El Ceviche De Waldito Reviews

It genuinely pains me to write this review, but feel compelled to do so, more to forewarn those people like myself who often rely on recommendations by fellow travelers and foodies when choosing were to stay or eat. It pains me to write this because the proprietors of this restaurant are exceptionally nice and demonstrate a very genuine customer service attitude. From the moment, I and my sons walked through the door, we were warmly greeted and attended to. The experience of being in their restaurant was pleasant because of the owner and his wife. I wish I could say the same about the food. To be fair, we sampled only a small portion of the menu. I can't comment on the whole menu so at the very least take this disclaimer as a faint endorsement for possibly better experiences with the other dishes on the menu. I know this food because I grew up in NYC, in a predominantly Hispanic neighborhood. My dad was Ecuadorian and mom Puerto Rican. So I've been exposed to a wide variety of South American cuisines. Besides this I have traveled extensively to the Caribbean, Central and South America to visit my relatives. So I have had the NYC Latin American food experience and the authentic local country experiences. The meals we ordered here missed the mark on every front. I am genuinely perplexed at the positive reviews here on this web site.... Maybe he had an off night... But I don't think so. We started with basic Peruvian appetizers. "Salchipapa" and I also ordered a chicken version of the same. I was surprised to see the skins on the fries. It not only soaked more oil, but gave the dish an earthy flavor... The "Salchi" portion of the dish was a sausage usually served in South Texas which completed an unusual mix of undesirable flavors. The chicken version was worse. No flavor, shredded chicken (thigh meat) mixed with greasy potato skin French fries. For the main entree, my sons ordered a Puerto Rican dish, Lechon Asado. It was bland, and greasy, and frankly unpleasant. I ordered a "safe" Peruvian dish. Lomo Saltado, which is basically stir fried beef with French fries and white rice. The beef is usually marinated with a variant of white wine and other Peruvian spices. It is stir fried with red onions, tomatoes, mixed with the French fries and garnished with perejil (cilantro/culantro, depending where you come from). It is then served with steamed white rice. It was outright terrible. The seasoning/ salt was non existent, the potato skin issue also gave the dish an unusual flavor (unpleasant). It was a thorough disappointment, and not nearly an experience I would expect from a chef who was supposedly trained in 4 and 5 star restaurants. I would never rank this restaurant as high as it is ranked here. Maybe the other dishes are better, I'll give the extremely nice host and chef the benefit of the doubt. But if theses basic misfires are an example of the whole menu, then I'm guessing that the rest isn't much better. I wish it were, because I was looking forward to be a frequent diner to a restaurant that features my favorite cuisine, but, even at the low prices, it's not enough to entice me back.

Pervian food at its best, homemade, very peculiar place , do not expect anything fancy, just awesome food and smiles. Always crowded.

We had tasted Chef Waldo's food recently so we decided dinner at his restaurant El Cebiche de Waldito. Right choice. His food is always freshly made and always with the right spices. Presentation is first class like you were in a five star restaurant. We had Jalea de Mariscos, a Peruvian dish like a seafood platter, it was tremendous and there was nothing left but the bowl. You need to try it, you will love the food and the prices. I give it 5 stars.

This is a rare find where the food is outstanding, the service is very friendly and the prices are reasonable. You will enjoy authentic Peruvian food and Chef Waldo will treat you like you are visiting at his house. You must bring cash (no cards) if you want to enjoy this place.

This is one of the best places in San Antonio, regardless of price - but it is also one of the most economical too! Lunch buffet at 6.99 is a steal, with the chef preparing at least two meat/ fish entrees, great sides, including yucca, a mix of Peruvian, Puerto Rican, and probably other Central/ South American cuisines! The dinner is great, too, with many unusual but delicious choices, including about 8 different ceviches.

You have to try this place, especially if you're a foodie. It's authentic Peruvian food that is just incredible - it's as beautiful as it is tasty. The Tamale and Mussels are our favorites. If you are new to these flavors, try their buffet for a sample of everything. Dinner is great and very romantic. Chef Waldito and his wife truly make your experience the best it can be.

Best Peruvian food in San Antonio, no matter what you order or if you get the lunch buffet, you'll enjoy it!!! We'll be back soon!

