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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Hackensack

Authentic spots

Somewhere serving authentic meals that prioritize tradition over catering to a tourist palate.

Based on 776 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Shami Falafel image 1
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Mediterranean restaurant

Small, casual Mediterranean spot shines with authentic Syrian spices in falafel and shawarma. Family-owned and women-operated, it offers a quiet, homey atmosphere with bright lighting and simple decor. Food is fresh and made with care and kindness, focusing on quality over speed.

Falafel features authentic Syrian spices and herbs that deliver a fresh, genuine taste. Shawarma and Shawafel offer flavors more authentic than traditional home recipes.

People are saying

"The chicken shawarma here is delicious and tastes authentic."

"The Mediterranean food here, especially the falafel, is so fresh and crunchy."

"The food here tastes truly authentic and fresh."

Good to know

1

Parking is available right in front of the restaurant.

2

Orders can take some time to prepare, so calling ahead is recommended.

3

There are only four tables, so seating might be limited during busy times.

02
PingYang Thai NJ image 1
Thai restaurant

Small corner spot offers authentic Thai flavors with fresh ingredients and perfect seasoning. Cozy, warehouse-like vibe feels like a family kitchen. Large portions and reasonable prices make it a great value.

Dishes showcase authentic Thai flavors with fresh ingredients and perfect seasoning. The pad se ewe and Thai iced tea stand out for their genuine taste and quality.

People are saying

"The Pad Thai here is seasoned so well and bursting with flavor."

"The authentic flavors here are bursting with freshness and perfect spice."

"The takeout food here is amazing and still steaming."

Good to know

1

Parking is free after 6:00 pm in the nearby municipal lot.

2

Online ordering is available and easy to navigate.

3

Pick-up is done in a test kitchen with food waiting in lockers.

03
Café Baires image 1
Coffee shop

Spacious coffee shop offers a dog-friendly environment and comfortable seating for work or relaxation. Pastries and empanadas provide authentic flavors with high quality. Alfajor and iced latte shine with genuine ingredients and original taste.

Pastries and empanadas deliver authentic flavors with impeccable quality. The alfajor and iced latte also stand out for their original, authentic taste made with care and genuine ingredients.

People are saying

"The coffee here is excellent and really tasty."

"It's a really cozy place with a unique atmosphere."

"It's like a little taste of Argentina with authentic flavors."

Good to know

1

Credit card payments incur an extra $10 charge.

2

Café Baires is dog friendly and welcomes pets.

3

They bake everything in-house, ensuring fresh pastries daily.

04
Sparta Eats image 1
Greek restaurant

Simple, clean space with a quiet atmosphere welcomes guests. Offers authentic Greek dishes with fresh, flavorful ingredients and some non-traditional options. Located in a strip plaza with ample parking and a broad menu beyond typical takeout.

Food offers delicious and authentic Greek flavors. Authentic Greek dishes stand out in an area where such options are rare.

People are saying

"The Greek food here, especially the gyros and fries, tasted just like Greece."

"The food here is amazing and always fresh."

"I found the food delicious and authentic, full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Food is ready in about 12 minutes from order to pickup.

2

Prices are reasonable, averaging around $12.95 for a gyro.

3

The menu offers a broad range of Greek food options.

05
Hot Fish image 1
Sichuan restaurant

Cozy spot serves authentic Sichuan flavors with dishes true to China. Comfortable seating supports easy conversation in a clean, refreshing space. BYOB option adds flexibility for dressed-up nights or family meals.

Offers a truly authentic Szechuan dining experience with dishes that closely resemble meals from China. The food is delicious and fairly priced, complemented by interesting decor that fits the cuisine.

People are saying

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

"I tried the boiled fish in hot chili oil; it was authentic Chinese."

"I found the Szechuan food here to be truly authentic."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is BYOB, so bring your own alcohol.

2

They offer promotions throughout the week.

3

Hot Fish has a variety of lunch specials with a choice of entree and a soup or soda.

06
Greek Island Grill image 1
Greek restaurant

Small, cozy spot with authentic Greek cuisine and a warm, inviting atmosphere like Santorini. White decor and a faux fireplace add charm while Greek music and concerts on TV boost the vibe. Guests enjoy downtown views perfect for casual people watching.

Greek cuisine here offers authentic flavors that capture traditional recipes. The atmosphere feels warm and inviting, resembling a meal in Santorini.

People are saying

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

"I thought their gyros were among the best Greek food I've had."

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

Good to know

1

Parking is conveniently located in the back of the restaurant.

2

The restaurant offers quick bites like gyro wraps and sit-down options.

3

The restaurant is BYOB, so bring your favorite drinks.

