With the easing of restrictions and the reopening of borders, international travel is slowly resuming its cruising speed. Not quite ready to jump over the pond for some fish and chips? No need when you have everything close at hand here in Hoboken, Jersey City and Weehawken. There is an abundant amount of diverse cuisines available here in Hudson County. Travel from Thailand to India and stop over in South America without even taking out your passport. No ASD, on long plane trips, no crowds! While there are dozens of other mouthwatering cuisines available, this shortlist will stimulate your cravings for adventure. Read on to plan your own international Hudson County food tour.
Filipino
Little Quiapo | 30 Newark Avenue C, Jersey City
(Photo credit: @littlequiapojc)
Located on Newark Ave inside the Philippine Bread House, this institution has been serving its traditional cuisine since 1992. Try dishes such as Tagalog bistek and pork adobo, and be sure to save space and you. cool off from the summer heat with Hello Hello for dessert. Halo Halo is known as the unofficial Philippine dessert and is made with a mix of crushed ice, gummy fruit, ice cream, and sweetened condensed milk – perfect for a 90 degree afternoon. Little Quipao is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is closed on Tuesdays.
South Asian / Indian
Cafe Masala | 839 Newark Avenue, Jersey City
(Photo credit: @masalacafejersey)
Masala Cafe offers authentic Chettinad dishes bringing out the rich aroma of the region with freshly ground herbs and spices, ancestrally prepared by its team of experienced culinary experts. Chettinad is a region on the southern tip of India, and some of the regional specialties you’ll find on the Masala Cafe menu include Chettinad Chicken Curry, Chicken Biryani, and Idly and Vada. Learn more about Masala Cafe on its Instagram.
Thai
Hi-So Thai | 1903 Willow Avenue A, Weehawken
Hi-So Thai is a team of classically trained chefs who are passionate about the food they prepare, and you can taste the difference. With options ranging from classics like pad thai and a variety of fried rice dishes, they also offer a wide range of curry and wok options. Settle into the warm Thai interior and fully enjoy this Southeast Asian cuisine.
Read more: Must-see Latin restaurants in Hoboken + Jersey City
African
Grill in the city | 140 avenue Monticello, Jersey City
CityGrill takes you to West Africa with its card. The menu consists of traditional dishes such as Jollof rice, a spicy dish simmered in tomatoes, onions, peppers and spices. Rice seasonings vary by region, giving each dish its own distinct flavors unique to the person making it. Enthusiasm rated City Grill and suggests trying the ultra-tender lamb michoui with a side of plantains. Reasonable prices mean you’ll be sure to leave with a full stomach, a happy palette, and leftovers for lunch the next day.
Mexican
Oral | 341 Grove St, Jersey City + 1426 Willow Avenue, Hoboken
(Photo credit: @oralemk)
The lively decor and upbeat music pair perfectly with one of the signature cocktails. The menu consists of classics like tacos, ceviche and carne asada. This bustling spot is sure to make you feel the lively energy of a night out in your favorite Mexican tourist towns. With locations in Hoboken and Jersey City, it’s perfect for doing plans with friends and accessible to everyone. Try the guac tasting to allow all diners to choose their favorite toppings. You might be full of apps and entrees, but save room for the churro nuggets, this is the sweet end to all your spicy margins.
French
Madame Claude | 390 4th Street, Jersey City
(Photo credit: @madameclaudebis)
Do you speak French? Even if you are not versed in the language of love, the food at Madame Claude’s will make all the conversation. This intimate French bistro is the perfect Parisian escape in the middle of Jersey City. Must-haves like coq au vin, duck confit, steak fries and crème brûlée transport you to the streets of France for the evening. The long list of handcrafted cocktails and selected wines is the perfect accompaniment to your charming French-inspired evening. Dinner is served Tuesday through Sunday and brunch is served Saturdays and Sundays. Reservations are strongly recommended. There is an oyster special on Wednesday evenings at the bar and live music most weekends. Discover at Madame Claude Instagram to learn more.
Italian
Corto | 507 Palisade Avenue, Jersey City
(Photo credit: @corto_jc)
Corto is a local gem known for its high Italian cuisine. Avoid the crowded tourist season in Rome and enjoy a delicious, peaceful meal on the heights. Bruschetta, octopus and mafaldine are some of the options available to diners. Unique pasta shapes, such as corzetti, are something you don’t see often, but Corto takes it up a notch. The selection of desserts changes daily, so make sure you don’t miss the dolce.
