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    Old San Juan Express

    2.9 (155 reviews)

    Old San Juan Express Photos

    OLD SAN JUAN EXPRESS ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Casual
    Classy
    Moderate noise
    Good for kids

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    Modongo Mofongo de Chicharron
    Marg R.

    Defined recommend this restaurant. A few friends and I ordered mofongo de chicharron, mofongo de chicken and mofongo de shrimp! We all enjoyed our meals. We also had a couple of natural juices that were really good. We called it in and did a pick up order.

    BE CAREFUL WITH WHAT YOU PAY HERE.

    PLEASE READ YOUR RECEIPTS AND ASK FOR THE MENU BEHIND THE COUNTER TO AVOID BEING RIPPED OFF. Please make sure to read BOTH menus. They ask you to scan a QR code on the table but then have the "real" menu they use to charge you behind the counter and then say the prices changed "in house" or subject to change. It's one of the other! Also, make sure to read your receipt because a 20% tip is ALREADY included. I can't see why anyone would double tip this place when they're already gathering peoples money a couple dollars at a time for each meal or items on the menu. A total of $20 dollar difference is what we were charged and they said it as if we actually ate that much more. In addition to this as if it isn't bad enough, the white rice didn't taste like white rice, the alcapurria DEFINITELY did not taste like alcapurria. More like alcaca. The service was terrible. I was washing my food down with my saliva until I had to get up and ask her if it was ok that I grabbed two waters because she never brought them out to us. She had the nerve to say "yeah you can take them". Not, im sorry I didn't bring them to you. By the way, there was only another couple there that left when we started eating so it wasn't busy. I'm not going there again. Ever. Like wela used to say, "es mejor cagar en las nubes y limpiarme con un relampago". AGAIN, PLEASE READ YOUR RECEIPTS AND ASK FOR THE MENU BEHIND THE COUNTER TO AVOID BEING RIPPED OFF.

    Rubber band in Pollo Guisado
    Donada F.

    Ordered the pollo guisado. Flavorless beans and rice with over salted chicken. Also, found a rubber band in my meal that appeared to be cooked with the food. There's a reckless amount of Tiny bone pieces as well.

    Lorena S.

    This was my 2nd time here in the past month. I had avoided this place like a plague from my several experiences- years ago. I know it's under new management now so it definitely shows. Both times I ordered the churrasco with rice and beans, fries and a side order of salad. Absolutely delicious!!! Expect to pay about $35, but if you're looking for a delicious, freshly cooked and well cooked steak...I recommend! Coming from an Argentinan born steak lover...that says A LOT. It also explains the 4 stars rather than five...lol

    They gave me this coupon of 5$ off and they won't accept it !! The owner very rude and unprofessional she hang up on me
    Gio T.

    Please don't go to this place OLD SAN JUAN IN HACKENSACK ,NJ The worse customer service ever they give out coupons and when you go they won't accept them .Spoke to the owner on the phone and she hang up on me very rude and unprofessional !!Then the automatically charge you 20% tip even for to people! !They are thieves! !And it is very dirty!!

    Nino R.

    The Mofongo w/ Chicharon is the business. Lots of garlic and pork flavor to make even the most discriminating of Latin flavor profilers happy. Ever since Food Network debuted their show "Best Thing I Ever Ate" I've made it my mission to scrutinize the favorites of various Food Network personalities. Guy Fieri praised the metaphysical qualities of mofongo found at Benny's in Miami. He went on and on about the flavor profile of the garlic, pork and plaintains. And how something so simple tasted so good. Mofongo is now on my radar and I now have something to compare it to when I finally make my way to Benny's. Now back to Old San Juan. Service is good and there is a 50-inch flat screen in the dining room tuned on the Travel Channel. Steam trays contain food that are highlighted on the lunch and dinner specials menu. Seating is plentiful and can accommodate large groups. The several times I've gone, small families were eating happily. I was, however, a bit concerned that Arroz con Pollo was not available on the menu. In my opinion, the Puerto Rican version of this dish is the apex. Arroz con Pollo. I want it...

    $9 platter- red beans , white rice, pernil with crispy crunchy skin ! Yummy!
    Nathaly V.

    Pernil , pernil , pernil ! Small portions ! The rice and beans were perfect- the pernil skin was awesome! Crunchy and crispy ! The only drawback was the meat - not as tender as I would like it to be- a little dry for my taste but edible. My friend ordered pigeon pea rice with her pernil ( cost more than white rice ) it was ok. She thought the yucca was the best she had. Service was decent , place was clean, came in at 1230pm for lunch and it was only us but after 1 it started to get busier. I did spend $9 which included a can of soda ( inka cola )- A Typical lunch cost in this area.

    some chicken with rice and beans standard but good!
    Paul R.