Upon arrival, there weren't many cars in the parking lot, but that didn't dissuade us after reading the reviews here. I found it on Yelp and wanted to try this unique restaurant. So, I went with my other half and sat down in the very intimate ambiance awaiting something wonderful. As the owner came by and spoke to us for a little while to gauge our preferences, he was charming and enthusiastic about his love for food and his preparation techniques that he actually made me a vegetarian plate that wasn't on the menu. What a guy! It was great (although the hominy was a tad on the salty/bitter side) and I had no idea what to expect. My boyfriend loved his meat-based meal and I enjoyed mine (especially the plantains). It was a fun experience and I recommend for anyone to try out this Latin American joint!

The Cebiche is Incredible! Simple. Fresh. Good. The buffet was delish! It is one of those places that makes you want to keep eating because its so tasty and home style comfort. The location is small but, Good things come in Small packages. This place rocks. Try the Tea too, I usually drink water but one taste of the tea I was hooked! Food is different everywhere but one can taste the difference and the difference is so good at Cebiche. Chef Waldo is great and you will be treated so well.

I've been here a couple of times on cold days like today and I had a craving to go back today and it was excellent. You walk in the place and there are just a few tables, then at the back is Chef Waldo behind a little buffet station ready to serve you up a beautiful plate of anything you ask for as many times as you want to go back. There is also a little soup station to the right, I've had the seafood soup each time and it has been fantastic. There is another self serve station to the left and it usually has some kind of salad(s) and dessert. The tea is really tasty as well, very pleasant staff, has a family style atmosphere, and everything I have tasted so far has been nothing short of excellent. It is impossible to leave this place not completely stuffed and happy.

Best tasting ceviche I've ever had . I'm from Miami and the Keys and it knocks them out. AAA service, won't b my last time here only place i will come to for ceviche!!!!!🤙👍👍🔥

What a surprise! We came in with a groupon and were so glad we did. Wonderful place. The best tasting buffet I have had. I look forward to trying their dinner menu.

The owner is super friendly a bit overwhelming perhaps, but seemed genuine. The decor could use some help, but food definitely makes up for lack of atmosphere. It is homy though like you came over for lunch to your friends house. So the food is awesome I swear it looks like they make everything from scratch. And really good value for the price. Great place if I'm ever in San Antonio again I would definitely swing by El Ceviche De Waldito.

We've been here several times, never disappointed. Be sure to order the fish ceviche! Caribbean buffet for lunch or authentic Peruvian for dinner, either way you'll be glad you visited Chef Waldo!

We visited recently for a late lunch. We started with the super fresh ceviche and ate the lomo salteado and fried sea bass both with yummy rice. The chef clearly loves what he is doing and it shows. We just let him choose for us and we’re very happy. You will not be sorry you choose this place for dinner. Nothing fancy but the food is the star.

Went for a quick lunch when they offer only a buffet. This was my first time trying both this restaurant and Peruvian food. Overall I am glad that this place was picked. The owners are very lovely and welcoming people. He even joked with my Partner in Crime at the end that he was good for a 3rd or 4th trip back to the buffet ;) The food was very flavorful the pork by far was the best tender and juicy but the crust on the outside was by far the best part :) The chicken was lovely and the black beans had a nice spice without being over powering. The soup (I had chicken) great flavor but I wish the seafood came in a non spicy version. The tamal was to die for really. They also had this yucca root (tasted like a potato) I wouldn't fill up on that. They also have some sauces that you could add and deserts for afterward. My tip... your first time get everything on your plate and try it.

Extremely friendly staff and great food. Arroz con pollo lunch buffet with a buddy of mine and it was very tasty and hearty. It was a very homey atmosphere and a must regardless of being a San Antonio local or tourist.

This was our first time at El Ceviche de Waldito and we will definitely come back next time we are in San Antonio. From the moment we stepped in, we were treated like family. Our typical 45 minute lunch ended up extending for more than 2 hours due to the wonderful service and conversation we had with Chef Waldo. He was running his business alone and did a great job. The chef recommended sharing soup, ceviche, lomo saltado, arroz con mariscos and they were all delicious. You could feel the homemade flavor and the love put in each dish. He even gifted us a quarter of rotisserie chicken! But despite all of that, the little details made the difference for us. When I told Chef Waldo I was Peruvian, he immediately switched the music to música criolla that brought me nostalgia, then when my husband casually mentioned he liked hot sauce, he went to the kitchen and prepared a bowl of aji. We left the place with a full belly and a smile on our faces. My only recommendation would be to tell clients it is a cash only place.

