that good. The desserts are not homemade which I don't like. The service was good and our waiter was kind (not rude at all, like other reviews stated).
(3)
Oscar S.
I'm giving 5 stars because this restaurant has a perfect balance between food quality, decoration, cleanliness, service and price. It is perfect to go once or even twice a month with the family or some friends. And yes, you can find better restaurants than this one, but also more expensive. I find Madrono to be one of the best restaurants I have visited on its price range ($9 to $16).
(5)
cindy w.
In Miami where tons of Latin eateries open up, ethnic restaurants live and die by the loyalty of their patrons. Madrono was servicable but didn't leave me a reason to come back. It was my first introduction to Nicaraguan food but looking at the menu I didn't find stuff I couldn't get elsewhere at other latin restaraunts. I ordered a small plate of tacos for an appetizer-style meal and I was given 3 deep-fried taco "rolls", so that was different. Tried the passion fruit soda that was awesome. Don't try the desserts, they look like they were manufactured elsewhere and not made on site, especially the tres leches.
(3)
Ame C.
If you want awesome Nicaraguan food this is definitely the place. There is usually a wait (since all the Nicaraguans in the area come here to eat) but it's worth the wait. The service is WONDERFUL and the food is even better. If you're in Miami you should take a detour to eat here. You won't regret it!!!
(5)
Nelson R.
When i walk into a restaurant, the last thing that impresses me is the decor. I have been to some pretty fancy and some not so fancy restaurants and the decor does not always relate to the service, food, price. I have been returning to madrono for a few years now and I have to say this place is not a fritanga-style place. 2 different animals. Madrono, from my experiences has very friendly, efficient and fast service. if you like beef, I strongly recommend trying the puntas de filete a la jalapena (sirloin tips in jalapena sauce) for seafood the pescado tipitapa ( a whole snapper with a creole-style sauce on top), the beef tongue in a wine sauce, and their soups are very hearty and flavorful with tons of veggies. I am not too fond of the ceviches myself, that I will leave to the Peruvians who are the masters of it. If you like coffee coolers or chai tea, you will then love cacao. I do not think too many people are familiar with this drink. An alternative to 3 leches is Pio V or bunuelos which are probably more authentic Nicaraguan. Enjoy Madrono.
(5)
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Address :10780 W Flagler St,Ste 17
Miami, FL, 33174
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Lunch, Dinner Parking : Private Lot Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Alcohol : Beer & Wine Only Outdoor Seating : No Wi-Fi : No Has TV : No Waiter Service : Yes Caters : Yes
Rocio D.
Nice ambience since I get into the place, very clean, nice service and food just great, carne asada well cook and tender, i would say even better than Los Ranchos decent portions for a cheaper price flavor just delicious house made tres leche was heaven, queso frito and tostones very delightful, tostones remind me my hometown santo Domingo
(4)Milton G.
this is a great little restaurant, and the food still keeps a bit of that home made taste that is almost impossible to duplicate, waiting staff is great and the owner is almost always there to make sure everything goes alright. it felt good to shake his hand and congratulate him for the good food and service, you cant do that anymore anywhere. it is on a corner in a shopping plaza, there is always parking available but expect some wait during peak times, the most i have waited is 15 minutes which is nothing compared to other places i have had to wait. please do not leave without trying their Pio V dessert, it is to die for!
(5)Alex P.
One of Miami's best every day restaurants. Delicious Nicaraguan food presented in an upscale manor. I've gone to this place soooo many times and keep coming back for their perfect rice, churrasco, maduros, cacao, and tostada.
(5)David A.
I have been here several times and the food is great. The decor on the inside is surprisingly nice, and the waiters were good too. Nothing I had here was out of this world, but that's not to say it is not worth a visit :)
(3)Max T.
I have been here several times and prefer the place over the ranchos across the street. The meats are well cooked and the decor is surprisingly modern for a sweetwater restaurant. The prices are fair and the service is good. I usually go for carne asada with gallo pinto and i would stick to the meats at any Nica place.
(4)Jose S.
This place is a great deal. The food is amazing. We showed up about 30 minutes to close and the service was excellent. The waitress was friendly and was fluent in English and Spanish. We were a party of 6, we walked in and were seated immediately. They waisted no time bringing us bread and water. They had 3 different sauces on the table that were delicious on the bread one of them was chimichurri the other was some chopped pickled onions and the third was spicy chopped carrots in a vinegar sauce. I ordered the churrasco medium with gallo pinto rice and ripe fried plantains. My wife ordered the sirloin tips in jalapeño sauce both of our dishes were amazing. We ordered a carafe of house wine for $20 and it was great. I'm from Miami so I always expect really good food which Miami frequently delivers and this place lived up to my expectations. Don't be scared off by its location (small cheesy strip mall). In my opinion it is one of the best Nicaraguan restaurants I've been to with excellent prices.
(5)Sabrina L.
I tried this place a couple of weeks ago during an office dinner, and it was a nice experience. The decor is modern and appealing. Our waiter was very professional and suggested different items from the menu, for those of us who are not too familiar with Nicaraguan food. I ordered a grilled fish with lemon sauce , two sides included black beans with rice and plantains. The dish was tasty but the fish was a bit too lemony for my taste. The plantains were sooo good! Everyone at the table seemed to really enjoyed their dishes, a lot of them had to take some food home, because the quantity is major! A dish can easily be shared. I will be giving this place another try!
(3)Bob S.
I was in town for one evening, and had arrived a bit late due to S. Florida traffic and road construction. Fortunately, what was late for me was normal business hours for Madrono. Prices were reasonable, and everything I had, from the ceviche to the churrisco to the bunelos was terrific. Service was spot on. Other reviewers have pretty much covered the bases, I had a -bit- of a time finding it, look for the Walgreens at the corner of 107th and Flagler -- from there, it's easy.
(4)Larissa G.
The food was good and very fresh. However, what surprised me the most was the service. They were on top of us (in a good way) the whole time. At some point my son dropped his spoon and 3 seconds later someone showed up with a replacement. Very polite staff, service was fast, and their 3 leches is beyond amazing !!
(5)Vanessa M.
This restaurant offers authentic Nica food. I am from Nicaragua and can guarantee that this restaurant offers the best of the best. The food is delicious and the service is wonderful. They make you feel at home. If you want to try true authentic Nicaraguan food you need to go to this restaurant, no other Nica restaurant or fritanga comes close to the quality of food and service of Madrono. Everyone is very polite ; they also offer a wonderful takeout service.
(5)Luis A.
Best Nicaraguan food in town. Service is excellent and food is great. Los Ranchos has nothing on this place. Been going there for years and never been disappointed. Keep it up! Thanks
(5)Aracelly C.
I love my Nica food and this place has it all .The place is nice the decor is contemporary and the waiters are always on point.Their sauces are great and their dessert Tres Leche is the best.
(5)Mimi M.
This place is so yum and its perfect for a big meal when your wallet does not participate. I love this restaurant, the service and the location. I wish they had a spicier orange sauce like Fritanga Mombino does but the Jalapeno Tirras and Queso Frito are to die for. The sangria is very good here.
(4)Michelle G.
This restaurant is across from Los Ranchos and with identical good options, I want sure how this would compare. However, I was not disappointed! While the quality is top notch, the prices were extremely affordable. If in the area, definitely stop by for some delicious Nicaraguan fare. You will not be disappointed!
(4)R.c. K.
This is an ok restaurant. To cut to the chase, I cannot give it more than 3 stars because of the quality of the meat. A little tougher than I expected, and lacking in flavor (before piling on the chimichurri). There is no shortage of places in Miami to get churrasco. Because of this fact, I will not return here. However, if you do want to go, many of the other items were pretty good and the server was very nice.
(3)Mandy H.
They decorate the whole restaurant with IKEA furniture. I found it very funny. First time experience, our waiter does speak English. But I just found him extremely rude. When you ask him about lunch special. May be he doesn't want anyone to order lunch special. He just walk away and said Oh I have to come back to you. If you sit down and look at the menu, you will find the last page of Rules (their own restaurant rules). for example each table only can split 2 checks. (first time I see in S FL) Because of the horrible service I don't think I will go back
(1)Jackie T.
I love this place! If you're looking for authentic Nicaraguan food that is not overpriced (like el Novillo or Los Ranchos), this is the place to go. You'll find all the traditional dishes including carne asada, churasco, salpicon and even oxtail soup. The service is friendly and efficient and the place is always clean. I've never been dissapointed with anything I've had here. If you go and you've never had Nicraguan food, I recommend going with carne asada accompanied by gallo pinto (rice and beans). As an appetizer I'd go with repocheta (which is a thin corn tortilla stuffed with melted cheese and served with a cabbage salad and sour cream). If you want something lighter and are diet conscious, go with salpicon (shredded beef with diced green peppers and onions and seasoned with salt and lime juice), rice, and a boiled plantain. The orange/carrot juice is refreshing and tastes homemade. As for desserts, definitely the tres leches. This is an excellent lunch or dinner place.
(5)Roger A.
Best Nicaraguan food hands down!!
(5)Indy O.
Let me begin by saying that I absolutely love the food in this place. The food is always great! Have been going for years before they remodelled it. The bandeja madrono is great has a little of everything carne asada, pork, gallo pinto, tacos, maduros, vigoron. It's more than enough for 2 people. The carne asada is great!! The sopa de cola is amazing! The breakfast is fantastic! I love everything I have tried. The reason why I give it a 3 star is the service. I have to say that the service has gone downhill. Ever since they decided to become a bit classier & started including tip it was all downhill from there. To wait for 5 minutes for your waiter to get your drink order is not acceptable!!!! The only thing that they need to do is improve that one thing. They are all very nice just seems you wait far too long for service.
(3)Danny F.
Contrary to others, the food is only what you make of it. Like life! No, just kidding. It does depend on what you order. Get the wrong menu choice, you'll be overcharged for something you could have gotten at any fritanga for 2 dollars less! However, don't mind the frou frou pseudo-modern interior design, order something good and you'll be more than happy. My personal favorite is the bistec entomatado with white rice and french fries. The sauce is incredible, the meat is tender (medium well), and the rest is pretty good too. SO, though this place may not have stellar hosts or the best look, you can get an incredible taste of Nicaragua, if you order the right thing. If your confused, just ask your waiter!
(4)Ari S.
Great Nicaraguan restaurant. Service was excellent. I had a seafood dish, some type of fish with a shrimp lobster sauce, I would definitely recommend.
(3)Katie C.
Yummy and reasonably priced. Only down side is that it gets packed and quick. I would suggest to get there before 12PM or after 1:30PM. If not, you are looking at a 15-20 minute wait.
(4)Monica W.
Loved it! Great food, fantastic service and VERY good prices! We started with a Ceviche de pescado and a Nicaraguan Ceviche, both fresh and delicious, for our main course we had the platter (bandeja) which had a little (a lot really) of some of the main starters, and the churrasco. The food was fresh, well cooked and truly delicious. For dessert we had te Pio 5 (I think that is the name) and it was fabulous, we also had the tres leches (not as good). Additionally we had coffee and two very cold beers, and the bill came to $78 including tip! There was so much food that we took leftovers home and had enough for lunch for two next day. The service was outstanding, the service and the food were on par with a 5 star restaurant and the prices with a two star restaurant. Perhaps the only negative side to this place is its location and the view, but both can easily be ignored once you have the food is placed in front of you!
(5)Daniela M.
Service is GREAT, food is AMAZING. Better than any Nicaraguan fritanga. It's been remodeled and it looks great now. It's awesome for a casual dinner.
(5)Arleen C.
Went there on a late Sunday afternoon for a late lunch/early dinner with daughter and her husband. The place was pretty packed and the host, which I am so sorry I don't have his name, was wonderful. Told us it would be a few minutes and he was right. They seated us and, after we settled in we found out that one of the chairs was sorta in the way and I was going to be moving all the time or being tripped with every two minutes. So, we asked if we could move and there was absolutely no problem...5 stars for that. Our waiter, sorry no name either, wasn't as good as our host or as the water boy, but he wasn't horrible....3 stars for him. When we finally figured out what was what in the menu, we ordered our food and we waited and chatted. Our food arrived and it was all delicious...5 stars for that. Nicaraguan son in law was in heaven and we enjoyed it too.
(3)Tiana F.
I have been coming here for a long time since about 2004. their food and prices are perfect. i enjoy much better than "los ranchos" that is way too pricey and misses the mark sometimes. the madrono platter is really big and has everything you want and have convinced my husband to share it once or twice but he mostly eats the churrasco (duh) and he enjoys it with gallo pinto. everything I eat here is delicious and their portions are very generous. the service has always been a little slow. last visit, hubby and I sat at bar, and we waited about 5 minutes for water and more for our server to take our order. not cool. you get an awesome bread basket and a little salad with your entree. they make a great thousand-island-like dressing that is delicious for the salad. I highly recommend this place. You may have to wait to be seated, especially wknd lunch, and then wait to get your server to look at you, but the food is delicious.
(4)Martica B.
Perfect place for a quick, filling, and inexpensive lunch. My fiance and I have been here several times and their service and quality of the food is consistent. We have ordered the carnitas de pollo y carne and the tilapia with shrimp sauce - both are delicious. The size of the plates is not huge, but they are filling and adequate for a lunch plate. The pricing is amazing for the taste of the food and the options you have. The will bring you a bread basket with different sauces to eat while waiting for your lunch. We always order el queso frito which is a decent size of fried white cheese, absolutely delicious! The place is small but intimate. They keep it very well maintained and clean. The service is awesome!
(5)Jordan N.
