El Gallo Mexican Cuisine Introduce
## Introduction / Overview: Discover El Gallo Mexican Cuisine in Hawthorne, NJ
New Jersey’s culinary landscape is rich with diverse, locally-owned establishments, and for residents seeking truly authentic and freshly prepared Mexican fare, **El Gallo Mexican Cuisine** in Hawthorne is a standout destination. Located right in the heart of Passaic County, this local gem has earned a reputation for serving up classic Mexican comfort food with a clear dedication to quality and flavor.
El Gallo is more than just a sit-down restaurant; it is a full-service culinary resource, identifying as a Mexican restaurant, a dedicated caterer, and a highly efficient delivery and takeout operation. This versatility ensures that whether you're looking for a quick, satisfying lunch, a cozy dinner with family, or planning a large event, El Gallo can meet your needs.
The business proudly identifies as Latino-owned, bringing an authentic touch that is evident in every dish, from the *Fresh Guacamole* to the hearty *Puebla Burrito*. Customers consistently praise the experience, noting the warmth of the atmosphere and the personalized care from the staff and owner, which truly elevates the entire dining experience beyond the typical takeout joint. It’s a place where you can taste the "love and effort" the chefs put into their food, a welcome assurance for anyone in the New Jersey area looking for real, non-microwave meals.
## Location and Accessibility
El Gallo Mexican Cuisine is conveniently situated at a well-known address in Hawthorne, making it a central spot for the local community and those driving from surrounding towns:
- **Address:** 197 Diamond Bridge Ave, Hawthorne, NJ 07506, USA
Accessibility is a key priority for El Gallo, ensuring a welcoming experience for all patrons. The establishment is fully equipped with comprehensive accessibility features, making it a reliable choice for guests with mobility needs:
- **Wheelchair accessible entrance**
- **Wheelchair accessible parking lot** (Though one review mentions street parking, the business website confirms ample parking in the back, front, and side of the building, providing peace of mind to drivers.)
- **Wheelchair accessible restroom**
- **Wheelchair accessible seating**
The central location on Diamond Bridge Avenue is easy to find, and the confirmed availability of both a **Free parking lot** and **Free street parking** eliminates the hassle of finding a spot, allowing New Jersey residents to focus on enjoying their meal.
## Services Offered
El Gallo is built on convenience and flexibility, offering a full range of service options to fit any lifestyle in the Passaic County area:
- **Dine-in:** Enjoy the casual, cozy, and vibrant atmosphere with full table service.
- **Takeout:** Perfect for grabbing a meal to-go for a satisfying dinner at home.
- **Delivery:** Convenient delivery service, a major plus for busy locals.
- **No-contact delivery:** An option for those who prefer maximum safety and minimal interaction.
- **Caterer Services:** Specializing in catering for events, parties, and business meetings, allowing hosts to share authentic Mexican flavors with large groups.
- **Accepts Reservations:** For groups and during peak dining hours, the ability to reserve a table ensures minimal wait time.
## Features / Highlights
What makes El Gallo Mexican Cuisine a truly special destination in the North Jersey region are its many thoughtful features and consistent delivery of quality:
- **Freshness and Authenticity:** A major highlight noted by customers is the commitment to **fresh, tasty ingredients**, with one reviewer specifically mentioning the fresh chips and salsa served upon seating—a clear sign of an authentic Mexican dining experience, not "microwave food."
- **Exceptional Hospitality:** The owner, Rey, and his staff are frequently praised for their **fast service**, being "extremely personable," and making sure "guests are happy and taken care of." This friendly, small-town hospitality is a huge draw.
- **Diverse and Inclusive Environment:** El Gallo fosters a welcoming **Family-friendly** and **LGBTQ+ friendly** atmosphere, including a **Transgender safespace** designation, making it an inclusive spot for all New Jersey community members.
- **Comprehensive Vegetarian Options:** The menu is rich with **Vegetarian options**, including a *Veggie Quesadilla*, *Veggie Nachos* (using zucchini slices instead of chips for a lighter choice), and the *Mexicali Wrap* (a vegan option), demonstrating an effort to cater to diverse dietary needs.
- **Full Menu Range:** From satisfying lunch wraps (*Mexicali Wrap*, *Cheesesteak Wrap*) and classic entrées (*Sizzling Fajitas*, *Tampiquena*) to delectable desserts (*Homemade Flan*, *Tres Leches*), the menu covers all cravings.
