Best Union City Cuban?

[MJP]

OK, I sincerely hope this doesn't ignite a flame war, but here goes.

I want to introduce my girlfriend to really good Cuban food. I've been to Mi Bandera and Las Palmas in Union City in the past, but that's been more than 10ish years ago.

What's a good place to take her to? She's not a big red-meat fan, but she adores seafood. I'm game for anything, so long as the restaurant does good chicharrones (a must-have, I miss these worse-for-you-than-bacon delights).

Edit: having a good ropa vieja is an insta-win for me

Edited May 4, 2007 by MJP (log)

[jwjojo]

I used to live down there, have not been to the Cuban places in quite sometime..but...my friends still go to Mi Bandera at 518 32nd St., Union City. They have a hispanic grocery and bakery, and the restaurant is on top. It has been there for years.

[Curlz]

La Isla in Hoboken. Yes, REALLY!! No atmosphere, waiting lines, GREAT ropa vieja, soup, black beans, maduros... It's on Washington Street between 1st and 2nd.

[tommy]

i'm curious, MJP, why would this case a flame war?

curlz, when you say "waiting lines" you mean that to eat at La Isla one has to generally wait a painfully long time, no? yes?

[jwjojo]

La Isla has long waits on the weekends especially...they only have a few tables and a counter. I like their food as well, although the last time was just okay. Not sure if it is the same chef. Curlz, try this Casual Cuban restaurant. Not as ecclectic a menu, but I think you will like it.

[Curlz]

curlz, when you say "waiting lines" you mean that to eat at La Isla one has to generally wait a painfully long time, no? yes?

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Definitely on the weekends (esp for brunch), but I've encountered the same thing at lunch on weekdays!

[Josefinajoisey]

La Gran Via, 39th and Bergenline. The best empanadas, hands down, mofongo, ropa vieja....moro....I love it all. Very small, walk in the back for the small dining area for sit down service. They have a liquor license, too.