This place is average. Very average. I was a bit disappointed, because this place has been hyped up by a lot of people I know. And not only that, but the cleanliness, a nice-looking menu and the "trendier" decor (you'll know what I mean if you've gone to Nicaraguan fritangas around Miami) also hyped up my expectations - but they all came down when the food was really very typical of Nicaraguan fritanga fare. Just because of the pretentiousness this place seems to want to have without realizing what they're really offering, I'm taking away an extra star. If you want the same stuff, go to another fritanga, save maybe more than a buck and two, bear with the more downscale environment, and get the same food or better! As for the food, there was a lot of beans, plantains, and a really subpar salad was served with my carne asada. But to credit it where it's due, the carne asada had a good citrusy flavor that is not common in other fritangas I've visited. And the tres leches was not that bad, but it was not homemade either. You can find the same stuff elsewhere ("manufactured" for your convenience, of course). And on top of that, I didn't find the staff to be well knowledgable in customer service although the water glass never went empty. Oh, and 15% tip is automatically added to the bill here. Overall, I'm definitely not returning to this establishment.
(2)Len D.
This is a pretty good Nicaraguan restaurant, that reminded me of Los Ranchos that is actually a block away. I like this place a lot better. They try to give a fine dining vibe with the servers and the decor/furniture. It works. One thing that was weird, was the manager or maybe he's the owner. He just sits at the corner of the restaurant, just smiling.....judging.....watching....look at the baby.... He did make sure the waiters did their job and the waiters were very attentive. I think because of that guy. We started with an appetizer of yuca and pork chunks. We also had chicken tacos. The tacos were pretty bad, actually. They were actually worse than what I can find in the isles of a supermarket. The pork was really good though. It wasn't chewy like some other places. It kind of melted in your mouth. The yuca was nice too. It wasn't overcooked (which I prefer) and it had a good texture. I had the breaded fish. It had an excellent breading, it didn't come apart when I cut it up. It was nice and light breading too. The fried chicken my girl ordered was the same. The plates on the table were kinda weird though. They move and spin very easily (only the entree plates). It's like eating on an air hockey table. Seriously, if your there. Take one finger and slightly spin it, weird. I had a cappuccino and it was sweeter than usual (a good thing). Usually I have to add extra sugar to get it to my liking, but I think they add chocolate powder or something. It was kinda chocolaty. My girl liked how they gave a sugar candy stick to stir in the cream.
(4)Jessie G.
Love this place. I could just skip the entrees and order off their appetizer menu. Everything tastes great and the service is always good. Our whole family loves coming here. Genuine Nica food.
(4)Liz L.
This place is really good. The place is clean, the food tastes amazing, and the service is excellent. My mom and I love this place.
(4)Immer R.
Great little place to grab a quick bite. As everyone knows there are tons of these types of restaurants throughout the tri-county area, but I give it three stars because they've put some effort into making the place look nice (even though it might be ikea style furniture as another reviewer put it.) I've had the steak lunch special and its a good deal for about 9 or 10 bucks. You get a salad, an 8oz steak, and choice of side (rice & beans, fries, mashed potatoes, etc...) If i lived in the area and didn't feel like cooking, I'd probably hit this place up for dinner a few times a month.
(3)Mikhaela M.
This place is great. We found it while passing through the outskirts of Miami. Food is very good, service is top notch. Decor is spotless Miami style, servers are dressed in white with long white aprons. The portions are large and the menu is fairly affordable. Very glad to find it.
(4)edwin p.
if your nicaraguan, you are picky with food. In my case, i love madrono, its been great since i first went in 2000. baby churrasco is the best ever. natural juices are second best, put the two together and you got yourself a great meal. note:15% tip added always
(5)luis s.
I came here with my dad and automatically thought to myself Oh jesus this place is gonna suck. To my surprise it didn't! At first I noticed that the chef or cook whatever you want to call them was a woman. Apparently that's how the culture is in Nicaragua. The staff was very attantive and pleasant. For starter we had the typical Nica dish fried cheese which was really good. After that we had Vacio cut steaks and salad the steaks was nice and juicy and perfectly cooked. After that we topped off our meal with a coffee and called it a day. This is a great spot for lunch or dinner.
(4)Raquel S.
We all know Nicaraguan food is tasty but trying to find a Nicaraguan restaurant that serves great breakfast is hard to find but at El Madrono serves an authentic Nica breakfast. Stop by and enjoy!!!!
(4)Ana Z.
What a good surprise. My friends took me to this restaurant to have a late breakfast and I absolutely loved it. The food is unique, their combos are very inexpensive and they give you lots of food, and not any quality of food, everything was very fresh and tasty! Mis amigos me llevaron a este restaurante y que buena sorpresa. La comida es unica, los combos son muy baratos, recibes grandes cantidades y no es comida de cualquier calidad, es muy fresca y deliciosa.
(5)Martha L.
This is by far my favorite place in Miami for Nica food. We don't mind driving 30 minutes to come here every chance we get and everyone we've brought here (regardless of background) ends up coming back on their own! And for those Nicas who might want to take home some antojitos, go to la Pulperia next door - it's owned by the same family!
(5)Mike B.
This place has changed alot in the past few years. The service is excellent. The food is fantastic. Looks very classy inside. They also have good lunch specials. The carne asada and gallo pinto is a home run out of the park, I highly recommend it.
(5)Thomas M.
I've seen this gem grow from plastic chairs to diamonds, but the service and atmosphere have not changed. The food just keeps getting better. The place is owned by a Nicaraguan family and the food is just amazing. If you are a tourist you must try this place. Try; - fried cheese, ceviche, fried pork chunks. Signature Dish is Churrasco (flat latin steak) always satisfies. Also try the Gallo Pinto, traditional Nicaraguan Rice and Beans, very tasty and healthy compared to Cuban Rice. Their deserts if you have room are excellent. Very good quality, not common for inexpensive small holes in the wall. Other recommendation is B'Fast on the weekends be there early as the line stretches around the building to the street, yes to the street.
(5)Yurena R.
Awesome food! Awesome service! Very nice decor and atmosphere.
(5)Nicholas A.
Cafe Madrono was bigger than I thought it would be. My girlfriend and I came in with a fair sized group of Yelpers, so I wasn't sure we'd be seated immediately. Since it was Thursday, though, I had no worries. The restaurant was pretty much empty, so all was well. I had Nicaraguan pork chops with grilled onions and rice with fries. One thing Madrono does well is value for money. My plate was covered with food and it was all about 8 bucks, and with side salad even! The chops were fine, but the rice was dried out and the fries would have been forgettable had it not been for some awesome pink sauce the brought to the table. It tastes like a close cousin to Spanish ali-oli. Desert was the biggest disappointment. My gf and I split a tres leches which we're sure was not made in house. Other people had good luck with Nicaraguan coffee, served with peculiarly salty mini-cookies. Madrono is a fine place to go if you're in the area, but not really worth any kind of special trip
(3)Lilyvania M.
This place has some of the best Nicaraguan food you'll find in Miami! I highly recommend you try the bandeja de antojitos (appetizer platter) because you get a little bit of everything and is good enough for two people to share. I like the family atmosphere and how the owners have changed the place over time. If you haven't tried Nica food in Miami, then this is the place to try it.
(4)Dina A.
I looove this place! We order lunch from here at least once a week and the food is always spectacular! Mind you, we only order one menu staple: carne asada with jalapeno sauce. It makes my eyes water every time I take a bite of this delicacy. The meat is always tender and flavorful and the white sauce adds a subtle spiciness that enhances the already wonderful flavor. The tajadas are always crunchy and salty/sweet, which it's exactly how I prefer them. We also love the taquitos. They come with a side of a type of cole-slaw and a white sauce which are to die for! Definitely try this place during lunch or dinner....you won't be disappointed!
(5)EM V.
cacao! and nacatamal! and that purple drink! this place makes me wish i was nica. no actually i take that back. The beef is really good though I always order the appetizers for a meal cause i am very fond of beans and tortillas. My only bad experience here was with the ceviche, i thought it was weird. and this place only became "pretentious" very recently, so its a little sad, but i guess they wanted a facelift. food tastes the same. delicious.
(4)Kelly O.
Had dinner here last night and it was good. I tried the nacatamal which was surprisingly good and filling. The fried cheese was fried cheese which in my book is always delicious. The baby churrasco was cooked nicely and had a good flavor. I especially enjoyed it with the pickled jalapeños with onions. However, someone else ordered the camarones enchilado and they really were not that good. The desserts are not homemade which I don't like. The service was good and our waiter was kind (not rude at all, like other reviews stated).
(3)Oscar S.
I'm giving 5 stars because this restaurant has a perfect balance between food quality, decoration, cleanliness, service and price. It is perfect to go once or even twice a month with the family or some friends. And yes, you can find better restaurants than this one, but also more expensive. I find Madrono to be one of the best restaurants I have visited on its price range ($9 to $16).
(5)cindy w.
In Miami where tons of Latin eateries open up, ethnic restaurants live and die by the loyalty of their patrons. Madrono was servicable but didn't leave me a reason to come back. It was my first introduction to Nicaraguan food but looking at the menu I didn't find stuff I couldn't get elsewhere at other latin restaraunts. I ordered a small plate of tacos for an appetizer-style meal and I was given 3 deep-fried taco "rolls", so that was different. Tried the passion fruit soda that was awesome. Don't try the desserts, they look like they were manufactured elsewhere and not made on site, especially the tres leches.
(3)Ame C.
If you want awesome Nicaraguan food this is definitely the place. There is usually a wait (since all the Nicaraguans in the area come here to eat) but it's worth the wait. The service is WONDERFUL and the food is even better. If you're in Miami you should take a detour to eat here. You won't regret it!!!
(5)Nelson R.
When i walk into a restaurant, the last thing that impresses me is the decor. I have been to some pretty fancy and some not so fancy restaurants and the decor does not always relate to the service, food, price. I have been returning to madrono for a few years now and I have to say this place is not a fritanga-style place. 2 different animals. Madrono, from my experiences has very friendly, efficient and fast service. if you like beef, I strongly recommend trying the puntas de filete a la jalapena (sirloin tips in jalapena sauce) for seafood the pescado tipitapa ( a whole snapper with a creole-style sauce on top), the beef tongue in a wine sauce, and their soups are very hearty and flavorful with tons of veggies. I am not too fond of the ceviches myself, that I will leave to the Peruvians who are the masters of it. If you like coffee coolers or chai tea, you will then love cacao. I do not think too many people are familiar with this drink. An alternative to 3 leches is Pio V or bunuelos which are probably more authentic Nicaraguan. Enjoy Madrono.
(5)Blue A.
Since meeting my Nicaraguan fiance I have been exposed to the deliciousness that is Nica food. Traveling with her to her motherland has spoiled me. EVERYTHING there is so delicious! The meat, the tomatoes, the lettuce, even the SODA tastes better - but we live here in Miami so we are always looking for the Nica Food fix. Been to Madrono a few times. Some things I have had: Churrasco - Great steak! The chimi-churri sauce takes it to the next level! Camarones Enchilados - The shrimp creole is just alright. I've had better. Tacos - 3 rolled up tacos. We had the beef - not bad! Frijoles Molido - Puree of red beans with "crema" on top. Really good, especially to use to dip the tacos in. Queso Frito - translates to fried cheese - and its freakin' delicious. Gallo Pinto - the accompanying rice and beans that comes with entrees is decent - better than most places. Maduros - Fried plantains are good. Tres Leche - The delicious 3 milk dessert here is one of the best I have had. The cake is fluffy, the milk is just right - it's easy to make this TOO sweet, but they make it perfect. Although the food is good, the waiters are always nice and attentive I can't seem to rate this place more than 3 stars. Maybe it's the location - not in the best area, and in a very crowded strip mall. The food just doesn't leave me wanting to go back the next day. Maybe my exposure to authentic Nica food has made my taste skewed - but I can live with that. Getting married in March......In Nicaragua.....so I will have a good week to indulge in the deliciousness.
(3)Mayda P.
The baby churasco was cooked exactly how I ordered medium rare and the tres leche was to die for! I will be back very soon.
(4)Monica B.
For starters, the service was great. We sat down and they immediately took our order and served us some yummy bread and salad. I ordered the baby churrasco and it was honestly one of the best I have had. The queso frito was amazing and the desserts were also very good. The quality and price exceeded my expectations and I will definitely be coming back soon!
(5)Ary R.
Great food and service! The churrasco is delicious! Great attention and very good family environment. Have visited multiple times over the years and I have never had a complain on the food or the staff.
(5)Kyle M.
I have eaten Nica food of multiple levels. First, you have your Fritangas which is your fast food type. Next up, you have the sit down, but not too expensive choice which is Charcoals. At the top of the Nica food chain, you have Los Ranchos. Right in the middle of Charcoals & Los Ranchos is where I would place Madrono. I had heard so much about it over the years that it sat bookmarked waiting for a Nica craving. We ended up with a table tucked in the far back corner which didn't seem ideal. We were kind of ignored for quite a long time but I don't know if it was because one server seemed to be handling all the tables. Once we got the servers attention, we ordered up some grub. The food was very well cooked & seasoned just right. The chicken & churrasco were both good sized portions & the gallo pinto had just the right amount of salt. For dessert, we had caramel flan. It wasn't the best I'd ever had but it wasn't bad either. Everyone agreed the food was on par with the pricing but the service was a bit lacking as was our out of sight table. Would I go again? Sadly, probably not. It's a little bit of a drive & the service we got was just a bit underwhelming.
(3)Nathalie P.
Great service! Great atmosphere! And great food what else could you want? Carne asada is highly recommended and they have daily lunch specials! And a very unique home made salad dressing. My husband does not like salad he never eats salad anywhere else and he will actually eat the salad here... Also the tres leches is one of the best I've had . It's a must when we come here!
(5)Gina Z.