07
Dim Sum Station image 1
Dim sum restaurant

Small, casual spot offers authentic HK style dim sum with high-quality ingredients. Bright, clean space feels homey despite fast-food tables. Food tastes fresh and true to tradition, serving the local community well.

Dim sum here captures authentic HK style with high-quality ingredients that taste very true to tradition. The food serves the local community with genuine flavors that often surpass expectations.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here is delicious and authentic."

"There's plenty of parking available right out front."

"The dim sum here tastes authentic, maybe even better than I remember."

Good to know

1

There is free parking available on-site.

2

Customers order at the counter and pick up their food themselves.

3

The restaurant has a no tip policy.

08
Mi Rancho Mexican Restaurant - Hackensack image 1

Small space offers authentic Mexican style with fresh, hot food and simple flavors. Cozy, casual vibe feels warm and welcoming. Generous portions come at affordable prices in a clean, quaint setting.

Food features fresh ingredients served hot with simple, genuine flavors. The interior and dishes reflect authentic Mexican style clearly.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is delicious, with homemade flavor."

"The complimentary chips and salsa tasted very fresh."

"I loved the delicious, authentic Mexican food here."

Good to know

1

Mi Rancho is a BYOB restaurant, so bring your own drinks.

2

Expect a 15% extra fee for seating during busy hours.

3

Parking can be limited, so plan accordingly.

09
Bangkok Garden Restaurant image 1

Interior features traditional Thai decor with authentic pictures, creating a cozy vibe. Food offers authentic Thai flavors rich in Asian comfort. Atmosphere stays chill but can be disrupted by loud pop music, balancing comfort with energy.

Dishes deliver authentic Thai flavors with rich, Asian comfort food qualities. Decor reflects the country's style, enhancing the genuine experience.

People are saying

"The Bangkok seafood dish was fresh and perfectly spiced."

"I tried the duck salad and it was fabulous."

"I found the authentic Thai food here to be really flavorful."

Good to know

1

Parking is best on the street behind the restaurant.

2

Expect small portion sizes for the price.

3

Happy hour offers great deals on drinks and appetizers.

10
Llama Sam Restaurant image 1

Small spot with authentic Peruvian flavor and homemade dishes offers a cozy vibe with intimate lighting and welcoming atmosphere. Music and decor add to the genuine experience, making it feel like dining with friends.

Dishes deliver authentic Peruvian flavor with freshly prepared and homemade taste. The atmosphere and food combine to create a genuine Peruvian dining experience.

People are saying

"The Peruvian food here is authentic and incredibly flavorful."

"It's a small but really cozy place."

"I found the authentic Peruvian food bursting with flavor."

Good to know

1

Llama Sam is BYOB, so bring your favorite drinks.

2

The restaurant offers affordable lunch specials.

3

Expect small portion sizes relative to the prices.

11
Sari's Kitchen Restaurant image 1
Ecuadorian restaurant

Ecuadorian restaurant offers authentic flavors with traditional dishes served in large portions. Ecuadorian music fills the lively space, making it perfect for families seeking genuine culture.

Authentic Ecuadorian food stands out with traditional flavors and genuine recipes. The place gives off strong authentic vibes throughout.

People are saying

"The food here is really quality and tasty."

"The ceviche here is flavorful and not overly sour."

"I found the authentic Ecuadorian food here to be really quality and tasty."

Good to know

1

Expect wait times of 45 to 55 minutes for a table.

2

Portions are large and generous, often enough for sharing.

3

Prices are reasonable, with meals averaging around $18.

12
Choripan Rodizio image 1
Argentinian restaurant

Rustic space with wood fired grill and Argentinian decor creates a warm, lively vibe. Grilled asado offers authentic flavors like a true home meal. Family-friendly atmosphere buzzes with soccer and tango, paired with smooth, fruity sangria.

Grilled asado delivers authentic Argentinian flavors with perfectly cooked meat and a unique taste. The experience feels like a true Argentinian home meal with beautifully presented dishes.

People are saying

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

"The beef and chicken empanadas are so crisp and flavorful."

"The grilled meat here has an authentic Argentine flavor and is perfectly cooked."

Good to know

1

Expect a 40-minute wait time during peak hours.

2

Parking can be challenging; plan to arrive early.

3

Reservations are recommended for larger groups.

13
Galápagos Ecuadorian Cuisine image 1
Ecuadorian restaurant

Simple, cozy space with cultural decor and an open kitchen. Authentic Ecuadorian dishes offer genuine traditional recipes. Homey vibe with a crowd of Ecuadorian locals makes it feel welcoming and clean.

Dishes deliver authentic Ecuadorian flavor that feels true to the cuisine. Every plate reflects genuine traditional recipes from Ecuador.

People are saying

"I loved the delicious, authentic Ecuadorian food here."

