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.
Garlic fried chicken stands out with its bold flavor and crispy texture. It pairs well with mac and cheese and maduros, creating a satisfying meal.
"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
It's advisable to check the truck's opening hours before visiting, as they are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Parking in the train station lot is less available and requires stepping over a short stone barrier.
I recommend parking in the Dunellen Public Library lot.
Chicken restaurant offers seasoned, flavorful fried chicken with a blend of Jamaican and fried chicken styles. Atmosphere feels friendly and lively despite a retro, modest interior. Popular spot known for generous portions and a variety of menu options including BBQ ribs and oxtails.
Oxtails come with rich flavors and appear in several dishes like loaded fries and rice plates. They pair well with jerk chicken and BBQ ribs, offering a hearty, satisfying option.
Fried chicken here stands out with its unique breading taste and very crispy texture. Hot wings and Italian hot with home fries come in generous portions and pack a lot of flavor.
Good to know
The bathroom is very clean and well-maintained.
Prices are cheaper compared to NYC.
There is often no seating available.
Soul food restaurant with cool urban decor and a custom mural creates a fresh, laid-back vibe. Atmosphere feels energetic yet chill, enhanced by old school music videos on wall-mounted TVs. Regulars enjoy a welcoming environment with a mix of Caribbean and soul food influences.
Oxtails come tender and fall off the bone, packed with rich, flavorful seasoning and a slight kick of spice. Portions are generous and filling, enough for two people.
Extremely flavorful fried chicken includes wings and tenders that stand out. Meals often pair fried chicken with Mac and cheese or shrimp in bowls.
Good to know
Exotic Eats is BYOB, so bring your favorite drinks.
Expect short wait times during peak hours.
Portions are generous and prices are reasonable.
Cozy restaurant seating about 20 to 30 people offers a family-friendly vibe with welcoming atmosphere and good energy. Soul food dishes like oxtails, cornbread, and catfish stand out for their authentic taste. Freshly made meals create a genuine soul food experience enjoyed by many.
Oxtails here are mostly fall off the bone tender with reasonable pricing. Some batches taste boiled and lack proper seasoning or browning.
Crispy perfection defines the fried chicken here, with a well seasoned and not overly salty flavor. It arrives freshly fried and never greasy, making it a standout snack or meal component.
Good to know
Eileen’s specializes in catering for holidays and parties.
The menu includes seasoned rice, fried chicken, mac and cheese, potato salad, collard greens, cinnamon yams, and banana pudding.
The portions are generous.
Modern Jamaican restaurant blends warm, relaxing atmosphere with awesome music and a friendly vibe. It offers authentic Caribbean dishes with a variety of flavorful options like oxtails and curry goat. Clean space supports a casual, neighborhood dining experience.
Oxtails come out flavorful and tasty every time. They pair well with rice and peas, cabbage, and beef patty for a solid meal.
Flavorful and always delicious, the fried chicken stands out with its rich taste. It pairs well with the oxtails, making it a favorite choice.
Good to know
The restaurant offers a variety of authentic Jamaican dishes.
Prices are very fair and portions are generous.
The place is clean and well-maintained.
Soul food restaurant offers authentic Southern comfort food with a relaxing, friendly atmosphere created by warm staff. The space feels comfy and inviting despite lacking distinctive decor. Regulars enjoy crispy fried chicken and flavorful sides that capture traditional Southern flavors.
Tender oxtails come served over rice alongside chopped jerked turkey wings. Oxtail soup offers a rich, hearty option, and oxtails paired with yams provide a comforting dish.
Crispy fried chicken stands out with a great flavor and texture. Pairing it with collard greens is a common choice that complements the meal well.
Good to know
The food is cooked fresh, so expect a wait time for your order.
Dootsie's Kitchen is family-owned and serves authentic southern soul food.
Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure seating.
Small space offers a modernized mom-and-pop vibe with authentic Caribbean hospitality. Atmosphere feels comfortable and lively, creating a memorable dining experience. Generous portions of well-seasoned Jamaican dishes draw a steady crowd seeking genuine flavors.
Generous portions of tender oxtails come in rich gravy. The meat is well-seasoned and melts in your mouth.
Fried chicken comes out well-cooked and flavorful. It pairs well with other dishes like jerk chicken and Escovitch red snapper.
Good to know
The restaurant offers generous portions that are worth the price.
Expect a clean and inviting atmosphere when you visit.
There is a special deal for oxtail: buy one and get soup free.
Small soul food restaurant with chalkboard menu and limited seating offers a warm, inviting atmosphere with friendly energy. The space feels clean and cozy, attracting those seeking hearty Caribbean and soul food flavors.