3.5 stars strictly for the food! 15+ hours after driving home from Tennessee to Miami, my hubby requested I find us a delicious Fritanga to have dinner. (*Non-Nicaraguan Speaking Folk: Fritanga (n.) - a restaurant where home-style, Nicaraguan culinary greatness is created.) Considering I've been to several fritanga's in Miami, I had a pretty tall expectation of what this place would be like. Upon arriving, the dinning room was PACKED & while many servers passed by us as we stood at the entrance looking dazed & confused, not one of them stopped to ask if we needed a table. Not a good start. Eventually we got sat by the BUSSER who brought over garlic-buttered bread & waters. When the server finally made his way to us, no introductions occurred but he was quick to rush us to get our food in before "the kitchen closed". Mind you it was Sunday night 845ish-PM. *rolls eyes* To try & get through the meal without further irritation, I ordered 2 sangria's for my husband & I, in addition to an appetizer, Queso Frito (Fried Nicaraguan Cheese) & our meals, Carne Asada. I quickly realized there was no bartender & wondered who'd make the sangrias? Shortly after, I saw our waiter grabbing a premade gallon of Sangria & pouring that over a few glasses which had canned cocktail fruit at the bottom. *heart slowly begins to crack* Surprisingly, they were drinkable. Not a sangria I'd come back & order again, but hey, for $5, it got the job done. The Queso Frito was absolutely delicious. (when is it not?!) The cabbage salad that was brought with it, however, was more on the sweeter side which is nowhere near the mark of what this salad should taste like. I proceeded to eat a "house salad" that probably should've stayed at home - 1 piece of each veggie group is hardly a salad, my friends. The Carne Asada with Gallo Pinto & maduros arrived; sensational Gallo Pinto. The "Carne Asada" was more of a grilled Churrasco, however, I slathered some of their homemade Chimichurri on it for a grand slam bite. A+ on the Chimichurri. The ratio of prices & portions were pretty fair considering they're aiming for an "upscale" fritanga feel, but with low prices. The service reamined at a "below average" point throughout my entire meal - no water refills, no napkins or even a walk-by to see if everything was okay - No Bueno. Sadly, while everything was well cooked, I don't feel I had anything memorable that would make me return anytime soon. If I were in the area & nothing else seemed appetizing or open, though, I'd probably revisit.
(3)Chiyon Y.
Madroño never disappoints. They're always very busy for lunch... Can't blame them since they have amazing lunch specials. That said, lunch service is a bit slow and subpar. Their prices are affordable, and it's good quality food. I always get the Carne Asada, which comes with a side salad, moros (rice cooked with beans) and tajadas (thinly sliced fried green plantains). The Carne Asada is very tender and you can taste a bit of the acidity in their marinade. Their chimichurri is one of the best and the picked veggies w/jalapeño brings it all together for me. If it weren't for the service, I'd rate it 5 stars.
(4)Cesar L.
This was my first time here and based on previous reviews I was ready for a nice experience. Let me go straight to the point. We were seated immediately, the runner took 30 seconds to stop by with the garlic bread, special sauce and water...after that things went down hill. The service was not bad, but while waiting 15 minutes for someone to take our order, I counted 9 total waitress/water chatting and rolling silverware. We ordered the sampler as appetizer and I won't lie here, it was tasty and generous portion. We also ordered the baby Churrasco medium well, which means some pink areas in the middle..not bloody like it was served, The wife was not able to eat it once she saw blood on her meat. Our waiter never stop by the table to follow up after the food was served, I tried to call him several times to order a beer, but forget about it. The restaurant had no more than 6 tables and for the ratio of employees then it shouldn't have been a problem to keep up with our table of two. Other reviews here compared this place to Los Ranchos a block away. NO WAY, while food has potential, there is absolutely no comparison when it comes to the quality of food and service. Nothing against young adults running this place, but I strongly recommend to go spend your hard earned money at Los Ranchos if you desire excellent Nicaraguan food. The upcoming of this place needs attention, the decor is not the best and the ceiling's got a handful of tiles with water leak and evident mold.
(1)Alcides M.
The restaurant is not that big, and only 5 tables were in use. Yet, the waiter took close to 10 minutes to acknowledge us. He never smiled, and was not so pleasant. There were how ever like 5 bus boys, who were at least smiling. I asked one of then how come everybody look so miserable, and answered that they were expecting 3 big parties, and because of that reason they were super worried. I have waited tables in the past, and their reasoning seemed ridiculous. The food was alright. The cabagge salad (vigoron), was old, and the chicharron seemed to come from a bag from the gas station. I was so dissapointed. By the way, I must state that I am Nicaraguan, and the food is better at other places around Miami. If the service would have been better, I don't think the quality of the food would have matter that much.
(3)Manny M.
This place is fantastic, I love coming here the food and service is superb. I normally get the grilled chicken or carne asada and it's absolutely delicious. They are very attentive and the prices are extremely reasonable. If you're hungry and in the area I highly recommend this place.
(5)Anuar U.
The attention was good the food excelent and the price was fair. The only issue was at last when I have to pay they were charging me $7.50 on taxes for a check of $30 it is ridiculous an error of 8x 30 equal $2.40. I dont know if they were trying to include the tip and make me think that it was not included and pay the tip again short story is they need a computer system to give an accurate check they shoud make enough money to cover it.
(4)Norma G.
Where to start? I was craving some real good Nicaraguan food and really didn't feel like going to a fritanga, so I looked around and found this place which had decent reviews and realized I've never been to but saw other fellow Yelpers liking it so...what the heck! I went at an odd hour (around 4pm), too late for lunch and too early for dinner LOL , but went anyways. The place was kinda empty, which I don't really mind, we were greeted and seated promptly, no complaints there. Our waiter was patient as it took us a while to decide what to eat, since I'm from Nicaragua, every time I go to a Nicaraguan restaurant I want to have one of everything, ugh! Takes me forever to decide and then I kinda had to help my boyfriend decide also. We started with Vigorón, very simple dish but somehow very yummy too, reminds me of Granada. Then we decided to have steaks, we ordered a baby Churrasco and the carne asada, ummmm they looked almost the same and I don't really know the difference, but overall both dishes were yummy, even though I had a complaint about the Gallo Pinto (rice and beans, like moros) it was too dry for my taste, I would probably stick to white rice next time. Our dessert was A M A Z I N G !!!! It's called Pio Quinto, it has a custard on top, and rum cake in the bottom, whoa!!! By the time we finished we were tipsy from it LOL!!! Nah!!! It was delicious. And also had 2 cortaditos, perfect size and frothy! All in all it was a great meal. Can't do that very often for sure....no way.... I would recommend this place to my fellow Yelpers that don't know much about Nica Food!!! Go ahead and try it! You won't be disappointed ;)
(4)Jorge M.
Good Nicaraguan restaurant located in Sweet Water in a section largely populated by Nicaraguans. Located in a strip mall on Flagler which has plenty of parking. Nice size restaurant with a bar but didn't see any alcohol just beer and wine. There is no outside seating just indoors. We came on a Sunday afternoon and the place was packed. We waited about 15 minutes for a table for two. As soon that we were seated the busboy brought us water, special sauces, and garlic bread. We started with the fried tacos made with shredded chicken in a flour shell. It comes with a side of cabbage salad topped with sour cream. Then my mom had the Pollo ala plancha. That's grilled chicken breast with gayo pinto and maduros. I had the bacon wrapped filet mignon with gayo pintos and maduros. The bacon wasn't that crispy but the filet was tender and juicy. The gayo pintos was good as well as the maduros. The service was good and staff was friendly. One of the better Nicaraguan restaurant in the area.
(4)Emilce R.
The restaurant looks very nice and modern inside. I ordered baby churrasco with gallo pinto, maduros, and fried cheese. The food was amazing! The baby churrasco was very tender and the plantains were soft and very sweet. The service, however, was not on par with the food. For that I give the restaurant 4 stars instead of 5.
(4)Frances P.
Great Service! Churrasco meat was tender. Needed a little flavor but overall good food!
(4)Carl-Frederick F.
Crowded but worth the wait...food is on point,perfect portions.Ccarne asada well cooked,rice a little dry but still flavorful .Overall great experience
(4)Allan V.
This place is awesome hands down! If you haven't been here I would recommend that you do.
(5)Andy N.
Absolutely a wonderful restaurant, 4 1/2 stars. I'm not one with intense Nicaraguan experience with food but I know what I like and don't like, and this, I like. Initially upon walking in here with my hun, we seriously thought we were so under dressed for this place. In retrospect, driving in to this plaza didn't give a hint of such interior. Big plus in my book, you don't need to dress up to eat up! While scanning the menu you'll notice that if not all but majority of the menu is in Spanish, so if you hadn't already pick it up from being in soflo, you should soon because you'll be missing out! (Or just ask your server, that works too) She had the Antojito de Queso Frito, which is their deep fried cheese -- hold up, yes ..deep ..fried ..cheese. I'll give you a moment to mentally digest it. Make sure you eat it while it's hot because you know, cheese, cooling, not the same. It is also served with a cabbage salad and plantain of your choosing of how it's prepared, we ended up picking the chips since I picked maduros for my dish. I had the Indio Viejo and their rice & beans. It very much reminded me of ropa vieja but with a thicker sauce that was perfect with a half spoon of rice. Entrees come with salad and their house dressing on the table which was what we ended our main dishes with, refreshing. I was craving for some rice pudding but sadly they ran out so we had the Pio Quinto instead and it was the bomb diggity. Rice pudding what? We took a little petty dip with our spoon in the top layer custard and you can instantly taste the rum, and as you may suspect, it sank all the way down to the cake, which made it all the more worth it. Try it! They also have a lunch special with select dishes, different for each day, so we'll be back for that for sure (and for my rice pudding fix as well!)
(4)Clare S.
Always come here for the carne asada, very good and tender. Ive also had the ribs which are very delicious as well. The prices are just a little more than what you would pay at a fritanga but the quality of the food is way better. Love their chimichurri and spicy sauce. The service is always very good, they are very attentive. I really used to love the breakfast here, wish they would bring it back. This is more of a mom and pops place so in my opinion way better than what they serve at Los Ranchos. If you're looking for good nica food, this is the place to go to.
(4)Kat V.
Sophisticated restaurant, good customer service. The carne asada is always on point as well as the sauces. They sell cacao. Love this place! The plaza doesn't look that high end but inside is really decent!
(5)Mari M.
This has to be one of our favorite restaurants! The food is always exceptional and the service is on point. Our server, Cesar is the best...super attentive and accommodating. My husband and I drive all the way from our home on SW 120 ST just to get our fix of this super yummy place!! Try the nacatamal (best in town) and the churasco & Moros w/ a side of salsa jalapena. Wow!! Will be back very soon.. :-)
(5)Alejandro G.
Real nice food. Having spent 6 years of my childhood in Managua I can attest that this is some of the best Nica food in Miami. I always order los camarones al ajillo. The gallo tinto, yuca sancochada, repollo (coleslaw type cabbage), salsas, and other sides such as the patacones and quesos are fire. Definitely worth a visit if you are in Miami. I will be back again lol. :) And for those who don't like seafood they have great meat options as well. My friends always get the surtido and leave happy. The surtido comes with everything a hungry person can dream of and its the perfect meal for when your dying of hunger after work or the gym! If you are on a diet then get the ceviches. I have tried each one and can say the shrimp ceviche is the best :). I am super picky about food and so my 5 stars should mean a lot. SO GO AND EAT WELL. Buen provecho. Tengo una flojera asi q no voy a escribir mucho en español. Les digo que la comida sabe riquÃsimo y hay q lanzarse pa alla para probarla. Provechito.
(5)Allie S.
I loved this place. Definitely the best nica food in all of Miami. I have been coming here for about 7 years I have never had an bad experience the foods is always fresh. I will say this try the sangria here it's one of the better ones I have had in a while.
(5)Alicia H.
Delicious!!!! On a whim my boyfriend and I stopped in after a trip to the mall, not being from the area we yelped it, and the reviews don't lie, this place is awesome!!! We couldn't decide what was better the food or the price! Service was great, we waited 15mins but would've waited an hour it was that good!
(5)Ileana M.
Dining out with my family can always be quite the task because everyone wants something different, but this is a favorite among all of us! And when we want good quality Nicaraguan food, we come here & they do not disappoint. It will not break your bank and you will not leave hungry. Do not let the location fool you! It is a little neighborhood gem in Sweetwater. Recommendations: as an appetizer, the "corn island" - a corn tamale with soft cheese & sour cream. Entrees try the Churrasco & Carne Asada of course! Or if you're feeling adventurous, go for the "Pescado a la Tipitapa" - what a fish! Or if it's just 2 of you & you're not that hungry, go for the "Bandeja" - a sampler of their best! And for a drink - go for the Sangria! A 1/2 Carafe will only set you back $10- other places charge you $8 or $9 for just a glass. Service is great! And let's be honest - good Nicaraguan places are very limited so this is a place to treasure. Los Ranchos is NOT AT ALL what it used to be- it has fallen from grace. New ownership & renovations have in my opinion ruined that place!! So please go out and enjoy this place as much as my family has.
(4)Jesus M.
The food is excellent! It has great Nicaraguan flavor. The churrasco was great, a bit thin, but still a good size and tasted good. The servers and staff were all good, quick and helpful. It took a while to get a seat around 10pm on a Saturday but it was worth it. The only downfall was the nasty individual who farted next to our table not once but twice with no shame; eat at your own risk. Overall it was great, recommend the bakery next door too! Great nica food on one corner.
(5)Fitfatkid S.
The Breakfast was really good, to bad they stopped doing it. Try this place you'll love it. The staff is very attentive and the service is great. I have Never been disappointed.
(5)Keith P.
I am not a virgin to good meat restaurants. I know exactly how I want my carne asada/steak cooked and prepared and how exactly it should taste. It should be tender, succulent, and flow with natural juices--and the carne asada at Madrono Restaurant does just that. It meets your standards in every possible way (tenderness, juiciness, price), and for $10 (excluding tax and tip), it is definitely worth every bite. Completely heaven for your average "meatophile". Only thing I wish is that this piece of carne asada was bigger. Aside from the carne asada, I have tried the chicha, gallo pinto, and maduros here. The chicha tastes very traditional and is a bright pink. The maduros are sweet and savory. A good size. The gallo pinto is also plentiful and crisp. I highly recommend a side of cream to go with the gallo pinto. It adds a creaminess to your rice that puts it over the edge, nearing 6 Yelp stars if there was such a thing. If you are looking for delicious and traditional Nicaraguan food, I would highly recommend Madrono Restaurant. Their menu is diverse and so are their price ranges. If you are going to just watch a friend eat, definitely do it because aside from good food, the waiters are also quite good looking!
