Cocina de Gaby

- 202 Broad Ave, Palisades Park, NJ 07650

For New Jersey residents seeking a truly authentic taste of Central America, Cocina de Gaby offers a warm and flavorful journey right in the heart of Palisades Park. This beloved local establishment is a dedicated Guatemalan restaurant, representing the rich, comforting, and often lesser-known cuisine of Guatemala. Located in the famously diverse Bergen County, Cocina de Gaby provides a cozy escape where traditional recipes and heartfelt cooking are the order of the day. It’s a place for neighbors, solo diners, and families to gather and experience plates steeped in genuine Latin American culinary tradition.

Unlike the more commonly found Mexican restaurants in the area, Cocina de Gaby specializes in the distinct flavors of Guatemala, known for its hearty stews, unique tamales, and a heavy reliance on corn, beans, and rice. The food here is described as pure comfort—the kind of nourishing, satisfying meal that truly fills the soul. From the rich and complex stews like Pepian de Gallina (chicken in a spiced tomato sauce) and Subanik (tender chicken in a vibrant red sauce), to popular handheld options like the Shuco (a loaded grilled beef sandwich), the menu reflects the depth and variety of Guatemalan street food and traditional home cooking. Even dishes like the grilled meats, such as Carne Asada, are prepared with a distinctive regional touch that sets them apart from other Latin cuisines.

The atmosphere at Cocina de Gaby is intentionally casual and cozy, designed to make every patron feel immediately at home. It aims to be a welcoming spot for locals who crave familiar flavors or those curious to expand their culinary horizons beyond the usual New Jersey dining scene. Whether you are looking for a quick and satisfying lunch, a full dinner experience, or a comforting solo meal, this restaurant is committed to delivering authentic taste and a genuine slice of Guatemalan culture to the Palisades Park community.

Cocina de Gaby is situated in a vibrant and easily reachable part of Bergen County at 202 Broad Ave, Palisades Park, NJ 07650, USA. This address is positioned on one of Palisades Park's primary thoroughfares, making it readily accessible for residents of surrounding towns such as Fort Lee, Ridgefield, and Fairview. Broad Avenue is known for its diverse culinary offerings, and Cocina de Gaby contributes a much-appreciated Latin American presence to the street's rich cultural mix.

The restaurant's operational hours are designed to accommodate local schedules, running from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm seven days a week, ensuring that patrons can enjoy authentic Guatemalan cuisine for both early brunch or late dinner. As is common in this busy Northern New Jersey neighborhood, parking can sometimes be a challenge, so planning is always advisable for those driving. For payment convenience, the restaurant is modernized and accepts major credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments. The central location also makes it a straightforward destination via local bus routes for those relying on public transportation in the Bergen County area.

Cocina de Gaby is focused on providing a flexible dining experience centered on traditional hospitality and authentic food preparation.

• Dine-in Service: Full table service is available for guests who wish to sit and enjoy the cozy, casual atmosphere for lunch, dinner, or dessert.
• Takeout: All menu items are available for convenient takeout, allowing locals to bring the genuine flavors of Guatemala home with them.
• Accepts Reservations: The restaurant accepts reservations, which is recommended for planning ahead, especially during busy dinner times.
• Diverse Dining Times: Offers dining options for lunch, dinner, and dessert, with hours starting from 10:00 am to cater to various schedules.
• Payment Options: Accepts modern payment methods, including major credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.
• Family-Friendly: The restaurant is welcoming to all ages and is considered a good environment for kids.
• Solo Dining: The cozy and casual atmosphere is particularly well-suited for individuals seeking a comfortable, satisfying meal alone.

Cocina de Gaby’s defining characteristics are rooted in its dedication to authentic cuisine, cozy atmosphere, and focus on delivering genuine comfort food.

• Guatemalan Cuisine Specialization: The establishment is a rare find in Bergen County, focusing exclusively on traditional Guatemalan food, providing a distinct culinary experience compared to other Latin American eateries.
• Focus on Comfort Food: The menu is centered on hearty, savory, and satisfying dishes—perfect examples of Latin American comfort food—ideal for any time of year.
• Quick Bites and Small Plates: While serving substantial main courses, the menu also includes quick bites and small plate options, catering to diners looking for lighter meals or appetizers.
• Cozy and Casual Atmosphere: The vibe is relaxed and welcoming, intentionally designed to be cozy and casual, which makes it an excellent place for everyday dining.
• Beverage Focus: Offers coffee and unique beverages (Batidos and Aguas Frescas are often popular at their locations), which are essential components of a true Latin dining experience.
• Popularity for Lunch and Dinner: The restaurant is highly popular among locals for both midday meals and evening dining, indicating its versatile appeal.

For takeout orders, reservations, or general inquiries about the menu, New Jersey patrons can reach Cocina de Gaby using the details below:

Address: 202 Broad Ave, Palisades Park, NJ 07650, USA

Phone: (201) 482-4949

For New Jersey locals who are culinary adventurers or those with roots in Central America, choosing Cocina de Gaby is about selecting a genuine experience that is both rare and comforting. The paramount reason to visit is the opportunity to savor authentic Guatemalan cuisine. It is one of the few places in Bergen County where you can find traditional, homemade recipes that taste like they came straight from a Guatemalan kitchen. The heartiness of the comfort food, whether it’s a warming beef leg soup (Sopa de Pata de Res) or a rich chicken stew, provides a deeply satisfying meal that feels both authentic and nourishing.

It is important to note, however, that the dining experience is highly traditional, which extends to service and pricing transparency, as noted in customer feedback. Patrons should proactively ask about the cost of all items, including any side dishes or beverages, to ensure a smooth and surprise-free transaction. This includes asking whether items like tortillas are complimentary or an additional charge. While communication barriers and menu clarity are aspects that customers have noted, the universal consensus is that the food is truly enjoyable and delicious. If your priority is to find genuine, high-quality Guatemalan flavors in a cozy, unpretentious setting in North Jersey, the deliciousness of the food at Cocina de Gaby makes it a worthy destination, provided you are prepared to navigate the traditional dining style. Embrace the authentic experience, and you will be rewarded with some of the best comfort food Latin America has to offer.

Cocina de Gaby

202 Broad Ave, Palisades Park, NJ 07650, USA