Antojito.Criollo

- 290 Lakeview Ave, Clifton, NJ 07011

Welcome to the heart of authentic Latin American flavor in New Jersey! When locals search for a taste of Peru that is both genuine and comforting, the name Antojito.Criollo in Clifton, NJ, consistently comes up. More than just a dining spot, Antojito.Criollo offers a culinary journey straight to the vibrant streets and homes of Peru, specializing in traditional "Criollo" dishes—a term for the country's unique creole cuisine, a rich blend of indigenous and European influences.

For residents and visitors in the greater New Jersey area, this establishment serves as a destination for savory comfort food, quick and satisfying lunch options, and an introduction to the diverse and complex flavors of Peruvian cooking. The restaurant has positioned itself as a local favorite, particularly known for its casual, welcoming atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for a weekday lunch or a weekend treat. The expansive menu covers everything from hearty soups and delicious breakfast sandwiches to classic main courses and a refreshing selection of desserts and beverages.

Peruvian cuisine is globally recognized as one of the world's most exciting food cultures, and Antojito.Criollo proudly carries that tradition right here in Clifton. Whether you are craving the tangy kick of fresh seafood or the slow-cooked warmth of a traditional stew, this restaurant has curated a menu that honors the country's culinary heritage. We’ll delve into the specifics of what makes this New Jersey Peruvian gem a must-try for food lovers looking for authentic international flavors nearby.

Location and Accessibility

Antojito.Criollo is conveniently located at a central spot within Clifton, New Jersey, making it highly accessible for both local patrons and those traveling from surrounding towns in Passaic County and Northern NJ. Situated at 290 Lakeview Ave, Clifton, NJ 07011, USA, the restaurant is easy to find and offers a straightforward stop for takeout or a casual dine-in experience.

Clifton is a well-connected suburban hub, and its location makes Antojito.Criollo a viable lunch spot for professionals and a weekend destination for families. The Lakeview Avenue address is part of a commercial area, offering good visibility and relative ease of access from major local routes. Whether you are driving or seeking a quick bite during your workday, the restaurant's location is ideal for those seeking Peruvian cuisine without the hassle of a long commute. The focus on both takeout and dine-in options further enhances its accessibility, catering to a range of dining preferences and time constraints.

Services Offered

Antojito.Criollo is focused on providing versatile and convenient dining options for the New Jersey community. Their service model emphasizes quality and speed, particularly for patrons looking for a satisfying meal during their lunch break.

• Dine-in Service: Patrons can enjoy the casual, comfortable atmosphere of the restaurant for a relaxing meal.
• Takeout Service: Offering a convenient option for customers who wish to enjoy their Peruvian meal at home or on the go.
• Lunch Dining: The restaurant is highly popular for its lunch service, attracting diners looking for delicious and quick Peruvian plates during the midday rush.
• Dessert Offerings: A full menu of traditional Peruvian and popular desserts is available to complete your meal.
• Specialized Menu Categories: The menu is thoughtfully organized into categories like Entradas (Appetizers), Desayunos (Breakfast), Sopas (Soups), Platos Criollos (Creole Main Dishes), Ceviches, Tripletras (Combo Plates), and Postres (Desserts).
• Beverage Selection: Offering a variety of drinks including Peruvian favorites like Chicha De Casa (homemade purple corn drink) and Emoliente, alongside sodas and fresh fruit juices.

Features / Highlights

Antojito.Criollo's appeal lies in its commitment to authentic Peruvian flavors, a wide variety of menu items, and a focus on customer satisfaction. These features make it a standout choice for local residents seeking a flavorful and reliable dining experience.