Quality and service provided by Chef Waldo is incredible. My family received 5 star quality food for a 2 star price. The ceviche and lomo saltado was muy rico! Excellent. We traveled to San Antonio for a family vacation. I didn't expect to find excellent South American cuisine in Texas, however our Uber driver Juan from El Salvador married to a Peruvian recommended this restaurant for having the best Ceviche in San Antonio, he was not wrong. Don't pass on this place. Waldito is an experienced chef that has worked in many high end restaurants, you will see his fame on the walls in his restaurant.

Stopped in to pick up lunch to go. Cubanos are my wife's favorite. Wow. The bread was light and crunchy. Chef Waldo puts the best ingredients on this Large sandwich. He told me this originates from Miami not Cuba. Plantains were also very good. Try this place. Called from the house to tell him it was great.

We found this little Peruvian restaurant accidentally. You walk in, find a table, and go up to where Chef Waldito is dishing out plates of wonderful braised veggies, rice, beans, chicken, and pork. Try some fabulous tea. Use as much of their home made hot sauce as you can - it’s delicious. Get a second plate. You will make the Chef Happy. Say thank you to his lovely wife who brings you tea, takes your check, and makes sure you are happy. Leave with hugs and blessings as you are now family. We went twice and it was wonderful both times.

Chef Waldo was amazingly welcoming and the food was delicious. The food presentation was outstanding. We had the chef's choice and it was a true delight for the senses & tastebuds. We are looking forward to our next feast at El Ceviche de Waldito.

This is one of my favorite places to eat for lunch. The Chef is a legit Chef! He takes great pride in his meals and you can tell by the taste. This is a hole in the wall located in a strip mall and is easy to overlook. I HIGHLY recommend going to this place for lunch. The Chef and his wife are super friendly! Good prices and excellent food!

El Ceviche de Waldito is not much to look at (actually, their walls are filled with recognitions, certifications, etc for Chef Waldo) and it's quite small but the food is BIG! It's true that Chef Waldo and his beautiful wife greet you with open arms. Since this was our first time, we were instructed in the order of things...approach the small buffet and point to what you want and how much you want and Chef Waldo personally serves you. There was two kinds of Latin-American foods: rice, one with gandules, potatoes, tostones, yucca, beef, the best roasted chicken, fall-apart roasted pork. The self- serve soup station had a seafood broth with some assorted pieces of shrimp or oysters. Didn't look like much and when I tried it, the spice exploded in the back of my throat but quickly dissipated, leaving a balanced seafood taste. The hibiscus tea was delicious and it was not overly sweet. I was disappointed that there were no tamales on the buffet spread (as his wife informed us that Chef didn't make any for lunch that day) so that was hit/miss for us. The "salad bar" had a lot to be desired. There were bottled dressings but no lettuce. Some store-bought cookies, marshmallows (why?), fresh strawberries and orange slices (a plus!) and something that resembled want-to-be buñuelos shaped like little nacho chips. But I have to say the buffet (we all had two trips) made up for the short comings. Oh...the assorted sauces, mild to hot, were awesome! All this for $6.99 including drink. What a steal!! Don't let the store-front and location discourage you. Actually, it's perfectly safe. But if you are there for lunch, be ready to have a second set of clothes to return to work with. The place smells wonderfully strong and you will be wearing that wonderful on your clothes. A minor inconvenience for such a treat. Chef Waldo reminds me of Claude Rains, the actor. A most beautiful head of hair...I'm so jealous. He and his wife are a sweet team. I encourage you to try this gem of a place.

Everything was really great! My wifey and I just got back from Peru a couple months ago and we were looking for the "authentic" Peruvian experience. We found it! Delicious! Chef Waldo and his wife are also fun characters indeed!