South American
El Rinkoncito Peruano | 501 Central Avenue, Jersey City
(Photo credit: @elrinkoncitoperuanocentralave)
El Rinkoncito Peruano is an authentic Peruvian spot founded in 2013 by a father-son duo who have become very popular with the community. The restaurant offers authentic Peruvian cuisine, including ceviches, jaleas, lomo saltado and churrasco. It’s also a BYOB place, so it’s a great choice for a party meal. The restaurant has an ever-changing lunch special, so it’s also a fun way to mix up WFH leftovers.
Chinese
Keming Sichuan | 1006 Washington Street, Hoboken
(Photo credit: @keminghoboken)
Keming Sichuan serves the spicy flavors of Sichuan to the people of Hoboken. Named after owner Mr. Cui’s son Keming, Cui saw a need for authentic Sichuan food in the area and took matters into his own hands. The personal touches of the decor reflect Mr. Cui’s passion and love for his restaurant and his Chinese roots. The menu consists of traditional items such as dan-dan street noodles and beloved soup dumplings. Bold flavors and sensational aromatic spices will have the spice lover in their own paradise. The menu is full of Sichuan specialties to choose from.
Japanese
Honshu Salon | 95 Greene Street, Jersey City
Honshu specializes in contemporary Japanese dishes. Paired with unparalleled service, Honshu proudly serves a wide range of fresh sushi and creative Japanese dishes to ensure an exceptional experience. The modern yet warm interior is decorated with a simple elegance that combines with traditional Japanese design creates a comfortable and welcoming ambience.
Spanish
Lola Tapas Bar | 153 14th Street, Hoboken
Lola Tapas Bar offers a unique and tantalizing range of Spanish dishes and wines. With succulent dishes ranging from stuffed avocado to lobster and shrimp, goat cheese and wild mushrooms on pita, there are over 80 regional dishes and 100 wines to choose from. Sangria lovers rejoice as Lola serves her award-winning cocktail to diners. Happy hour at the bar is Monday through Friday until 11 p.m. and includes special food and drink.
See more: Where to Find Caribbean Food in Jersey City + Hoboken
Irish
Hudson’s Dog | 8 Erie Street, Jersey City
(Photo credit: @hudsonhoundjerseycity)
Hudson Hound is located right in the heart of downtown Jersey City and brings guests a contemporary twist to traditional cuisine. With an emphasis on using local suppliers and seasonal produce, the team offers modern, high-quality Irish cuisine to diners. It’s a fun place to have a pint, a delicious meal, and watch some soccer with friends. Of particular note is the Sunday Roast special. In addition to the extensive beer and wine list, Hudson Hound has its own underground bar. Speakeasy by Nucky, named after the character from the Boardwalk Empire series, is open Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. and Sundays from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. Check out the week’s specials at the bar Instagram page.
Latin
La Isla | 25 12th Street, Hoboken
(Photo credit: @laislahoboken)
La Isla is committed to serving traditional and authentic Cuban cuisine made with the freshest and most authentic ingredients. Some of the most popular and beloved dishes include ropa vieja, churrasco con chimichurri, and Cuban empanada sandwich. With the OG’s location in downtown Hoboken ____ and a location in the upscale 12th Street neighborhoods, La Isla is critically acclaimed by the New York Times, Travel advisor, and the Food web.
Caribbean
of Nicole | 521 Jersey Avenue # 2720, Jersey City
This restaurant prepares some of the most typical Caribbean dishes, but meat curries are the stars of the menu. The curry sauce here is less heated than the dish’s Indian counterpart but is just as complex in taste. A staple is goat curry – the meat is a bony cut and it is raised until it melts in the mouth, but the area around the bones still has a pleasant chew. All of the curries here come with generous sides of plantains, potatoes, as well as rice and peas.
Written by: Katie Stilo
Katie Stilo is an Emmy Award-winning food producer and food stylist. Classically trained chef, with a diploma in Culinary Arts, Pastry, Pastry and Culinary Management from the Institute of Culinary Education, his formal training and hands-on work in the field contributed to his expertise in the industry. Clients appreciate her organizational skills, creativity and the passion she brings to a project. She is also the host and producer of an original digital series, Kitchen HITS, which airs on the social pages of Food ADKT TV.
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