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Local picks in New Jersey

Salsa and empanadas

A craving for sharp salsa and warm empanadas hits hardest when the afternoon slump sets in.

Based on 788 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Las Olas Taqueria image 1
Las Olas Taqueria image 2
Las Olas Taqueria image 3
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Mexican restaurant

Small dining area with colorful decor and art for sale creates a cozy, chill vibe. Outdoor seating adds space and comfort. Menu offers authentic, flavorful Mexican dishes with options for various diets.

Salsa verde stands out with its exceptional flavor and a kick that complements tacos perfectly. Salsa roja offers a smoky taste from grilled tomatoes and jalapeños, adding depth to the dishes.

Beef and chicken empanadas offer bold flavors and a satisfying taste. The beef empanada stands out as especially flavorful among the options.

People are saying

"The food here is so authentic and delicious."

"I could drink this salsa verde; it's the best I've ever had."

"I loved the empanadas; they were so flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but ordering ahead is recommended to skip the line.

2

The wait time for food is usually 10 to 15 minutes.

3

Las Olas Taqueria is BYOB, allowing guests to bring their own drinks.

02
Taco De Ojo Taqueria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with vibrant neon decor and artwork highlighting El Chavo del Ocho creates an inviting and lively atmosphere. The space offers casual seating suitable for relaxed dining. The vibe balances cool and serene energy, making it a distinctive spot for enjoying Mexican cuisine.

Salsas come super fresh with a good balance of heat and flavor. Tables get a variety including chipotle, creama, and salsa to enjoy.

Huge portions make the empanadas stand out. The birria empanadas come highly recommended and deliver excellent flavor. They consistently impress as a highlight alongside other dishes.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic, fresh, and delicious."

"The salsa here is super fresh and flavorful."

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

Good to know

1

Online ordering is available through an iPad system in-store.

2

Expect to pay around $52 for a meal of 6 tacos and sides.

3

The restaurant has limited seating, especially on weekends.

03
Taqueria Michoacán image 1

Small restaurant with colorful decor and a family-style atmosphere offers a cozy and comforting vibe. Mexican music plays alongside American sports on TV, creating a unique sound mix. Frequent comings and goings keep the energy casual and lively.

Complimentary chips come with fresh salsa verde and red salsa that balance spice well. The salsa offers a spicy, fresh flavor that pairs nicely with horchata.

Takeout empanadas come with great flavor and get high marks for taste. They stand out alongside other dishes like tacos and burritos.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was really good and tasty."

"The salsa here is so flavorful and delicious."

"I ordered empanadas that were a perfect 10 out of 10."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

2

The restaurant offers a vegan option on the menu.

3

Prices for tacos are $4 each, which is considered reasonable.

04
Nacho Bae image 1
Mexican restaurant

Space combines clean, bright decor with playful, interactive walls and engaging music to create a welcoming vibe. Atmosphere feels cozy and lively, with attention to detail in both design and service. Crowd enjoys generous portions of halal Mexican food in a setting that balances charm and energy.

Bowls and burritos come with customizable salsas and creamy guacamole. The scorpion salsa stands out among the fresh, seasoned options. Chips and salsa pair well with tacos, nachos, and quesadillas.

Empanadas here stand out for their rich flavor and satisfying texture. They pair well with other items like churros and tacos, making for a tasty variety.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be fresh and well seasoned."

"I found the empanadas here to be some of the best."

"The fresh salsas are packed with seasoned meats and creamy guacamole."

Good to know

1

They are having their one-year anniversary on the upcoming Friday.

2

Catering services are available for events.

3

Nacho Bae offers discounts for students.

05
Gaelos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, cozy Mexican restaurant with a family-oriented and festive atmosphere. Offers authentic flavors with standout dishes like birria tacos and carne asada fries. Seating is limited, so arriving early is common.

Chips come with really spicy salsa that stands out. The salsa pairs well with the chips and adds a good kick.

Chicken empanadas stand out with their great flavor and are highly recommended. The empanadas overall pair well with other dishes like elote and tacos.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is amazing, especially the consommé."

