El 5 pesos Mexican restaurant Introduce
Discovering a truly authentic and unpretentious Mexican eatery in New Jersey can feel like finding a hidden treasure. For residents and visitors of Passaic County, that culinary gem is often found tucked away in Paterson: El 5 Pesos Mexican Restaurant. More than just a place to grab a bite, El 5 Pesos is quickly establishing itself as a local favorite, delivering on the promise of genuine Mexican comfort food prepared with consistent quality and flavor.
In a bustling city like Paterson, which is known for its diverse culinary landscape, El 5 Pesos stands out by focusing on the core principles of great food. Their philosophy is simple yet powerful: "providing quality consistent food that taste great every single time." This dedication is what draws in a loyal local crowd looking for the real deal. If you're searching for a casual, cozy spot to satisfy your craving for Mexican staples like tacos, tortas, and more, you'll want to add this restaurant to your must-try list.
The menu offers a wide variety of dishes that cater to all appetites, from a quick solo lunch to a hearty family dinner. While some dining establishments focus heavily on modern trends and elaborate presentation, El 5 Pesos prioritizes authentic flavors and satisfying portions. This approach resonates deeply with customers in New Jersey who appreciate a genuine, down-to-earth dining experience.
For New Jersey residents who value local businesses and seek out places that offer an authentic cultural experience, El 5 Pesos presents a welcoming, albeit small, option. The very atmosphere—casual and cozy—speaks to its focus on being a neighborhood staple. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick bite after work or planning a relaxed weekend meal, the intimate setting of El 5 Pesos creates a sense of belonging and community that is often sought after in local New Jersey eateries.
When you explore the menu, you'll find classic choices that showcase the heart of Mexican street food and homestyle cooking. The selection of tacos is extensive, featuring traditional favorites like Bistec (Steak), Pollo (Chicken), Chorizo, Carnitas, and even more adventurous options such as Lengua (Tongue), Tripa (Tripe), and the popular Tacos Campechanos. The Tortas, or Mexican sandwiches, are another highlight, served on a telera roll with beans, melted cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickled jalapeño, and come with a variety of fillings including Milanesa de Pollo/Res (Breaded Chicken/Beef), Carnitas, Al Pastor, and the fiery Torta Enojona ('Angry Torta') with steak and red sauce.
Other popular items to look for on their menu include various Gorditas and Cemitas. The Cemita, a signature Pueblan sandwich, typically features a specific type of bread with sesame seeds and is filled with fresh ingredients. At El 5 Pesos, you can find Cemitas with fillings like Carnitas, Al Pastor, and the Lengua Cemita. These diverse and rich offerings solidify the restaurant's reputation for providing authentic and varied Mexican cuisine right here in Paterson, NJ.
Local word-of-mouth reviews often highlight the satisfaction derived from the genuine flavors. Customers speak to the authentic nature of the food, recommending specific items like the Lengua Tacos, Campechanos, and Al Pastor Tacos for their true Mexican taste. While it’s noted for its very small, intimate space—described as only having two tables—the quality of the food often overcomes any logistical concerns, making it a desirable destination for foodies in the New Jersey area seeking true authenticity.
The emphasis on fast service is another key component of their operation, making it a perfect destination for both lunch and dinner, especially for those in need of a quick, high-quality meal. Their focus on 'Small plates' and 'Quick bites' alongside more substantial 'Comfort food' options ensures that El 5 Pesos can cater to a wide range of needs and schedules throughout the day.
In a state full of dining choices, El 5 Pesos is a place that promises an authentic, casual, and flavor-driven experience. It's the type of local spot that dedicated New Jersey food lovers are always thrilled to discover and support.
Location and Accessibility
El 5 Pesos Mexican Restaurant is conveniently situated for Paterson locals and those traveling through the Passaic County area of New Jersey.
The restaurant's physical address is centrally located, making it a practical choice for dine-in, though patrons should be mindful that the space is noted to be quite small, with limited seating—a charming feature that adds to its 'hidden gem' appeal, but one to consider during peak hours.
Contact Information
- Address: 339 Straight St, Paterson, NJ 07501, USA
- Phone: (862) 239-1431 (Mobile Phone: +1 862-239-1431)
Services Offered
El 5 Pesos is dedicated to providing flexible service options to meet the needs of the New Jersey community, whether you're dining in their cozy space or taking your meal to go.
- Dining Options: Lunch, Dinner, and Dessert are available with table service.
- Service Types: Dine-in for a casual, cozy experience, or Takeout for convenience on the go.
- Crowd Accommodations: The atmosphere is casual and cozy, making it suitable for Groups, Families (Good for kids), and individuals (Popular for Solo dining).
- Payment Options: The restaurant accepts modern and convenient forms of payment, including Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.
Features / Highlights
El 5 Pesos distinguishes itself from other Mexican restaurants in the New Jersey area through several key features that enhance the customer experience.
- Authentic Cuisine: Specializing in high-quality, genuine Mexican dishes, focusing on traditional comfort food.
- Fast and Efficient Service: Highlighted for its quick service, making it an excellent option for a time-conscious meal.
- Diverse Offerings: The menu successfully balances hearty Comfort food with lighter options like Quick bites and Small plates.
- Popularity: It is a popular spot for both Lunch and Dinner.
- Atmosphere: The establishment maintains a Casual and Cozy atmosphere, appealing to a variety of patrons, especially Locals.
- Amenities: A Restroom is available for dine-in customers.
- Customer Favorite Dishes: Highly-rated menu items by locals include tacos such as Lengua (Tongue), Tacos Campechanos, and Al Pastor, which are noted for their authentic flavor profiles.
What is Worth Choosing
For New Jersey diners seeking a quality Mexican meal, choosing El 5 Pesos is choosing authenticity and consistency. The restaurant prides itself on delivering a product that tastes great every time, a straightforward but vital promise that forms the foundation of a successful neighborhood spot.
What makes El 5 Pesos particularly worth choosing is its dedication to the 'Comfort food' category of Mexican cuisine. If you are a fan of robust, flavorful dishes that feel homemade and satisfying, this is the place. Their extensive selection of Tortas and Tacos means there is always something new to try, from the classic Torta de Pollo a la Plancha (Grilled chicken sandwich) to the more unique Torta Al Pastor or the Tacos de Lengua. For those who enjoy a little culinary adventure, the selection of specialty meat tacos, including Lengua and Tripa, offers a truly authentic regional experience that is not always available at every Mexican eatery in New Jersey.
Furthermore, the focus on quick and friendly service ensures that even on a busy workday, you can enjoy a fresh, quality meal without a long wait. While the space is intimate, the commitment to serving up genuine Mexican flavors to the family-friendly, local crowd is undeniable. It provides a taste of true Mexico in the heart of Paterson, offering a refreshing alternative to larger, less personal chain establishments. When you’re in the area and craving the real taste of Mexican street food and comfort classics, El 5 Pesos Mexican Restaurant is a standout choice.
El 5 pesos Mexican restaurant Details
Service options
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Offerings
- Comfort food
- Quick bite
- Small plates
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Table service
Amenities
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
Crowd
- Family-friendly
- Groups
- Locals
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
El 5 pesos Mexican restaurant Photos










