El Cochino - Lake in the Hills

This place is a somewhat hidden gem in lake in the hills. That is unless you're one of the local patrons. It's right next to it's big brother bistro wasabi another fine establishment. El cucino has some of the best Mexican cuisine very helpful friendly courteous staff. Best fish tacos I've ever had. Pedro's meal with wings and Service: Dine in

We went here on a Friday afternoon/evening after being invited by a friend. I wanted to love this place because I really enjoyed Bistro(next door). However, our service was really slow the day we visited. We will probably visit again in hopes this was a one off situation. We sat outside for our meal and had a large party which could have contributed to the service challenges.

Love love love this place! Sam and Hannah are amazing! Just wish they had a kids menu with FRENCH FRIES, so we would bring our kids. Food: 5 Service: 5 Atmosphere: 5

El Cochino is adorably decorated and the food is good. Diablo shrimp bowl was very tasty with just the right amount of spice although the shrimp were tiny. Where they fall short is that the food took a long time to come out. They nickel and dime you on everything. Chips and salsa are a $6.00 add-on, flavored rice was an extra $2.00 and the portions were pretty small for the price of the entree.

The food is great. However, they have a limited menu, mostly tacos and a variety of bowls. Our waitress named Brooklyn, was fabulous, had a wonderful smile, was attentive, and had a wonderful personality. She made excellent recommendations! The margaritas are good and they have a large selection of tequilas. It's a small place with outdoor sidewalk seating. My only suggestion would be that the chairs and booths are all wood, no padding. I would recommend for great authentic tacos!