Some Rohnert Park customers come to Don Julio's Latin Grill and Pupusas as much for the company as the cuisine. Carlos, the son of the husband-wife duo who owns the relatively new restaurant, typically mans the dining room. Locals say he exudes a warmth that immediately sets you at ease, and he's always happy to help you pick a dish or explain something on the menu. Meanwhile, his mother works in the back to craft the fresh fare that customers so dearly love.

Unsurprisingly, that popular cuisine includes the pupusas. They're almost akin to tacos, built on a foundation of fresh corn tortillas, but the red salsa and traditional slaw (known as Curtido) set them apart. Order yours stuffed with pork, chicken, or beans, or opt for the more exotic pupusa filled with a veggie from El Salvador. Patrons also praise the tropical burritos, which take traditional Mexican burritos (also on the menu) and add some flair.

Don Julio's Latin Grill and Pupusas
217 Southwest Boulevard
Rohnert Park, CA
(707) 242-3160
www.facebook.com/donjuliospupusas
www.yelp.com/biz/don-julios-rincon-latin-grill-and-pupusas-rohnert-park

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr andreasivarsson