"The salsa here was good and spicy."

"I thought the chicken empanadas were great."

Good to know

1

The Taco Tuesday promotion features $1 tacos.

2

The space is small, so come early to secure a table.

3

Reservations are not accepted, so expect a wait during peak hours.

06
La Posada Bar and Grill image 1

Bar and grill with dark, outdated decor that retains the look of a previous restaurant. Atmosphere feels quiet and peaceful with Latin music playing softly. Seating includes a large bar area and private rooms for events.

Fresh chips arrive quickly with thick texture. Salsas are rich and amazing, including a notable green salsa served with the New York strip special.

Delicious and perfectly made, the empanadas stand out as a fan favorite here.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"The chips and salsa here are thick and rich."

"I found the empanadas excellent and a must try."

Good to know

1

Parking is ample and available on-site for guests.

2

Credit cards are accepted, but there is an extra charge for using them.

3

Expect large portion sizes for all dishes.

07
Tacotruck Taqueria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space with bar-like seating and colorful, creative decor mimics an actual taco truck. Atmosphere feels vibrant and welcoming, creating a cozy, fun environment. Quiet times offer a relaxed vibe, while loud music adds energy during busier moments.

Chips come with homemade salsa that stands out, especially the salsa Roja served while waiting for food. The salsa is fresh and flavorful, making the start of the meal enjoyable.

Empanadas here have a flaky crust and are packed with flavorful fillings like juicy chicken and sweet guava. The Birria empanada stands out with a crispy outside and soft, hot inside.

People are saying

"The birria tacos here are cooked to perfection and served hot."

"These empanadas are so flaky and flavorful, they're almost too good to share."

"Their homemade salsas were so flavorful and hit the spot."

Good to know

1

Seating is limited to one table for four inside; outdoor seating is available.

2

Street-side parking is paid and can be difficult to find in the evening.

3

Credit card payments incur a small extra charge.

08
Beach Tacos & Tequila image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with colorful murals and exposed brick walls creates a cozy, lively atmosphere with energetic music. Small, well-decorated space feels welcoming and vibrant. Signature margaritas and fresh chips with homemade salsas add to the engaging vibe.

Fresh, free chips arrive quickly with two homemade salsas. The salsas are consistently delicious and served alongside guacamole and street corn.

Crunchy texture stands out when empanadas are served without sauce, lettuce, or tomato on top. They come in portions of two or three pieces and taste delicious with accompanying salsas and guacamole.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing."

"The chips and salsa are fresh and delicious."

"I thought the empanadas were so yummy."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tricky and somewhat inconvenient.

2

The restaurant uses quality ingredients, ensuring fresh and homemade food.

3

Prices are reasonable for the portion sizes offered.

09
POP Taco & Bar image 1
Restaurant

Small restaurant with dim lighting and neon art decor creates a cozy, casual vibe. Music plays at a comfortable volume, enhancing the welcoming atmosphere. Frequented for fresh, highly praised tacos and a variety of gourmet margaritas.

Complimentary chips and salsa come with orders. The salsa ranges from awesome to just okay depending on the visit. Guacamole also stands out alongside the salsa.

Crispy and stuffed chicken empanadas stand out here. Birria empanadas offer a fantastic flavor, and all empanadas come out well-prepared and satisfying.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos were authentic with a unique twist."

"I loved the crispy, stuffed chicken empanadas."

"The salsa and guacamole are awesome."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers buy one house taco, get one free.

2

Happy hour runs all day on Sundays with great drink specials.

3

Public parking is available around the corner if street parking is full.

10
La Casa de la Tia II LLC image 1

Spacious restaurant with nice decor and a very clean environment. Atmosphere varies from quiet with no music to moments of loud laughter creating different moods. Offers generous portions of Mexican food with some dishes noted for freshness and flavor.

Fresh salsas and guacamole stand out with vibrant flavors. Chips, tortillas, beans, and rice all taste freshly made and flavorful.

Beef and chicken empanadas stand out with fresh, flavorful fillings. The empanadas are consistently delicious and a favorite among the dishes offered.

