24 Best Restaurants in Union City, NJ
This article was written by local contributor Maritza Harmon & edited by the Travel Lens team.
When you live in a place like Union City, New Jersey, you quickly learn that one of the best aspects of this bustling town is the incredible variety of delicious food options.
As someone who's been exploring the local food scene for years, I am always excited to share some of my favorite spots with fellow food enthusiasts.
From mouthwatering authentic Latin American dishes to scrumptious Italian cuisine, there's something for everyone in our vibrant neighborhood.
So, join me as I take you on a culinary tour of the best restaurants in Union City, New Jersey – trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
The Mictlan
I recently decided to try out The Mictlan, a snug little Mexican restaurant in town. I had heard mixed reviews about this place, which made me curious to see for myself.
As I entered, I was welcomed by an array of vibrant colors that really set the mood for a Mexican dining experience.
I was served some tortilla chips with a delicious, fresh salsa that got me excited for the main course.
I heard that the restaurant was recently purchased and has been renamed, so I was expecting some changes in the menu and overall experience.
I ended up ordering the Tacos De Birria, which turned out to be a great choice.
They were absolutely delicious and tasted quite authentic.
The accompanying la salsa verde was good, too, although I felt it could have used a bit more spice.
I also noticed that they offer a take-out service, which I hadn't tried yet but would definitely consider for a quick and tasty meal on a busy day.
La Casona SalvyCub Restaurant
I recently visited La Casona SalvyCub Restaurant for dinner with my friends, and I must say, the food was nothing short of amazing.
The tamales and pupusas were fantastic, and the service was exceptional.
We had a variety of dishes, including pork, chicken, shrimp, and salmon - everything was cooked to perfection, with the exception of the salmon, which was still flavorful though.
The restaurant's location is great, close to the movies, but parking can be a bit of a challenge.
Once we were inside, we encountered a Spanish menu with vague English translations underneath.
Fortunately, we already knew what most of the items were and what we liked, so we stuck to our favorites.
The ambiance at La Casona SalvyCub is welcoming, and the place is quite huge, with various options to choose from.
The front area is also lovely if you just want to grab a cafecito.
We absolutely loved their pupusas, roasted pork, and fried fish - everything was seasoned well and juicy.
The prices were reasonable, and they even had low-priced daily specials.
Fork Hill Kitchen
Just the other night, I decided to head to my favorite American restaurant in town, Fork Hill Kitchen.
As always, the atmosphere was warm, welcoming, and full of familiar faces.
The food at Fork Hill Kitchen is consistently outstanding, as they always use fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Some of my personal favorites are their delicious sandwiches and delectable meat dishes.
Oh, and don't even get me started on their weekend brunch!
It's the perfect spot to catch up with friends and family over a scrumptious meal.
Las Tejas Cafe
One of my favorite spots to grab breakfast in town is Las Tejas Cafe - a charming Cuban restaurant that never disappoints.
Whenever I step inside, I can't help but feel transported to the vibrant streets of Spain.
The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it a perfect spot for a morning coffee and bite to eat.
I've made this cafe a regular stop whenever I'm in the area, and I still can't get enough of their delicious food.
Their menu is filled with mouth-watering Cuban dishes that cater to both breakfast and lunch cravings.
Pizzarra's
Whenever I have friends or family visiting me in Union City, we make it a point to visit Pizzarra's for a delicious meal.
This cozy little restaurant is the perfect spot to enjoy authentic Uruguayan cuisine, along with some of the best pizza and pasta dishes I've ever had.
One of the things I love about Pizzarra's is the variety on their menu.
They have a fantastic selection of dishes, from traditional Uruguayan fares like chivito and milanesa to classic Italian pizzas and pasta – something for everyone.
The salads are always fresh and flavorful, making it a great choice for healthier options too.
And their prices are very reasonable, so it doesn't break the bank when treating my guests to a night out.
Another bonus is the cleanliness and ambiance of the place.
Despite being a small establishment, it never feels crowded or cramped.
The bathroom is always spotless, which is something I truly appreciate in a restaurant.
Luna's Pizzeria & Restaurant
I absolutely love Luna's Pizzeria & Restaurant for a great dining experience.
As a regular customer, I can vouch for their delicious Mexican dishes and amazing pizza.
The family-owned atmosphere can be really cozy, and the prices are quite reasonable.
I remember one time I had some fried tacos with fried plantains, and the food was fresh and warm.
They also offer delivery, take-out, and dine-in options.
Their daily specials keep me coming back for more!
Viva Mexico
I absolutely love living close to Viva Mexico, a small Mexican restaurant that has quickly become my go-to spot for authentic and delicious Mexican food.
