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Oxtail and empanadas in NJ

A place where the empanadas are as carefully crafted as the oxtail, rather than just being a quick filler.

Based on 604 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
The Cave Kitchen Food Truck image 1
The Cave Kitchen Food Truck image 2
The Cave Kitchen Food Truck image 3
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Food truck offers generous portions with flavorful empanadas and homestyle sides like mac and cheese and arroz con gandules. Atmosphere reflects family-owned care and pride, creating a welcoming vibe. Popular spot for hearty, satisfying meals with a taste of NYC influence.

Oxtail shines in empanadas and a bowl with meat that comes right off the bone. The dishes pair well with flavorful sauces and jerk chicken.

Empanadas come crispy and packed with flavor, filled to the brim with options like oxtail and jerk chicken. The beef and cheese variety also stands out, with some visits including free samples.

People are saying

"These empanadas are so delicious and full of flavor."

"The seafood here is incredible, with amazing flavors and excellent service."

"The oxtail empanadas were outstanding and straight fire."

Good to know

1

It's advisable to check the truck's opening hours before visiting, as they are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

2

Parking in the train station lot is less available and requires stepping over a short stone barrier.

3

I recommend parking in the Dunellen Public Library lot.

02
OU LA Restaurant & Bar image 1

Elegant dining room with beautiful decor and large scenic windows creates a comfortable, homey vibe. Live music and a fantastic DJ keep energy lively, blending sophistication with a festive atmosphere. Guests enjoy a mix of top-tier food and drinks in a setting that feels both classy and welcoming.

Savory oxtails come with fall-off-the-bone meat and pair well with grits that have amazing flavor. The dish is well seasoned and cooked perfectly.

Short rib empanadas offer a rich, savory filling with a well-seasoned crust. Shrimp empanadas bring a fresh, flavorful twist alongside other dishes like oxtails and wings.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and flavorful."

"The oxtail was perfectly cooked and fall-off-the-bone tender."

"The empanadas here are top tier, especially the espresso martini."

Good to know

1

Happy hour features a special menu with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Live R&B performances occur every Thursday evening during happy hour.

3

Mixology classes are scheduled for upcoming weekends; check the website for details.

03
Ikeja Food & Bakery image 1

Restaurant offers clean, well-designed space with a welcoming, friendly atmosphere and great vibes. Diverse menu includes African and Caribbean dishes alongside a juice bar, appealing to varied tastes.

Oxtails come tender and perfectly seasoned with rich flavor. Options include combos with jollof rice and sweet plantain, empanadas, Alfredo dishes, and flatbread servings.

Oxtail empanadas come with a special sauce and stand out for their rich flavor. Beef empanadas and rasta pasta also get high marks for being delicious and satisfying.

People are saying

"The Rasta pasta here is chef's kiss delicious."

"These oxtail empanadas are the best I've ever tasted."

"The oxtail here is perfectly seasoned and tender."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as all meals are prepared when ordered.

2

Expect a short waiting period during peak hours.

3

The total cost for lunch for two is around $30, including one soda.

04
Made in Dominican Republic image 1
Dominican restaurant

Small space with well-decorated interior and clean, welcoming atmosphere creates a cozy, authentic vibe. Music adds to the warm, home-like energy that invites lingering after meals. The place feels like a culinary journey to Dominican roots with a genuine, heartfelt touch.

Oxtail comes seasoned to perfection and pairs with rice and black beans. It shares the menu with other well-seasoned dishes like sancocho and empanadas.

Empanadas come well-stuffed with seasoned beef or chicken and are not greasy. They are packed full and consistently delicious with a perfect seasoning balance.

People are saying

"The food here is so fresh and flavorful."

"These empanadas are packed full and delicious."

"I found authentic Dominican flavors, like the oxtail, that tasted like home."

Good to know

1

They have special items on the menu on certain days of the week.

2

There is ample parking available.

3

The prices are very reasonable for the portion sizes.

05
La Bodega Latin Cuisine image 1
Dominican restaurant

Old-fashioned bodega style blends with modern decor and Dominican family history murals on the walls. Warm, family-friendly atmosphere fills the clean, newly renovated space. Low merengue music plays softly while a small market offers authentic Dominican products.

Oxtail comes fall-off-the-bone tender and rich with flavor. It pairs well with Moro de Guandules rice, which is fluffy and super flavorful, making the stew stand out as a highlight.

Empanadas have rich fillings like beef and Pernil, served with generous portions. They pair well with cafe con leche and deliver consistent flavor every visit.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and fresh."

