A true gem, located at 460 Central Avenue in Jersey City, is Angel Azul Bakery. This local spot is a staple in the Jersey City Heights, so much so that the morning line spans down the block with locals waiting to get their hands on the delicious coffee and treats. From Colombian coffee to authentic Latin American dishes and pastries, Angel Azul Bakery is unmatched.
The Story Behind Angel Azul
Established in 1998 by Zoila and Luis Gallo, this cafe has been serving its community for over two decades. The bakery first opened at 434 Central Avenue before moving up the block to its current home. The story of how Angel Azul Bakery came to fruition is nothing short of the American dream. As stated on the website, the owners immigrated from Ecuador to pursue a new life in the United States.
The name Angel Azul was chosen by Zoily and it is, “The bakery is filled with angel statues and we include an angel in our logo. It’s reflective of the archangel Michael and the blue angel light ray,” according to the website.
“When we left Ecuador we left everything behind, we had a big house and the children went to private school. Here, we lived in a one-room studio apartment and the children went to public school. My brother-in-law was an American citizen and he sponsored us and put all the paperwork in. My husband and I worked very hard. I thank God that we’ve been able to fulfill the American dream,” Zoily shared.
See More: 14+ NEW Hoboken + Jersey City Restaurants to Check Out This Summer
After Luis passed away in 2005, Zoily and Luis’s children joined the family business and helped create a cafe that is beloved by its customer today.
Jenny, their daughter, worked for Gucci for six years prior to working in the bakery. “In 2005 my father passed away and I left my job to come help my mother. She was the only one here at the business at that time. I worked from six o’clock in the morning with my mom. All-daylong I served customers and worked at the register as well,” Jenny explains.
Eddy, their son, an IT professional, reflects on what is special about serving the community here in JC.
“My family and the connection to our community is what’s important to me,” he shared. “We love when they come into our restaurant for breakfast and then take the 119 transit bus into NYC. Knowing we played a part in starting their day, it’s a very good feeling.”
The Menu
The cafe opens at 5:30AM Monday through Saturday to ensure all of its customers have an opportunity to stop in for the highly-acclaimed breakfast dishes on the way to work. A few of the breakfast go-to’s are the chorizo {Colombian sausage, two eggs any style, French, or home fries}, huevos pericos {Colombian-style scrambled eggs with scallion and fresh tomato}, and the Ecuatoriano {green plantain patties stuffed with cheese, two eggs any style, and a roll}. Additionally, there is a selection of standard breakfast sandwiches, such as an egg, ham, and cheese on a roll. Must-try, however, is the chicharron {pork rind} — it’s a knockout!
Some, however, might argue that the best food comes from the in-house bakery. The handmade bread and Colombian and Ecuadorian pastries are a hit. A few authentic treats to consider are the pan de bono {Colombian cheese bread}, guava paste filled bread, cassava bread, sweet and salty bread, and cinnamon sweet bread. Take note of the warm snacks, too, like the Colombian beef or cheese patties, empanadas, and a cassava patties stuffed with cheese or beef. Other traditional Latin desserts like green plantain and cheesecake are available.
See More: Where to Order Fancy Dinner Delivery in Hoboken + Jersey City
No cafe would be complete without a selection of coffee, either. Colombian coffee is known for its quality and delicious taste. It is said to be among the best in the world because of how the mountainous terrain and tropical location make for the perfect coffee growing climate. In short, it’s a must-try, especially at Angel Azul Bakery. Aside from a hot cup of coffee, options include espresso, cappuccino, homemade hot chocolate, a Spanish latte, and a homemade oatmeal drink served hot. The cafe is open for pick up and the hours of operation are 5:30 AM to 8:00 PM Monday through Sunday, and 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM on Sunday.
What will you be ordering for takeout? Let us know in the comments!
Shop Hoboken Girl merch here!