People are saying

"I found the birria tacos to be the best I've had."

"The salsa here is so flavorful, especially the verde."

"I thought the empanadas were incredible and really good."

Good to know

1

Expect high prices, with meals averaging $40 per person.

2

Credit card payments incur an additional fee if not paid in cash.

3

No phone orders for pickup unless paid upfront with a card.

11
Quesadillas Doña Meche image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, colorful space with a cozy, welcoming vibe feels like a family home. Friendly, family-run spot offers authentic Mexican cuisine with homemade corn tortillas and birria tacos that stand out. Atmosphere stays warm and inviting, making it a comfortable place for all ages.

Free homemade tortilla chips come with two options of salsa, making a solid start. The salsa verde stands out as very good and fresh chips are served with salsa at the beginning.

Beef empanadas come with a rich filling and pair well with other items like chicken and steak tacos. They offer a satisfying flavor that stands out among the menu options.

People are saying

"The food here is so authentic and delicious."

"I found the most authentic Mexican food and salsa here."

"I found the authentic and fresh empanadas I was searching for."

Good to know

1

Daily specials are available, providing unique options each day.

2

Quesadillas Doña Meche offers a variety of authentic Mexican dishes.

3

Dine-in and take-out options are both available.

12
El Familiar image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with traditional decor and colorful murals creates a cozy atmosphere filled with Spanish music. The space feels friendly and lively, welcoming guests who bring their own wine. The vibe balances comfort with a sense of community and authenticity.

Fresh salsa comes with complimentary chips. The salsa stands out for its great flavor and freshness.

Filled with shredded beef and potato, the empanadas have a nice chew and a slight crunch in the dough. They come with highly recommended sauces including a spicy ají that complements the flavors well.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is authentic, delicious, and generously portioned."

"I thought the empanadas here were the best I've ever tasted."

"I thought the salsa here was the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

El Familiar operates on a BYOB basis, meaning you need to bring your own drinks.

2

The prices at El Familiar are very reasonable for the portion sizes.

3

Expect large portions; sharing is recommended for a better experience.

13
Burrito Bowl Mexican Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious interior with a build-your-own-bowl setup creates a clean and friendly atmosphere. Mexican dishes like empanadas and carnitas stand out for freshness and flavor, while portions tend to be plentiful. Pricing leans high compared to similar spots, influencing the overall experience.

Salsas here come in spicy red and zesty lime cilantro vinaigrette varieties. They pair well with gluten-free chips and add a flavorful kick to tacos and quesadillas.

Cheese empanadas stand out with their rich flavor. Guava empanadas offer a sweet twist alongside classic savory options.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, hot, and full of flavor."

"You have to try the empanadas; the cheese ones are the best I've ever had."

"The zesty salsas and seasoned rice make for a satisfying dish with perfect flavor."

Good to know

1

Taco Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays offer various options, not just tacos.

2

Expect to pay around $19 for a meal with extras.

3

A regular bottle of Coca-Cola costs $2.99.

14
Tacos Es Vida / Tacos is life image 1

Small, cozy Mexican restaurant with authentic vibe and Mexican music filling the air. Warm, welcoming atmosphere feels like a local spot with clean, colorful decor. Known for excellent tacos served in ceramic cazuelas and a pleasant, upbeat environment.

Salsa verde stands out with its spicy kick and balanced heat. Flavors lean less authentic but pair well with fresh crema and crumbled cheese on flautas.

Al pastor empanadas stand out with strong staff recommendations and rich flavor. Beef and carne enchilada empanadas offer authentic Mexican taste and are consistently scrumptious.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos here were the best I ever had."

"I loved the beef empanadas; they were the best I've ever had."

"The Al Pastor tacos were perfectly marinated and smoky."

Good to know

1

Street parking can be somewhat tricky; consider arriving early.

2

Expect a quick turnaround time for food orders.

3

Prices are fair for the serving size, making it budget-friendly.

