The 10 Best Tex-Mex Restaurants In New Jersey You Can’t Miss

Tex-Mex in New Jersey? Oh yes, and it’s hotter than a jalapeño in July.

These restaurants sling tacos so good they should come with a warning label. Burritos here are basically edible sleeping bags stuffed with joy.

Nachos? They’re piled higher than your weekend laundry.

Fajitas arrive sizzling like they just walked off a red-carpet premiere.

Queso flows like liquid gold, and saying no to it should be considered a crime.

Guacamole is so fresh it might still be texting its avocado friends.

Every bite is a fiesta, and the only thing missing is a mariachi band following you home.

Forget the diet, New Jersey’s Tex-Mex scene is proof that happiness really does come wrapped in a tortilla.

1. Jose Tejas, New Jersey

Walking into Jose Tejas feels like stepping into someone’s well-loved home where the food never stops coming. The energy hits you right away with the sounds of laughter, clinking plates, and the unmistakable sizzle of fajitas making their way through the dining room.

I’ve been here more times than I can count, and the consistency is what keeps me coming back. Their portions are absolutely massive, which means you’ll likely leave with leftovers for tomorrow’s lunch.

The blackened chicken is my personal favorite because it’s got this perfect char on the outside while staying juicy inside, and when you pile it onto a warm tortilla with their fresh pico de gallo, it’s pure magic.

What really sets this place apart is how they balance flavor without overwhelming your taste buds. Everything tastes fresh, from the guacamole they make throughout the day to the rice and beans that come with most dishes.

The staff moves fast but never makes you feel rushed, even when there’s a line out the door on weekends.

Families love this spot because kids can find something they’ll actually eat, while adults appreciate the bold flavors and generous margarita pours. The atmosphere is casual enough that you can show up in jeans and a t-shirt, but lively enough that it feels like a proper night out.

If you’re in the Iselin area and craving Tex-Mex that won’t disappoint, this is your spot.

Address: 700 US-1, Iselin, NJ 08830

2. Orale Mexican Kitchen, New Jersey

Jersey City’s food scene keeps getting better, and Orale Mexican Kitchen is proof that quality Tex-Mex can thrive in an urban setting. Tucked along Grove Street, this spot brings a modern twist to classic dishes without losing the soul that makes Tex-Mex so satisfying.

The first time I tried their tacos, I was genuinely impressed by how they managed to keep things simple yet flavorful. Fresh ingredients make all the difference here, and you can taste it in every bite.

Their carnitas are fall-apart tender, and the salsa verde has just enough kick to wake up your palate without setting your mouth on fire.

What I appreciate most is how they’ve created a space that works for different occasions. You can grab a quick lunch at the counter or settle in for a longer dinner with friends.

The vibe is relaxed and welcoming, with colorful touches that remind you you’re eating Mexican food without going overboard on the stereotypical decor.

Their quesadillas deserve a special mention because the cheese-to-filling ratio is absolutely perfect. Nothing’s worse than biting into a quesadilla that’s all tortilla and no substance, but Orale gets it right every time.

The prices are reasonable considering the quality and the location, which makes it easy to become a regular.

If you’re exploring Jersey City and need a satisfying meal that won’t weigh you down, stop by and see what they’re cooking up.

Address: 341 Grove St, Jersey City, NJ 07302

3. Edison Tex-Mex Deli, New Jersey

Sometimes the best food comes from the most unassuming places, and Edison Tex-Mex Deli is exactly that kind of hidden gem. Don’t let the word “deli” fool you into thinking this is just sandwiches and chips.

This place serves up legitimate Tex-Mex that rivals spots with fancier names and higher prices. I stumbled upon it while running errands in Edison and decided to grab lunch on a whim, and I’m so glad I did.

The menu is straightforward, focusing on the classics done right rather than trying to reinvent the wheel.

Their burritos are absolutely stuffed, wrapped tight so nothing falls out when you take that first bite. I went with the chicken burrito and was blown away by how much flavor they packed into it.

The rice is seasoned perfectly, the beans are creamy, and everything comes together in a way that makes you slow down and savor each bite.

The casual atmosphere means you can pop in wearing whatever, grab your food, and either eat there or take it to go. Service is quick and friendly, with staff who clearly care about what they’re putting out.

Prices are incredibly fair, especially considering how much food you get.

This isn’t a place you’ll find on fancy restaurant lists, but that’s part of its charm. It’s real, honest food made by people who know what they’re doing, and sometimes that’s exactly what you need.