- **Convenient Amenities:** The restaurant is equipped with modern amenities like a **Gender-neutral restroom** and **Wi-Fi**, adding to the comfort of the casual and cozy dining setting. They also provide **High chairs** for the youngest guests.
## Contact Information
New Jersey patrons can easily get in touch with El Gallo Mexican Cuisine for reservations, takeout orders, or catering inquiries:
- **Address:** 197 Diamond Bridge Ave, Hawthorne, NJ 07506, USA
- **Phone (Main):** (973) 427-0124
- **Mobile Phone (Alternative):** +1 973-427-0124
The availability of multiple contact points ensures that the local community can reach them efficiently, whether calling from home or on the go.
## What is Worth Choosing
For residents of Hawthorne and surrounding Passaic County, El Gallo Mexican Cuisine is worth choosing for the rare combination of high-quality, authentic food and a deeply personal, welcoming service experience. It manages to balance the speed of a **Quick bite** with the comforting warmth of a **Casual** local favorite.
### Must-Try Menu Items
When visiting, a few dishes are consistently highlighted by satisfied customers. The **Tres Tacos (street tacos)** are a popular choice for their authentic preparation. The **Fresh Guacamole** and complimentary fresh salsa with chips are essential appetizers that confirm the kitchen's commitment to using the "freshest ingredients." For a full experience, exploring their namesake platters, like the *Hawthorne Platter* (a combo of three items), or a specialty burrito like the **Grilled Burrito** provides a substantial and flavorful meal.
### The Local Difference
Ultimately, what sets El Gallo apart from other Mexican restaurants in the North Jersey area is the palpable sense of care and community. The fact that the owner, Rey, actively engages with guests and that the business has created an intentionally inclusive and welcoming space (LGBTQ+ friendly, Transgender safespace) resonates deeply with local users looking for more than just a transaction. You are not just getting **Comfort food**; you are supporting a dedicated, Latino-owned local business that prides itself on exceptional hospitality, authentic flavors, and being a genuinely good neighbor. This is the definition of a local gem that is truly worth supporting and revisiting.
El Gallo Mexican Cuisine Vibe
Appetizers
- Fresh Guacamole $12.47
Homemade daily, served with chips.
- Queso Dip $10.39
home-made cheese dip served with tortilla chips. Add chorizo $1.04.
- Nachos $13.51
tortilla chips covered with melted cheese, pico de gallo, jalapenos, beans, guacamole and sour cream with choice of protein: chicken $1.04, ground beef $1.04, chorizo $1.04, steak $2.08.
- Nachos Supreme $15.59
tortilla chips covered with melted cheese, beans, chicken, steak, sour cream, guacamole, pico de gallo, and jalapenos.
- Veggie Nachos $14.55
slices of grilled zucchini, topped with black beans, avocado, pico de gallo, corn, and melted cheese (vegan cheese available $1.04).
- Empanadas $8.31
flour dough discs folded over with choice of chicken, or steak filled with melted cheese. Tomatillo sauce on side.
- Taquitos $8.31
small rolled-up and fried tortilla filled with chicken and melted cheese.
- Flautas $10.39
3 crispy rolled corn tortillas filled with cheese and chicken, drizzled with sour cream and cotija cheese, and guacamole.
- Quesadilla Appetizer $10.39
cheese quesadilla cut into 4 pieces served with sour cream and guacamole. Add chicken $1.04, steak $2.08, or shrimp $3.12.
- El Gallo Sampler $20.79
Chicken tenders, nachos, chicken taquitos, and cheese quesadilla.
Lunch
- Mexicali Wrap $10.39
refried beans, rice, olives, fresh jalapenos, sliced avocado and tomato.
- Veggie Fajita Wrap $10.39
mixture of peppers, onions, lettuce, zucchini, broccoli, and mushrooms.
- Cheesesteak Wrap $10.39
steak, queso, fries, peppers and onions.
- Bandera Wrap $10.39
breaded chicken in our chipotle-honey sauce, lettuce, pico de gallo and ranch.
- Caballero Platter $10.39
your choice of 1 item: taco, enchilada, burrito, or chimichanga. Choose a protein: chicken, steak, ground beef, carnitas, beans or shrimp $3.12. Served with rice and choice of refried or black beans. Add guac and sour cream for $1.04.
Entrees
- Sizzling Fajitas $18.71
vegetables 18.71, grilled chicken 20.79, steak 21.81, shrimp 23.88, any 2 combo 25.96, or 3 combo 28.04 on a bed of peppers and onions served with rice, beans, and tortillas. Sour cream and guac on the side. Add cheese $0.52.
- Stir Fry $17.67
vegetables 17.67, grilled chicken 18.81, steak 19.73, shrimp 20.79, or any 2 combo 23.88 served with veggies and rice.
- Mexicana $17.65
choice of grilled chicken, or steak, topped with our homemade Mexicana sauce. Served with rice and beans.
- Tampiquena $17.67
steak strips served with a chicken enchilada, rice, refried or black beans and guacamole.
- Quesadilla BLT $16.63
bacon, lettuce, tomato with chicken and avocado. Comes with sour cream and guacamole.