(5)Mari H.
I love the carne asada!!!! Delish My husband had the fish with shrimp sauce Amazing!!! Great food Great price!!!! And great service!!! Will be back as many times I can!!!!
(5)Henry M.
This place gets 5 stars because the service is awesome. The staff is very attentive. Your waiter is never that far if you need something. And the times that I've gone, I've never really needed to wait to be seated. Then again I've never gone during peak hours like lunch. The food is good. The gallo pinto here is actually the best I've had. It definitely tastes home made. Tastes way better than the surrounding Fritangas. Portions are excellent and you definitely walk out feeling full. Or you can definitely expect to take some home.
(5)Jonathan F.
This is one of the best places I've been to in Miami. Great food, the place is clean and well decorated, service is good. AND the price is just right. You can have a full meal for less than $12.
(5)Natassia M.
This is one of my favorite lunch spots whenever I can make it out of the office before noon (getting to the restaurant after 12 will guarantee you'll have to wait for a table). The specials are great... $7 for Carne Asada with 2 sides and a drink (my favorite). The food is delicious and the service is fast. It's a must-try!
(4)Kyrene G.
Great Nicaraguan food. Taste like its homemade and it is very reasonably price. I would definitely recommend! The carne aside is wonderful, the pork fillet on the grill is my favorite. All the sides are delicious also!
(5)Nathaly L.
There was a 15 minute wait, at this establishment hidden in a shopping center. Apparently plenty of people know about this place because a line began forming outside as soon as our names were placed on waiting list.(and i checked out the reviews on yelp) I was actually excited because that meant it has to be good right? i realized when living in south beach, she has the tendency to take you hostage(yes, i do believe she is female). you no longer want to cross the bridge and even downtown seems to be too far of a drive. I used to laugh at those beach snobs and now i have become one. But i started yearning for department stores and other specialty stores that the beach will never have. I miss target, Michael''s, dollar tree, and even home depot. I miss pulling into a parking lot where i have so many parking options i have the luxury of being picky. Miami has pulled me out of la la land and now i find myself escaping on 395 every weekend to places i took for granted for so many years. Walking in you notice its a small restaurant with a few tables. The staff was very nice including the manager with the EXCEPTION of our waiter. We had the grumpiest waiter ever. He was the only one with a face and attitude that said he was doing our table a favor by taking our order. In his defense he was like this to all his other tables...I did take some comfort in that (i originally thought he was annoyed at my less than perfect Spanish). Unfortunately being a vegetarian at any latin american restaurant is torture. But i went with my Dad and for anyone with a traditional Cuban dad its basically required to be a latin american restaurant. Anyway, i had the gallopinto (rice/beans cooked together) and traditional yuca (which is boiled) which i loove. and in a Nicaraguan restaurant its typical for the rice or yuca to have a lil side of a shredded cabbage slaw (not creamy American coleslaw ). My dad and his gf had churassco it comes with gallo pinto (the trad. rice) and one other side. He got a side of platano verde chips(i forget what the named it on menu but basically those crunchy plantain chips) and she opted with french fries. When our food came, he did not give her the fries but the same side my dad ordered, i immediately brought it to his attention and he took her side of rice and plantains grudgingly and was left with her steak. No cuban person i have ever met will want to eat their steak with out their rice. We started eating since it would get cold, and i kept my mouth shut for 5 minutes. Was there an apology? no. Did he try rushing the order? no. Did he stop by our table to update us? no.After 10 minutes, i could see her disappointment and when the manager was near i explained and after a minute she had her rice and fries. The french fries were delicious. Just out of the fryer, crunchy, and delicious. I def. recommend It doesn't bother me that he got the order wrong, it happens no big deal. But he took her plate away without a word. the gallopinto was fine it was on the same plate next to chips (should have been fries). I have been in that situation before, and the waiter always, always leaves the plate with you tells you to go ahead and stay with it and puts a rush on whatever was missing. If she would have waited her steak would have been cold. As if our plan all along was to get some free plantain chips! maybe he was having a really, really, really bad day and forced to come into work. but with that attitude i wish he would have stayed home. my party said the steak was good. it was cooked to the right temp. the gallo pinto tasted authentic, the yuca was just like i remembered and the fries were addicting. i would come back here, and avoid this waiter. If were rating the food alone 4 stars.
(3)Leilani D.
When I used to live out west, I probably came here at least once every couple of weeks. There isn't much great food west of I-95 but the food at Madrono is amazing. It's located in a grungy strip mall, but once you step inside it's pretty easy to forget about. The restaurant is nicely updated, wait staff is well dressed and attentive, and the food is phenomenal. Also, very reasonably priced considering the portions are massive and the food quality. I usually started off with a ceviche - either de pescado (fish) or the vuelve a la vida (mixed seafood in a light red sauce). I almost always order the bistec encebollado (steak smothered in onions), put the puntas de filete (beef tips) in salsa de jalapeno is excellent if you like a little spice, and the bistec mixto (steak with onions and tomatoes in their sauce) was also great. Realistically, there are very few things that you will order here that won't rock your world. If you happen to find yourself in the food desert that is this area of Miami, Madrono will definitely be your oasis.
(5)Caleb M.
Its a good lunch venue that can get busy after 12. The restaurant has good daily lunch specials. Service is good and typically fast. As a starter you get bread with the salsa plate. If you order a lunch special it comes with two sides a salad and a soda.
(4)Michael G.
The carne asada is great. I have been here about 6 times and it never dissapoints. The spicy orange sauce is a must especially mixed in the gallo pinto. Writing this review is making me want to go today for lunch. It gets pretty busy around noon so go earlier or expect to wait a little. The food comes out fast, it taste fresh, and the serving sizes are great. For somewhere around $8 you get a nice portion of carne asada, a small salad, gallo pinto, maduros, and a soda. Great deal. I have had some of the appetizers and they were great. This is another place that the food taste like your grandma made it. Give this place a try, it will not dissapoint.
(5)B G.
Great cheap and fast nica food!!!! Amazing service and speed. Cheap lunch specials and prices are just unbeatable. Great little gem in sweetwater. Carne asada is just devine!!!!
(5)Michelle L.
Hadn't been back in a while and still oh so good. Started with the antojitos de queso appetizer that comes with tostones, fried cheese, and slaw. Then we had our carne asada with maduros and gallo pinto. I recommend the carne asada over the baby churrasco. The way it is prepared is tastier. Their gallo pinto is really good. We also had a carafe of white sangria. Food is still on point and I rather come here than Los Ranchos, anytime and the service is impeccable. Keep it up!
(5)Maryuri B.
This place is wonderful! Great food and great service! I usually get the carne asada. I come to this place weekly. You can't beat the quality of food for the price. I actually tried this place because of Yelp and I agree with the reviews. I recommend it. I've brought several people myself.
(5)Bella M.
Don't get fooled by their location lol! The food is great and service is excellent. The staff is very attentive and friendly. Not overpriced (lunch specials). I usually get carne asada and/or camarones al ajillo. I just like to keep it simple since I am not really a fan of Nicaraguan food based on previous experiences but this restaurant is a must go!
(4)Camilo V.
Great experience. Delicious food and greatly priced, also, best service I've had in a while. I never even noticed my cup was half empty before they were filling it up. Very nice waitresses. Ordered the Repocheta as an appretizer and the carne asada as a meal. Will definitely come back
(5)G L.
place is good food good customer serv very nice
(5)ROSE J.
I decided to try this place due to the reviews and my craving for carne asada. the food was good and the prices are reasonable. the service was good but very rushed which never sits well. I would come back again.
(3)Gaby B.
Its hard for me to really put into words just how much i love this restaurant. To put it simply ... It freaking ROCKS ! I have been a loyal costumer of El Madrono since 2001, when my mom married a Nicaraguan man. If there is one thing (now that they're divorced) I can appreciate this man for , it is for introducing me to this restaurant. It is a truly authentic place, you know the food is going to be excellent if there are women cooking it ! The churrasco and Gallo pinto are bursting with flavor, maduros , queso frito, ceviche, tacitos and repocheta are the BEST! Throw on some chimichurri and picante and you are set. Oh yeah, the bread they bring out is great also ( put picante and chimichurri on it) Cacao is a must for desert. Service is always pleasant , you will not be disappointed This is one of my favorite places because i know i will always leave so full and satisfied
(5)Vanessa T.
I am Nicaraguan, and I love to represent. So whenever I have to recommend a restaurant that serves authentic, delicious, and Yelp-5 star worthy Nicaraguan food, I always tell that person to visit Madrono. It is a restaurant like Madrono that makes me proud to represent my Nicaraguan heritage because at Madrono they pay attention to detail, offer great customer service, have amazing takeout service, and are located at a great location-- the heart of Sweetwater, Little Managua. I have been here more than a dozen times when I am craving a juicy churrasco, with superb gallo pinto, and this place offers all types of dishes to satisfy your Nicaraguan cravings. Their pitahaya and the rest of their juices are also delicious, and they offer the most authentic Nicaraguan dishes I have ever tried in Miami, and they aren't excessively oily as you would find in most fritangas. If you come here, I recommend you to try their holy trio of sauces. The first sauce is their chimichurri which will add a special flavor to your meal. The second sauce is their pickled spicy onion which will add that special spice. The last sauce is their special orange sauce which is basically made of liquified onions and carrots. It is healthy and savory. If you are in a hurry, you can order food to go at the pick-up station right next to the restaurant. They will have your food ready at 15 minutes tops. If you want to try Nicaraguan food at its finest, I highly recommend you visit Madrono. The food is fairly priced, authentic, and the menu offers a wide variety of dishes. The servers are also friendly and treat you with true hospitality. And the adventure continues...
(5)Mima A.
im a true nicaraguan.im very dissapointed how this nicaraguan restaurants have skimped on the punta de jalapeno sauce.they water it down no jalapenos it was cream with water.i use to like eating here but today was not great.my plantains were old and chewy.service was slow.waited for water for ever.the bread was stale.my friends chicken was tiny.i will keep looking for a good nicaraguan restaurant.
(1)Rosario P.
I was raised in Nicaragua so when it comes to Nicaraguan food I have high standards. This place serves authentic nicaraguan food and the service is great. If you go during lunch time, make sure to try out the "Salpicon" Its a 'cold' meat served with white rice and 'maduro' (fried plantain). I've been to various nicaraguan restaurants and no other seems to get it 'just right" the way El Madrono does. If you go during dinner, make sure to order a Churrasco. I usually have it with Gallo Pinto (Rice and beans) and queso frito (Fried cheese) and I would ask for Crema (A nicaraguan version of sour cream) on the side. I believe they charge you extra for the 'crema' but trust me when I say you'll want it with your meal! I add it to the gallo pinto and to the maduros. If you still have room for dessert after the churrasco make sure to order a tres leches. I am very picky about tres leches, because a lot of places make them overly sweet, but this place has it down to T! The prices are reasonable and the restaurant was recently renovated. The bathrooms are ALWAYS clean (which is a major pet peeve of mine) and the staff is very friendly!
(4)Ismael R.
Tried this place after having a couple friends tell us it's a good place to try. After reading the many good reviews we bit the bullet and tried it. First off there is no host or hostess station, but do not fret, one of the servers will seat you promptly. The place is very nice, clean, and we'll kept. The service is great, we ordered Cevice and the Queso Frito with Tostones (Fried Cheese with Fried Green Plantains) to start. For our entrées we ordered the Carne Asada with Gallo Pinto and Maduros (Steak with Red Beans and Rice with fried Sweet Plantains). Appetizers were very, very good. The cheese was great and the ceviche is a must. Great flavor on both items. Entrées took some extra time to arrive for which I will assume means they are cooking on the fly which is a good thing. The steak was cooked perfectly, and it was tender. The red beans and rice were good as well. The only thing that was off putting was the gentleman who sits near the register behind the counter. He looks like he might be the owner, which is fine. He sits and watches over his restaurant and staff like a proud peacock, again, fine. My issue was he would sit and eat the entire time. Then spent some time picking his teeth. Other than that, this place gets a solid 4 stars. Food is real good and service is great.
(4)Misty B.
If I could give this place 6 stars, I would. Fabulous food, impeccable service, reasonable prices. Favorite dishes: the tacos appetizer, lomito de cerdo a la parilla, and the pescado meunière. Amazing. They have some of the best sweet plantains in town, and there are a lot of those in Miami, so that's saying something! During the lunch and dinner rush it can get quite busy, and the wait might be about 15 minutes.
(5)Gina M.
This restaurant was simply, GREAT! My family and I recently visited this restaurant while on vacation in Miami and my fiancee and I were thoroughly impressed with the level of service received. This is the first restaurant I have ever been to where they change your silverware 3 to 4 times in one sitting. The waiters were very attentive and pleasant. The food quality is great and it is reasonably priced. I will be sure to make this restaurant a "must eat" spot every time I visit Miami.
(5)Alexander B.
5 stars for service, 5 stars for food, 5 stars for ambiance, amazing place! For being a local restaurant, this place knows what they are doing. The restaurant is spotless. We had the corn tamale appetizer with cuajada and crema, and then fried cheese with slaw and Mariquitas. Everything was spot on! I even asked for a side of chicharrones for only $1, which was a great side to have. Me and by wife both had the carne asada, full of flavor and perfect portion. And the prices? Cheap!!!!! I would recommend this place to anyone wanting to try some great Nicaraguan food without the crazy prices.
(5)Angelica A.
