Tostones Café

Tostones Café serves straightforward Colombian and Latin American cooking in a stripped-down Cape Elizabeth spot. Walk in, order at the counter, and eat food that tastes like it was made with genuine care. The owners nail the flavors, the juices are fresh-squeezed, and regulars (both native Spanish speakers and curious Mainers) keep coming back. Fair warning: it's small and easy to miss from the road.

• Legit Colombian cooking made with genuine care and skill.
• Fresh-pressed tropical juices, made to order at the moment.
• Crispy arrepas and chicharrones done right, not a gimmick.
• Staff is warm and attentive, even during the rush.

Start with the arrepas, they're stuffed and substantial. Order the chicharrones, which are hard to find done well this far north. The fresh fruit juices change but are always worth a try, especially if you've never had a proper one. Ask what the daily specials are. One guest noted the portion sizes alone justify the trip back.

Small, clean, casual counter service with Latin music. You'll hear the kitchen working and smell the food cooking. It's relaxed and unhurried, even when busy.

The menu centers on authentic preparations that you won't find at most Maine restaurants. Arrepas are oversized and satisfying. Chicharrones show up crispy and proper. Everything tastes like it comes from someone who knows the cuisine, not someone guessing at it.

Guests who grew up eating Latin food say this tastes authentic and made with love. Even newcomers find themselves hooked. One recent visitor, a chef himself, called it a standout among Maine restaurants. A Latina diner and her Mainer husband both keep coming back, which speaks volumes.