"The authentic Ecuadorian cuisine here brings me right back home."

"The empanadas here are fresh and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has been recently renovated, providing a fresh dining atmosphere.

2

Self-service seating is available, or staff can direct you to a table.

3

Expect large portion sizes, making it a good value for your money.

14
Pupuseria Las Americas image 1
Salvadoran restaurant

Small, cozy spot serves authentic pupusas with perfect seasoning. Locals love the reasonable prices and clean, intimate setting. Well-balanced curtido and salsa complete the genuine Salvadoran experience.

Pupusas offer amazing flavor and a truly authentic taste. Salvadorean friends confirm the genuine preparation.

People are saying

"The pupusas here are perfectly seasoned with amazing flavor."

"I enjoyed the tamales and pupusas here."

"I loved the pupusas; they were delicious and well-filled."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is small but offers a cozy atmosphere.

2

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food served.

3

Pupusas are available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

15
El Alazan Bar Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican-style decorations create a quirky setting with a calm oasis vibe. Fresh ingredients bring authentic flavors true to tradition. Live music and karaoke add spectacular entertainment, while the bar offers 2-for-1 margaritas to complete the experience.

Food features fresh ingredients and authentic Mexican flavors in every dish. The menu consistently delivers genuine tastes true to traditional recipes.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

"The karaoke here creates a super cool atmosphere."

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

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers buy one, get one free margaritas every Thursday.

2

Taco Tuesday features half-off tacos, making it a popular choice.

3

Karaoke is available every day, perfect for a fun night out.

16
Prince Taqueria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Bright lighting and colorful decor with luchador masks create a lively vibe. Tacos offer authentic flavor with fresh ingredients. Seating is ample in a clean, comfortable space perfect for enjoying halal Mexican food.

Tacos deliver authentic flavor with fresh ingredients. The food offers a delicious, genuine taste true to Mexican roots.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and always fresh."

"The birria tacos here are outstanding and among the best I've had."

"The food here tastes authentic and has great flavor."

Good to know

1

All food is halal, catering to dietary restrictions.

2

The prices are very reasonable for the portion sizes.

3

Street parking is available nearby.

17
Thai Palace by DAO image 1
Thai restaurant

Thai restaurant inside a supermarket serves authentic recipes with tender meats and flavorful curries. Portions are generous and prices offer solid value. Atmosphere is casual and straightforward, perfect for genuine Thai food lovers.

Food here stays true to traditional Thai flavors with authentic recipes and careful preparation. Dishes avoid localization, offering a genuine taste experience.

People are saying

"The food portions here are so generous, especially the Pad Thai."

"The food here is authentic and so good."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is located inside 99 Ranch supermarket in Hackensack.

2

Expect generous portion sizes; four items per order is typical.

3

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food offered.

18
Brooklyn's Brick Oven Pizzeria image 1

Coal fire brick oven creates perfectly charred crust on pizzas with homemade cheese. Stone walls and red checked tablecloths add to the authentic Italian vibe. Frank Sinatra jazz music sets a nostalgic tone that draws a lively neighborhood crowd.

Pizza features homemade cheese and a perfectly charred crust. The atmosphere feels authentic Italian with a good vibe and attentive service.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was the best in America."

"It feels like an old-school NYC neighborhood spot with authentic charm."

"The staff here is excellent with kids."

Good to know

1

The pizzeria accepts only cash payments.

2

They don’t have an ATM on site.

3

Pizza toppings cost almost $3.00 each.

19
Noches de Colombia Hackensack image 1
Colombian restaurant

Large indoor space shines with live Colombian music and festive decorations. Food offers authentic Colombian flavor with generous portions and unique twists. Perfect for family dinners or romantic nights with a lively weekend dance floor.

Food delivers authentic Colombian flavor with generous portions and a unique twist. Coffee serves as authentic Colombian coffee, complementing the overall flavorful and perfectly prepared dishes.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

"The live music here really creates a great atmosphere."

"The food here is authentic, full of flavor, and delicious."

Good to know

1

The New Year's Eve party features live entertainment and a festive atmosphere.

2

Reservations are recommended for special events like New Year's Eve.

3

Live music is available on Friday nights, enhancing the dining experience.

20
99 Ranch Market image 1
Asian grocery store

Spacious aisles showcase authentic Asian groceries and fresh produce. Shoppers enjoy a clean environment with a well-organized layout. Food court offers authentic dishes and a bakery for diverse tastes.

Shelves hold a vast selection of authentic Asian groceries from various countries. Fresh produce, seafood, and ingredients for Asian cooking fill the aisles.

People are saying

"This Asian grocery store has a huge and diverse selection of authentic items."

"The seafood here is so fresh and varied."

"I found so many authentic Asian grocery items here."