My husband was born in Nicaragua. In Frisco we don't usually get too many options for Nicarguan food, but in Miami there are plenty. We picked this place because of the good reviews and we're glad we did. The food is authentic and it's delicious. The fries cheese is crunchy on the outside but warm and gooey on the inside, a perfect combination. The sopa de res is really good and comforting. The service is also great. Waiters are quick to fill up your glass of water and are polite. My cousin ordered chicken tacos but somehow waiter heard chicken tenders but she still enjoyed her meal. Def recommend this place for Nicaraguan food.
(5)hamilon s.
Better than Los ranchos. Better service, Better food, Better cost. Must try puntas de filete en salsa jalapeño.
(5)Rebecca C.
I have heard about this place for quite awhile now and been wanting to try it. So finally on my last night in Miami til I was home-bound to Loiusiana, I finally got the opportunity to check Madrono out with some close friends. So this place is a Nicaraguan restaurant and while it looks fancy inside, is actually affordably priced. The food is plentiful and tasty. The service was very friendly. And if you are looking to try traditional Nicaraguan cuisine they have a section just for that with plate sizes ranging from small to large. They also have some desserts to try but I wasn't blown away and I've found the authentic stuff (bunuelos) to be much, much better. But otherwise, there menu items are pretty good with a large range of seafood options too. My faves were the creole fish with shrimp and their gallo pinto (black beans with rice) and plantains perfectly completed it. Definitely a great place to check out if you are in the mood for something new.
(4)Martica B.
Perfect place for a quick, filling, and inexpensive lunch. My fiance and I have been here several times and their service and quality of the food is consistent. We have ordered the carnitas de pollo y carne and the tilapia with shrimp sauce - both are delicious. The size of the plates is not huge, but they are filling and adequate for a lunch plate. The pricing is amazing for the taste of the food and the options you have. The will bring you a bread basket with different sauces to eat while waiting for your lunch. We always order el queso frito which is a decent size of fried white cheese, absolutely delicious! The place is small but intimate. They keep it very well maintained and clean. The service is awesome!
(5)Jordan N.
This place is average. Very average. I was a bit disappointed, because this place has been hyped up by a lot of people I know. And not only that, but the cleanliness, a nice-looking menu and the "trendier" decor (you'll know what I mean if you've gone to Nicaraguan fritangas around Miami) also hyped up my expectations - but they all came down when the food was really very typical of Nicaraguan fritanga fare. Just because of the pretentiousness this place seems to want to have without realizing what they're really offering, I'm taking away an extra star. If you want the same stuff, go to another fritanga, save maybe more than a buck and two, bear with the more downscale environment, and get the same food or better! As for the food, there was a lot of beans, plantains, and a really subpar salad was served with my carne asada. But to credit it where it's due, the carne asada had a good citrusy flavor that is not common in other fritangas I've visited. And the tres leches was not that bad, but it was not homemade either. You can find the same stuff elsewhere ("manufactured" for your convenience, of course). And on top of that, I didn't find the staff to be well knowledgable in customer service although the water glass never went empty. Oh, and 15% tip is automatically added to the bill here. Overall, I'm definitely not returning to this establishment.
(2)Len D.
This is a pretty good Nicaraguan restaurant, that reminded me of Los Ranchos that is actually a block away. I like this place a lot better. They try to give a fine dining vibe with the servers and the decor/furniture. It works. One thing that was weird, was the manager or maybe he's the owner. He just sits at the corner of the restaurant, just smiling.....judging.....watching....look at the baby.... He did make sure the waiters did their job and the waiters were very attentive. I think because of that guy. We started with an appetizer of yuca and pork chunks. We also had chicken tacos. The tacos were pretty bad, actually. They were actually worse than what I can find in the isles of a supermarket. The pork was really good though. It wasn't chewy like some other places. It kind of melted in your mouth. The yuca was nice too. It wasn't overcooked (which I prefer) and it had a good texture. I had the breaded fish. It had an excellent breading, it didn't come apart when I cut it up. It was nice and light breading too. The fried chicken my girl ordered was the same. The plates on the table were kinda weird though. They move and spin very easily (only the entree plates). It's like eating on an air hockey table. Seriously, if your there. Take one finger and slightly spin it, weird. I had a cappuccino and it was sweeter than usual (a good thing). Usually I have to add extra sugar to get it to my liking, but I think they add chocolate powder or something. It was kinda chocolaty. My girl liked how they gave a sugar candy stick to stir in the cream.
(4)Immer R.
Great little place to grab a quick bite. As everyone knows there are tons of these types of restaurants throughout the tri-county area, but I give it three stars because they've put some effort into making the place look nice (even though it might be ikea style furniture as another reviewer put it.) I've had the steak lunch special and its a good deal for about 9 or 10 bucks. You get a salad, an 8oz steak, and choice of side (rice & beans, fries, mashed potatoes, etc...) If i lived in the area and didn't feel like cooking, I'd probably hit this place up for dinner a few times a month.
(3)Mikhaela M.
This place is great. We found it while passing through the outskirts of Miami. Food is very good, service is top notch. Decor is spotless Miami style, servers are dressed in white with long white aprons. The portions are large and the menu is fairly affordable. Very glad to find it.
(4)edwin p.
if your nicaraguan, you are picky with food. In my case, i love madrono, its been great since i first went in 2000. baby churrasco is the best ever. natural juices are second best, put the two together and you got yourself a great meal. note:15% tip added always
(5)luis s.
I came here with my dad and automatically thought to myself Oh jesus this place is gonna suck. To my surprise it didn't! At first I noticed that the chef or cook whatever you want to call them was a woman. Apparently that's how the culture is in Nicaragua. The staff was very attantive and pleasant. For starter we had the typical Nica dish fried cheese which was really good. After that we had Vacio cut steaks and salad the steaks was nice and juicy and perfectly cooked. After that we topped off our meal with a coffee and called it a day. This is a great spot for lunch or dinner.
(4)Raquel S.
We all know Nicaraguan food is tasty but trying to find a Nicaraguan restaurant that serves great breakfast is hard to find but at El Madrono serves an authentic Nica breakfast. Stop by and enjoy!!!!
(4)Ana Z.
What a good surprise. My friends took me to this restaurant to have a late breakfast and I absolutely loved it. The food is unique, their combos are very inexpensive and they give you lots of food, and not any quality of food, everything was very fresh and tasty! Mis amigos me llevaron a este restaurante y que buena sorpresa. La comida es unica, los combos son muy baratos, recibes grandes cantidades y no es comida de cualquier calidad, es muy fresca y deliciosa.
(5)Martha L.
This is by far my favorite place in Miami for Nica food. We don't mind driving 30 minutes to come here every chance we get and everyone we've brought here (regardless of background) ends up coming back on their own! And for those Nicas who might want to take home some antojitos, go to la Pulperia next door - it's owned by the same family!
(5)Mike B.
This place has changed alot in the past few years. The service is excellent. The food is fantastic. Looks very classy inside. They also have good lunch specials. The carne asada and gallo pinto is a home run out of the park, I highly recommend it.
(5)Thomas M.
I've seen this gem grow from plastic chairs to diamonds, but the service and atmosphere have not changed. The food just keeps getting better. The place is owned by a Nicaraguan family and the food is just amazing. If you are a tourist you must try this place. Try; - fried cheese, ceviche, fried pork chunks. Signature Dish is Churrasco (flat latin steak) always satisfies. Also try the Gallo Pinto, traditional Nicaraguan Rice and Beans, very tasty and healthy compared to Cuban Rice. Their deserts if you have room are excellent. Very good quality, not common for inexpensive small holes in the wall. Other recommendation is B'Fast on the weekends be there early as the line stretches around the building to the street, yes to the street.
(5)Yurena R.
Awesome food! Awesome service! Very nice decor and atmosphere.
(5)Nicholas A.
Cafe Madrono was bigger than I thought it would be. My girlfriend and I came in with a fair sized group of Yelpers, so I wasn't sure we'd be seated immediately. Since it was Thursday, though, I had no worries. The restaurant was pretty much empty, so all was well. I had Nicaraguan pork chops with grilled onions and rice with fries. One thing Madrono does well is value for money. My plate was covered with food and it was all about 8 bucks, and with side salad even! The chops were fine, but the rice was dried out and the fries would have been forgettable had it not been for some awesome pink sauce the brought to the table. It tastes like a close cousin to Spanish ali-oli. Desert was the biggest disappointment. My gf and I split a tres leches which we're sure was not made in house. Other people had good luck with Nicaraguan coffee, served with peculiarly salty mini-cookies. Madrono is a fine place to go if you're in the area, but not really worth any kind of special trip
(3)Lilyvania M.
This place has some of the best Nicaraguan food you'll find in Miami! I highly recommend you try the bandeja de antojitos (appetizer platter) because you get a little bit of everything and is good enough for two people to share. I like the family atmosphere and how the owners have changed the place over time. If you haven't tried Nica food in Miami, then this is the place to try it.
(4)Dina A.
I looove this place! We order lunch from here at least once a week and the food is always spectacular! Mind you, we only order one menu staple: carne asada with jalapeno sauce. It makes my eyes water every time I take a bite of this delicacy. The meat is always tender and flavorful and the white sauce adds a subtle spiciness that enhances the already wonderful flavor. The tajadas are always crunchy and salty/sweet, which it's exactly how I prefer them. We also love the taquitos. They come with a side of a type of cole-slaw and a white sauce which are to die for! Definitely try this place during lunch or dinner....you won't be disappointed!
(5)EM V.
cacao! and nacatamal! and that purple drink! this place makes me wish i was nica. no actually i take that back. The beef is really good though I always order the appetizers for a meal cause i am very fond of beans and tortillas. My only bad experience here was with the ceviche, i thought it was weird. and this place only became "pretentious" very recently, so its a little sad, but i guess they wanted a facelift. food tastes the same. delicious.
(4)Ary R.
Great food and service! The churrasco is delicious! Great attention and very good family environment. Have visited multiple times over the years and I have never had a complain on the food or the staff.
(5)Emilce R.
The restaurant looks very nice and modern inside. I ordered baby churrasco with gallo pinto, maduros, and fried cheese. The food was amazing! The baby churrasco was very tender and the plantains were soft and very sweet. The service, however, was not on par with the food. For that I give the restaurant 4 stars instead of 5.
(4)Gina Z.
3.5 stars strictly for the food! 15+ hours after driving home from Tennessee to Miami, my hubby requested I find us a delicious Fritanga to have dinner. (*Non-Nicaraguan Speaking Folk: Fritanga (n.) - a restaurant where home-style, Nicaraguan culinary greatness is created.) Considering I've been to several fritanga's in Miami, I had a pretty tall expectation of what this place would be like. Upon arriving, the dinning room was PACKED & while many servers passed by us as we stood at the entrance looking dazed & confused, not one of them stopped to ask if we needed a table. Not a good start. Eventually we got sat by the BUSSER who brought over garlic-buttered bread & waters. When the server finally made his way to us, no introductions occurred but he was quick to rush us to get our food in before "the kitchen closed". Mind you it was Sunday night 845ish-PM. *rolls eyes* To try & get through the meal without further irritation, I ordered 2 sangria's for my husband & I, in addition to an appetizer, Queso Frito (Fried Nicaraguan Cheese) & our meals, Carne Asada. I quickly realized there was no bartender & wondered who'd make the sangrias? Shortly after, I saw our waiter grabbing a premade gallon of Sangria & pouring that over a few glasses which had canned cocktail fruit at the bottom. *heart slowly begins to crack* Surprisingly, they were drinkable. Not a sangria I'd come back & order again, but hey, for $5, it got the job done. The Queso Frito was absolutely delicious. (when is it not?!) The cabbage salad that was brought with it, however, was more on the sweeter side which is nowhere near the mark of what this salad should taste like. I proceeded to eat a "house salad" that probably should've stayed at home - 1 piece of each veggie group is hardly a salad, my friends. The Carne Asada with Gallo Pinto & maduros arrived; sensational Gallo Pinto. The "Carne Asada" was more of a grilled Churrasco, however, I slathered some of their homemade Chimichurri on it for a grand slam bite. A+ on the Chimichurri. The ratio of prices & portions were pretty fair considering they're aiming for an "upscale" fritanga feel, but with low prices. The service reamined at a "below average" point throughout my entire meal - no water refills, no napkins or even a walk-by to see if everything was okay - No Bueno. Sadly, while everything was well cooked, I don't feel I had anything memorable that would make me return anytime soon. If I were in the area & nothing else seemed appetizing or open, though, I'd probably revisit.
(3)Chiyon Y.
Madroño never disappoints. They're always very busy for lunch... Can't blame them since they have amazing lunch specials. That said, lunch service is a bit slow and subpar. Their prices are affordable, and it's good quality food. I always get the Carne Asada, which comes with a side salad, moros (rice cooked with beans) and tajadas (thinly sliced fried green plantains). The Carne Asada is very tender and you can taste a bit of the acidity in their marinade. Their chimichurri is one of the best and the picked veggies w/jalapeño brings it all together for me. If it weren't for the service, I'd rate it 5 stars.
(4)Kyle M.
I have eaten Nica food of multiple levels. First, you have your Fritangas which is your fast food type. Next up, you have the sit down, but not too expensive choice which is Charcoals. At the top of the Nica food chain, you have Los Ranchos. Right in the middle of Charcoals & Los Ranchos is where I would place Madrono. I had heard so much about it over the years that it sat bookmarked waiting for a Nica craving. We ended up with a table tucked in the far back corner which didn't seem ideal. We were kind of ignored for quite a long time but I don't know if it was because one server seemed to be handling all the tables. Once we got the servers attention, we ordered up some grub. The food was very well cooked & seasoned just right. The chicken & churrasco were both good sized portions & the gallo pinto had just the right amount of salt. For dessert, we had caramel flan. It wasn't the best I'd ever had but it wasn't bad either. Everyone agreed the food was on par with the pricing but the service was a bit lacking as was our out of sight table. Would I go again? Sadly, probably not. It's a little bit of a drive & the service we got was just a bit underwhelming.
(3)Nathalie P.