Oxtails fall off the bone and carry a herb-infused flavor. They come with classic sides like mac and cheese and collard greens.
Crunchy texture matches Popeye's style with perfect seasoning and no need for ketchup. Fried chicken stays crisp without leaving fingers greasy, showing fresh cooking and care.
Good to know
They have parking in the back, accessible via Parker from Springdale.
The restaurant only accepts cash payments, so bring cash to avoid fees.
Portion sizes are generous, often enough for multiple meals.
Small dining area fills with 90s throwback music and a warm, welcoming vibe that encourages conversation and dancing. Decor blends modern tropical elements with a cozy, intimate setting. Staff energy and live singing create a heartfelt, lively atmosphere.
Oxtails come freshly cooked and pair well with sides like collard greens and yams. They appear in dishes like lo mein and platters with turkey wings, offering rich, savory flavors.
Freshly cooked pieces ensure the fried chicken is thoroughly done and hot. The chicken comes with classic sides like collard greens and sweet potatoes, complementing the meal well.
Good to know
Madre & Son Soulfood Cafe only accepts cash, Zelle, and Cash App.
Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.
The restaurant often runs out of popular menu items early in the day.
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.
Crispy, hot, and well seasoned, the fried chicken tastes like it was made by a southern grandmother. The fries match the chicken's crispiness and heat.
Good to know
Parking is limited and can be difficult to find.
The menu is not always up-to-date, so check before ordering.
Expect a 20-minute wait for fresh empanadas after ordering.
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.
Fried chicken stands out with a crispy, flavorful crust that draws attention. It pairs well with cornbread and is often served alongside oxtail.
Good to know
Reservations are a must to get a table.
Brunch at House 157 Restaurant ends at 3 PM.
Expect a 30-minute wait to be seated during peak hours.
Soul food takeout spot with busy atmosphere and frequent hour-long waits. Offers flavorful fried chicken and fish, alongside moist collard greens and mac and cheese. Small location in a parking lot, known for beautiful presentation and specific warming instructions.
Oxtail appears in several dishes like oxtail fries and a rich oxtail stew. It also features in a burger that stands out among other hearty options.
Fried chicken comes out moist and flavorful, especially the wings. It pairs well with sides like collard greens and mac and cheese.
Good to know
The restaurant only offers takeout; no dine-in service available.
Expect long wait times, especially on busy days like Father's Day.
Catering services are available for events, including setup and cleanup.
BBQ pit outside fills the air with smoky aroma, setting a rustic outdoor vibe. Spacious interior feels homey and cozy, with friendly staff adding warmth. Complimentary popcorn and prayer mats offer thoughtful touches.
Oxtail comes fall-off-the-bone tender and packed with rich flavor. The saltiness is well balanced, and the smoked version delivers a smoooookin taste.
Country fried chicken comes with a light, crunchy coating and a mild spice level. Deep fried chicken wings get a smoked flavor before frying, adding a unique taste.
Good to know
Reservations must be made in person due to phone and online issues.
An 18% gratuity is added to bills without prior notice.
Brisket sells out quickly, so arrive early to ensure availability.
Cozy space with authentic Jamaican vibes and a home-cooked meal atmosphere. Background plays classic reggae music, and a lounge offers live weekend performances. Friendly energy fills the place, making it feel like a small Jamaican eatery.
Oxtail dishes come tender and flavorful, often served as sliders with special sauce and peppers on a buttery bun. Meals include oxtail with rice and peas, mac and cheese, and jerk chicken, delivering a rich, hearty taste.
Fried chicken comes well seasoned with a dry texture. It stands out as a very good option here.
Good to know
Event space is available for private gatherings and can accommodate large groups.
The location features a Jamaican market selling freshly made juices and unique ice cream flavors.
Oxtail patties are priced at $8 each, while beef patties cost $4 each.
Small dining area with four tables focuses mainly on take-out service. Atmosphere is casual with affordable prices and excellent portion sizes. Known for best fried chicken and chicken and waffles with a Caribbean soul food style.
Large oxtail dishes come with candied yams and mac n cheese. The oxtail is flavorful but could be cooked longer for more tenderness. Fried wings often accompany the oxtail and add to the meal.
Fresh fried chicken wings stand out with a crispy texture and delicious flavor that many enjoy at gatherings. Some fried chicken can be old and hard, but the fresh options are preferred.
Good to know
Natural Start is take-out only, so plan accordingly.
Call in advance as it gets busy, especially on weekends.
Expect longer wait times during peak hours.