With restrictions easing and borders reopening, international travel is slowly coming back to full swing. Not quite ready to jump over the pond for some fish and chips? No need when you have everything at your fingertips right here in Hoboken, Jersey City, and Weehawken. There’s a copious amount of diverse cuisines available right here in Hudson County. Travel from Thailand to India and stopover in South America without even taking out your passport. No TSA, on long plane rides, no crowds! While there are dozens of other mouth-watering cuisines available, this shortlist will kick-start your adventure cravings. Read on to plan your own international dining tour of Hudson County.
Filipino
Little Quiapo | 30 Newark Avenue C, Jersey City
(Photo credit: @littlequiapojc)
Located on Newark Ave in the same plaza as the Philippine Bread House, this institution has been serving up its traditional cuisine since 1992. Try entrees such as bistek tagalog and pork adobo, and be sure to save room and cool down from the summer heat with halo halo for dessert. Halo halo is known as the unofficial dessert of the Philippines and is made with a mix of shaved ice, gummy fruits, ice cream, and sweetened condensed milk – perfect for a 90-degree afternoon. Little Quipao is open from 8AM to 4PM, and is closed on Tuesdays.
South Asian/Indian
Masala Cafe | 839 Newark Avenue, Jersey City
(Photo credit: @masalacafejersey)
Masala Cafe caters authentic Chettinad dishes bringing out the rich aroma of the region with freshly ground herbs and spices, prepared in an age-old way by its team of experienced culinary experts. Chettinad is a region in the southern tip of India, and some of the regional delicacies you’ll find on the menu at Masala Cafe include Chettinad Chicken Curry, chicken biryani, and idly and vada. Check out more about Masala Cafe on its Instagram.
Thai
Hi-So Thai | 1903 Willow Avenue A, Weehawken
Hi-So Thai is a team of classically trained chefs who are passionate about the food they are cooking, and you can taste the difference. With options ranging from classics like pad thai and a variety of fried rice dishes, they also have a wide range of curries and wok options as well. Settle into the cozy Thai interior and embrace this south-east Asian cuisine to its fullest.
Read More: Must-Try Latin Restaurants in Hoboken + Jersey City
African
City Grill | 140 Monticello Avenue, Jersey City
CityGrill is transporting you to West African with its menu. The menu is made up of traditional dishes such as Jollof rice, which is a spiced dish that is simmered in tomatoes, onions, peppers, and spices. The seasonings of the rice vary based on the region giving each dish its own distinct flavors unique to the person who is making it. The Infatuation rated City Grill and suggests trying the ultra-tender michoui lamb with a side of plantains. The reasonable prices mean you’ll be sure to leave with a full stomach, a happy palette, and leftovers for lunch the next day.
Mexican
Orale | 341 Grove St, Jersey City + 1426 Willow Avenue, Hoboken
(Photo credit: @oralemk)
The lively decor and upbeat music are the perfect pairings to one of the signature cocktails. The menu consists of classics like tacos, ceviche, and carne asada. This bustling spot is sure to make you feel the lively energy of a night out in your favorite Mexican tourist towns. With locations in both Hoboken and Jersey City, it’s perfect for making plans with friends and accessible to all. Try the guac tasting to allow everyone at your party to choose their favorite toppings. You might be full from the apps and entrees but save room for the churro nuggets, it’s the sweet ending to all your spicy margs.
French
Madame Claude | 390 4th Street, Jersey City
(Photo credit: @madameclaudebis)
Madame Clouage parlez vous français? Even if you’re not versed in the language of love, the food at Madame Claude will do all the talking. This intimate French bistro is the perfect Parisian escape right in Jersey City. Staples like coq au vin, duck confit, steak frites, and crème brûlée transport you to the streets of France for the evening. The expansive list of hand-crafted cocktails and curated wines are the perfect accompaniment to your charming French-inspired evening. Dinner is served Tuesday through Sunday, and brunch is served on Saturdays and Sundays. Reservations are strongly recommended. There is a Wednesday night oyster special at the bar and live music most weekends. Check out Madame Claude’s Instagram to learn more.