• Authentic Peruvian Cuisine: The core highlight is the focus on traditional "Criollo" Peruvian dishes, ensuring an authentic taste experience, from the spices to the preparations.
• Extensive Breakfast/Sandwich Menu: A unique and popular feature is the variety of Peruvian breakfast-style sandwiches, or "Pan con" items, such as Pan Con Chicharrón (fried pork sandwich), Pan Con Pollo A La Brasa (rotisserie chicken sandwich), and Pan Con Jamón Del Pais (country ham sandwich), all priced affordably at $8.00.
• Signature Creole Dishes: The menu boasts Peruvian staples like Ají De Gallina (chicken in a creamy yellow pepper sauce), Seco De Carne (beef stew), and Arroz Con Pollo (chicken and rice), perfect examples of Peruvian comfort food.
• Fresh Ceviches: Offering a selection of Ceviches (raw seafood cured in citrus juices), including Pescado (fish), Mariscos (mixed seafood), and Camarones (shrimp), a testament to Peru's coastal culinary tradition.
• Tripleta Combo Plates: For those who want to sample multiple favorites, the "Tripletras" offer incredible value and variety, combining three different Platos Criollos for a truly comprehensive meal.
• Comfort Food Focus: The restaurant is explicitly categorized for its "Comfort food," appealing to diners seeking hearty, satisfying, and familiar dishes.
• Casual Dining Atmosphere: The casual setting ensures a relaxed and unpretentious environment, suitable for a quick stop or a leisurely, everyday meal.
• Traditional Peruvian Beverages: Featuring authentic drinks like Chicha De Casa and Emoliente, which complement the rich flavors of the Peruvian food.
• Variety of Desserts: A rich selection of traditional desserts such as Torta Tres Leches, Mazamorra Morada, and Picarones, offering a sweet and authentic finish to any meal.

Contact Information

To place an order, inquire about the menu, or check on current hours, the following contact information is available for Antojito.Criollo.

Address: 290 Lakeview Ave, Clifton, NJ 07011, USA

Phone: (973) 246-7014

What is Worth Choosing

For first-time visitors or seasoned patrons of Peruvian food in New Jersey, the extensive menu at Antojito.Criollo offers many exceptional choices, but a few categories and dishes stand out as particularly worth exploring.

The Desayunos (Breakfast) selection, available throughout the day as a hearty option, is a must-try. The $8.00 "Pan con" sandwiches, especially the Pan Con Chicharrón (fried pork sandwich), offer a flavorful and affordable taste of a true Peruvian morning favorite. It’s an authentic street-food experience translated into a delicious, satisfying bite.

For those seeking classic Peruvian main courses, look no further than the Platos Criollos. The Ají De Gallina ($17.00) is a quintessential Peruvian dish—poached chicken smothered in a rich, creamy sauce made with aji amarillo (yellow Peruvian pepper) and walnuts, served over rice and potatoes. It is the epitome of comfort food. Similarly, the Seco De Carne ($21.00) or Cabrito ($21.00 - goat stew) showcases the slow-cooked, deeply flavored stews that are a cornerstone of Criollo cuisine.

No visit to a Peruvian restaurant is complete without trying Ceviche. At Antojito.Criollo, you have four different varieties, with the classic Ceviche De Pescado ($17.00) being a highlight. This dish, fresh fish marinated in lime juice with onions and traditional accompaniments, delivers a bright, acidic, and invigorating flavor that truly captures the taste of the Peruvian coast.

Finally, to experience the full breadth of Peruvian flavor profiles, consider the Tripletras—large combo plates designed for sampling. These combinations, like the Tallarines Rojos, Cau-Cau, and Chanfainita combo ($28.00), allow diners to taste several different Criollo specialties, making it an excellent choice for a filling lunch or a shared meal. Pair any of these main dishes with a refreshing and authentic drink like the homemade Chicha De Casa ($4.00) and finish your meal with a slice of moist Torta Tres Leches ($7.00) or the delightful, deep-fried pumpkin/sweet potato fritters known as Picarones ($8.00). Antojito.Criollo promises not just a meal, but a genuine and memorable Peruvian dining experience right here in Clifton, NJ.

Antojito.Criollo

290 Lakeview Ave, Clifton, NJ 07011, USA