Catrachito Salvadoreño #1

- 843 2nd Ave, Elizabeth, NJ 07202

For residents of New Jersey's Union County, particularly those in Elizabeth, Catrachito Salvadoreño #1 represents a cherished local spot offering a deep dive into the delicious and comforting flavors of Central American cuisine. While the name suggests a focus on both Salvadoran and Honduran roots, the restaurant shines as a premier Salvadoran establishment, delivering food with an authentic, homemade quality that customers consistently praise. This local gem at 843 2nd Ave provides a casual, cozy, and quiet atmosphere—perfect for groups, families, or a satisfying solo meal any time of day.

The undisputed star of the menu and the reason many New Jersey locals make the trip are the Pupusas de masa de Maiz. These thick, savory corn tortillas, traditionally hand-patted and cooked on a griddle, are a staple of Salvadoran cuisine. Catrachito Salvadoreño #1 offers popular variations like the Pupusas Revueltas (mixed) and Pupusas Mixtas, stuffed with cheese, beans, and often pork cracklings (chicharrón) or the unique, tangy loroco flower bud. Customer reviews highlight that these pupusas genuinely "taste like homemade," a huge compliment that speaks volumes about the kitchen's authenticity and dedication to tradition. They are always accompanied by the essential curtido (a lightly fermented cabbage slaw) and a mild salsa.

Beyond the famed pupusas, the menu is extensive, offering a full range of hearty meals throughout the day, catering to every appetite from early morning to evening. The breakfast options are substantial, featuring both the Desayuno Hondureño and Desayuno Salvadoreño. These plates typically include eggs prepared in various ways, savory components like chorizo or bistek, and classic sides such as beans, cheese, cream, plantains, and avocado, making for a truly satisfying start to the day.

For lunch and dinner, the offerings expand to include robust meat and poultry dishes, all served "A La Carte." Entrées like Carne Asada (Roast) and Bistek Encebollado (Onion Steak), or chicken preparations like Pollo Frito (Fried Chicken) and Pollo Guisado (Stewed Chicken), are substantial and always accompanied by a choice of two sides—rice, salad, plantains, tostones, fried potato, or extra tortillas. This allows New Jersey diners to fully customize their experience and load up on comforting carbs and fresh accompaniments.

A true culinary highlight of the menu is the selection of soups, which are a major component of Central American comfort food. Patrons can indulge in the Sopa de Caracol (Snail Soup) or the Sopa de Mariscos (Seafood Soup). These rich, flavorful broths, packed with ingredients and served with rice and tortillas, are particularly sought after for their nourishing and authentic qualities. They showcase a commitment to serving local specialties that go beyond the typical fare found in other regional restaurants.

It is crucial for potential patrons to note the establishment’s policy: multiple customer reviews clearly indicate that Catrachito Salvadoreño #1 is a cash-only business. While this may be a slight inconvenience for some, the superb quality and value of the food make it a worthy consideration, prompting customers to be prepared before they arrive. While service can occasionally be slow during peak hours due to the popularity and care taken in preparing the food, the friendly atmosphere and delicious, traditional meals ensure a worthwhile visit.

Catrachito Salvadoreño #1 is conveniently situated in the city of Elizabeth, a vibrant hub in Union County, New Jersey, providing easy access to a large residential and business community.

Address: 843 2nd Ave, Elizabeth, NJ 07202, USA

The location on 2nd Avenue is centrally placed, accessible via local roads and potentially major highways, making it a viable destination for Central American food lovers across Central Jersey. The restaurant is geared toward flexibility in dining:

• Accessibility: The venue is generally accessible, though patrons should call ahead with specific needs. Restrooms are available.
• Parking: Parking is available in the area, typically utilizing local street parking, common for this busy neighborhood setting.
• Atmosphere: The vibe is casual, cozy, and quiet, suitable for groups and individuals. It’s also noted to be good for kids, making it a family-friendly choice.

This Salvadoran restaurant offers comprehensive services to ensure its authentic cuisine can be enjoyed conveniently by the New Jersey community:

• Dine-in Table Service: Guests can enjoy the cozy and casual dining atmosphere for any meal.
• Takeout Service: Fast and easy pick-up options are available for customers on the go.
• Delivery Service: Provides delivery options, allowing patrons to enjoy their favorite pupusas and soups at home or work.
• All-Day Dining: Serving Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Dinner, and Dessert, catering to virtually any time a craving hits.
• Beverage Offerings: Includes Coffee and a variety of comfort drinks to complement the meals.
• Menu Flexibility: Offers customizable “A La Carte” dishes with a choice of two sides, ensuring a personalized meal.

The unique aspects that make Catrachito Salvadoreño #1 a must-visit spot in Elizabeth, NJ include:

• Masterful Pupusas: Highly celebrated for its authentic, handmade pupusas, particularly the Revueltas and Loroco and Cheese varieties, which taste like true homemade comfort food.
• Authentic Central American Specialties: Features classic and hard-to-find dishes like the nourishing Sopa de Caracol (Snail Soup) and Sopa de Mariscos (Seafood Soup).
• Comprehensive Breakfast Menu: Offers traditional, hearty Salvadoran and Honduran breakfasts that are popular for starting the day right.
• Comfort Food and Healthy Options: Balances satisfying comfort food (like fried chicken and Bistek) with options like fresh salads and healthy preparation methods.
• Cash-Only Policy: A unique operational feature that customers must remember for payment, streamlining the transaction process.
• Cozy and Casual Setting: Provides a welcoming, quiet, and friendly environment suitable for groups, making it an excellent gathering spot.

New Jersey customers can reach out directly to Catrachito Salvadoreño #1 for inquiries, to place a takeout order, or to confirm details:

Address: 843 2nd Ave, Elizabeth, NJ 07202, USA

Phone: (908) 659-1781

It is always recommended to call ahead, especially for large orders, and to verify current operating hours, which typically span morning to evening. Remember to be prepared for the cash-only payment policy.

Catrachito Salvadoreño #1 is worth choosing for any New Jersey resident seeking an authentic, satisfying, and culturally rich dining experience. The primary draw is the unwavering commitment to authentic Central American flavors, particularly the highly-praised, homemade-style pupusas. They serve as a wonderful culinary gateway to Salvadoran culture right in Elizabeth.

Beyond the signature dish, the comprehensive nature of the menu—offering everything from hearty, traditional breakfasts to substantial meat dishes and unique seafood soups—ensures there is a flavorful and satisfying meal for any time of day. This establishment is not just a place to eat; it is a spot to experience genuine comfort food and culinary tradition. Despite the cash-only policy, the high quality, authentic taste, and excellent value make Catrachito Salvadoreño #1 a mandatory visit for anyone in Union County looking for a truly authentic Salvadoran meal.

Catrachito Salvadoreño #1

843 2nd Ave, Elizabeth, NJ 07202, USA