    One of my favorite spots to get chicken with rice and beans! I can not get over that chicken. I always get a nice couple pieces and the meat is so marinated it falls off the bone! I love that Puerto Rican seasoning. Then the rice and beans on the side hit the spot. They have a lot of other stuff like sandwiches and such. Haven't tried them yet but I will update if I do. I love the decor of the place as well. It is a very nice place to sit down and have a meal. It has a very warm atmosphere especially at night when the lighting is dimmed. Also it says on yelp they are closed on Sundays (as well as the front door). I went today, on a Sunday, and they were open for sure. If I were you, if you crave them on a Sunday, It's worth it to drive past and see if they are open. It is possible they are not open every Sunday but some Sundays. Needless to say Old San Juan hits the spot for me!

    Comfortable atmosphere

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    2 years ago

    Granddaughter likes the rice. Chicken is ok. Good portions. Nice to have a change of pace in cuisine. Quick and convenient.

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    4 years ago

    I absolutely love the authentic Puerto Rican food from this restaurant. I just wish they didn't close so early before prime dinner time,

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    6 years ago

    Hands-down one of the best authentic Puerto Rican food restaurants you'll find. Great prices great staff once again great food.

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    Page 1 of 4

    Old San Juan Express Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Old San Juan Express

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    Pasteles Y Mas - Rice and pastel

    Pasteles Y Mas

    (220 reviews)

    $

    I found this spot via Yelp a while back and booked marked it. Finally came here for lunch on a…read moreFriday. The place is small, it has a dining area but seems more like a takeout spot. Once you enter you place your order in front of the hot lunch spread. I ended up getting the Pernil ($13) which was alright, maybe because I'm spoiled from having Dominican food in Washington Heights/city. The Maduro ($1.80) was a bit dry, which kinda looks like it from my photo. I'm thinking it was an off day. I may try again. * Street parking * Indoor dining

    Pretty good place to eat. The food was awesome, just a tad salty. I had the oxtail and roasted pork…read morewhich was phenomenal! They even had Coco Rico which I have not had since I left NYC in 92. BTW the flan was incredible. I really loved the food experience. Portions are spot on. It is like a bodega shop like I grew up with in Washington heights. Nice and welcoming. Very homey and I liked it. Nice place for an impromptu meal. Service needs a little help...My girl could be friendlier and provide service with smile versus the standoffish demeanor she had. You want me to be a repeat customer right? You want me to come back right? Then great me with a smile and serve me with a smile. When you open a restaurant this is primo important! Could be a language barrier thing but if someone can pass this along I will only take one star off because the food was delicious. Worth going to but my girl needs to up the service game por favor.

    Mis Raices Restaurant - pernil, yellow rice, black beans

    Mis Raices Restaurant

    (345 reviews)

    $$

    As always I got a great meal from this places. Most Puerto Ricans say it's not as good as…read morehomemade, but this place comes as close as you can get to homemade food. And they give you a plentiful amount of food for the price. Call them directly for delivery in the area, you won't be disappointed, especially the Alcapuria de yuca, it was so good!

    Cocina criolla is the cuisine created by the European (mostly Spanish) colonists using their…read moretraditional recipes made with native Caribbean foods and cooking styles. Sofrito is a versatile, aromatic purée of tomatoes, peppers, cilantro, onions, and garlic, which is the foundation of just about every Puerto Rican, Cuban, and Dominican soup, stew, or sauce. Located on busy Teaneck Road in Teaneck, this husband/wife duo, with the husband being Cuban and the wife Puerto Rican, operates the hidden gem that translates from the Spanish meaning "my roots." The reservation was easily made by Google Assistant for Saturday dinner. Upon arrival at Mis Raices, a bigger location after 3 years for some of us, my partner, our friends, and I got a table by the window immediately inside a cozy island vibe filled with the wonderful smell of the home-style food, the beautiful souvenirs of Puerto Rico and Cuba, and the vibrant salsa music. The menu has been expanded since our last visit, so come hungry! For appetizers, we decided on the Croqueta De Jamón, Croqueta De Pollo, and Guava Empanada. As a main meal, we opted for Arroz Con Pollo (Chicken with Rice), Pechuga De Pollo (Chicken Breast) A La Plancha with Salad, Ropa Vieja (Shredded Beef) with Arroz Amarillo y Frijoles Negroes, and Oxtail/Rabo Encendido with Arroz con Gandules. Complimentary toasted garlic bread started our meal. The meal was beautifully presented. The flavors were tastefully delicious and pretty consistent, being rich and authentic. The portion was just right with the price very reasonable, and it's a BYOB. The owners, Ana and Eddie, and their staff make us feel welcome and are accommodating. We can continue to recommend this place.

