Jersey City has been named one of the most diverse cities in the nation {on two occasions, may we add}, and with so much diversity comes amazing restaurants serving up authentic cuisines — think traditional Indian fare, authentic Chinese food, and top-notch Mexican dishes {and that’s just the tip of the iceberg}. JC is no stranger to Mexican food and many local spots whip up some delicious + traditional on the reg, so you can travel south of the border sans plane any time of the week. If you’re craving Mexican food for a weekend date night or looking for a good spot to hit up on Taco Tuesday, we’ve got the most popular Mexican Spots in Jersey City highlighted for you.
Los Cuernos {499 Washington Street}
The owners of Taqueria Downtown and Taqueria Downtown Catering Co decided to take their Mexican cuisine to the next level with their latest upscale Mexican restaurant, Los Cuernos. The new locale is located in the heart of Newport near the waterfront. The space is much larger than the other two locations and has tables for a sit-down dinner, a full bar, and areas to host private events as well. You can find all the classic Taqueria Downtown favorites featured in this spot and can enjoy the beautiful waterfront views in their outdoor seating section when the weather is nice.
Taqueria Downtown {236 Grove Street}
This popular downtown spot is a favorite for locals in Jersey City and is as close to authentic Mexican as it gets. The intimate setting offers indoor and outdoor seating {when the weather is nice enough} and is a very affordable option when you’re looking to have a Mexican date night or enjoy Taco Tuesday. This Mexican spot is best known for carnita tacos, strong margaritas, and guacamole. Make sure you go early to avoid the long lines at this well-known spot, although it’s worth the wait.
Taqueria Downtown Catering Co {354 Grove Street}
This no-frills Mexican spot is the sister location to Taqueria Downtown. This cozy corner offers limited space dining, take-out, and a full catering menu serving up all of Taqueria Downtown’s favorite items, including tacos, guacamole, flautas, tamales, quesadillas, and more. If you don’t want to wait in line or just want a quick bite, this is the spot to check out. They are also available to cater your next fiesta {perfecto}.
See More: Best Spots For a Margarita in Hoboken + Jersey City
Orale Mexican Kitchen {341 Grove Street}
This vibrant Mexican restaurant is in the heart of downtown Jersey City, with a Hoboken location as well. Orale pays homage to a Dia DeMuertos and has a hip and eclectic vibe. Their menu includes dressed-up versions of Mexican-American fare, such as duck confit nachos and serrano marmalade guacamole. If Taco Tuesday is your thing, Orale offers half off all tacos every Tuesday {cash only}. Taco ‘bout a deal {we had to}
Gringo’s Tacos {12 Coles Street}
For a more modern Mexican feel, Gringo’s Tacos brings a fun and festive atmosphere to Jersey City. Gringo’s has simple Mexican comfort food with complex flavors and offers both street style and specialty tacos. The creative menu names, such as the “Jamaican Me Crazy,” “Look Mom I’m Vegan,” and “We Found Nemo” tacos add an extra layer of playfulness to this beloved spot. Gringo’s is also known for its extensive selection of tequila, mezcal, and cervezas. Mix + Match Wednesdays feature three for $12 street tacos if the $20 Endless Taco Tuesday deal leaves you wanting more. A large outdoor seating area makes this a fun outdoor summer spot.
Tacoria {24-26 Erie Street}
{Photo credit: @eattacoria}
This hip spot is one of the newest when it comes to Mexican eats in Jersey City and is the chain’s fourth restaurant in New Jersey. Inspired by Mexican street food, the menu is delicious and simple but definitely picture-worthy. The menu includes classic Mexican fare such as nachos, tacos, burritos, quesadillas, salads, and small bites like Mexican street corn. They also have gluten-free and vegan options that allow you to substitute meat dishes with rajas {roasted corn and poblano peppers}, charred Brussels sprouts, or fried avocado. Their diet-friendly menu is always fresh and authentic.
Taqueria Mi Mariachi {213 Sip Avenue}
This hidden gem is in the Journal Square neighborhood and is close to the JSQ PATHstation. This vibrant and colorful space is as authentic as it gets, serving up tacos dorados {fried tacos}, chilaquiles, tamales, fajitas, huaraches, tostadas, and many more classic Mexican dishes. Taqueria Mi Mariachi also makes classic breakfast sandwiches and Mexican breakfast platters. They are available for catering needs, too.
Tacos Victoria {324 1/2 7th Street}
{Photo credit: www.tacosvictoria.com}
This brick-and-mortar Mexican restaurant is one of the most authentic Mexican spots in Jersey City, {located near Hamilton Park} and is known for the friendly staff and affordable menu. The vast Mexican options keep customers coming back to try new dishes. The owners also have a food truck that is often parked near Exchange Place and cooks up fresh and flavorful lunches to the business crowds during the week. Customer favorites include the Mexican quesadillas, flautas, nachos rancheros, tacos, and delicious desserts, most notably the tres leches.
Los Tres Chilitos {456 Central Avenue}
If you’re looking for a homey spot that makes you feel like you’re on a Mexican vacation, check out Los Tres Chilitos, one of the best-kept secrets in The Heights. This popular restaurant is known for Mexican comfort food, large portions, and low prices. A popular dish is chicken gorditas with homemade red sauce. You can BYOB and enjoy an affordable and mouth-watering night out in The Heights.
Taqueria Sabor Mixteca {496 Communipaw Avenue}
This humble, family-owned spot is the newest addition to the Bergen-Lafayette section of Jersey City and has already won the hearts of locals. Their tortillas are made from scratch and made to order, plus they serve up all their home-made sauces at no additional cost. Their fresh carne asada tacos are a must-try. Make sure to take a piece of their Tres Leches to-go, after all, there’s always room for dessert.
Read more: BattleCat Espresso Bar + Orale Join Forces in Hoboken
Taqueria Viva Mexico Kitchen Café {133 Morris Street}
This cozy and colorful Mexican spot is nestled in the heart of Paulus Hook and showcases homestyle dishes such as a variety of tacos, burritos, and breakfast eats. This hot-spot is known for its modern interpretation of classic Mexican dishes, and only uses the highest quality fresh ingredients. The restaurant is BYOB, which is an added bonus.
Mezcal Kitchen Jersey City {665 Newark Avenue}
A great Mexican restaurant is incomplete without mariachi music. The owner of Mezcal Kitchen grew up in Mexico City and learned from the best {his mom}. This fun spot near Journal Square has amazing food, great drinks, and a DJ + dance party every Friday night. They also host events and offer catering.
What is your favorite spot for authentic Mexican food in Jersey City? Share with us in the comments!
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