El 5 pesos Mexican restaurant Location
El 5 pesos Mexican restaurant
339 Straight St, Paterson, NJ 07501, USA
El 5 pesos Mexican restaurant Reviews
tacosprice
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1I was in the area and I decided to get something for lunch with my twin, and I found this place, I ordered the langua tacos, campechanos, and al pastor, honestly the place was very unassuming and didn't even show up on Google maps. I thought this could be a good and a bad thing as there are no reviews, I'm very happy to be the first person to review them, but honestly I was underwhelmed, it's a SUPER small place- only 2 tables, and the counter person didn't speak barely ANY english, which would normally be a barrier for many people here in the United States, the food when I got it was alright, the meat servings are small for the tacos at best, and presentation was not so good, and the spicy salsa was not hot but they clearly tout spicy food, just ok, I wish them the best of luck.
September 26 · Silver Light FoxFirst time ordering front this place. Food was delicious. Only the sauce was to much watering. That's the only complaint.
June 14 · maritza VegaSo far so good. I ordered from here maybe 5 or 6 times already. Never been disappointed. They could put a little more meat in the taco but overall a decent place. Small but intimate. They don't speak much english, but I'm fine with that. It adds to the authenticity. I like the orange paint on the wall too! I wanna give them 4.5 stars.
June 07 · D HGreat food cool place and good service.
May 15 · Juan SucreOrdered the 30 tacos special and they threw 2 pieces of meat in each one and called it a day… first and last time we are ordering from here. Do not waste your money
December 10 · Nancy Estela
More restaurants near me

246 Market St, Paterson, NJ 07505, USA

251 Market St, Paterson, NJ 07505, USA

Rose St, Paterson, NJ 07501, USA

104 Park Ave, Paterson, NJ 07501, USA

442 Market St, Paterson, NJ 07501, USA

185 Straight St, Paterson, NJ 07501, USA

263 21st Ave, Paterson, NJ 07501, USA

378 Rosa Parks Blvd first floor, Paterson, NJ 07501, USA

317 21st Ave, Paterson, NJ 07513, USA

540 Straight St, Paterson, NJ 07503, USA

119 Martin St, Paterson, NJ 07501, USA

302 Grand St, Paterson, NJ 07501, USA
Categories
Top Visited Sites






Trending Dining Insights Posts