Italian
Corto | 507 Palisade Avenue, Jersey City
(Photo credit: @corto_jc)
Corto is a local gem known for its elevated Italian fare. Skip the crowded tourist season in Rome and enjoy a peaceful, delicious meal right in the Heights. Bruschetta, octopus, and mafaldine are some of the options available to diners. Unique pasta shapes, such as corzetti, are something you don’t often see but Corto takes it up a notch. The dessert selection changes daily so be sure not to miss out on the dolce.
South American
El Rinkoncito Peruano | 501 Central Avenue, Jersey City
(Photo credit: @elrinkoncitoperuanocentralave)
El Rinkoncito Peruano is an authentic Peruvian spot founded in 2013 by a father and son duo that has become well-loved by the community. The restaurant offers authentic Peruvian cuisine including ceviches, jaleas, lomo saltado, and churrasco. This is also a BYOB spot, so it’s a great choice for a celebratory meal out. The restaurant has an ever-changing lunch special, so it’s also a fun way to mix up those WFH leftovers.
Chinese
Keming Sichuan | 1006 Washington Street, Hoboken
(Photo credit: @keminghoboken)
Keming Sichuan serves up the spicy Sichuan flavors to residents of Hoboken. Named after owner Mr. Cui’s son, Keming, Cui saw a need for authentic Sichuan food in the area and took matters into his own hands. The personal touches in the decor reflect the passion and love Mr. Cui has for his restaurant and his Chinese roots. The menu consists of traditional items such as dan-dan street noodles and the beloved soup dumplings. The bold flavors and sensational aromatic spices will have the spice lover in their own paradise. The menu is teeming with Sichuan specialties for you to choose from.
Japanese
Honshu Lounge | 95 Greene Street, Jersey City
Honshu specializes in contemporary Japanese dishes. Paired with unparalleled service, Honshu proudly serves a wide range of fresh sushi and Japanese creative dishes to guarantee an exceptional experience. The modern yet warm interior is decorated with a simple elegance that combines with traditional Japanese design creates a comfortable and inviting ambiance.
Spanish
Lola Tapas Bar | 153 14th Street, Hoboken
Lola Tapas Bar offers a unique and mouth-watering array of dishes and wine from Spain. With succulent dishes ranging from Avocado stuffed with Lobster and Shrimp, to Goat Cheese and Wild Mushrooms over Pitas, there are over 80 regional dishes and 100 wines for you to choose from. Sangria lovers rejoice because Lola serves up its award-winning cocktail to diners. Happy hour at the bar is Monday through Friday until 11PM and includes both food and drink specials.
See More: Where to Get Caribbean Food in Jersey City + Hoboken
Irish
Hudson Hound | 8 Erie Street, Jersey City
(Photo credit: @hudsonhoundjerseycity)
Hudson Hound is located right in the heart of downtown Jersey City and brings customers contemporary touches to traditional fare. With a focus on using local suppliers and seasonal produce, the team delivers high-quality, modern Irish cuisine to diners. It’s a fun spot to grab a pint, a delicious meal, and watch some football with friends. Of particular note is the Sunday Roast special. In addition to the extensive beer and wine list, Hudson Hound has its own speakeasy. Nucky’s Speakeasy, named after the character from the series Boardwalk Empire, is open Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 6PM to 2AM, and on Sundays from 2PM to 10PM. Check out the weekly specials on the bar’s Instagram page.
Latin
La Isla | 25 12th Street, Hoboken
(Photo credit: @laislahoboken)
La Isla is committed to serving traditional, authentic Cuban food made from the freshest + most genuine ingredients. Some of the most popular and beloved dishes include the ropa vieja, churrasco con chimichurri, and the Cuban sandwich empanada. With the OG location in downtown Hoboken ____ and an uptown location on 12th Street, La Isla is critically acclaimed by the New York Times, Trip Advisor, and the Food Network.
Caribbean
Nicole’s | 521 Jersey Avenue #2720, Jersey City
This restaurant makes some of the most typical Caribbean dishes, but meat curries are the stars of the menu. The curry gravy here is less heated than the dish’s Indian counterpart but is equally complex to the taste. A must-try is the goat curry —the meat is a bony cut and it is raised to a melt-in-your-mouth tender, but the area around the bones still has a pleasant chewiness. All the curries here come with generous sides of plantains, potatoes, as well as rice and peas.
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