Encuentro Cafe former The Congress Cafe

Very tasty, huge burger portion

5 stars – A Hidden Gem!
We had an amazing experience at Encuentro Cafe! The food was absolutely delicious—everything we tried was full of flavor and made with care. There were multiple gluten-free options, which was a huge plus, and the arepas were especially outstanding. The service was excellent; the owners were incredibly kind and welcoming. The ambience is darling—warm, cozy, and full of charm. We’ll definitely be going back!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Good food. Lot of vegetarian and vegan options. Highly recommend

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Venezuelan Salsa, Venezuelan Arepas, Fried Plantains, Mini Empanadas, Venezuelan Board

I’ve been coming here for three years now and Encuentro Cafe is still my favorite restaurant in San Diego. The service and food is exceptional. Diana among everyone else cultivates the perfect experience and creates accommodations for my gluten free and dairy free allergies.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Yummy, Venezuelan food! Definitely Recommend.

Come early to avoid the crowd and find seating with a short (5min) wait. We visited with friends and shared several plates (Alma Llanera, El Criollo & El Vainero), drinks (Mexican Spiced Mocha, Guanábana [Sourpot] juice & Ice tea.

The best plate, by consensus, was El Vainero (Mano Cheese, Shredded Beef with fried Plentoins)! The cheese was so yummy and was the same cheese used in the Tequeños (be sure to eat fresh)! The Mexican Spiced Mocha was sweet and the Guanábana (sourpot) was extra tasty.

Cons: Street parking can be challenging.
Pro: Across the street from Old Town San Diego.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 5

Service: 5

Excellent Venezuelan cuisine. I had the veggie chachapas (sweet corn pancake.) absolutely delicious. Great spot for a unique brunch experience. Right across from Old Town, near the transit station. Highly recommend.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Great place. Super friendly staff. Awesome food and refreshing cold beer.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Latin Lover, Fried Plantains

Such a lovely little spot, the atmosphere and cafe are so cute. The food was soso tasty as well the drinks and the owners of the establishment were so kind and authentic!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

As locals, this is our favorite brunch spot in San Diego!! The Venezuelan cuisine offers a unique taste with the option for more traditional American breakfast as well. I wake up in the middle of the night craving the Vegana arepa!! All the vegan and vegetarian options are clearly labeled and they were willing to accommodate meat dishes to meet our need. Both the passion fruit and guanabana juices are to die for. And best of all, the staff are so warm and friendly, with amazing service. We love this place!!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

The food and service at this place are excellent! I thoroughly enjoyed the Encuentro Board, finding every item on it to be absolutely delicious. A must try are the Hallaquitas de Chicharron – they're insane in the best possible way! The Parrillita Mixta was also great. Beyond the fantastic food, the owners are incredibly nice and sweet, which really adds to the welcoming atmosphere. I highly recommend a visit!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Love that Encuentro is open for dinner. Food is excellent and staff is very kind. We drive all the way from Encinitas to come here. Highly recommend the Arepa Pabellon!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

We had a large party so we were able to sample a good part of the menu. ALL of it was amazing. Friendly and great service. Do not miss this one. HIGHLY recommend.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Delicious food and friendly staff! Will definitely be coming back!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Super tasty and filling! Initial I thought it’s not very colorful food but turned out very tasty, crispy arepa and nicely flavored pull pork/beef

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Amazing food, drinks, and vibes! Diana was a lovely server as well! Be back soon!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5