Jacqueline Aguilar
Food was appetizing here we ordered the chicken in garlic sauce and the chicken Milanese. The garlic chicken was savory and super flavorful with the garlic not being overpowering to the taste buds. The chicken Milanese had a lot topped on which didn’t really make the plate better or worse. For an appetizer, I tried a croqueta which was made perfectly. they give big portions of the protein and small sides of rice – good ratio to allow more room for the delicious food. service was efficient, prompt, & friendly. Ambiance was nicely decorated for a Cuban restaurant although the establishment is a little in the small side. Street parking can be difficult depending on the time. Overall great dining experience and will come be coming back.
… moreKEVIN
I’ve been a loyal customer of La Isla Downtown for two decades, and it remains one of my absolute favorite restaurants in Hoboken. The quality and taste have been consistently amazing all these years.
The food is always fantastic. They offer daily specials, and while you might see some repeat during the week, you can always count on fresh vegetables and delicious, high-quality meat. My personal, all-time favorite is the oxtail – it’s simply a must-try! The shrimp is also always incredibly fresh and perfectly cooked.
The staff is consistently friendly and welcoming. The outdoor seating consists of about six 4-person tables set up right on the street. It’s not a private patio but a more casual, open space, meaning people walking by are right there and can easily see what you’re enjoying. Despite it being windy sometimes, it’s a good option for outdoor dining, and the fact that it’s dog-friendly is a huge plus for us!
A couple of tips for new visitors: The restaurant is BYOB, so you can bring your favorite bottle of wine or beer to enjoy with your meal. Also, they don’t take reservations, so I recommend timing your visit to avoid a wait, as it’s a popular spot.
After 20 years, La Isla continues to be a place I highly recommend for authentic, delicious food and a wonderful dining experience.
… moreMadison Collins
Their chicken noodle soup is heaven in a deli container. I have been so sick and the spices and rich broth was truly heavenly for my throat. La Isla’s food is always delicious but I had to make a post about their soup!
… moreShako Liu
Who would have thought you could find a delicious Cuban diner in the midst of Hoboken? Not me! So this is such a pleasant surprise. The food is good, and the vibe is better! I love the traditional diner vibe indoors with so many Cuban decorations!
… moreCindy Chiu
Fun diner atmosphere, excellent Cuban food. For appetizers, we split the shrimp ceviche and montaditos, which is a surf and turf like combo of chorizo, spinach and shrimp on top of a crispy tostone. The montadito was unique and really hit the spot as I was starving.
For mains, we had churrasco, pescado frito and ropa veija. All the dishes were delicious and filling, with plenty of fried plantains and arroz leftover.
Service was amazing too, made it a special evening out for a birthday celebration.
… moreCharles Frederick
Fantastic cuban restaurant with amazing sauces, delicious tender meat and fresh flavorful vegetables. I have loved this place every time I come here! Service is fast and friendly too.
… moreLauren
Delicious! Came here for brunch over the weekend, and it did not disappoint. Frankly, the food tasted much better than I expected based on the reviews and other photos. It’s a small restaurant, so make sure you come early to get a table. With that said, the service is very quick so you likely would not have a long wait for a table. The staff were not particularly friendly, but the food was delicious and very hearty. So, you will definitely leave full.
… moreAlexandra Kane
Came here for breakfast while staying in Hoboken. It’s a small spot but great vibes and music. We sat at the counter and were greeted quickly. We didn’t try the coffee as we had some beforehand, but ordered some entrees. I had the tortilla española, which was delicious and full of potato and chorizo. My friend had huevos rancheros which came out looking great, but unfortunately it wasn’t very warm. Still had good flavor. The pecan wood smoked bacon is must! Would come back, especially for a Cuban coffee!
… moreKarol Andino
Small place but delicious food and amazing service. Get ready to wait in line since space is small (that makes it cozy) and it is in Hoboken so parking sucks! IT IS WORTHWHILE THOUGH. You will leave happy.
My boyfriend had an Omelette and I had the huevos rancheros. As dessert on a Sunday morning, I had their delicious Key lime Pie..TO DIE FOR!
… moreTessa Gerald
the food was great, I loved the beef stew special on Fridays. my companion liked the fish sandwich too. this place is a straightforward cute latin spot- a reprieve from the rest of Hoboken
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