Owner Jason Graff loves welcoming the community into his restaurant and recommending dishes to try, like the classic Cubano or the popular lechon asada.
If you’ve lived in Playa del Rey long enough, you begin to recognize the places that become part of the neighborhood’s fabric—not just somewhere to eat, but somewhere that feels shared, familiar, and comfortable. El Rincon Criollo has quickly become one of those places since opening in February 2025, after a move from Culver City where the eatery was established in 1969.
Owner and chef, Jason and Courtney Graff, took over in 2018, and have continued to build more than a family restaurant; they’ve built a gathering place. It’s where neighbors run into each other, conversations stretch a little longer, and returning guests are not only recognized, but genuinely welcomed back. That sense of connection is intentional, and it shows through partnering with local nonprofits for fundraisers, hosting wine dinners, and being mindful of the price point, as well.
The name “Rincon Criollo” reflects a Cuban culinary tradition dating back to the 1950s, rooted in homestyle cooking and layered cultural influences. A rincón criollo is typically a casual, eatery focused on comfort food recipes passed down through generations. El Rincon Criollo in Playa Del Rey carries forward that same spirit: food meant to bring people together. The vibe is friendly, and the team at the restaurant is warm and welcoming.
The meal began with the coctel de camarón: a chilled shrimp cocktail with avocado, onion, and cilantro in a bright, tangy tomato sauce. It’s refreshing, well-balanced, and the perfect dish to share at the table to start your dining experience.
The ropa vieja followed, and it’s exactly what you hope for: tender, slow-braised beef simmered in a rich tomato and pepper sauce, deeply flavorful without being heavy. Served with rice, black beans, and sweet plantains, it’s a comforting, well-rounded plate that delivers on every level.
Next, I had to try one of their most popular chicken dishes, the pechuga a la plancha, grilled chicken cooked in their signature garlic house sauce and served with grilled onion on top. It was juicy, savory, and thoughtfully prepared.
Next time I stop in, the Cubanos, which one Yelp reviewer calls, “the best on the Westside,” the arroz con pollo and the lechon asado (slow roasted pork), are on my list of must-orders.
My vegetarian friend ordered a plate of moros—white rice and black beans slowly cooked together with spices, onion and garlic–and delicate, slightly caramelized maduros (plantains). She found it deeply satisfying—the perfect blend of savory and sweet. The flavor combo is addictive. ¡Que rico!
What makes El Rincon Criollo stand out isn’t just the quality of the food or the generous portions, it’s the consistency and heart behind it.
And like any true neighborhood favorite, dessert is worth saving room for. The flan is silky and caramel-forward with just the right amount of sweetness, and the arroz con leche (rice pudding) has that unmistakable homemade quality—nostalgic and comforting.
As Playa del Rey continues to evolve, places like El Rincon Criollo help preserve what makes the community special, with authenticity, consistency, and a genuine sense of belonging. Jason and Courtney have created something meaningful here: a place where good food and community come together.
Go hungry. Bring a neighbor. Support local!
El Rincon Criollo is located at 8501 Pershing Dr. #2 in Playa del Rey. Check out their menu at bestcubanfood.com.
Join the Conversation
I want to hear from you! What is your go-to local dish—the one you’d tell a new neighbor they have to try? Drop a comment, send me a message, or say hi if you see me at the market. Let’s keep swapping favorites! Email me at birkettcory@gmail.com.
Cory Birkett is a foodie, and admin for the “Quarantine Cooking-Westchester & Silicon Beach” Facebook Group. When she’s not trying new recipes or checking out local restaurants, she spends her days as a real estate agent and long-time community volunteer, which includes serving on committees for the Westchester/Playa Neighborhood Council.
By Cory Birkett