    Bistro Taino - Pastel, Alcapurria, chicharrón

    Bistro Taino

    (78 reviews)

    The food was amazing. my family of 5 enjoyed the food from the empanadas to the churrasco. My 5…read moreyear old got chicken nuggets with fries and she was obsessed. We also ordered empanadas and bistec and it was all so delicious. I had a piña colada and it was good too. I will definitely be back. Loved the way the chef came to introduce himself, great job Benito.!!!! We also loved the tres leche cake since it was fluffy and not super sweet.

    Bistro Taino is an authentic Puerto Rican cuisine and it is a beautiful place. We love the vibrant…read moreatmosphere, and the staff's exceptional service. This is our second time at Bistro Taino and we have truly enjoyed it. In particular it's live music which they had on a Friday. You have to try the pernil, and alcapurria or ceviche and don't forget Mofongo. I had the bifongo (a mix of green and sweet plantains) with a fried fish and trust me, it was super delicious. The variety of cocktails look amazing. Based on guest that joined me, the straight drinks are for sure better option if you enjoyed them on the less sweeter and stronger side. The portions are generous, and prices are reasonable. Some highlights include : * Standout dishes: Churrasco Mofongo, Bifongo Camarones, and Pernil Asado * Appetizers: Bacalaitos, Sorullitos, and Alcapurrias * Desserts: Tembleque, Flan De Vainilla, and Tres Leches I highly recommend this place, in particular to enjoy the friendly staff, live music and amazing Puerto Rican Food.

    El Rincón Boricua

    El Rincón Boricua

    (10 reviews)

    Melrose

    I had family coming to visit and they requested for PR food…read more Then It hit me, there's no more puertorican food places left! If you really think about it the Dominican food has taken over the Bx. I searched, and found this place. The moment you step in you are greeted with the warmest blessings. The 2 beautiful people that worked there made our time there so memorable. The food was out of this world let me tell you. Also, I will say it is AFFORDABLE. portion size was huge and the place was so CLEAN. Food: Pernil: 10/10 flavorful and tender Yellow (arroz con gandules) and Black rice with the beans: 10/10 both were good and couldn't even decide which one was better Pulpo 9/10 : fresh and tangy, cut into small pieces so you can top it on your rice Alcapurrias: 8/10 great and made differently then what I'm used to but it was sooo good I'd come again for this alone Juices: Ask them to try the juices and they will let you. We tried it all. Came home with passion fruit (parcha) and guyaba (guanabana) Delicious 10/10 It was so fresh and they don't add too much ice so you get all the juice taste. All in all I'm coming here from now on. A true BX staple for the community and a true essence of the Bori pride resides here. If you miss PR, come here.

    One of the few real PR restaurants left...food is delicious, workers are very nice. I had the…read moremeatballs (albondigas) with arroz con gandules. Tasted homemade, well seasoned, tender. Rice was the way I like it - soft, not too oily, flavorful. I will go back with my bf who was born and raised in PR to see what he thinks, but I'm already a fan. They also have a lot of variety so I plan on trying something new next time. The lady working there said that sometimes they make guanimes (some people call them guanimos) which I have never been able to find outside of PR. I hope I get to try them at this place. So glad I found this spot and recommend you all check it out.

    The Freakin Rican - Mofongo

    The Freakin Rican

    (490 reviews)

    $$

    Astoria

    DELICIOUS!!!! I highly recommend this place and I will be back. The food is AUTHENTIC boricua food…read moreand it was amazing. The alcapurrias tasted straight from the island!!! Their mofongo, tostones, pernil, rice, everything... you name it & it was DELICIOUS!! Even heating up the leftovers, they tasted amazing. The place has amazing ambiance, service is great, and the prices are great. Nice date or family night. And the coqui sounds!? Really brings me home to the island.

