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Posted by Nicolle Valladares, guest blogger of Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism

More than 140 languages are spoken in Massachusetts, a testament to the diverse population of residents who represent cultures from around the world.

Central Americans, who trace their Latino roots to seven different countries—Guatemala, Honduras, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Panama, Belize and El Salvador — are among the most vibrant communities in the Bay State.   The prevailing spirit of Central Americans can be captured in the staple dishes of each country.  Not to be confused with Mexican or South American cuisine, Central American dishes as a whole have taken their own consistency, with some regional differences.

The cuisine of Central America features a strong reliance on indigenous foods like corn (maize), beans, peppers, squash and tomatoes. Red meats and poultry are more prevalent in the interior regions whereas in coastal regions you will find more seafood on breakfast and dinner plates.

Central American Cuisine has been substantially influenced by the ingredients and flavor preferences of other cultures such as Caribbean, Asian, Indian and of course, Spanish.

To get a taste of Central American cuisine, we’ve put together a selection of restaurants that offer an amazing array of culinary delights.  Here are eight authentic Central American eateries you’ll enjoy.

Greater Boston:
Mi Pueblito
333 Border St, Boston, MA 02128
Mi Pueblito serves up Salvadorean and Guatemalan dishes, with an extensive breakfast menu full of traditional Central American breakfasts all paired with plátanos (plantains).

Photo of Mi Pueblito Orient Heights - Boston, MA, United States. Pupusas
Pueblo Viejo Pupuseria & Mexican Grill
170 Marion St, Boston, MA 02128
Pueblo Viejo offers all the traditional dishes of El Salvador including pupusas, chicharrón, refried beans and loroco (a vine flower bud native to Central America)


Catrachos International Restaurant
140 Broadway, Chelsea, MA 02150
Named after the classic Honduran dish, Catrachos International provides customers with a taste of Honduras. Enjoy authentic Honduran breakfasts including a variety of baleadas.


El Santaneco Restaurant
24 5th St, Chelsea, MA 02150
El Santaneco Restaurant offers Salvadorian and Latin America home style food including carne asada, mojarra frita and pupusas.

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La Posada
505 Medford St, Somerville, MA 02145
La Posada offers a mix of Latin American food with a modern twist alongside authentic dishes including authentic pupusas, traditional dishes, and homemade desserts and juices.

Around the State:
El Comalito
460 West St, Amherst, MA 01002
El Comalito features Salvadorian food based on family recipes. Be sure to try the homemade pupusas (thick handmade corn flour tortillas stuffed with cheese) and other Salvadorian dishes.

SWEET FRIED PLANTAINS WITH SOUR CREAM AND REFRIED PINTO BEANS
Los Antojitos  
45 North Washington Street, North Attleboro, MA 02760
Los Antojitos offers a diverse menu of classic Central American dishes such as pupusas, horchata, and yucca con chicharron, plus a variety of vegetarian and vegan options.
Photo of Los Antojitos Restaurant & Bar - North Attleborough, MA, United States. Street Tacos
Mi Tierra- Waltham
585 Moody St, Waltham, MA 02453
Mi Tierra is a small family-owned restaurant that has serves authentic Guatemalan and Salvadorian food. Also, almost the entire menu is gluten-free and it offers a variety of vegetarian options.

Photo of Mi Tierra - Waltham, MA, United States. Guacamole tostadas
Want to make your own Central American dishes? Here are some Latin grocery stores full of authentic Central American staples.
Teresa’s Market
 571 Washington St, Brighton, MA 02135
Tesoros Supermarket
80 Hollis St, Framingham, MA 01702
Tropical Foods
 450 Melnea Cass Blvd, Roxbury, MA 02119
La Internacional Foods Corporation
318 Somerville Ave, Somerville, MA 02143
La Chapincita Market
424 Moody St, Waltham, MA 02453

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