In the last few years, the Mexican cuisine scene has exploded with new and exciting spots, especially in the downtown Jersey City area {ahem, Tacoria will be opening soon}. Newport is no stranger to this restaurant boom and has become THE destination for river-front dining. Lucky for us, the powerhouse couple behind Taqueria Downtown has a spacious location on Washington Boulevard {two doors down from Ruth’s Chris} — Los Cuernos. This Mexican spot is serving up a classic take on Mexican cuisine. For the diehard fans of Taqueria, you can expect all the hard-hitting favorites and so much more. Read on to find out what Los Cuernos is serving up in Jersey City.
All About Los Cuernos
Andrea and Phil Barraza opened their newest restaurant in February 2018 at 499 Washington Boulevard. These two are no strangers to the Jersey City food scene and have created a space that’s sure to draw in locals for the classic flavors these restaurateurs are known for. The vibrant interior sets the scene at this local joint with vintage movie prints, iron chandeliers, and hand-painted walls paying homage to Phil’s California roots. Everything is curated by the husband-and-wife team and it shows in the details.
The atmosphere at Los Cuernos has a casual vibe and the authentic décor packs a punch in each room of the 5,600 square foot restaurant. Unlike Taqueria Downtown, this sprawling restaurant has three separate sections where patrons can enjoy a sit-down dinner, grab drinks at the bar, or host a private event in the upstairs loft equipped with a private bar. In the summer months expect outside seating where you can sip on margaritas and enjoy prime people-watching in this fast-paced part of town.
See More: Best Spots for a Margarita in Hoboken + Jersey City
Let’s Talk Food
You won’t have to order chips and salsa at Los Cuernos — it’s the first thing that comes to the table {which is the only way to start the meal}. One thing that remains constant at all the Barraza locations is the fan-favorite street tacos – a 14-item taco menu to be exact.
With deep roots in authentic Mexican cooking, the menu is brimming with staples such as tortas, flautas, quesadillas, and tamales just to name a few. As for larger plates, the traditional green enchiladas and garlic grilled shrimp were both showstoppers {and are must orders}.
If you are in the mood for a bit of everything, Andrea recommends the bistec a la tampiquena {which is one of her most cherished Mexican dishes}. This plate is massive and could definitely be shared between two people. As for drinks, the classic and watermelon margaritas are the way to go.
What to Eat
Here are some of the restaurant’s favorite plates:
Enfrijoladas {warm tortillas covered in bean sauce + chorizo + creama + queso}
Tostada de Ceviche {tilapia ceviche + tomatoes + onions + serranos}
Tamale {pork + red sauce}
Tacos {steak + fish + ground beef}
Camarones al mojo de ajo {garlic grilled shrimp + Mexican rice + salad}
Enchiladas {Verdes – green tomatillo sauce}
Bistec a la tampiquena {grilled Palomilla steak + enchiladas + frijoles de la olla + Mexican rice + guacamole + cebollitas asadas}
Torrejas {Mexican French toast made with Portuguese rolls + cinnamon batter}
The Verdict
This fan-favorite is across the street from the Newport Path, which is ideal for all the city commuters looking for an after-work drink or basket of tacos. One thing that sets this place apart from the Barrazas other locations is reservations {thank you food, gods}. As much as one loves waiting outside for a table at Taqueria, Los Cuernos has is one step ahead – it’s available on OpenTable {talk about a game changer}.
Read More: The Best Tacos in Hoboken and Jersey City
As for the hours, the restaurant is open for lunch during the week from 11:00AM-4:00PM, and dinner from 4:00PM-12:00AM. Brunch is served on the weekends from 11:00AM-4:00PM and the dinner menu begins at 4:00PM.
Have you tried Los Cuernos yet? Do you have a favorite dish? Let us know in the comments!
