Gran Penol Restaurant & Bar in Massachusetts

"Gran Peñol is one of those restaurants that makes you feel like you’ve stumbled onto something special. From the moment you walk in, the energy is warm and inviting, with the sounds and flavors of Colombia filling the room. The food is the star here—big, hearty plates like the bandeja paisa are cooked with care, and the fried red snapper is crisp and delicate all at once. Even the empanadas, often an afterthought elsewhere, are done perfectly—golden, savory, and addictive. What sets Gran Peñol apart isn’t just the food, though. It’s the people. The staff treat you like family, guiding newcomers through the menu while remembering regulars by name. That kind of hospitality is rare, and it makes the experience linger long after the last bite. Gran Peñol isn’t just dinner—it’s a celebration of culture, flavor, and community!"

"Food here is great! Large portions and all fresh. I love the cubitos de queso with the pineapple sauce. They have the best margaritas too! We came for a friends birthday and they brought out a dessert for us with an amazing sparkler candle - so nice and went above expectations."

"I stopped by for lunch,and it wasn't busy. They cooked the rice perfect. The fluffiest rice I've ever eaten. The rice and beans were underseasoned, I had to use the salt and pepper shakers. The drinks were great. The espresso martini was up there with some of the best I've had. The staff were very friendly and I would definitely go back."

"I had the best experience with the best waitress Lorena! The service was A1! The food was excellent! Drinks were top of the line! Will definitely come back!"

"When you open the doors to this inviting place it’s a feeling. Colorful , joyful , wait staff is wonderful. Food and cocktails are amazing. Never had a plantain before and now am a lover. The owner even stopped by and chatted and was so inviting. We will be back"

"This place is amazing, decent portion size and I've been walking around here for years and nobody is beating these perfectly crispy chicharones"

"I am Colombian and I have eaten here before and wasn’t disappointed until yesterday. I got the small mazzamorra and it looked and tasted like it had been frozen. I did order kind of late which is understandable but they should not be handing out food like that. And I also did get the brevas con queso y dulce de leche and there was so much water from the brevas y was grossed out."

"Wow! A hidden gem! Recently moved back to the area ( grew up here then traveled to fla , nh, ME & wow gave things changed since then! now lynn offers some amazing food & culture! I am so happy that I found this place!!! The food - top notch! The service / hospitality amazing, and the atmosphere is fun, and laid back. The artwork is so cool!"