Address: 2024 Woodbridge Ave, Edison, NJ 08817

4. Kitchen Tex-Mex, New Jersey

Red Bank has always been a foodie destination, and Kitchen Tex-Mex fits right into the town’s eclectic dining scene. The moment you walk in, you notice they’ve put thought into every detail, from the decor to the way they plate their dishes.

But don’t worry, this isn’t one of those places where style overshadows substance. The food here backs up the ambiance with flavors that feel both familiar and fresh.

I’ve tried several items on their menu, and each one showed care in preparation and presentation.

Their enchiladas are a standout, smothered in a rich sauce that’s got depth and complexity without being too heavy. The tortillas are soft, the filling is generous, and when you cut into them, everything stays together instead of falling apart into a messy pile.

That might seem like a small thing, but it shows attention to technique.

The staff here really knows their stuff and can guide you through the menu if you’re having trouble deciding. They’re friendly without being overbearing, checking in at just the right moments.

The restaurant attracts a mix of locals and visitors, creating an atmosphere that’s buzzing but not chaotic.

Portion sizes are satisfying without being excessive, which I actually appreciate because it means you can enjoy your meal without feeling overstuffed afterward. The location on Monmouth Street makes it easy to grab dinner here and then explore the rest of Red Bank’s shops and entertainment options.

Address: 31 Monmouth St, Red Bank, NJ 07701

5. Aby’s Mexican Restaurant, New Jersey

Aby’s Mexican Restaurant in Matawan has that neighborhood feel that makes you want to become a regular. It’s the kind of place where the owners remember your face after a couple visits and the food tastes like someone’s actually cooking with love.

I found this spot through a friend’s recommendation, and it’s become one of my go-to places when I’m in the area. The menu covers all the Tex-Mex classics you’d expect, but they also throw in some authentic Mexican dishes that show their roots.

Their fajitas arrive at your table still sizzling on a hot skillet, and the aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water.

What impressed me most was the freshness of everything. The vegetables in the fajitas are crisp and colorful, the meat is tender and well-seasoned, and the tortillas are warm and pliable.

They don’t skimp on the sides either, giving you plenty of rice, beans, sour cream, and guacamole to build your perfect bite.

The restaurant itself is cozy without feeling cramped, with just enough tables to create a comfortable dining experience. It’s great for families, couples, or even solo diners who just want a good meal.

Service is attentive and warm, making you feel welcome from the moment you step through the door.

Prices are reasonable, and the quality you get for what you pay makes it an excellent value. This is authentic, heartfelt cooking that doesn’t try to be something it’s not.

Address: 32 Main St, Matawan, NJ 07747

6. Casa Luna Mexican Cuisine, New Jersey

Casa Luna Mexican Cuisine in Somerville brings a touch of elegance to Tex-Mex dining without losing the comfort and warmth that makes this type of food so appealing. The name fits perfectly because there’s something almost romantic about the atmosphere they’ve created here.

I visited on a Friday evening, and the place had a great energy with couples enjoying date nights and groups of friends sharing appetizers. Their guacamole is made fresh and brought to your table in a traditional molcajete, which is not only delicious but also makes for a nice presentation.

The chunks of avocado are perfectly ripe, mixed with just the right amount of lime, cilantro, and tomato.

Their taco selection is impressive, offering different proteins and preparation styles that let you customize your meal. I went with the grilled fish tacos, and they were light yet satisfying, with a crispy slaw that added texture and a tangy sauce that tied everything together.

The tortillas tasted homemade, which elevated the entire dish.

Service here strikes a nice balance between attentive and giving you space to enjoy your meal. The staff clearly takes pride in what they serve, and they’re happy to make recommendations or accommodate dietary preferences.

The restaurant’s location on South Doughty Avenue makes it a nice stop if you’re exploring Somerville’s downtown area.

Casa Luna proves that Tex-Mex can be both comforting and refined, giving you that satisfied feeling without any of the stuffiness that sometimes comes with upscale dining.

Address: 30 S Doughty Ave, Somerville, NJ 08876

7. Mexico Grill, New Jersey

Mexico Grill in Watchung delivers straightforward, satisfying Tex-Mex that hits the spot every single time. There’s something to be said for consistency, and this place has it figured out.

Every visit feels familiar in the best way, with the same quality food and friendly service that keeps people coming back. Their combination platters are perfect if you can’t decide what you want because they let you sample a little bit of everything.

I usually go for the combo that includes an enchilada, taco, and tamale, which gives me a good variety of flavors and textures in one meal.

The enchiladas here are particularly good, with a sauce that’s got a nice depth of flavor from what tastes like a blend of chilies and spices. They’re not swimming in sauce, which I appreciate because it means you can actually taste the filling and the cheese.