Good to know

1

99 Ranch Market offers a wide selection of fresh Asian groceries.

2

The seafood section is known to be the best in the area.

3

Parking is convenient, but limited spots are available during peak hours.

21
Tikka Shack Indian Grub image 1
Indian restaurant

Open layout and modern design create a spacious environment with calm vibes and great music for a relaxed meal. Groups enjoy authentic Indian flavors with a creative twist. Chicken 65 is a standout dish when ordered hot or extra spicy for true authenticity.

Food offers authentic Indian flavors with a modern and creative twist. Chicken 65 stands out when ordered hot or extra spicy for a more genuine taste.

People are saying

"The food here is so fresh and delicious."

"This Indian food is authentic, creative, and bursting with flavor."

"The food here is authentic, fresh, and truly chef's kiss."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a special or deal on Tuesdays.

2

They have a Wednesday meal special of wings, fries, and a drink for $12.

3

Parking is available in the back of the building.

22
Villa de Colombia image 1
Colombian restaurant

Space blends Colombian cultural displays with a modern, cozy setting. Food serves authentic Colombian flavors like papa rellenas and beef empanadas. Dining areas are spacious and clean, perfect for calm, meaningful conversations with family and friends.

Food offers authentic Colombian flavors with a home-style touch. Dishes reflect traditional recipes and genuine preparation.

People are saying

"I loved the authentic Colombian food; it tasted like home."

"I enjoyed the empanadas; they were a dream come true."

"This Lunch Spot's food is so delicious and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers lunch and dinner specials Monday through Thursday.

2

Parking is available onsite, but the lot is small.

3

The restaurant is BYOB, allowing guests to bring their own alcohol.

23
Parathas & Platters image 1
Indian restaurant

Modern interior with beautiful wall art creates a cozy vibe. Freshly made alloo paratha offers authentic Pakistani flavors. Parking behind the restaurant ensures easy access for visitors.

Freshly made alloo paratha and puri come straight from scratch, giving the food a homemade and authentic taste. The overall vibe feels welcoming and true to Pakistani cuisine.

People are saying

"I found the authentic desi food here to be awesome and reasonably priced."

"I found the crispy chicken sandwich perfectly seasoned and golden."

"The fresh, homemade parathas here taste truly authentic."

Good to know

1

There is free parking in the back.

2

Wait times could be an issue during rush hours.

3

The prices on the menu when I scanned the QR code are not up to date.

24
Albert’s Mofongo image 1
Latin American restaurant

Latin American restaurant offers a clean, welcoming space with perfectly balanced music. Dominican dishes bring authentic flavor with naturally cooked meals. Mofongo stands out as a spot on choice reflecting true Dominican cuisine.

Dominican dishes come with authentic flavor and are cooked naturally. The menu features spot on choices that reflect true Dominican cuisine, especially the perfectly prepared mofongo.

People are saying

"The mofongo food here is out of this world, especially the shrimp."

"The buffet's dishes were all flavorful and cooked perfectly."

"The food here is delicious and has an authentic Dominican flavor."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times during peak hours.

2

The restaurant is BYOB, so bring your favorite drinks.

3

A 20% gratuity is automatically added for parties of two or more.

25
Sara & Sophia Restaurante image 1
Ecuadorian restaurant

Spacious Ecuadorian restaurant offers cozy atmosphere with Latin music. Traditional dishes like Fanesca bring authentic flavors. Warm decor invites family and friends to enjoy a genuine Latin experience.

Ecuadorean dishes show traditional flavors and Latin warmth in the atmosphere. Fanesca stands out as a classic Ecuadorian dish served authentically.

People are saying

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

"You have to try the encebollado with fish and potato chunks."

"The Ecuadorian dishes here are so authentic and bursting with flavor."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging due to limited paid street parking on the main street.

2

The restaurant closes at 8 pm on Saturdays.

3

There is an automatic 18% tip and a 3% convenience charge for credit card payments.

26
Blaze on Fire Restaurant & Grill image 1

Modern Peruvian spot offers authentic flavors with fresh, generous dishes. Bright, cozy space feels inviting and elegant. Full ceviche and Nikkei bar plus TVs showing soccer create a lively, genuine vibe.

Authentic Peruvian flavors shine through every dish, prepared fresh and served in generous portions. The cozy, warm ambiance adds to the inviting atmosphere for a genuine experience.

People are saying

"The food here is flavorful, creative, and delicious."

"I loved their Peruvian-style sushi with amazing flavor combinations."

"The food here tastes just like Peru, full of authentic flavor."

Good to know

1

Parking is free in the back of the restaurant.

2

Blaze is BYOB, so bring your favorite drinks.

3

An 18% service fee is automatically added to your bill.

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Hackensack, New Jersey

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