The menu is filled with classic dishes like fajitas, enchiladas, and tacos, and for every meal I've had, there has been a treat.
One of the things that really sets this place apart is the freshness of their ingredients and the homemade tortillas.
The flavors are always consistent and bright, and the food is served quickly.
The al pastor tacos are a personal favorite of mine, and they come with a side of radishes and cucumbers that add a nice crunch.
Another standout dish is the chorizo quesadillas, which are packed with ingredients and have a crispy exterior even after taking them home for pickup.
Not only is the food incredible, but the prices are also very reasonable.
Casa di Napoli
Last month, I decided to treat myself to a delicious Italian dinner and visit Casa di Napoli.
As soon as I walked in, I fell in love with the quaint and intimate dining room, and the old-fashioned feel really added to the charm.
I started my meal with a classic lasagna, which was cooked to perfection.
The flavors and textures were amazing, and it took me back to my grandma's kitchen.
Then, I indulged in their signature pork chops, which were incredibly tender, juicy, and full of flavor.
I couldn't resist trying the recommended "Papa's Pasta" as well, and I'm so glad I did - it was absolutely divine!
One of the things I appreciated the most about Casa di Napoli is that they allow you to bring your own beer or wine, making the dining experience even more enjoyable.
El Mole Poblano
I've been visiting El Mole Poblano for years now, and it's one of my go-to spots for a true Mexican culinary experience.
The service has always been friendly and attentive, making me feel right at home.
They offer a wide variety of dishes to choose from, so there's always something new to try.
One thing to keep in mind is that the restaurant is closed on Sundays, but it's super accessible, with plenty of parking spaces available in the area.
The quality of their mole can be hit or miss, but when it's good, it's really good.
Fancy Fish
Fancy Fish is hands down my go-to spot for fresh seafood in the area.
I swear by their promise that the fish you get today was in the ocean just yesterday.
It's amazing how you can taste the difference between their fish and shrimp dishes. Their fried seafood is absolutely delicious and a favorite for my family, especially my kids.
Whenever I don't feel like cooking, I just ask for the fish to be fried, and it's such a convenient way to enjoy a quick and tasty meal.
I'd highly recommend their salmon if you're ever unsure about what to get.
I truly believe that we need more fresh food places like this in the area.
Check out their website to learn more about the freshest seafood in town.
Amore Pizzeria & Restaurant
I used to avoid Amore Pizzeria & Restaurant because of the poor customer service from the previous management, but I'm so glad I decided to give it another shot!
I recently found out that it's under new management by a lovely Spanish family, and the change is incredible.
When I called to place an order, I was pleasantly surprised by a friendly and helpful voice on the other end of the line.
The atmosphere at the restaurant has completely transformed, and the once-lacking customer service has made a remarkable shift in the right direction.
My son and I absolutely loved the pizza empanadas, which were delicious, flavorful, and well-priced.
I couldn't resist taking a bite before snapping a picture!
It's so refreshing to see a local pizza place not only maintain its excellent food quality but also improve its service.
Chofi Birria
I can confidently say that Chofi Birria is one of my favorite Mexican restaurants around.
The place may be compact and kitschy, but that's actually part of its charm.
The colorful decor and outdoor seating are inviting, making it a perfect spot to grab a bite.
I remember my very first visit to Chofi Birria back in January 2021.
It was my first time trying their famous birria tacos, and oh boy, it was a flavor bomb!
Although street parking can be a bit challenging, and the place tends to get busy during peak hours, the wait was definitely worth it.
Since then, I've been back multiple times, trying out different options on their menu.
The street corn appetizer is a must-try, and I've also experimented with adding mozzarella cheese to my tacos.
Every three tacos come with some (sauce) for dipping, which just elevates the whole experience.
I can't say enough good things about Chofi Birria.
Now, I make it a point to dine in whenever I can to fully enjoy the experience.
Trust me, if you're looking for a great taco spot, you won't be disappointed with Chofi Birria.
Chic King
I've been frequenting Chic King ever since I was a kid, and it's safe to say that this place serves the best Peruvian chicken in town.
My partner and I often find ourselves craving their delicious green sauce, and we're not the only ones - this chicken restaurant is always packed with people!
Over the years, I've noticed that the prices have gradually increased, but the portion sizes are still reasonable.
One of my favorite dishes to order here is the pollo saltado.
The chicken is well-cooked and pairs perfectly with the French fries and tomatoes.
The real game-changer, however, is their special sauce on the side.
It adds a unique flair to the dish and sets it apart from any other Peruvian place I've been to.