What a perfect Sunday lunch surprise! Entering the restaurant, we were warmly greeted by Chef Waldito. The genuinely sincere welcome insured that our meal there would be wonderful. We initially had gone for ceviche, but Chef suggested we’d be missing an opportunity to turn away the $11.00 buffet. We started with soup, followed by melt in your mouth tender chicken, perfectly seasoned pork, 2 kinds of rice, beans, veggies. It was a taste treat and a bargain. We truly enjoyed hearing a out Chef’s adventure living in so many places and the conversations with other diners. The ambiance was similar to being at a friends’ get together. Great place. We are already planning a trip back there. Thanks , Chef.

Chef Waldo and his wife are absolutely charming! Most people will be scared to go in - it is in a worn out strip center that looks very rough. Once inside this very small restaurant you will feel like you are in their house. BEST ceviche EVER! We had the Sunday buffet and everything was fresh, exotic and wonderful! The hrs are limited and they only have eight tables so if you cant get in - try again! I cant wait to go back!

Waldito was great at making us feel at home. The food was exquisite and the buffet has a wide variety of foods. Our family was very pleased. Great experience.

Came into San Antonio (45 minute drive) to use our groupon at El Ceviche De Waldito. They were supposed to open at 11am. We arrived a few minutes early. They did not open. At 11:20, I tried calling them. No answer. At 11:30, I called groupon and cancelled the Groupon and will get a credit back for future Groupon purchase.

Wow! Eating here was an amazing experience!! We will all come back. I have been to Peru and this cuisine was Fabulous! We had ceviche, lomita saltido, a buffet plate, yucca, Papa rellena, and a delicious dessert and delightful tea. The owners are incredible people, who give back to the community, and honor service members and first responders with reduced prices. Waldito has stories to tell, he's been a chef for many years. You will come in a customer and leave a friend! Don't let the area or strip mall dissuade you. We drive over an hour to get here, it was more than worth it. I look forward to eating here again and I very highly recommend it!!!

I loved this restaurant. It is mainly Cuban food. They have a buffet they servevto you that has several options. I don't eat real hot food but my friend does and there was enough of a variety to satisfy us both. Make sure you try the soups. The owner/chef and his wife are more than gracious and really explained the food choices well. I do wish they had more dessert options.

Just happened to be driving by and saw a Thai restaurant but when I parked, I saw this place. It advertised buffet and the type of food. Excellent!! I will be back. For starters its a small place that serves food from Central American and Puerto Rico. From what I could tell its focus is on Peruvian. The buffet was actually served from the chef/owner. Puts everything on the plate. I tried everything and my plate was clean... then I got seconds. Price is great, and if you are in uniform its even cheaper. Tons of awards on the wall, showcasing his great food accomplishments.

If you want something out of the ordinary, yet perfectly normal, you must come here. If you want to be treated like family, eat here. Chef Waldo and his wife are the most friendly people I have ever met in this city. They have basically opened their "home" to the public in this hole-in-the wall place. Both greeted us as we came in and asked if we had been there before. We hadn't, and they seemed excited. Chef Waldo took us directly to his desserts and insisted we try his flan, then directed us to the soups and told us to start there. The food was Peruvian, Cuban, Puerto Rican all rolled into one meal. It was sort of like a buffet, but Chef Waldo fixed our plates for us as if we were in his home. It was so welcoming. Shortly there after, he came and sat with us, asked about the food, and we discussed Peru since I had visited there before. His wife came and checked on us as well, making sure we were comfortable and had enough to eat. (did we ever!). I honestly don't think the food would have been as good if I had to serve myself. :) The meal we had consisted of pork, roast chicken, black beans, rice, yucca, plantain, a choice of seafood, chicken, or beef soup, and dessert (flan). The meal was fresh, warm, perfectly seasoned and very tasty. To add to the charm: A gentleman came in and politely asked to see a menu. After a look over, he returned the menu and mentioned that he was hoping for vegetarian. Chef wife said "Vegetarian, no problem! You sit, drink tea, and the chef will make you a vegetarian plate!" Sure enough, a few minutes later, Chef Waldo came out with a huge vegetarian plate that he whipped up. The gentleman was pleased. Chef and wife were pleased. Tell me, where else can you get service like that if you aren't at someone's house? If you need peace, quiet, and the typical generic meal from a chain, don't insult Chef Waldo by coming here. If you aren't willing to expand your mind, don't come here. But do come here for good food, great service, and just pure comfort.