Great service! Great atmosphere! And great food what else could you want? Carne asada is highly recommended and they have daily lunch specials! And a very unique home made salad dressing. My husband does not like salad he never eats salad anywhere else and he will actually eat the salad here... Also the tres leches is one of the best I've had . It's a must when we come here!
(5)Cesar L.
This was my first time here and based on previous reviews I was ready for a nice experience. Let me go straight to the point. We were seated immediately, the runner took 30 seconds to stop by with the garlic bread, special sauce and water...after that things went down hill. The service was not bad, but while waiting 15 minutes for someone to take our order, I counted 9 total waitress/water chatting and rolling silverware. We ordered the sampler as appetizer and I won't lie here, it was tasty and generous portion. We also ordered the baby Churrasco medium well, which means some pink areas in the middle..not bloody like it was served, The wife was not able to eat it once she saw blood on her meat. Our waiter never stop by the table to follow up after the food was served, I tried to call him several times to order a beer, but forget about it. The restaurant had no more than 6 tables and for the ratio of employees then it shouldn't have been a problem to keep up with our table of two. Other reviews here compared this place to Los Ranchos a block away. NO WAY, while food has potential, there is absolutely no comparison when it comes to the quality of food and service. Nothing against young adults running this place, but I strongly recommend to go spend your hard earned money at Los Ranchos if you desire excellent Nicaraguan food. The upcoming of this place needs attention, the decor is not the best and the ceiling's got a handful of tiles with water leak and evident mold.
(1)Frances P.
Great Service! Churrasco meat was tender. Needed a little flavor but overall good food!
(4)Carl-Frederick F.
Crowded but worth the wait...food is on point,perfect portions.Ccarne asada well cooked,rice a little dry but still flavorful .Overall great experience
(4)Allan V.
This place is awesome hands down! If you haven't been here I would recommend that you do.
(5)Alcides M.
The restaurant is not that big, and only 5 tables were in use. Yet, the waiter took close to 10 minutes to acknowledge us. He never smiled, and was not so pleasant. There were how ever like 5 bus boys, who were at least smiling. I asked one of then how come everybody look so miserable, and answered that they were expecting 3 big parties, and because of that reason they were super worried. I have waited tables in the past, and their reasoning seemed ridiculous. The food was alright. The cabagge salad (vigoron), was old, and the chicharron seemed to come from a bag from the gas station. I was so dissapointed. By the way, I must state that I am Nicaraguan, and the food is better at other places around Miami. If the service would have been better, I don't think the quality of the food would have matter that much.
(3)Norma G.
Where to start? I was craving some real good Nicaraguan food and really didn't feel like going to a fritanga, so I looked around and found this place which had decent reviews and realized I've never been to but saw other fellow Yelpers liking it so...what the heck! I went at an odd hour (around 4pm), too late for lunch and too early for dinner LOL , but went anyways. The place was kinda empty, which I don't really mind, we were greeted and seated promptly, no complaints there. Our waiter was patient as it took us a while to decide what to eat, since I'm from Nicaragua, every time I go to a Nicaraguan restaurant I want to have one of everything, ugh! Takes me forever to decide and then I kinda had to help my boyfriend decide also. We started with Vigorón, very simple dish but somehow very yummy too, reminds me of Granada. Then we decided to have steaks, we ordered a baby Churrasco and the carne asada, ummmm they looked almost the same and I don't really know the difference, but overall both dishes were yummy, even though I had a complaint about the Gallo Pinto (rice and beans, like moros) it was too dry for my taste, I would probably stick to white rice next time. Our dessert was A M A Z I N G !!!! It's called Pio Quinto, it has a custard on top, and rum cake in the bottom, whoa!!! By the time we finished we were tipsy from it LOL!!! Nah!!! It was delicious. And also had 2 cortaditos, perfect size and frothy! All in all it was a great meal. Can't do that very often for sure....no way.... I would recommend this place to my fellow Yelpers that don't know much about Nica Food!!! Go ahead and try it! You won't be disappointed ;)
(4)Jorge M.
Good Nicaraguan restaurant located in Sweet Water in a section largely populated by Nicaraguans. Located in a strip mall on Flagler which has plenty of parking. Nice size restaurant with a bar but didn't see any alcohol just beer and wine. There is no outside seating just indoors. We came on a Sunday afternoon and the place was packed. We waited about 15 minutes for a table for two. As soon that we were seated the busboy brought us water, special sauces, and garlic bread. We started with the fried tacos made with shredded chicken in a flour shell. It comes with a side of cabbage salad topped with sour cream. Then my mom had the Pollo ala plancha. That's grilled chicken breast with gayo pinto and maduros. I had the bacon wrapped filet mignon with gayo pintos and maduros. The bacon wasn't that crispy but the filet was tender and juicy. The gayo pintos was good as well as the maduros. The service was good and staff was friendly. One of the better Nicaraguan restaurant in the area.
(4)Andy N.
Absolutely a wonderful restaurant, 4 1/2 stars. I'm not one with intense Nicaraguan experience with food but I know what I like and don't like, and this, I like. Initially upon walking in here with my hun, we seriously thought we were so under dressed for this place. In retrospect, driving in to this plaza didn't give a hint of such interior. Big plus in my book, you don't need to dress up to eat up! While scanning the menu you'll notice that if not all but majority of the menu is in Spanish, so if you hadn't already pick it up from being in soflo, you should soon because you'll be missing out! (Or just ask your server, that works too) She had the Antojito de Queso Frito, which is their deep fried cheese -- hold up, yes ..deep ..fried ..cheese. I'll give you a moment to mentally digest it. Make sure you eat it while it's hot because you know, cheese, cooling, not the same. It is also served with a cabbage salad and plantain of your choosing of how it's prepared, we ended up picking the chips since I picked maduros for my dish. I had the Indio Viejo and their rice & beans. It very much reminded me of ropa vieja but with a thicker sauce that was perfect with a half spoon of rice. Entrees come with salad and their house dressing on the table which was what we ended our main dishes with, refreshing. I was craving for some rice pudding but sadly they ran out so we had the Pio Quinto instead and it was the bomb diggity. Rice pudding what? We took a little petty dip with our spoon in the top layer custard and you can instantly taste the rum, and as you may suspect, it sank all the way down to the cake, which made it all the more worth it. Try it! They also have a lunch special with select dishes, different for each day, so we'll be back for that for sure (and for my rice pudding fix as well!)
(4)Clare S.
Always come here for the carne asada, very good and tender. Ive also had the ribs which are very delicious as well. The prices are just a little more than what you would pay at a fritanga but the quality of the food is way better. Love their chimichurri and spicy sauce. The service is always very good, they are very attentive. I really used to love the breakfast here, wish they would bring it back. This is more of a mom and pops place so in my opinion way better than what they serve at Los Ranchos. If you're looking for good nica food, this is the place to go to.
(4)Kat V.
Sophisticated restaurant, good customer service. The carne asada is always on point as well as the sauces. They sell cacao. Love this place! The plaza doesn't look that high end but inside is really decent!
(5)Mari M.
This has to be one of our favorite restaurants! The food is always exceptional and the service is on point. Our server, Cesar is the best...super attentive and accommodating. My husband and I drive all the way from our home on SW 120 ST just to get our fix of this super yummy place!! Try the nacatamal (best in town) and the churasco & Moros w/ a side of salsa jalapena. Wow!! Will be back very soon.. :-)
(5)Alejandro G.
Real nice food. Having spent 6 years of my childhood in Managua I can attest that this is some of the best Nica food in Miami. I always order los camarones al ajillo. The gallo tinto, yuca sancochada, repollo (coleslaw type cabbage), salsas, and other sides such as the patacones and quesos are fire. Definitely worth a visit if you are in Miami. I will be back again lol. :) And for those who don't like seafood they have great meat options as well. My friends always get the surtido and leave happy. The surtido comes with everything a hungry person can dream of and its the perfect meal for when your dying of hunger after work or the gym! If you are on a diet then get the ceviches. I have tried each one and can say the shrimp ceviche is the best :). I am super picky about food and so my 5 stars should mean a lot. SO GO AND EAT WELL. Buen provecho. Tengo una flojera asi q no voy a escribir mucho en español. Les digo que la comida sabe riquÃsimo y hay q lanzarse pa alla para probarla. Provechito.
(5)Allie S.
I loved this place. Definitely the best nica food in all of Miami. I have been coming here for about 7 years I have never had an bad experience the foods is always fresh. I will say this try the sangria here it's one of the better ones I have had in a while.
(5)Alicia H.
Delicious!!!! On a whim my boyfriend and I stopped in after a trip to the mall, not being from the area we yelped it, and the reviews don't lie, this place is awesome!!! We couldn't decide what was better the food or the price! Service was great, we waited 15mins but would've waited an hour it was that good!
(5)Ileana M.
Dining out with my family can always be quite the task because everyone wants something different, but this is a favorite among all of us! And when we want good quality Nicaraguan food, we come here & they do not disappoint. It will not break your bank and you will not leave hungry. Do not let the location fool you! It is a little neighborhood gem in Sweetwater. Recommendations: as an appetizer, the "corn island" - a corn tamale with soft cheese & sour cream. Entrees try the Churrasco & Carne Asada of course! Or if you're feeling adventurous, go for the "Pescado a la Tipitapa" - what a fish! Or if it's just 2 of you & you're not that hungry, go for the "Bandeja" - a sampler of their best! And for a drink - go for the Sangria! A 1/2 Carafe will only set you back $10- other places charge you $8 or $9 for just a glass. Service is great! And let's be honest - good Nicaraguan places are very limited so this is a place to treasure. Los Ranchos is NOT AT ALL what it used to be- it has fallen from grace. New ownership & renovations have in my opinion ruined that place!! So please go out and enjoy this place as much as my family has.
(4)Jesus M.
The food is excellent! It has great Nicaraguan flavor. The churrasco was great, a bit thin, but still a good size and tasted good. The servers and staff were all good, quick and helpful. It took a while to get a seat around 10pm on a Saturday but it was worth it. The only downfall was the nasty individual who farted next to our table not once but twice with no shame; eat at your own risk. Overall it was great, recommend the bakery next door too! Great nica food on one corner.
(5)Fitfatkid S.
The Breakfast was really good, to bad they stopped doing it. Try this place you'll love it. The staff is very attentive and the service is great. I have Never been disappointed.
(5)Manny M.
This place is fantastic, I love coming here the food and service is superb. I normally get the grilled chicken or carne asada and it's absolutely delicious. They are very attentive and the prices are extremely reasonable. If you're hungry and in the area I highly recommend this place.
(5)Keith P.
I am not a virgin to good meat restaurants. I know exactly how I want my carne asada/steak cooked and prepared and how exactly it should taste. It should be tender, succulent, and flow with natural juices--and the carne asada at Madrono Restaurant does just that. It meets your standards in every possible way (tenderness, juiciness, price), and for $10 (excluding tax and tip), it is definitely worth every bite. Completely heaven for your average "meatophile". Only thing I wish is that this piece of carne asada was bigger. Aside from the carne asada, I have tried the chicha, gallo pinto, and maduros here. The chicha tastes very traditional and is a bright pink. The maduros are sweet and savory. A good size. The gallo pinto is also plentiful and crisp. I highly recommend a side of cream to go with the gallo pinto. It adds a creaminess to your rice that puts it over the edge, nearing 6 Yelp stars if there was such a thing. If you are looking for delicious and traditional Nicaraguan food, I would highly recommend Madrono Restaurant. Their menu is diverse and so are their price ranges. If you are going to just watch a friend eat, definitely do it because aside from good food, the waiters are also quite good looking!
(5)Mari H.
I love the carne asada!!!! Delish My husband had the fish with shrimp sauce Amazing!!! Great food Great price!!!! And great service!!! Will be back as many times I can!!!!
(5)Henry M.
This place gets 5 stars because the service is awesome. The staff is very attentive. Your waiter is never that far if you need something. And the times that I've gone, I've never really needed to wait to be seated. Then again I've never gone during peak hours like lunch. The food is good. The gallo pinto here is actually the best I've had. It definitely tastes home made. Tastes way better than the surrounding Fritangas. Portions are excellent and you definitely walk out feeling full. Or you can definitely expect to take some home.
(5)Jonathan F.
This is one of the best places I've been to in Miami. Great food, the place is clean and well decorated, service is good. AND the price is just right. You can have a full meal for less than $12.
(5)Natassia M.
This is one of my favorite lunch spots whenever I can make it out of the office before noon (getting to the restaurant after 12 will guarantee you'll have to wait for a table). The specials are great... $7 for Carne Asada with 2 sides and a drink (my favorite). The food is delicious and the service is fast. It's a must-try!
(4)Kyrene G.
Great Nicaraguan food. Taste like its homemade and it is very reasonably price. I would definitely recommend! The carne aside is wonderful, the pork fillet on the grill is my favorite. All the sides are delicious also!
(5)Nathaly L.