15
LAS DELICIAS DE LA NEGRA MEXICAN RESTAURANT image 1

Small Mexican restaurant offers a bright and festive atmosphere with authentic flavors and fresh handmade tortillas. The space feels cozy and welcoming, creating a relaxed vibe that suits families and casual dining.

Fresh chips come with both green and red salsas. Meals include sides like Chiles toreados and beans topped with queso fresco. Nachos with beans and salsa arrive free and add to the salsa experience.

Chicken empanadas stand out with their great flavor and delicious filling. They are available for dine-in or to go alongside other entrees.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is so authentic and delicious."

"The homemade salsas here are delicious, especially the green one."

"I found the chicken empanadas to be delicious."

Good to know

1

Prices are affordable, with a family of four spending about $75 including drinks.

2

Portion sizes are generous, exceeding expectations for the area.

3

The restaurant is family-owned, with a mom as the cook and the son delivering food.

16
Margarita's Bar & Grill image 1

Spacious restaurant with beautiful art and inviting decor creates a cozy atmosphere filled with Latin music and live DJ sets. The energy is vibrant yet comfortable, welcoming families and groups alike. Attention to detail in design and lively ambiance set it apart from typical dining spots.

Complimentary chips come with salsa. Nachos pair well with the salsa. Hot salsa options are not available but would add variety.

Empanadas come with a fiery sauce and serve well as an appetizer. They pair nicely with tortilla soup and the fiesta chicken.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was simple and flavorful."

"The bartenders here are super friendly and informal."

"I'd recommend the empanadas, especially with that fiery sauce."

Good to know

1

Happy hour specials are available daily from 4-6pm with discounted drinks.

2

Taco flights are $10 on Tuesdays, offering a variety of flavors.

3

Karaoke nights happen every Thursday at 9pm with no cover charge.

17
Olé Craft Kitchen + Bar (Global Mexican) image 1

Vibrant space inspired by Tulum features Mexican and Indian fusion cuisine and intricate floral decor. Live DJs and saxophonists create an immersive atmosphere with a mix of 00s throwbacks and lively music. Skilled bartenders craft unique cocktails, enhancing the energetic and inviting vibe.

Chips come with spicy salsa that pairs well with appetizers. Salsas offer bold, vibrant flavors that stand out from typical options.

Baked paneer empanadas stand out with a rich, satisfying flavor. Vegetarian options include these empanadas alongside other dishes like jackfruit tacos, all well-liked for their taste.

People are saying

"You have to try their perfectly crafted and balanced cocktails."

"The paneer empanadas were quite good and hit the spot."

"The salsa here has bold, vibrant flavors and isn't your typical salsa."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for special events like Valentine's Day.

2

Weekend brunch features bottomless beverages and live music.

3

Expect high prices comparable to New York City for small portions.

18
TacoNazo image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, cozy Mexican restaurant with bright, vibrant decor and authentic flavors. Atmosphere feels inviting and lively, with both indoor counter seating and outdoor tables. Known for fresh, flavorful tacos and a clean, well-lit space.

Salsas come in two types per dish and offer full flavor with well-seasoned options. They lean toward mild, as they could be a bit spicier but still complement the food well.

Chicken empanadas stand out as very tasty and among the best encountered. Some empanadas tend to dry out under heat lamps, affecting their quality.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is so authentic and flavorful."

"The salsas here were full of flavor and great."

"The chicken empanada was very tasty."

Good to know

1

TacoNazo accepts only cash payments; an ATM is available on-site.

2

Two dishes and two sodas cost $39, which some find pricey.

3

There is limited seating space, but counter seating is available.

19
Chapala Mexican Cuisine image 1
Mexican restaurant

Large space with a great bar and modern decor creates a comfortable setting. Atmosphere shifts from quiet to lively with a DJ and karaoke, especially during busy times. Known for excellent margaritas and festive energy.

Salsa comes out quickly with free chips. It features a spiced blend of peppers and tomatoes and is not overly chunky.

Beef empanadas come moist and filling with a delicious flavor. They stand out alongside other dishes like shrimp ceviche and chicken quesadillas.