"It's a gorgeous and cozy restaurant with a warm, vibrant atmosphere."

"The oxtail here is fall-off-the-bone tender and flavorful."

Good to know

1

La Bodega Latin Cuisine has been a community staple for over 30 years.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of authentic Dominican dishes.

3

Reservations are recommended for private events to ensure availability.

06
Cubita Cafรฉ image 1

Small space with bright colors and busy decor creates an intimate setting. Hybrid vibe blends old-school hip-hop and Latin music, setting a lively atmosphere. Seating is tight, featuring two-seat tables and a communal bar.

Oxtail appears in both a classic rice and bean dish and a unique empanada variety. The oxtail dishes deliver a homestyle flavor that stands out.

Empanadas come compact and filled with deliciousness. The oxtail mac stands out as a favorite, along with maduro with cheese and chorizo egg and cheese varieties.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and fresh."

"I found the empanadas to be delicious and flavorful."

"I'm planning to come back soon for the oxtail."

Good to know

1

Cubita Cafรฉ closes early at 6pm.

2

Parking is available in the municipal lot behind the building.

3

Expect a wait time of over 30 minutes for coffee and empanadas.

07
Sofrito Latino image 1
Latin American restaurant

Small space with only three tables creates a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Energy stays chill and relaxed, making it feel like home. Known for bold Latin flavors and fresh, tender dishes that stand out in quality.

Four small pieces of oxtail come swimming in sauce. The dish is called Rabo Ancendido and costs $24.

Some of the best empanadas come with affordable prices. They arrive alongside other dishes like wings and churros, making a varied meal.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, packed with incredible taste."

"These empanadas are so fresh and cooked to perfection."

"The oxtail here is so tender and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in a nearby lot for added security.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of Latin American dishes with generous portions.

3

Catering services are available for events and gatherings.

08
Casamon Caribbean Cuisine & Catering image 1

Small space with traditional Caribbean decor creates a friendly, family-oriented atmosphere. Limited seating encourages takeout or catering, with authentic flavors in dishes like curry chicken and jerk empanadas. Prices tend to be on the higher side compared to similar spots.

Meat falls off the bone in the oxtail plate, served with perfectly cooked rice and peas, delicious cabbage, and sweet plantains. The oxtail empanadas are a favorite, with rich, savory filling that stands out.

Oxtail and jerk shrimp empanadas stand out with freshly made fillings and bold flavors. Options include curry chicken, salmon, and veggie/jerk chicken, all prepared to order.

People are saying

"I usually get the oxtail dinner; it's the best item on the menu."

"The jerk chicken at this Lunch Spot is succulent and tender."

"You have to try the oxtail empanadas; my wife devoured them."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of about 45 minutes for food during peak hours.

2

Lunch specials do not apply on Fridays, so plan accordingly.

3

The restaurant does not have indoor seating; takeout is the primary option.

09
Courts Empanadas image 1
Takeout Restaurant

Takeout spot with detailed decor and a clean, comfortable interior creates a soothing atmosphere with house music playing. The vibe is mostly welcoming and heartwarming, attracting those seeking high-quality, flavorful empanadas with a wide variety of choices.

Oxtail empanadas come with rich, saucy filling that drips while eating. The combination of oxtail and cheese pairs with a flavorful Asian sauce that stands out.

Empanadas come packed with filling and flavor, fried to perfection with a phenomenal texture. Varieties like Oxtail with Cheese and Honey Jerk Chicken offer juicy, spicy bites that stand out.

People are saying

"These empanadas are packed with flavor and filling."

"The seafood here, like the shrimp and salmon, is packed and flavorful."

"I loved the oxtail empanadas; they were so delicious."

Good to know

1

Courts Empanadas is a takeout-only establishment.

2

The location has limited parking, so plan accordingly.

3

Food is made fresh, so expect longer wait times.

10
Lady G Empanadas image 1

Small restaurant with a cozy atmosphere and lively vibe filled with hip hop and R&B music. Space often feels packed and energetic, with an outdoor patio available. Empanadas stand out as a signature offering with rich, home-cooked flavors.

The oxtail empanada features heavenly, tender meat wrapped in a crisp crust. It stands out as a rich, flavorful dinner option that pairs well with seafood dishes.

Empanadas come generously stuffed with rich fillings like oxtail and jerk chicken. They offer a flavorful balance without being too salty or sweet.

People are saying

"These empanadas are so delicious and generously stuffed."

"The food here is amazing, bold, and delicious."

"The oxtail empanada is heaven in an empanada."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited and can be difficult to find.