Mi Islita
I recently decided to try out Mi Islita, a Puerto Rican restaurant in my neighborhood.
I tried their green plantain and chicken (hearts?), which was really special and definitely worth a try.
The skirt steak had a classic flavor, and the pork dish was full of meaty goodness.
But the highlight of my meal at Mi Islita was the dessert – tres leches! As a milk lover, I absolutely recommend it to anyone who visits this place.
The alcapurrias we ordered were also delicious, and the main dish of chivo with arroz con gandules and maduro was just perfect.
It's clear that they know how to cook chivo – it was tender and tasty.
I have to mention the excellent service at Mi Islita, and the restaurant itself was clean and nicely decorated.
Their tembleque was also a treat.
Guanaco
Whenever I'm craving some authentic Salvadoran cuisine, I always head over to Guanaco, a cozy little Salvadoran restaurant in the heart of our city.
The food is consistently delicious and comforting, reminding me of my mom's home-cooked meals.
One of my favorite dishes to order is their incredible sopa de res.
Though it might be a bit on the pricier side, it's worth every penny, considering the generous portion can easily feed two people.
The beef is tender, the veggies are fresh, and the broth is heavenly – it truly brings me back to life after a long day!
Another must-try dish at Guanaco is their Carne Asada.
The steak is so tender and well-marinated that I can cut it with a butter knife.
It's no wonder why it's a local favorite. The portions are large, and the prices are reasonable, which makes it even more appealing.
Biggies Mexican Restaurant
One of my favorite spots for authentic Mexican food in town is Biggies Mexican Restaurant.
The cozy, pint-sized corner storefront on Bergenline Ave in Union City never disappoints when I am craving some delicious breakfast, burgers, burritos, or classic Mexican mains.
From my first visit, I was hooked on their guacamole, which is so addictingly tasty that I could just eat it all day long.
The bistec tacos and chorizo quesadilla are also some of my go-to choices every time I dine here.
inside the restaurant, I get to play around with their green and hot sauces, which are a perfect addition to any meal.
Despite the sometimes limited parking available in the area, the food at Biggies is definitely worth the search for a spot.
Their tostadas, homemade quesadillas de carnitas, and green salsa are phenomenal, and the limonada is always just the right balance of tart and sweet.
El Artesano
El Artesano is one of my absolute favorite Cuban restaurants.
Established in 1974, this casual eatery has a great atmosphere and offers delicious Cuban food, wine, and sangria at reasonable prices.
I usually park in the municipal lot behind the restaurant, where meter parking is available for $0.25/hr.
The service is always fast, and I can't resist their sandwiches and empanadas.
One memorable experience was when my partner and I decided to have brunch at El Artesano on a Sunday at around 11 am during President’s Day Weekend.
It was packed, but we only had to wait for about 5 minutes to get a table.
They have daily specials, and that day they were offering Ajiaco Criollo, a Cuban-style stew.
I ended up dipping my Cuban sandwich in the stew, which might sound weird, but trust me, it was delicious.
My partner ordered the masitas (fried pork chunks), which is his go-to dish, and he loved it.
We also had a cortadito and a fresh orange/carrot juice, which were perfect accompaniments to our meal.
El Unico de Elena
One of my favorite spots to grab a bite is El Unico de Elena.
This Cuban restaurant has been around for a long time and has become my go-to spot for breakfast or lunch whenever I'm craving some delicious Spanish cuisine.
One of the things I love about this place is how affordable it is.
I can get a hearty breakfast of café con leche for just $1.50 before heading to work.
Their roast chicken on rice with beans and plantains has become my staple lunch, and it only costs $5.50.
I'm not the only one who loves their food – my dentist, who also lives nearby, gets takeout from here for her whole family once a week.
I've even hosted a few events using their catering menu, and all my guests were impressed with the food.
It's also a great spot for takeout, with a meal for four people, including soups, side orders, and shakes, costing around $45.
Next time you're in the area, be sure to try their grilled chicken breast with onions – it's my new favorite dish!
La Gran Via
I've been going to La Gran Via for over 10 years now, and it has always been one of my favorite Cuban restaurants in the area.
Located on Bergenline Ave in Union City, NJ, it serves authentic Cuban food with generous portions that would keep me full and satisfied.
The last time I went to La Gran Via, I ordered my usual Surf and Turf, which includes large shrimp and skirt steak, also called Churasco in Spanish.
The dish came with a side of yellow rice with red beans and a choice of sweet plantains. I enjoyed the meal, especially the steak.
My partner tried the red snapper with rice and shrimp mixed in, and it was still delicious.
