Home Food + Drink Cucharamama, a Long-Standing South American Gem in Hoboken, Announces Its Closure

Cucharamama, a Long-Standing South American Gem in Hoboken, Announces Its Closure

by Hoboken Girl Team
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Some of the best restaurants in Hoboken are often found off-the-beaten-path of busy Washington Street, and this one always proved that statement right. Cucharamama, nestled on the corner of 3rd and Clinton Street {233 Clinton Street}, has been serving its unique South American-inspired menu for over 16 years — and sadly just announced its closure for good on Instagram.

cucharamama hoboken

The Closure

In a heartfelt but simple post on Instagram, the restaurant announced its closure on Saturday, July 25th.

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“To our amazing community, dedicated customers, family, friends and staff: We are heartbroken to announce the closing of Cucharamama. We had hoped to be able to reopen but due to recent developments that option is no longer visible. Thank you for letting us serve you for the last 16 years. We will miss you ❤️” it read.

We reached out to the restaurant for comment, but have not heard back regarding specific details. We will update as we know more.

cucharamama

Cucharamama’s Backstory

One of the best things about Cucharamama was its history and dedication to cuisine. The restaurant is female-owned by its chef, Maricel Presilla, and her business partner Clara Chaumont. Maricel also owns Zafra {just down the block at 301 Willow Avenue} and one of the best-hidden gems in town, Ultramarinos {right next to Zafra at 260 3rd Street}.

cucharamama owners

Maricel’s journey to owning three local businesses wasn’t an easy one — in 1970 she fled Cuba with her family and since then has been an elementary school teacher in Miami, received a doctorate in medieval Spanish literature, and has written children’s books and cookbooks. Then in 2000, she opened Zafra in Hoboken, a quaint Cuban-Latin restaurant that has easily become a local favorite. Then in 2004, Cucharamama was born and has been nestled on the corner of 2nd and Clinton ever since.

The Atmosphere

For those wanting a cozy, romantic evening out, Cucharamama was the perfect spot. The vibe had a dimly-lit, romantic feel, perfect for a first date or chilled out pals’ dinner date.

cucharamama hoboken inside

There were several tables and seats at the bar/right near the brick-oven, and the ambiance provided a cozy vibe any time of year.

See More: La Isla {Uptown}: An Intimate Cuban Dining Experience

cucharamama inside 2

The Food

cucharamama wine menu

We’d be remiss if we didn’t mention bread and butter that comes out first to get those taste buds going. This wasn’t a normal bread and butter situation — but a homemade loaf that had everyone asking for more, with a spoonful of creamy butter.

cucharamama bread

cucharamama hoboken chileno

^ Pastel de Choclo Chileno — the perfect combination of savory + sweet

But the entrées were where the menu really got unique. A crowd favorite was the Pata de Chancho al Estilo de Tacna con Arroz y Menestra de Frijoles Canarios {roasted pork with white rice and beans} and the Pastel de Choclo Chileno {Chilean beef + chicken potpie with a corn crust}. Of course, the drinks were refreshing and light, with mojitos being extra special and worth the order.

Read More: The Coziest Restaurants in Hoboken and Jersey City

We’re sad to see Cucharamama go, as the food was like no other, the staff was incredible, and the food + experience was always consistent. A great spot for a romantic evening, weeknight dinner, or dinner with a crowd — it’s quite the loss for the Mile Square.

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