2

The menu is not always up-to-date, so check before ordering.

3

Expect a 20-minute wait for fresh empanadas after ordering.

11
House 157 Restaurant image 1

Restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere with a nature-themed garden-scape that creates a peaceful vibe. DJ music plays throughout, enhancing the lively yet intimate energy. Beautiful decor and thoughtful lighting make it ideal for intimate gatherings and date nights.

Braised oxtail comes tender and juicy, paired with rice and peas, sweet plantains, and cabbage. The flavors blend well, making it a standout dish alongside fried chicken.

Chicken Empanadas come hot and very good. They stand out as a delicious appetizer alongside other dishes like Jamaican chicken and shrimp.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious."

"The oxtail here is delicious and a must-try."

"You have to try the chicken empanadas; they're delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are a must to get a table.

2

Brunch at House 157 Restaurant ends at 3 PM.

3

Expect a 30-minute wait to be seated during peak hours.

12
Oko Fine Cuisine image 1
African restaurant

African restaurant combines vibrant atmosphere with 90s-2000s Afrobeats and a live DJ playing AfroBeat and House music. Space feels like a dance club with lively energy, suitable for celebrations and nights out. Food and drinks feature standout items like shrimp quesadillas and passion fruit margaritas.

Oxtail dishes offer savory flavor with some toughness in texture. Options include oxtail empanadas, oxtail tacos, and a hearty oxtail stew served with fufu.

Empanadas come in jerk chicken and oxtail varieties, both offering rich, savory flavors. They pair well with other dishes like tacos and quesadillas, making them a solid choice on the menu.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and well-seasoned."

"The Oxtail here is served with superb, attentive service."

"The jerk chicken empanadas here are delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for busy nights like karaoke.

2

Expect a maximum wait time of 10 minutes for seating.

3

Parking can be challenging; consider arriving early.

13
Bonney's BBQ image 1
Restaurant

Cozy restaurant blends Filipino and Jamaican flavors with a friendly, homey atmosphere and nostalgic retro decor. Music playlist enhances the relaxed vibe, while the space accommodates big families comfortably.

Oxtails come fall-off-the-bone tender with a flavor explosion that stands out among the dishes.

Oxtail empanadas come crispy and tender with a meaty filling. Other options include Lechรณn, curry crab, and pear vanilla lasso flavors, often paired with sinigang sauce or fried plantains.

People are saying

"The oxtail empanada food is so good, filled with lots of meat."

"I found the oxtail empanadas so good, filled with lots of meat."

"The oxtail here is so tender, it just falls off the bone."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $45 for a plate of food with a drink.

2

The restaurant offers a unique blend of Filipino and Jamaican dishes.

3

Parking is available nearby, but it can be limited during busy times.

14
Cuban Breeze image 1
Cuban restaurant

Small and informal space offers authentic Cuban cuisine with upbeat, warm atmosphere and authentic Cuban music. Clean environment features simple decor and seating inside and outside. Food delivers big flavors with standout Cuban sandwiches and desserts.

Oxtail comes tender and delicious here. It stands out as some of the best around, served alongside other hearty dishes like ribs and roast pork.

Empanadas come with a delicious beef filling and a perfectly paired sauce that enhances the flavor. They stand out as exceptional and well-crafted alongside other dishes like papa relleno.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic and bursting with delicious flavors."

"The oxtail here is tender and delicious."

"The empanadas here are amazing, especially with the sauce."

Good to know

1

Delivery is available through DoorDash for convenience.

2

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of authentic Cuban dishes at affordable prices.

15
The Grove Grill image 1
Jamaican restaurant

Small space resembles a bodega with a warm, inviting, and cozy atmosphere. Energy stays friendly and groovy, creating a comfortable vibe. Known for top quality Jamaican cuisine, especially oxtail dishes and coco bread.

Oxtail dishes feature soft, tender meat with a sweet filling and good gravy. The oxtail patty deluxe combines a beef patty, boneless oxtail, macaroni and cheese, and coco bread for a rich, layered flavor.

Oxtail empanadas stand out with a perfect taste and rich filling. Jerk chicken empanadas offer a flavorful twist, while cheesesteak empanadas taste good but have less meat.

People are saying

"The coco bread is warm, doughy, and stuffed with oxtail."

"The oxtail filling had a sweet taste and great flavor."

"The oxtail empanadas were perfect and delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect small portion sizes; some dishes are enough for 2-3 people.

2

Prices can be high; a small jerk chicken pasta costs $9.50 plus extra charges.

3

Paying with cash is recommended to avoid card fees.

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