Reading, Pennsylvania

Come in — you're family here.

Home-style Latin cooking made with the same care and generosity your abuela would approve of. Every dish tells a story, every visit feels like coming home.

(610) 750-5567 Explore the Menu
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Chef preparing traditional Latin dishes at El Tipico Criollo
Warm dining room interior at El Tipico Criollo Restaurant
Est. Reading, PA
Our Story

A taste of home, served with heart

El Tipico Criollo was born from a simple belief: that the best meals are the ones shared with people you love. Our kitchen follows the traditions passed down through generations — slow-simmered sancochos, perfectly seasoned rice and beans, and arepas golden on the outside, soft within.

Located on North 11th Street in Reading, we've become a gathering place for families, neighbors, and anyone who believes that food should satisfy both the stomach and the soul. No pretense. Just honest, flavorful cooking that makes you want to stay a little longer.

Family-owned & operated
Fresh ingredients daily
Generous portions
Made with love
Our Specialties

Dishes that carry the spirit of the kitchen

Every plate is prepared with attention to tradition and a commitment to flavor that you can taste from the first bite.

Hearty sancocho soup served in a traditional bowl

Sancocho

Our signature stew — a rich, hearty broth slow-cooked with tender meats, root vegetables, and aromatic herbs that fill the room with comfort.

Chef's Signature
Golden arepas stuffed with savory fillings

Arepas

Corn cakes grilled to a perfect golden crust, split and stuffed with your choice of seasoned beef, pulled chicken, black beans, or fresh cheese.

Customer Favorite
Plate of rice and beans with grilled meat

Rice & Beans

Our foundational dish — perfectly seasoned rice and black beans cooked together, served alongside grilled meats and a side of maduro for the complete experience.

Classic Comfort
What Our Guests Say

Words from our table

The kind of place where regulars become friends — and friends become regulars.

“

This is the kind of restaurant that reminds you why you love food. The sancocho alone is worth the drive, but it's the warmth of the staff that makes you want to come back every week.

— A Regular on Main St.
Reading, PA
“

I brought my family here for the first time and they couldn't stop talking about the arepas. My husband said it tasted just like what his mother used to make. That's high praise.

— M. Torres
Exton, PA
“

Hidden gem. The portions are enormous, the flavors are authentic, and the atmosphere is exactly what you want — no fuss, just good food and genuine hospitality.

— D. Kim
Reading, PA
Join Us

Your table is waiting

Whether it's a quick lunch between errands or a Sunday dinner with the whole family, we'll have a seat for you. Call ahead to place a takeout order — we'll have it ready when you arrive.

Call (610) 750-5567 Get Directions
Find Us

Come sit with us

Address

963 N 11th St
Reading, PA 19604

Hours

Monday – Saturday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Takeout Available

Call ahead and we'll have your order ready for pickup. Large groups welcome.

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