    I visited Freakin' Rican on March 20, 2026 during restaurant hopping with my sister, and I really…read morewanted to love this place--but it fell short for me. First, the customer service was excellent--the host was friendly, attentive, and welcoming. The space itself is very small, about 9-10 tables total, but gave you that eating with your family vibe, talking at the table and listening to spanish music. The bathroom was clean but it had a shower, which was definitely... different. Now for the food. I ordered the fried red snapper with yellow rice and pigeon peas, salad and unfortunately it had no flavor at all. The rice was dry and tasted like there was no sofrito or seasoning, which was disappointing for a Puerto Rican spot. My sister's pork chops were actually very good--probably the highlight of the meal. They also don't serve alcohol, so I had a Coco Rico while my sister had water. Overall, while the service was great, the food didn't live up to the hype for me. I expected bold, authentic Puerto Rican flavors, and it just wasn't there. Also, I wish they offered plain Yellow Spanish Rice as well as white rice options. I'm glad I tried it, but I won't be returning. If you go, try the pork chops--that's your best bet. And if you're really looking for authentic Puerto Rican food, you're better off heading to Sofrito in Manhattan or grabbing cuchifritos uptown--they don't miss.

    Lula's Latin Cuisine - Black beans

    Lula's Latin Cuisine

    (43 reviews)

    If you're looking for Latin/Dominican cuisine Lula's is your spot in NJ…read more After experiencing some of the best Latin cuisine in NYC for the better part of 20+ years, I was afraid I wasn't going to find a restaurant that would fulfill those Latin cravings, but THANK GOODNESS that Lula's exist in Lodi. I found Lodi's through some random research on Yelp and Google and they are as freaking delicious as advertised. I've been to Lula's a few times for takeout/pickup and the folks here are very cordial and friendly. The restaurant is very small and only has a few barstools at a counter looking out onto Essex Street. If you're driving here, which just about everyone does, the parking lot only consist of a few spots directly in front of it, but the spots typically open up quick since 99.99999% of customers are here to grab and go. As for the menu, I've only come here for the daily lunch specials because they are an awesome, awesome deal. On Monday to Saturday (closed on Sundays) from 11AM-3PM they serve rice and beans or moro rice with a protein from the daily specials menu. AND, mostly importantly, the specials range from $8.50-$14.95 (the Ox Tail Stew being the main outlier at $14.95), with the average around $10, which is a steal! Proteins that you can choose include Chicken Stew, Roasted Pork (aka Pernil), Baked Chicken, Ox Tail Stew, Rib Stew, Pork Chop Stew, Beef Stew, Goat Stew, BBQ Ribs and many, many more. Depending on the day, the specials will be different, so do check the menu online (https://lulaslodi.com/daily-specials/). In addition, if you're just strolling in off of the street and haven't looked at the menu, don't expect a menu to be hanging above the ordering counter because there is none! (Although they do have their paper menus sitting by the cashier) But do your homework before hand or be ready to ask "what is that?" when looking through the glass windows where the food is kept warm. Since I have the utmost faith in them scooping the food for my entree, I typically just call in my food now and it's ready to go. So you're thinking, OK, that's a pretty good deal for these lunch specials, but what about portioning? Did I not just say it's an awesome, awesome deal???? It wouldn't be an AWESOME, AWESOME deal without a huge portion! The portions are ridiculous! I consider myself someone who has a big appetite and can eat a lot and I even have to split the lunch special into 2 meals because it's A LOT of food. For someone with a massive appetite, this will probably hit the spot. For someone with an small, average or decent appetite, this is undoubtedly a 2 meal entree because they jam the round tin foil tray to the top. And it goes without saying that the food is delicious. I've tried the Chicken Stew, Beef Stew, Baked Chicken and Roasted Pork and, so far, it all is exceptional. The rice is perfectly cooked and the meats are tasty. The only slight I have is I did wish they included a littttle bit more meat for some of the dishes because there is a heck of a lot of rice, but most of the time they give the right amount of protein. I think you pretty much know where I stand about Lula's. I'm super grateful that they aren't too far away and I know where I will ABSOLUTELY be going when in need of good takeout Latin food.

    If you ever wonder where to get Dominican food in Bergen county, there is absolutely no need to…read moredrive all the way to Manhattan. All one got to do is stop by Lula's Latin Cuisine in Lodi. You will not only get an absolutely delicious food by an amazing host/owner, Reimy and his team. I had the privilege of stopping by tonight to finally get rabo guisado (oxtail stew), white rice with black beans for takeout. Upon arrival, their small parking lot in front is shared with another establishment off the busy Essex Street. It's a small establishment with a great selection of food. There were some seatings by the window, but predominately takeout. Their price was reasonable and portion size decent. The food was tasty, well seasoned and delicious as a sign that they put love in preparing their food. This was my first time here but certainly not the last which I can recommend.

    Old San Juan Express - spanish - Updated May 2026

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