El Palmar Restaurant
If you're ever in the mood for delicious, authentic Cuban cuisine in the heart of Elizabeth, New Jersey, El Palmar Restaurant is the place to be. Located at 523 Elizabeth Ave, this cozy gem offers a vibrant atmosphere and a menu that will transport you straight to the Caribbean with each bite.
One of the standout features of El Palmar Restaurant is its unbeatable selection of Cuban dishes. Whether you're craving something savory, sweet, or a little bit of both, there's something on the menu for everyone. A local favorite is the Cuban Sandwich, a classic made with tender roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, all pressed to perfection. The combination of flavors is nothing short of mouthwatering.
If you're in the mood for something more substantial, try the Costillas De Res a La Plancha—succulent beef ribs grilled just right, offering a smoky, juicy experience. Pair it with a side of Maduros, sweet fried plantains that provide the perfect balance to the richness of the dish. For those craving a hearty protein, the Chicken Steak is a must-try, served hot and flavorful with every bite. And don’t forget the Oxtails—tender, fall-off-the-bone meat that’s cooked slowly to perfection, making it a comforting dish you’ll want to come back for time and time again.
Beyond the food, El Palmar Restaurant boasts a warm and welcoming atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for family gatherings, casual dinners, or even a quick lunch with friends. The flavors are bold, the portions generous, and the experience unforgettable.
No matter what you're in the mood for, El Palmar Restaurant delivers a true taste of Cuban culture right in Elizabeth. Whether you're a long-time Cuban cuisine lover or a newcomer looking to explore, this spot will definitely leave you coming back for more.
I've been going to El Palmar for a while and it's still my favorite place to go to for Puerto Rican food in the area. This is a small family owned place on the super popular Elizabeth Avenue. Parking can be difficult to obtain - so be prepared to search. The owner, Eddie, is very nice and always greets his customers if he happens to be in the dining area (and he usually is, from my experience). This is a no-frills kinda place. Place mats are paper, napkins are grabbed from a dispenser, and utensils come in a paper package. If you're like me and care less about the particulars and more about the food, you won't be disappointed here. I am a mofongo lover. Mofongo all day, please. I really enjoy the mofongo here and I prefer it to other places in the area. This place is also one of the few Caribbean places in the area that serve jibaritos. A jibarito is a sandwich that can come with either chicken or steak, but instead of bread, it's nestled in between two thick pieces of platano (not the sweet ones). Yum, yum, yum! I was so happy to find that menu item because it's a favorite of mine. You can find the typical Puerto Rican/Cuban fare here. Rice and beans, bistec, pollo guisado - you can even find puerto rican pasteles and other cuchifrito type food like pastelillos and alcapurias. Waitresses speak both English and Spanish (so does the owner), so English only folks will have no problem getting what they want here. El Palmar is an Old Elizabeth favorite that many people have been visiting over the years. In the past few years, some changes have been made, but it still remains a staple here in Elizabeth. They even offer delivery service now, which is a huge bonus!