Austin Cho Kitchen

- 163 Main St B, Hackensack, NJ 07601

New Jersey’s culinary landscape is famously diverse, but few places offer a fusion as exciting and intensely flavorful as Austin Cho Kitchen in Hackensack. This unique establishment is not just a barbecue restaurant; it’s a masterful blend of authentic Southern BBQ traditions and vibrant, punchy Korean cuisine, creating what is affectionately known as "Cho-rean flair." Chef Robert Austin Cho, the culinary force behind this venture, is an award-winning pitmaster who has earned a dedicated following for his innovative approach to comfort food.

Austin Cho Kitchen specializes in the art of smoked meats, with a particular highlight being the legendary, 14-hour smoked Brisket. But this is where the traditional ends and the fusion begins. The menu is a playground of inventive dishes that utilize Korean ingredients like kimchi and gochujang glaze to elevate classic Southern fare. It's a fantastic spot for Bergen County residents and visitors looking for a quick, high-quality meal for lunch or dinner, offering rich, excellently cooked, and fresh ingredients that stand out from the crowd. The casual atmosphere and focus on speed make it perfect for solo diners or anyone seeking a delicious, convenient bite.

Customer reviews frequently praise the experience of seeing the food prepared right in front of them, noting the delicious aroma and the welcoming, sweet staff. Though the seating is minimal—primarily designed as a takeout spot with limited counter seats—the powerful flavor profiles and overall quality of the food make it an absolute must-try in the New Jersey food scene.

Location and Accessibility in Hackensack

Austin Cho Kitchen is conveniently located on a bustling stretch of Main Street at 163 Main St B, Hackensack, NJ 07601, USA. This central location in Hackensack makes it easily accessible for residents across Northern New Jersey. Being situated directly on Main Street ensures it’s easy to find, whether you are running a quick errand or making a dedicated trip for its famous barbecue.

While the establishment is primarily geared towards a quick-service and takeout model, its position in the downtown district offers convenience. While limited indoor seating—just a few stools against the window—means it is best suited for quick meals or grabbing food to go, there are often street benches available right outside on Main Street for patrons who wish to enjoy their tasty meal immediately in the vibrant Hackensack environment. Parking can typically be found nearby in the surrounding municipal areas, making access for New Jersey drivers straightforward.

Services Offered

The model at Austin Cho Kitchen is built around speed and convenience, ensuring you can get your fix of Cho-rean BBQ whenever and wherever you prefer.

• Takeout: The main service focus, allowing customers to quickly grab their freshly prepared food.
• Delivery: Full menu available for delivery directly to your home or office.
• No-Contact Delivery: An option for maximum convenience and safety.
• Dine-in / Counter Service: Very limited seating is available at a counter for a quick, casual meal.
• Payments: Accepts all major payment methods, including Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and NFC Mobile Payments.

Features and Highlights of the Menu

The menu is a celebration of the unique fusion concept, offering a diverse selection of comfort food, quick bites, and small plates. Each item showcases the creative and well-balanced use of Southern and Korean flavors.

• Legendary Smoked Meats: Features the famous 14-hour smoked Bad as Texas Brisket, Smoked Pork Shoulder, and NYC XXX Bacon (Pork Belly).
• Signature Fusion Dishes: The award-winning Korean BBQ Ribs are smoked and fried St. Louis ribs topped with a rich Gochujang Glaze. The NYC XXX Bacon also comes with a Gochuglaze.
• Famous Sandwiches: The highly-recommended Austin Cho 1.0 sandwich is a must-try, featuring smoked Brisket, Fatcho BBQ Sauce, tangy Kimchi, and Remoulade all on a roll. The ODB: Ole Dirty Bird (Buttermilk Fried Chicken) is another customer favorite.
• "Ridiculously Good" Fries: The Cholander Fries are a showstopper—fries coated with 'Not Cho Rub,' topped with Pulled Pork, Fatcho Sauce, Kimchi, and Cheese. Kajun Fries, twice-fried with 'Not Cho Rub,' are also extremely popular.
• Rice Bowls: Wholesome and flavorful meals like the Austin Rice Bowl (Smoked Beef Brisket) and the Kentucky Rice Bowl (Smoked Chicken), featuring Korean Slaw and Fatcho Sauce over rice.
• Atmosphere: A casual and cozy place where the focus is firmly on the food. The open kitchen layout allows customers to witness the preparation of their delicious meal.

Contact Information

To place an order for delivery or takeout, or for any inquiries, please use the contact details provided below:

Address: 163 Main St B, Hackensack, NJ 07601, USA
Phone: (201) 540-2003
Mobile Phone: +1 201-540-2003

What is Worth Choosing Austin Cho Kitchen

For New Jersey residents, choosing Austin Cho Kitchen is choosing a culinary experience that you simply cannot find anywhere else in the area. This is authentic pit-smoked Southern barbecue elevated by an expert infusion of complex Korean flavor profiles, all executed by a chef who is celebrated both locally and on a national stage.

What truly sets this spot apart is the unparalleled quality of the meat, which customers rave about—describing the brisket as "melted in the mouth" with a great bark. While a few patrons note that the portions are occasionally modest for the price, the consensus is that the sheer quality, freshness, and unique taste of dishes like the ODB sandwich and the Austin Cho 1.0 are well worth the price. The dedication of Chef Robert Austin Cho to culinary mash-ups and big, satisfying flavors means every item is a unique adventure for your palate. If you are a fan of traditional barbecue but crave an innovative, spicy, and tangy twist, or if you simply appreciate impeccably prepared comfort food, Austin Cho Kitchen on Main Street is an essential stop in Bergen County, NJ.

Austin Cho Kitchen

163 Main St B, Hackensack, NJ 07601, USA