People are saying

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

"The salsa was not chunky, full of spices, peppers, and tomatoes."

"The empanadas here are perfect for parties and events."

Good to know

1

Chapala Mexican Cuisine charges a credit card fee in addition to taxes and tips.

2

Bring cash to benefit from cashback rewards.

3

The restaurant is perfect for large groups or parties.

20
Edison TexMex Deli image 1
Mexican restaurant

Tiny hole-in-the-wall exterior opens to a spacious, clean dining room with cozy seating and a laid-back vibe. Atmosphere stays quiet and friendly, with TVs showing games adding casual energy. Large menu options and generous portions attract a steady crowd seeking authentic Tex-Mex flavors.

Steak tacos come with cilantro, green salsa, and lime that stand out. Chips and salsa are solid, but the Salsa Verde tastes bland and old.

Chicken Empanadas and Carne Asada tacos appear on the menu alongside bowls and birria pies. Some find the beef empanada oily and not enjoyable, with cooking in oil noted as a key factor.

People are saying

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

"I was genuinely sad when I finished these delicious empanadas."

"I must try the steak tacos with green salsa and lime."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has a separate vegetarian menu available.

2

Portion sizes are large, often enough for two people.

3

They offer a wide selection of Tex-Mex food options.

21
Taco-Tastic III (Lanoka Harbor) image 1

Colorful, vibrant decor with cultural artwork and a wall mural creates a fun, welcoming atmosphere. Touchscreen ordering adds convenience while music sets a lively, theme-park vibe. Family-friendly events and holiday decorations enhance the overall experience.

Chips and salsa come with incredibly flavorful salsa that stands out. The salsa varies in style and may not suit every preference.

Large portions include beef empanadas filled with meat and cheese. Empanadas stand out alongside tacos and tostadas, with some taken to go due to size.

People are saying

"I found the food to be always great and fresh."

"The empanadas here are delicious and bursting with flavor."

"I love their salsa; it's incredibly flavorful."

Good to know

1

Prices for tacos start at $17.95 for three, which is higher than typical street taco prices.

2

A small guacamole costs $2, while larger sizes are $4 and $10.

3

The portions are generous, providing good value for the price.

22
Taco-Tastic image 1
Taco restaurant

Small taco joint with a festive Mexican atmosphere and a focus on authentic street-style tacos. Mostly a take-out spot with limited seating for quick meals. Known for well-stuffed, flavorful tacos including standout birria and fish options.

Verde Salsa stands out with its spicy kick and pairs well with dishes like Chicken Fajitas and Birra Tacos. Chips come without salsa by default, and salsa portions are small, sometimes causing confusion with hot sauce.

Empanadas come in chicken and cheese and beef and cheese varieties with fresh, great quality dough. They tend to be a bit greasy but hold solid flavor.

People are saying

"I found the fish tacos here to be the best I've ever had."

"The Salsa Verde here is the best I've ever had."

"I found the chicken and cheese empanadas amazing."

Good to know

1

Taco-Tastic primarily offers take-out with limited seating available.

2

Parking is available, but the lot is small.

3

Expect to pay around $13 for three tacos.

23
Casa Taco & Tequila Bar image 1

Restaurant offers outdoor seating with beach views and Spanish music that creates a lively, festive vibe. Fresh guacamole is prepared tableside, and a DJ plays Latino music enhancing the energetic atmosphere. Noise levels can be high, especially near groups, but the setting feels vibrant and colorful.

Chips and salsa come warm, seasoned, and crunchy. The salsa stands out as a definite hit. Chips and salsa come with a charge, which is unusual for Mexican spots.

Shrimp and beef empanadas stand out with exceptional flavor and generous fillings. They pair well with fresh made guacamole and blood orange margaritas for a satisfying meal.

People are saying

"The Mexican food, especially the nachos, is amazing with fresh ingredients."

"I found the shrimp empanadas to be amazing."

"The salsa here was a definite hit, seasoned and warm."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Expect a $3 gratuity added to your bill for parties of six or more.

3

The restaurant does not serve complimentary chips and salsa.

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