Life is a State of Mind

I gave Tipicos Los Amigos four out of five stars when I first reviewed the Papusaria in June of 2010, and again when I updated in November of 2010, and stand by that rating today.

Tipicos Los Amigos
46950 Community Plz
Sterling, VA 20164
(571) 434-0060

Excellent and very cheap papusas that are sometimes HUGE (Papusa Loca).

Best Bistec Encebollado (steak and onions) I have ever had anywhere!

Pretty large selection of Central American food with a focus on Nicaragua (I think). The wait staff can barely speak English, but they more than make up for it in friendly enthusiasm. I typically point to the menu.

I might not order complex drinks there again (depends on the bartender) – but bottled beers and classic cheap margaritas are always good.

Warning: portions can be huge very quickly… you will have leftovers, even if you are a BIG hungry eater.

Typically there is Latin music on (usually bachata and merengue) and a couple of big screens with football (the kind with goalies) running. There is a separate bar area.

Tables and decor are tacky and very low-brow, but the food and fun staff more than make up for it. They have some outside seats sheltered by the strip mall overhang, but I’ve never seen them serve anyone outside… must remember to ask on a nice day.

Has wife approval factor too… only problem, is she wants take out from this place every time I go there.

Oh, one negative… the bathroom is less than sparkling… might want to hold it and use the ones at work or a fast food place.

Update: The restrooms have been completely remodeled and are sparkling clean now!

Update (November 2010):
The lunch out crowd at work has really taken a liking to this place, we continue to go back and struggle with ordering in broken Spanglish from the staff.

The service times can be very slow if there is a crowd (and quick if you are lucky enough to be the only ones there).

The food continues to be spectacular for low-brow cheap eats… YUM!

Update (March 2012): The bathrooms have been renovated and are much nicer than they used to be. Also, the Salpicon (chopped steak, mixed with onions, cilantro, and radish, served cool) is spectacularly delicious and the perfect complement to a warm day. Service continues to be friendly though a little slow (not a quick lunch) and food is always delicious.