Barrio Costero, Asbury Park, NJ

Tasty Tacos: Mexican Restaurants in New Jersey

Whether you’re looking for the perfect spot to celebrate #TacoTuesday or just seeking out some of the best Mexican restaurants in New Jersey, these flavorful picks are sure to satisfy your taco cravings.

 

Coastal Mexican cuisine comes to life at the trendy Barrio Costero in Asbury Park, where upscale, seasonal ingredients comprise the colorful dishes. The innovative “Veg” taco features jackfruit al pastor, smoked watermelon and mojo sauce, while the “Pescado” taco changes with the fish of the day, roasted red pepper salsa and lemon crema. Pair it all with a handcrafted cocktail made from specialty spirits. Barrio Costero offers Taco Tuesday deals (such as two tacos and one margarita for $12), but be sure to check their Facebook page for the most up-to-date information, as deals can change frequently. 

 

With twinkling lights and hand-painted murals, Los Amigos Restaurant & Bar is a charming retreat that was voted Best Tequila & Rum Bar in Atlantic City Weekly's Reader's Choice 2018 Nightlife Awards. Order a specialty margarita and pair it with your choice of tacos, whether you’re craving BBQ pork tacos, Baja fish tacos or one of the vegan specialty tacos, such as corn tortillas filled with chili-beer marinated mushrooms, guacamole, ancho chili relish and more.

 

Whether you’re stopping here for happy hour, a boozy brunch or a fun dinner with friends, Órale Mexican Kitchen in Jersey City has plenty to enjoy. Start out with barbecue pork nachos piled high with toppings, and then take your pick from 10 different kinds of tacos, from seared tuna to roasted bone marrow. On Taco Tuesdays, pay with cash to receive 50% off tacos. 

 

At La Fortaleza Restaurante in Garfield, first choose whether you want corn or flour tortillas, and then take your pick from fillings, whether you’re craving vegetarian (veggies or cactus) or meat-filled (everything from steak to chorizo) tacos. Finish off your meal with authentic desserts like fried ice cream, flan or tres leches cake.

 

With its bright, colorful décor and flavorful dishes, Riviera Maya Mexican Restaurant in Rockaway feels like a trip to the tropics. Fill up on the Tacos Placeros dish: five street-style tacos filled with your choice of meat—everything from barbacoa de Borrego (tender roasted lamb) to al pastor (marinated grilled pork) and more. On Taco Tuesdays, score $2 tacos: your choice of chicken or ground beef.

 

Fresh seafood is the main draw at the coastal-inspired Surf Taco in Point Pleasant Beach. Go for the signature “Surf Taco” (tempura-battered cod topped with pico de gallo, shredded cabbage, white cilantro sauce and a squeeze of lime), or take your pick from a number of other seafood taco options: blackened mahi mahi, garlic shrimp, salmon and more.

 

In a colorful building surrounded by sandy beaches and oceanfront views, Key West Tacos in Cape May has a breezy, coastal vibe and cuisine to match. Take a seat on one of the outdoor picnic tables and savor flavorful tacos stuffed with everything from lump crab to blackened fish to ahi tuna topped with pineapple salsa.

 

When you don’t feel like leaving the house, La China Poblana in East Brunswick will deliver all of your Mexican food cravings to your doorstep. Order your fill of tacos—carne asada, carnitas, al pastor and many other tacos are on the menu—as well as fajitas, tostadas, tortas and more.