There was a 15 minute wait, at this establishment hidden in a shopping center. Apparently plenty of people know about this place because a line began forming outside as soon as our names were placed on waiting list.(and i checked out the reviews on yelp) I was actually excited because that meant it has to be good right? i realized when living in south beach, she has the tendency to take you hostage(yes, i do believe she is female). you no longer want to cross the bridge and even downtown seems to be too far of a drive. I used to laugh at those beach snobs and now i have become one. But i started yearning for department stores and other specialty stores that the beach will never have. I miss target, Michael''s, dollar tree, and even home depot. I miss pulling into a parking lot where i have so many parking options i have the luxury of being picky. Miami has pulled me out of la la land and now i find myself escaping on 395 every weekend to places i took for granted for so many years. Walking in you notice its a small restaurant with a few tables. The staff was very nice including the manager with the EXCEPTION of our waiter. We had the grumpiest waiter ever. He was the only one with a face and attitude that said he was doing our table a favor by taking our order. In his defense he was like this to all his other tables...I did take some comfort in that (i originally thought he was annoyed at my less than perfect Spanish). Unfortunately being a vegetarian at any latin american restaurant is torture. But i went with my Dad and for anyone with a traditional Cuban dad its basically required to be a latin american restaurant. Anyway, i had the gallopinto (rice/beans cooked together) and traditional yuca (which is boiled) which i loove. and in a Nicaraguan restaurant its typical for the rice or yuca to have a lil side of a shredded cabbage slaw (not creamy American coleslaw ). My dad and his gf had churassco it comes with gallo pinto (the trad. rice) and one other side. He got a side of platano verde chips(i forget what the named it on menu but basically those crunchy plantain chips) and she opted with french fries. When our food came, he did not give her the fries but the same side my dad ordered, i immediately brought it to his attention and he took her side of rice and plantains grudgingly and was left with her steak. No cuban person i have ever met will want to eat their steak with out their rice. We started eating since it would get cold, and i kept my mouth shut for 5 minutes. Was there an apology? no. Did he try rushing the order? no. Did he stop by our table to update us? no.After 10 minutes, i could see her disappointment and when the manager was near i explained and after a minute she had her rice and fries. The french fries were delicious. Just out of the fryer, crunchy, and delicious. I def. recommend It doesn't bother me that he got the order wrong, it happens no big deal. But he took her plate away without a word. the gallopinto was fine it was on the same plate next to chips (should have been fries). I have been in that situation before, and the waiter always, always leaves the plate with you tells you to go ahead and stay with it and puts a rush on whatever was missing. If she would have waited her steak would have been cold. As if our plan all along was to get some free plantain chips! maybe he was having a really, really, really bad day and forced to come into work. but with that attitude i wish he would have stayed home. my party said the steak was good. it was cooked to the right temp. the gallo pinto tasted authentic, the yuca was just like i remembered and the fries were addicting. i would come back here, and avoid this waiter. If were rating the food alone 4 stars.
(3)Anuar U.
The attention was good the food excelent and the price was fair. The only issue was at last when I have to pay they were charging me $7.50 on taxes for a check of $30 it is ridiculous an error of 8x 30 equal $2.40. I dont know if they were trying to include the tip and make me think that it was not included and pay the tip again short story is they need a computer system to give an accurate check they shoud make enough money to cover it.
(4)Leilani D.
When I used to live out west, I probably came here at least once every couple of weeks. There isn't much great food west of I-95 but the food at Madrono is amazing. It's located in a grungy strip mall, but once you step inside it's pretty easy to forget about. The restaurant is nicely updated, wait staff is well dressed and attentive, and the food is phenomenal. Also, very reasonably priced considering the portions are massive and the food quality. I usually started off with a ceviche - either de pescado (fish) or the vuelve a la vida (mixed seafood in a light red sauce). I almost always order the bistec encebollado (steak smothered in onions), put the puntas de filete (beef tips) in salsa de jalapeno is excellent if you like a little spice, and the bistec mixto (steak with onions and tomatoes in their sauce) was also great. Realistically, there are very few things that you will order here that won't rock your world. If you happen to find yourself in the food desert that is this area of Miami, Madrono will definitely be your oasis.
(5)Caleb M.
Its a good lunch venue that can get busy after 12. The restaurant has good daily lunch specials. Service is good and typically fast. As a starter you get bread with the salsa plate. If you order a lunch special it comes with two sides a salad and a soda.
(4)Michael G.
The carne asada is great. I have been here about 6 times and it never dissapoints. The spicy orange sauce is a must especially mixed in the gallo pinto. Writing this review is making me want to go today for lunch. It gets pretty busy around noon so go earlier or expect to wait a little. The food comes out fast, it taste fresh, and the serving sizes are great. For somewhere around $8 you get a nice portion of carne asada, a small salad, gallo pinto, maduros, and a soda. Great deal. I have had some of the appetizers and they were great. This is another place that the food taste like your grandma made it. Give this place a try, it will not dissapoint.
(5)B G.
Great cheap and fast nica food!!!! Amazing service and speed. Cheap lunch specials and prices are just unbeatable. Great little gem in sweetwater. Carne asada is just devine!!!!
(5)Michelle L.
Hadn't been back in a while and still oh so good. Started with the antojitos de queso appetizer that comes with tostones, fried cheese, and slaw. Then we had our carne asada with maduros and gallo pinto. I recommend the carne asada over the baby churrasco. The way it is prepared is tastier. Their gallo pinto is really good. We also had a carafe of white sangria. Food is still on point and I rather come here than Los Ranchos, anytime and the service is impeccable. Keep it up!
(5)Maryuri B.
This place is wonderful! Great food and great service! I usually get the carne asada. I come to this place weekly. You can't beat the quality of food for the price. I actually tried this place because of Yelp and I agree with the reviews. I recommend it. I've brought several people myself.
(5)Bella M.
Don't get fooled by their location lol! The food is great and service is excellent. The staff is very attentive and friendly. Not overpriced (lunch specials). I usually get carne asada and/or camarones al ajillo. I just like to keep it simple since I am not really a fan of Nicaraguan food based on previous experiences but this restaurant is a must go!
(4)Camilo V.
Great experience. Delicious food and greatly priced, also, best service I've had in a while. I never even noticed my cup was half empty before they were filling it up. Very nice waitresses. Ordered the Repocheta as an appretizer and the carne asada as a meal. Will definitely come back
(5)G L.
place is good food good customer serv very nice
(5)ROSE J.
I decided to try this place due to the reviews and my craving for carne asada. the food was good and the prices are reasonable. the service was good but very rushed which never sits well. I would come back again.
(3)Gaby B.
Its hard for me to really put into words just how much i love this restaurant. To put it simply ... It freaking ROCKS ! I have been a loyal costumer of El Madrono since 2001, when my mom married a Nicaraguan man. If there is one thing (now that they're divorced) I can appreciate this man for , it is for introducing me to this restaurant. It is a truly authentic place, you know the food is going to be excellent if there are women cooking it ! The churrasco and Gallo pinto are bursting with flavor, maduros , queso frito, ceviche, tacitos and repocheta are the BEST! Throw on some chimichurri and picante and you are set. Oh yeah, the bread they bring out is great also ( put picante and chimichurri on it) Cacao is a must for desert. Service is always pleasant , you will not be disappointed This is one of my favorite places because i know i will always leave so full and satisfied
(5)Monica B.
For starters, the service was great. We sat down and they immediately took our order and served us some yummy bread and salad. I ordered the baby churrasco and it was honestly one of the best I have had. The queso frito was amazing and the desserts were also very good. The quality and price exceeded my expectations and I will definitely be coming back soon!
(5)Mima A.
im a true nicaraguan.im very dissapointed how this nicaraguan restaurants have skimped on the punta de jalapeno sauce.they water it down no jalapenos it was cream with water.i use to like eating here but today was not great.my plantains were old and chewy.service was slow.waited for water for ever.the bread was stale.my friends chicken was tiny.i will keep looking for a good nicaraguan restaurant.
(1)Vanessa T.
I am Nicaraguan, and I love to represent. So whenever I have to recommend a restaurant that serves authentic, delicious, and Yelp-5 star worthy Nicaraguan food, I always tell that person to visit Madrono. It is a restaurant like Madrono that makes me proud to represent my Nicaraguan heritage because at Madrono they pay attention to detail, offer great customer service, have amazing takeout service, and are located at a great location-- the heart of Sweetwater, Little Managua. I have been here more than a dozen times when I am craving a juicy churrasco, with superb gallo pinto, and this place offers all types of dishes to satisfy your Nicaraguan cravings. Their pitahaya and the rest of their juices are also delicious, and they offer the most authentic Nicaraguan dishes I have ever tried in Miami, and they aren't excessively oily as you would find in most fritangas. If you come here, I recommend you to try their holy trio of sauces. The first sauce is their chimichurri which will add a special flavor to your meal. The second sauce is their pickled spicy onion which will add that special spice. The last sauce is their special orange sauce which is basically made of liquified onions and carrots. It is healthy and savory. If you are in a hurry, you can order food to go at the pick-up station right next to the restaurant. They will have your food ready at 15 minutes tops. If you want to try Nicaraguan food at its finest, I highly recommend you visit Madrono. The food is fairly priced, authentic, and the menu offers a wide variety of dishes. The servers are also friendly and treat you with true hospitality. And the adventure continues...
(5)Blue A.
Since meeting my Nicaraguan fiance I have been exposed to the deliciousness that is Nica food. Traveling with her to her motherland has spoiled me. EVERYTHING there is so delicious! The meat, the tomatoes, the lettuce, even the SODA tastes better - but we live here in Miami so we are always looking for the Nica Food fix. Been to Madrono a few times. Some things I have had: Churrasco - Great steak! The chimi-churri sauce takes it to the next level! Camarones Enchilados - The shrimp creole is just alright. I've had better. Tacos - 3 rolled up tacos. We had the beef - not bad! Frijoles Molido - Puree of red beans with "crema" on top. Really good, especially to use to dip the tacos in. Queso Frito - translates to fried cheese - and its freakin' delicious. Gallo Pinto - the accompanying rice and beans that comes with entrees is decent - better than most places. Maduros - Fried plantains are good. Tres Leche - The delicious 3 milk dessert here is one of the best I have had. The cake is fluffy, the milk is just right - it's easy to make this TOO sweet, but they make it perfect. Although the food is good, the waiters are always nice and attentive I can't seem to rate this place more than 3 stars. Maybe it's the location - not in the best area, and in a very crowded strip mall. The food just doesn't leave me wanting to go back the next day. Maybe my exposure to authentic Nica food has made my taste skewed - but I can live with that. Getting married in March......In Nicaragua.....so I will have a good week to indulge in the deliciousness.
(3)Mayda P.
The baby churasco was cooked exactly how I ordered medium rare and the tres leche was to die for! I will be back very soon.
(4)Rosario P.
I was raised in Nicaragua so when it comes to Nicaraguan food I have high standards. This place serves authentic nicaraguan food and the service is great. If you go during lunch time, make sure to try out the "Salpicon" Its a 'cold' meat served with white rice and 'maduro' (fried plantain). I've been to various nicaraguan restaurants and no other seems to get it 'just right" the way El Madrono does. If you go during dinner, make sure to order a Churrasco. I usually have it with Gallo Pinto (Rice and beans) and queso frito (Fried cheese) and I would ask for Crema (A nicaraguan version of sour cream) on the side. I believe they charge you extra for the 'crema' but trust me when I say you'll want it with your meal! I add it to the gallo pinto and to the maduros. If you still have room for dessert after the churrasco make sure to order a tres leches. I am very picky about tres leches, because a lot of places make them overly sweet, but this place has it down to T! The prices are reasonable and the restaurant was recently renovated. The bathrooms are ALWAYS clean (which is a major pet peeve of mine) and the staff is very friendly!
(4)Ismael R.
Tried this place after having a couple friends tell us it's a good place to try. After reading the many good reviews we bit the bullet and tried it. First off there is no host or hostess station, but do not fret, one of the servers will seat you promptly. The place is very nice, clean, and we'll kept. The service is great, we ordered Cevice and the Queso Frito with Tostones (Fried Cheese with Fried Green Plantains) to start. For our entrées we ordered the Carne Asada with Gallo Pinto and Maduros (Steak with Red Beans and Rice with fried Sweet Plantains). Appetizers were very, very good. The cheese was great and the ceviche is a must. Great flavor on both items. Entrées took some extra time to arrive for which I will assume means they are cooking on the fly which is a good thing. The steak was cooked perfectly, and it was tender. The red beans and rice were good as well. The only thing that was off putting was the gentleman who sits near the register behind the counter. He looks like he might be the owner, which is fine. He sits and watches over his restaurant and staff like a proud peacock, again, fine. My issue was he would sit and eat the entire time. Then spent some time picking his teeth. Other than that, this place gets a solid 4 stars. Food is real good and service is great.
(4)Misty B.
If I could give this place 6 stars, I would. Fabulous food, impeccable service, reasonable prices. Favorite dishes: the tacos appetizer, lomito de cerdo a la parilla, and the pescado meunière. Amazing. They have some of the best sweet plantains in town, and there are a lot of those in Miami, so that's saying something! During the lunch and dinner rush it can get quite busy, and the wait might be about 15 minutes.
(5)Gina M.
This restaurant was simply, GREAT! My family and I recently visited this restaurant while on vacation in Miami and my fiancee and I were thoroughly impressed with the level of service received. This is the first restaurant I have ever been to where they change your silverware 3 to 4 times in one sitting. The waiters were very attentive and pleasant. The food quality is great and it is reasonably priced. I will be sure to make this restaurant a "must eat" spot every time I visit Miami.
(5)Alexander B.
5 stars for service, 5 stars for food, 5 stars for ambiance, amazing place! For being a local restaurant, this place knows what they are doing. The restaurant is spotless. We had the corn tamale appetizer with cuajada and crema, and then fried cheese with slaw and Mariquitas. Everything was spot on! I even asked for a side of chicharrones for only $1, which was a great side to have. Me and by wife both had the carne asada, full of flavor and perfect portion. And the prices? Cheap!!!!! I would recommend this place to anyone wanting to try some great Nicaraguan food without the crazy prices.
(5)Angelica A.
My husband was born in Nicaragua. In Frisco we don't usually get too many options for Nicarguan food, but in Miami there are plenty. We picked this place because of the good reviews and we're glad we did. The food is authentic and it's delicious. The fries cheese is crunchy on the outside but warm and gooey on the inside, a perfect combination. The sopa de res is really good and comforting. The service is also great. Waiters are quick to fill up your glass of water and are polite. My cousin ordered chicken tacos but somehow waiter heard chicken tenders but she still enjoyed her meal. Def recommend this place for Nicaraguan food.
(5)hamilon s.
Better than Los ranchos. Better service, Better food, Better cost. Must try puntas de filete en salsa jalapeño.
(5)Rebecca C.
