Hello dear
Welcome To El Mae Restaurant
El Mae Restaurant, nestled at 1165 St Clair Ave W in Toronto, offers an authentic taste of Costa Rican cuisine that transports diners straight to Central America. Celebrated for its generous portion sizes and vibrant flavors, this gem has won the hearts of many, including our delighted customers. Signature dishes, like the tantalizing Arroz con Pollo and fresh Ceviche served in Doritos bags, highlight the restaurant's unique approach. The warm, friendly service complements the homey vibe, making every visit memorable. El Mae also provides a selection of traditional Costa Rican grocery products, ensuring a true taste of home for locals and visitors alike. Pura vida!
Taste the best
Discover Our Menu
Chifrijo
CA$23.99maracuya
CA$4.99bistec encebollado
CA$2.99
Caribbean chicken
Caribbean tofu
caribbean shrimp
CA$2.99
CAS
CA$6.99Guanabana
CA$4.99piña
CA$4.99 About
El Mae Restaurant
Welcome to El Mae Restaurant, a culinary gem nestled at 1165 St Clair Ave W in Toronto. This vibrant eatery specializes in bringing the heart and soul of Costa Rican cuisine right to your plate. With rave reviews from customers like Katherine Monge and Stephen Campbell, it's clear that El Mae has captured the essence of a true Costa Rican "soda," where authentic flavors and generous portion sizes come together in delightful harmony.
Imagine savoring a plate of arroz con pollo that’s been crafted with care and passion, earning a perfect score of 10/10 from Erika, or indulging in the innovative Doritos Caldosa, as described by Stephen. The experience is not just about food; it's about being transported back to Costa Rica with every bite. You’ll find dishes that echo the vibrant spirit of the region, enriched with fresh ingredients and traditional recipes.
El Mae's commitment to authentic flavors means each dish is a tribute to Costa Rican cuisine. From the ceviche served straight out of a Doritos bag to the robust and comforting Chifrijo, every bite is a celebration of culinary artistry. Johanna G beautifully noted the struggle of finding authentic Costa Rican food in Toronto, and how El Mae has filled that gap with its flavorful offerings.
But it’s not just the food that impresses. The warm and welcoming atmosphere, cultivated by friendly staff, makes every visit feel special. Deanna Reesor is one of many who appreciated the personal touch, recalling service reminiscent of a traditional soda. Moreover, El Mae also stocks some Costa Rican grocery products, like café 1820 and salsa Lizano, allowing you to bring a slice of Costa Rica home.
In summary, El Mae Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone yearning for the authentic tastes of Costa Rica right in Toronto. With its rich flavors, generous portions, and friendly ambiance, it truly embodies the phrase Pura vida! Come discover a slice of Costa Rican paradise!
People talk
Our Guestbook
“ This was an incredible experience. The chefs creations transport me back to being back home in Costa Rica. When you come you have to try the Doritos Caldosa. The fresh fish in the ceviche was spectacular and so fresh. You eat the ceviche right out it the Doritos bag. The Chifrijo was amazing with levels of fresh cool Tico Salsa and hot steaming rice and savory Chicharrones (Fried Pork). You have to check this place out! ”
“ My friend and I were wanting to try El Mae because we saw that they make ceviche here. Stopped by for a quick lunch, we ordered and sat outside. Service was friendly and our food was brought to us. The ceviche was very good, we ordered the shrimp and fish one. Lots of flavour and the tico sauce served with the ceviche was delicious. Probably one of the better ceviches I’ve had in the city. ”
“ Incredible, authentic Tico food . The portions are huge too! I had the Caribbean plate with Caribbean chicken (spicy and delicious). My partner had the gallo pinto plate with beef in sauce (a Costa Rican classic) and we both got fresh juices. Everything was absolutely amazing, as well as the owner, super friendly and nice, great service. ”
“ This is the spot to go if you want to try some authentic Costa Rican cuisine! The flavour of the food is all you need in a Latin American dish, and the portion sizes are excellent. Pura vida!! ”
“ I'm not really into cooking and it was hard to find food from Costa Rica around Toronto so I was so excited when this place opened up. The food was delicious and tastes just like what you'd find in Costa Rica. You really get what you pay for. The service is also great! The guy is really friendly and makes you feel welcomed. ”
“ Amazing fresh food, the portions were large, very friendly service, reminiscent of a traditional Costa Rican soda. We were so happy to finally be able to have food like this in Toronto! They also sell some Costa Rican grocery products including cafe 1820 and salsa Lizano. Will definitely be going back even if we have to drive over an hour from out of town! ”
“ happened to walk by and saw they had street tacos, a fruit stand, and music playing, the atmosphere was great, and the staff were super friendly!! I picked up a fruit cup with watermelon, mango, and cantaloupe, topped with chamoy, lime, and Tajín. It was delicious and refreshing. The only thing I’d note is that on a really hot day, the fruit didn’t feel quite as cold as I’d hoped. They did take it out of the fridge, though, so it might’ve just been the heat. Still, definitely worth stopping by if you’re in the area. ”
“ The food was really good and the portions were generous. The chef was really nice and the vibe in general was good. If I'm ever back in Toronto I'll come again. Arroz con pollo was 10/10 ”