Their chips and salsa are addictive, and I always end up eating way more than I should before my main course arrives.

The restaurant has a casual, no-frills vibe that makes it perfect for a quick lunch or an easy dinner. You won’t find fancy decor or trendy twists here, just solid Tex-Mex done the way it should be.

The portions are generous without being overwhelming, and the prices are fair for what you get.

Staff members are efficient and friendly, making sure your water glass stays full and checking in to see if you need anything. It’s the kind of place that becomes part of your regular rotation because you know exactly what you’re getting.

Address: 1680 US-22, Watchung, NJ 07069

8. La Colina Mexican Cantina, New Jersey

La Colina Mexican Cantina in Warren brings a festive energy that makes every meal feel like a little celebration. The name translates to “the hill,” and this place definitely sits at the top when it comes to creating a fun dining experience.

From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted with bright colors, cheerful music, and the mouthwatering smell of grilled meats and spices. I’ve been here for both lunch and dinner, and the atmosphere works well for either occasion.

Their menu is extensive, covering everything from traditional Tex-Mex favorites to more adventurous options that showcase authentic Mexican cooking techniques.

The chile relleno here deserves special recognition because it’s done properly, with a poblano pepper that’s roasted to perfection, stuffed with cheese, and covered in a light, fluffy egg batter. It’s rich and satisfying without being greasy, which can be hard to achieve with this dish.

Their rice and beans are flavorful side dishes rather than afterthoughts, seasoned well and cooked to the right consistency.

Service is upbeat and friendly, matching the overall vibe of the restaurant. The staff seems genuinely happy to be there, which always makes the dining experience better.

Portions are substantial, and the presentation shows that they care about how the food looks when it reaches your table.

La Colina strikes that perfect balance between fun and delicious, giving you a meal that tastes great while also creating memories worth sharing.

Address: 51 Mt Bethel Rd, Warren, NJ 07059

9. Norte 175, New Jersey

Norte 175 in Wharton represents the new wave of Tex-Mex restaurants that honor tradition while embracing creativity. The location on North Main Street makes it a convenient stop, and once you’re inside, you’ll notice they’ve created something special.

The restaurant’s design is clean and contemporary, with thoughtful touches that reference Mexican culture without relying on clichés. I came here expecting good food, but what I got exceeded those expectations.

Their tacos are built with care, using quality ingredients that shine through in every bite. The carne asada is perfectly seasoned and grilled, with a slight char that adds flavor without drying out the meat.

What sets Norte 175 apart is their willingness to experiment while still respecting the foundations of Tex-Mex cuisine. You’ll find familiar dishes prepared with a modern sensibility, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients when possible.

Their salsa selection is impressive, ranging from mild and fruity to seriously spicy, letting you customize your heat level.

The staff is knowledgeable and passionate about the food they’re serving, happy to explain dishes or suggest pairings. Service is professional but not stuffy, creating an environment where you feel comfortable whether you’re dressed up or keeping it casual.

Prices reflect the quality of ingredients and preparation, but they’re still reasonable for what you’re getting.

This is the kind of place that shows how Tex-Mex can evolve and grow while staying true to what makes it great in the first place.

Address: 175 N Main St, Wharton, NJ 07885

10. Tortuga’s Mexican Village, New Jersey

Tortuga’s Mexican Village in Princeton transports you to another place entirely, with decor and atmosphere that make you forget you’re in New Jersey. The theming here is done thoughtfully, creating an immersive experience without feeling like a tourist trap.

I’ve always appreciated restaurants that commit fully to their concept, and Tortuga’s does exactly that. Walking through the door feels like stepping into a small Mexican village, complete with architectural details and decorative elements that set the scene.

But the real star here is the food, which lives up to the promise of the atmosphere.

Their mole sauce is something I dream about between visits. It’s complex and rich, with layers of flavor that come from the traditional preparation method using chilies, chocolate, and spices.

Poured over tender chicken and served with rice and beans, it’s a dish that showcases the depth of Mexican cooking. The portions are generous, and everything arrives at your table hot and fresh.

What I love most about Tortuga’s is how it manages to be both a destination restaurant and a comfortable neighborhood spot. Families come here for special occasions, but you’ll also see Princeton locals stopping by for their regular fix.

The staff treats everyone like valued guests, providing attentive service that enhances the overall experience.

Whether you’re a Princeton resident or just passing through, Tortuga’s offers an authentic taste of Mexico that’s worth seeking out.

Address: 41 Leigh Ave, Princeton, NJ 08542