I have heard about this place for quite awhile now and been wanting to try it. So finally on my last night in Miami til I was home-bound to Loiusiana, I finally got the opportunity to check Madrono out with some close friends. So this place is a Nicaraguan restaurant and while it looks fancy inside, is actually affordably priced. The food is plentiful and tasty. The service was very friendly. And if you are looking to try traditional Nicaraguan cuisine they have a section just for that with plate sizes ranging from small to large. They also have some desserts to try but I wasn't blown away and I've found the authentic stuff (bunuelos) to be much, much better. But otherwise, there menu items are pretty good with a large range of seafood options too. My faves were the creole fish with shrimp and their gallo pinto (black beans with rice) and plantains perfectly completed it. Definitely a great place to check out if you are in the mood for something new.
(4)Rocio D.
Nice ambience since I get into the place, very clean, nice service and food just great, carne asada well cook and tender, i would say even better than Los Ranchos decent portions for a cheaper price flavor just delicious house made tres leche was heaven, queso frito and tostones very delightful, tostones remind me my hometown santo Domingo
(4)Milton G.
this is a great little restaurant, and the food still keeps a bit of that home made taste that is almost impossible to duplicate, waiting staff is great and the owner is almost always there to make sure everything goes alright. it felt good to shake his hand and congratulate him for the good food and service, you cant do that anymore anywhere. it is on a corner in a shopping plaza, there is always parking available but expect some wait during peak times, the most i have waited is 15 minutes which is nothing compared to other places i have had to wait. please do not leave without trying their Pio V dessert, it is to die for!
(5)Alex P.
One of Miami's best every day restaurants. Delicious Nicaraguan food presented in an upscale manor. I've gone to this place soooo many times and keep coming back for their perfect rice, churrasco, maduros, cacao, and tostada.
(5)David A.
I have been here several times and the food is great. The decor on the inside is surprisingly nice, and the waiters were good too. Nothing I had here was out of this world, but that's not to say it is not worth a visit :)
(3)Max T.
I have been here several times and prefer the place over the ranchos across the street. The meats are well cooked and the decor is surprisingly modern for a sweetwater restaurant. The prices are fair and the service is good. I usually go for carne asada with gallo pinto and i would stick to the meats at any Nica place.
(4)Jose S.
This place is a great deal. The food is amazing. We showed up about 30 minutes to close and the service was excellent. The waitress was friendly and was fluent in English and Spanish. We were a party of 6, we walked in and were seated immediately. They waisted no time bringing us bread and water. They had 3 different sauces on the table that were delicious on the bread one of them was chimichurri the other was some chopped pickled onions and the third was spicy chopped carrots in a vinegar sauce. I ordered the churrasco medium with gallo pinto rice and ripe fried plantains. My wife ordered the sirloin tips in jalapeño sauce both of our dishes were amazing. We ordered a carafe of house wine for $20 and it was great. I'm from Miami so I always expect really good food which Miami frequently delivers and this place lived up to my expectations. Don't be scared off by its location (small cheesy strip mall). In my opinion it is one of the best Nicaraguan restaurants I've been to with excellent prices.
(5)Sabrina L.
I tried this place a couple of weeks ago during an office dinner, and it was a nice experience. The decor is modern and appealing. Our waiter was very professional and suggested different items from the menu, for those of us who are not too familiar with Nicaraguan food. I ordered a grilled fish with lemon sauce , two sides included black beans with rice and plantains. The dish was tasty but the fish was a bit too lemony for my taste. The plantains were sooo good! Everyone at the table seemed to really enjoyed their dishes, a lot of them had to take some food home, because the quantity is major! A dish can easily be shared. I will be giving this place another try!
(3)Bob S.
I was in town for one evening, and had arrived a bit late due to S. Florida traffic and road construction. Fortunately, what was late for me was normal business hours for Madrono. Prices were reasonable, and everything I had, from the ceviche to the churrisco to the bunelos was terrific. Service was spot on. Other reviewers have pretty much covered the bases, I had a -bit- of a time finding it, look for the Walgreens at the corner of 107th and Flagler -- from there, it's easy.
(4)Larissa G.
The food was good and very fresh. However, what surprised me the most was the service. They were on top of us (in a good way) the whole time. At some point my son dropped his spoon and 3 seconds later someone showed up with a replacement. Very polite staff, service was fast, and their 3 leches is beyond amazing !!
(5)Vanessa M.
This restaurant offers authentic Nica food. I am from Nicaragua and can guarantee that this restaurant offers the best of the best. The food is delicious and the service is wonderful. They make you feel at home. If you want to try true authentic Nicaraguan food you need to go to this restaurant, no other Nica restaurant or fritanga comes close to the quality of food and service of Madrono. Everyone is very polite ; they also offer a wonderful takeout service.
(5)Luis A.
Best Nicaraguan food in town. Service is excellent and food is great. Los Ranchos has nothing on this place. Been going there for years and never been disappointed. Keep it up! Thanks
(5)Aracelly C.
I love my Nica food and this place has it all .The place is nice the decor is contemporary and the waiters are always on point.Their sauces are great and their dessert Tres Leche is the best.
(5)Mimi M.
This place is so yum and its perfect for a big meal when your wallet does not participate. I love this restaurant, the service and the location. I wish they had a spicier orange sauce like Fritanga Mombino does but the Jalapeno Tirras and Queso Frito are to die for. The sangria is very good here.
(4)Michelle G.
This restaurant is across from Los Ranchos and with identical good options, I want sure how this would compare. However, I was not disappointed! While the quality is top notch, the prices were extremely affordable. If in the area, definitely stop by for some delicious Nicaraguan fare. You will not be disappointed!
(4)R.c. K.
This is an ok restaurant. To cut to the chase, I cannot give it more than 3 stars because of the quality of the meat. A little tougher than I expected, and lacking in flavor (before piling on the chimichurri). There is no shortage of places in Miami to get churrasco. Because of this fact, I will not return here. However, if you do want to go, many of the other items were pretty good and the server was very nice.
(3)Mandy H.
They decorate the whole restaurant with IKEA furniture. I found it very funny. First time experience, our waiter does speak English. But I just found him extremely rude. When you ask him about lunch special. May be he doesn't want anyone to order lunch special. He just walk away and said Oh I have to come back to you. If you sit down and look at the menu, you will find the last page of Rules (their own restaurant rules). for example each table only can split 2 checks. (first time I see in S FL) Because of the horrible service I don't think I will go back
(1)Jessie G.
Love this place. I could just skip the entrees and order off their appetizer menu. Everything tastes great and the service is always good. Our whole family loves coming here. Genuine Nica food.
(4)Liz L.
This place is really good. The place is clean, the food tastes amazing, and the service is excellent. My mom and I love this place.
(4)Jackie T.
I love this place! If you're looking for authentic Nicaraguan food that is not overpriced (like el Novillo or Los Ranchos), this is the place to go. You'll find all the traditional dishes including carne asada, churasco, salpicon and even oxtail soup. The service is friendly and efficient and the place is always clean. I've never been dissapointed with anything I've had here. If you go and you've never had Nicraguan food, I recommend going with carne asada accompanied by gallo pinto (rice and beans). As an appetizer I'd go with repocheta (which is a thin corn tortilla stuffed with melted cheese and served with a cabbage salad and sour cream). If you want something lighter and are diet conscious, go with salpicon (shredded beef with diced green peppers and onions and seasoned with salt and lime juice), rice, and a boiled plantain. The orange/carrot juice is refreshing and tastes homemade. As for desserts, definitely the tres leches. This is an excellent lunch or dinner place.
(5)Roger A.
Best Nicaraguan food hands down!!
(5)Indy O.
Let me begin by saying that I absolutely love the food in this place. The food is always great! Have been going for years before they remodelled it. The bandeja madrono is great has a little of everything carne asada, pork, gallo pinto, tacos, maduros, vigoron. It's more than enough for 2 people. The carne asada is great!! The sopa de cola is amazing! The breakfast is fantastic! I love everything I have tried. The reason why I give it a 3 star is the service. I have to say that the service has gone downhill. Ever since they decided to become a bit classier & started including tip it was all downhill from there. To wait for 5 minutes for your waiter to get your drink order is not acceptable!!!! The only thing that they need to do is improve that one thing. They are all very nice just seems you wait far too long for service.
(3)Danny F.
Contrary to others, the food is only what you make of it. Like life! No, just kidding. It does depend on what you order. Get the wrong menu choice, you'll be overcharged for something you could have gotten at any fritanga for 2 dollars less! However, don't mind the frou frou pseudo-modern interior design, order something good and you'll be more than happy. My personal favorite is the bistec entomatado with white rice and french fries. The sauce is incredible, the meat is tender (medium well), and the rest is pretty good too. SO, though this place may not have stellar hosts or the best look, you can get an incredible taste of Nicaragua, if you order the right thing. If your confused, just ask your waiter!
(4)Ari S.
Great Nicaraguan restaurant. Service was excellent. I had a seafood dish, some type of fish with a shrimp lobster sauce, I would definitely recommend.
(3)Katie C.
Yummy and reasonably priced. Only down side is that it gets packed and quick. I would suggest to get there before 12PM or after 1:30PM. If not, you are looking at a 15-20 minute wait.
(4)Monica W.
Loved it! Great food, fantastic service and VERY good prices! We started with a Ceviche de pescado and a Nicaraguan Ceviche, both fresh and delicious, for our main course we had the platter (bandeja) which had a little (a lot really) of some of the main starters, and the churrasco. The food was fresh, well cooked and truly delicious. For dessert we had te Pio 5 (I think that is the name) and it was fabulous, we also had the tres leches (not as good). Additionally we had coffee and two very cold beers, and the bill came to $78 including tip! There was so much food that we took leftovers home and had enough for lunch for two next day. The service was outstanding, the service and the food were on par with a 5 star restaurant and the prices with a two star restaurant. Perhaps the only negative side to this place is its location and the view, but both can easily be ignored once you have the food is placed in front of you!
(5)Daniela M.
Service is GREAT, food is AMAZING. Better than any Nicaraguan fritanga. It's been remodeled and it looks great now. It's awesome for a casual dinner.
(5)Arleen C.
Went there on a late Sunday afternoon for a late lunch/early dinner with daughter and her husband. The place was pretty packed and the host, which I am so sorry I don't have his name, was wonderful. Told us it would be a few minutes and he was right. They seated us and, after we settled in we found out that one of the chairs was sorta in the way and I was going to be moving all the time or being tripped with every two minutes. So, we asked if we could move and there was absolutely no problem...5 stars for that. Our waiter, sorry no name either, wasn't as good as our host or as the water boy, but he wasn't horrible....3 stars for him. When we finally figured out what was what in the menu, we ordered our food and we waited and chatted. Our food arrived and it was all delicious...5 stars for that. Nicaraguan son in law was in heaven and we enjoyed it too.
(3)Tiana F.
I have been coming here for a long time since about 2004. their food and prices are perfect. i enjoy much better than "los ranchos" that is way too pricey and misses the mark sometimes. the madrono platter is really big and has everything you want and have convinced my husband to share it once or twice but he mostly eats the churrasco (duh) and he enjoys it with gallo pinto. everything I eat here is delicious and their portions are very generous. the service has always been a little slow. last visit, hubby and I sat at bar, and we waited about 5 minutes for water and more for our server to take our order. not cool. you get an awesome bread basket and a little salad with your entree. they make a great thousand-island-like dressing that is delicious for the salad. I highly recommend this place. You may have to wait to be seated, especially wknd lunch, and then wait to get your server to look at you, but the food is delicious.
(4)Kelly O.
Had dinner here last night and it was good. I tried the nacatamal which was surprisingly good and filling. The fried cheese was fried cheese which in my book is always delicious. The baby churrasco was cooked nicely and had a good flavor. I especially enjoyed it with the pickled jalapeños with onions. However, someone else ordered the camarones enchilado and they really were not that good. The desserts are not homemade which I don't like. The service was good and our waiter was kind (not rude at all, like other reviews stated).
(3)Oscar S.
I'm giving 5 stars because this restaurant has a perfect balance between food quality, decoration, cleanliness, service and price. It is perfect to go once or even twice a month with the family or some friends. And yes, you can find better restaurants than this one, but also more expensive. I find Madrono to be one of the best restaurants I have visited on its price range ($9 to $16).
(5)cindy w.
In Miami where tons of Latin eateries open up, ethnic restaurants live and die by the loyalty of their patrons. Madrono was servicable but didn't leave me a reason to come back. It was my first introduction to Nicaraguan food but looking at the menu I didn't find stuff I couldn't get elsewhere at other latin restaraunts. I ordered a small plate of tacos for an appetizer-style meal and I was given 3 deep-fried taco "rolls", so that was different. Tried the passion fruit soda that was awesome. Don't try the desserts, they look like they were manufactured elsewhere and not made on site, especially the tres leches.
(3)Ame C.
If you want awesome Nicaraguan food this is definitely the place. There is usually a wait (since all the Nicaraguans in the area come here to eat) but it's worth the wait. The service is WONDERFUL and the food is even better. If you're in Miami you should take a detour to eat here. You won't regret it!!!
(5)Nelson R.
When i walk into a restaurant, the last thing that impresses me is the decor. I have been to some pretty fancy and some not so fancy restaurants and the decor does not always relate to the service, food, price. I have been returning to madrono for a few years now and I have to say this place is not a fritanga-style place. 2 different animals. Madrono, from my experiences has very friendly, efficient and fast service. if you like beef, I strongly recommend trying the puntas de filete a la jalapena (sirloin tips in jalapena sauce) for seafood the pescado tipitapa ( a whole snapper with a creole-style sauce on top), the beef tongue in a wine sauce, and their soups are very hearty and flavorful with tons of veggies. I am not too fond of the ceviches myself, that I will leave to the Peruvians who are the masters of it. If you like coffee coolers or chai tea, you will then love cacao. I do not think too many people are familiar with this drink. An alternative to 3 leches is Pio V or bunuelos which are probably more authentic Nicaraguan. Enjoy Madrono.
(5)