- Quesadilla Entree $15.59
plain cheese, chicken $1.04, steak $2.08, or shrimp $3.12 with melted cheese. Comes with sour cream and guac
- Veggie Quesadilla $16.63
cheese, mushrooms, peppers, onions, zucchini, and broccoli. Comes with sour cream and guacamole.
- Hawthorne Platter (combo) $16.63
mix and match 3 items: taco, burrito, chimichanga, or enchilada. Choose filling: steak, chicken, ground beef, carnitas, or shrimp $3.12. Served with rice and beans. Add sour cream or guac on the side $1.04.
Salads
- Taco Salad Bowl $16.63
lettuce topped with tomatoes, cucumbers, corn, olives, avocado, and cheese all in a crispy tortilla bowl. Choice of protein: chicken $1.04, steak $2.08, or shrimp $3.12. Ranch dressing.
- Texas Salad $15.59
lettuce, diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, onions, cheese, and chicken topped with BBQ sauce, and tortilla strips. Served with ranch dressing.
- Salpicon $16.63
lettuce, tomato, cucumber, olives, peppers, onions, avocado, and chicken. Tossed in lemon, oil and vinegar dressing.
Burritos
- Grilled Burrito $15.59
choice of mixed veggies, chorizo, steak, chicken, carnitas, or shrimp ($3.12). Filled with rice, beans, and cheese. Served with sour cream and guac on the side.
- Puebla Burrito $17.67
filled with rice, black beans, sour cream, lettuce, chicken, mole sauce, and cheese. Topped with melted cheese and mole sauce. Served with sour cream and guac on the side.
- Burrito Bowl $13.51
pico de gallo, lettuce, jalapeno, cheese, rice, sour cream, guacamole and beans (black or refried). Add ingredient: chicken, steak, ground beef, carnitas, chorizo, veggies or shrimp ($3.12).
- Dos Burritos Plato $12.47
2 burritos filled with cheese and your choice of protein: chicken, steak, ground beef, veggies, carnitas, beans, or shrimp ($3.12). Served with rice and refried or black beans. Add sour cream and guac for $1.04.
- Dos Chimichanga Plato $12.47
2 burritos deep fried, filled with cheese and choice of protein: chicken, steak, ground beef, veggies, carnitas, beans, or shrimp ($3.12). Served with rice and refried or black beans. Add sour cream and guac for $1.04.
Tacos
- Tres Tacos (street tacos) $15.59
mix and match 3 corn tortilla tacos with choices of proteins: chorizo, steak, chicken, carnitas, or shrimp ($3.12) topped with cilantro and onions. Served with rice and beans.
- Tacos Bandera $16.63
3 flour tortilla tacos filled with breaded chicken in our chipotle-honey sauce. Topped with ranch, lettuce, and pico de gallo. Served with rice and choice of refried or black beans.
- Fajita Tacos $16.63
3 flour tortillas filled with slices of Angus steak, peppers, sautéed onions, and pico de gallo. Served with rice and beans. Comes with sour cream and guacamole on the side.
- Dos Tacos Plato (Tex-Mex Style) $12.47
2 tacos (hard or soft shell) with choice of choice of protein: chicken, steak, ground beef, veggies, carnitas, beans, or shrimp ($3.12). Served with rice and refried or black beans. Add sour cream and guac for $1.04
Enchiladas
- Enchilada Mole $13.51
2 Chicken enchiladas covered with melted cheese and mole sauce. Served with rice and beans. Add sour cream and guac $1.04
- Enchilada Suiza $13.51
2 chicken enchiladas topped melted cheese and our homemade tomatillo cream. Served with rice and choice of refried or black beans. Add sour cream and guac $1.04.
- Dos Enchiladas Plato $12.47
2 enchiladas with choice of choice of protein: chicken, steak, ground beef, veggies, carnitas, beans, or shrimp $3.12. Served with rice and refried or black beans. Add sour cream and guac for $1.04.
Dessert
- Homemade Flan $8.31
Sweetened egg custard baked with a caramel glaze
- Churros $8.31
fried dough pastry served with chocolate and caramel syrup for dipping
- Tres Leches $8.31
A sponge cake soaked in three types of milk
Children's Meals
- Kid's Chicken Tenders $10.39
3 pieces, grilled or breaded. Comes with fries
- Kid's Cheese Quesadilla $10.39
Flour tortilla with melted cheese cut into 4 pieces.
- Kid's Nachos $10.35
Corn tortilla chips with melted cheese. Add your choice of meat.
- Diamond Bridge Platter $10.39
Choice of 1: taco, burrito, or enchilada. Filled with choice meat. Served with rice and beans
El Gallo Mexican Cuisine Details
From the business
- Identifies as Latino-owned
Service options
- No-contact delivery
- Delivery
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Happy hour food
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Vegetarian options
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Gender-neutral restroom
- Restroom
- Wi-Fi
- Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
Crowd
- Family-friendly
- Groups
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Locals
- Transgender safespace
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
Parking
- Free parking lot
- Free street parking
- Parking
El Gallo Mexican Cuisine Photos