Additionally, their mofongo was fresh, and the beans tasted homemade.
La Brasa
One of my go-to places for Dominican cuisine is La Brasa.
I remember one particular evening when I showed up on a Monday night, unaware that they close at 8:30 PM.
The steam trays in front were almost empty, but he asked us about our preferences and pulled together a few delicious dishes for us.
The beef stew was tender and flavorful, and the grilled shrimp with avocado and rice was perfect – I absolutely love that seasoning.
My son had fried chicken, which was super delicious (I couldn't help but sneak a bite).
La Brasa never disappoints with its food quality.
Their rice and pigeon peas (Moro) is the best in Union City.
I also enjoy their Pollo Guisado (chicken stew), Chivo Guisado (goat stew), and Costillas de Cerdo Guisada (pork rib stew) – all tender and flavorful.
While the ambiance might be more suitable for take-out, I still enjoy dining in every now and then.
El Centenario
I must admit, my decision to dine at El Centenario was quite spontaneous, but I have absolutely no regrets.
The ndishes served were not only delicious, but the portions were also generous and reasonably priced.
I particularly enjoyed the open kitchen concept, which allowed me to see my food being freshly prepared.
On my visit, I opted for the tacos and nachos, and they did not disappoint.
I've also seen photos of the Tacos Bistec, Tostadas, Enchiladas Verdes, and Nachos, which all looked mouth-watering.
The atmosphere at the restaurant was clean and spacious, making for a comfortable dining experience.
I've heard some mixed reviews about their enchiladas, but I'm eager to give them a try on my next visit.
What I truly appreciated about El Centenario was that their food was not greasy at all, unlike some other places I've been to.
I can't wait to return to this gem of a Mexican restaurant in our community, and I'm looking forward to trying new dishes like the memelas with cecina and bistec, as well as the chorizo and bistec tacos.
Agave
I still remember my first time visiting Agave, and I've been a regular ever since!
It's not often that I come across a restaurant that gets everything right, from the welcoming atmosphere down to the last bite of my meal.
They were attentive and made sure I had everything I needed throughout my dining experience.
The food at Agave is simply incredible. I've tried a variety of their dishes, but my all-time favorite has to be the Churrasco.
It was so tender and flavorful that it practically melted in my mouth.
I also loved their refreshing drinks, which paired perfectly with Mexican cuisine.
And let me tell you, the live mariachi music in the background only added to the restaurant's vibrant ambiance.
Every time I return to Agave, I'm reminded of why it's become my go-to spot for delicious Mexican food in town.
Whether I'm in the mood for a casual dinner or celebrating a special occasion with friends, Agave never disappoints.
Gusto
I recently attended a baby shower at Gusto, a Salvadoran restaurant in my neighborhood, and I must say, I was pleasantly surprised.
The food was absolutely delicious, and the service was impeccable.
The homey atmosphere made for a lovely, relaxed evening with my family.
Gusto's pupusas were the star of the show – generously sized, freshly made, and oh-so-flavorful.
It's also worth noting that they sell Salvadoran cheese, a rare find in our area.
The restaurant itself is quite spacious, but it wasn't crowded when we went, which only added to its charm.
Garcia's Restaurant
One of my favorite spots in the neighborhood has to be Garcia's Restaurant.
As someone who loves trying out different cuisines, I've been lucky enough to find this gem of an Ecuadorian restaurant nearby.
The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, thanks to the wood-paneled walls and cozy seating.
Whenever my friends and I visit Garcia's, we're impressed by the wide variety of authentic Ecuadorian dishes on the menu.
Seafood lovers like me are definitely in for a treat, as the restaurant specializes in mouthwatering seafood dishes.
I still remember the first time I tried their Ceviche plate – it was an amazing combination of fish, shrimp, calamari, and octopus that left me craving more!
My friends have also raved about the rice, meat, and fried egg dish, which is quite filling due to the generous portions.
Another great thing about Garcia's is its popularity.
There's usually a line on weekends, but we've learned to make reservations in advance to secure a table.
This has made our dining experiences much more enjoyable since we don't have to deal with waiting around for a table.
Final Thoughts
I cannot emphasize enough how fortunate I feel to have such a diverse and delicious array of dining options right in my backyard here in Union City.
As someone who has lived in the area for years, I can assure you that these top-rated restaurants truly live up to their reputations and are worth every visit.
Next time you find yourself craving a tasty meal in Union City, be sure to check out my personal favorites like Fork Hill Kitchen and La Casona SalvyCub Restaurant, or explore your own culinary adventures at any of these fantastic eateries.
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