We have been to see Waldo so many time he already knows what he is going to make us. The food is always great and so much of it. I don't think I have ever left there without a doggy bag. Love everything about this place. Just hope it was closer to me but its worth the 25 mile trip!

Tiny restaurant has excellent food. 3 tasty sauces complemented ceviche, tamal, beef & chicken dishes. Inca Cola reminded me of cream soda but sweeter. Next time I will bring some vino. Excellent flan for dessert. I will return.

When you find the combination of fresh, tasty, authentic and excellent, all referring to the same place then you know it a place you can't miss. Don't let the location fool you. Yes, its not a fancy place, but who said that a place needed to be fancy to be good? The lunch buffet, offered till 4:00PM is very good and varied. It includes several Peruvian dishes as well as some Puerto Rican and Cuban dishes as well. At dinner time everything is cooked to order, and let me tell you that Waldito knows how to cook! You wont regret going to this place. On a different note, while you wait for your food to arrive take a look at the walls. All of them share Waldito´s love for the community and the many causes his foundation has helped and continues to help. In his words "Not everything is about money, you have to do things for your heart". Waldito, you won my heart... and my stomach! I definitely will be back! Muchas gracias!!!

I went to Walditos for lunch. I was originally going for ceviche, but when we walked in and saw the buffet we decided to try that instead. The soup and dessert stations are self serve, but the food itself is plated. Waldo himself served us our plates, and good heavens was there food on that plate. It was piled up with red beans and yellow rice,( arroz con habichuela) peruvian tamales, baked chicken, pork roast(pernil), smashed plaintains(tostones), sweet plaintains(maduros) and a fried pork skin(chicarron) . Everything was so delish, and they have many authentic sauces to choose from as well. I was so full off 1 plate, that I didnt even get dessert. I Waldo himself came and sat to talk with me and my guest for a while. He is so friendly and sweet. I will most def be returning, not only to try the authentic peruvian ceviche but also because I was so pleased with the service. Thank you Waldo and wife!

A group of us were looking for a place to eat and one suggested this place. What a pleasant surprise. I couldn't begin to tell you what I ate at the buffet but I couldn't wait to go back again for more. This place is a real hidden gem.

The food is beyond amazing. It is a family owned business and you are treated as a member of the family. If you are in the area this place is a must.

Strangely, the menu was void of any meat dishes. We ordered a chicken and pork fried rice. Now that was tasty, but you can find an equally good dish i of fried rice in any Chinese restaurant. We did enjoy the red and green hot sauces.. As an appetizer we ordered the ceviche mixta and what a let down. Even the genuine imitation crab tasted like it had been left out too long. You'll find a better Ceviche at Rosario's and for a lot cheaper too. The cold boiled potato was, well… more satisfying, but quite unimpressive. As for the service, there were nine tables inside and one outside, but only one waitress to service the entire restaurant. At capacity, she was well understaffed, overworked and had a hard time keeping up with the demands of the customers. Nevertheless, she maintained a very positive, cheerful attitude Thank goodness we had a Groupon. The meal I thought only worth $14.50, not $39 original fee. I found this restaurant to be way overpriced for the one meal we split. Better luck next time.

I have been delivered. The food is out of this world. Chef Waldo is an amazing chef. His food was prepared with love and tasted to perfection. I was transported to different parts of the Americas and the Caribbean with each dish. Chef Waldo is also an amazing person. He was so friendly, and he made sure my sons were fed first. I have never seen better customer service. The restaurant was clean and welcoming. The music had me dancing in my seat. Don’t let the location fool you. This restaurant is very worth your time!

Came in just for the ceviche; Waldo had a buffet that I did not even tried. I just asked him to prepare me a seafood ceviche; it was fantastic! Service excellent and Waldo was very entertaining. I would highly recommended. Enjoy!

We are a Colombian couple and wanted to eat Peruvian food. It was a very good experience, excellent service and the food taste was great. We will come back. Definitely, we will recommend this place to some friends

My husband and i love to try new places! So this date night we wanted ceviche. Based on reviews we tried this restaurant. Owner and wife very kind, papa rellena was good. Skip the ceviche it was lacking in shrimp!!!