El Gallo Mexican Cuisine Location
El Gallo Mexican Cuisine
197 Diamond Bridge Ave, Hawthorne, NJ 07506, USA
El Gallo Mexican Cuisine Reviews
chipsfood and servicesteakempanadasenchiladaschurrosfajitasmoledeliverycarnitas
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1I came here hungry for just a burrito, but ended up getting a whole different experience! You can tell the chefs put love and effort into the food they make, everything is fresh and tasty! I ended up settling on a chicken quesadilla with a side of refried beans and it definitely hit the spot. And like any authentic Mexican restaurant, they give you fresh chips and salsa once you sit down (always reassures me that I'm not about to be served microwave food!!!)The owner Rey was our host for the evening and you can tell he cares about his business. He's extremely personable and makes sure his guests are happy and taken care of. 10/10 job on his part!If you're in the area don't pass this place up. You have to find parking on the street but don't let that stop you from coming here - it's worth it! I'll be sure to pass by again next time I'm in the area, I need to try the rest of the menu! 😁
December 30 · Mike SecorThe best small town Mexican restaurant ever! Rey has the best hospitality & his workers are great as well. Great food, conversation and atmosphere!
July 20 · Sofia CaballeroOrdered Take out and the food was great! Good Value also. It will now be my go-to Mexican Food take out restaurant.
June 02 · Tony PetruccelloNot authentic. Ordered tacos al pastor for takeout and the meat in the tacos was cold. No pineapples in it (al pastor). Overpriced for the quality. Payed for a side of guac and it was literally a chunk of the avocado in the cup (thats not guacamole)
May 05 · Noelia CapellanMy husband brought home dinner from here he was in the mood for burritos . So as usual my 11 year old and I always order carnitas in our burrito . So my husband called and order 4 burritos 2 of which were filled with carnitas. After my extremely hungry 11 year old ate 3/4 of this damn burrito she pulls out a chunk of RAW pork literally RAW uncooked pork. So of course I was dissecting my burrito which was also filled with raw pork. Very upsetting after spending 75$ on 4 burritos 2 of which uneatable. Still trying to figure out how someone doesn’t see that they filled 2 burritos with raw meat. This was my first time visiting this establishment I wouldn’t recommend nor will I be back considering how sick my daughter could have gotten . This is what my daughter pulled out of her mouth .
March 28 · jamie inzoneAmazing service, I constantly order from this restaurant on a monthly basis well worth the money, ❤️
October 02 · Carter Fowlkes
More restaurants near me

201 Diamond Bridge Ave, Hawthorne, NJ 07506, USA

195 Diamond Bridge Ave, Hawthorne, NJ 07506, USA

191 Diamond Bridge Ave, Hawthorne, NJ 07506, USA

198 Diamond Bridge Ave, Hawthorne, NJ 07506, USA

204 Diamond Bridge Ave, Hawthorne, NJ 07506, USA

204 Diamond Bridge Ave, Hawthorne, NJ 07506, USA

210 Diamond Bridge Ave, Hawthorne, NJ 07506, USA

237 Diamond Bridge Ave, Hawthorne, NJ 07506, USA

234 Lafayette Ave, Hawthorne, NJ 07506, USA

409 Lafayette Ave, Hawthorne, NJ 07506, USA

4 Garfield Ave, Hawthorne, NJ 07506, USA

421 Lafayette Ave, Hawthorne, NJ 07506, USA
Categories
Top Visited Sites






Top Searches
Trending Dining Insights Posts





