Hawaii Express

- 153 Central Ave, Passaic, NJ 07055

In the vibrant culinary landscape of Passaic, New Jersey, Hawaii Express stands out as a true local gem, offering a distinctive and delicious fusion experience. This is not your average neighborhood Chinese restaurant; it is a unique culinary destination where traditional Chinese takeout favorites meet the rich, soulful flavors of Latin American, often drawing influences from Peruvian or Dominican cuisine. This exciting combination makes Hawaii Express a highly sought-after spot for those looking to expand their palate beyond the usual.

For decades, New Jersey residents have grown accustomed to the classic combination of Chinese food and Latin American dishes being offered in the same kitchen, particularly in areas with a diverse cultural mix like Passaic. Hawaii Express has mastered this fusion, creating a menu where both cuisines shine independently, yet together offer a complete, satisfying meal. The kitchen is renowned for its commitment to high quality, flavorful dishes, and notably, for maintaining high sanitation standards—an observation frequently highlighted by satisfied local patrons.

The loyal customer base often praises the exceptional flavor profile, noting that the food is seasoned with care and cooked with clean, fresh ingredients. This dedication elevates the entire experience, from a simple plate of Beef with Broccoli to their signature Latin offerings. Whether you're craving the crispy perfection of General Tso's Chicken or the deeply savory taste of a traditional Latin chicken dish, Hawaii Express offers comfort food that feels both familiar and excitingly new.

Open for both lunch and dinner, and accommodating the demand for late-night food, this restaurant has become a reliable staple for solo diners, families, and anyone needing a quick, satisfying meal. It embodies the best of New Jersey’s diverse food culture—great taste, generous portions, and friendly service.

Location and Accessibility

Hawaii Express is conveniently located at the heart of Passaic, making it highly accessible to residents and those commuting through the area. You can find this popular spot at:

153 Central Ave, Passaic, NJ 07055, USA

The location on Central Avenue is easy to reach and is part of the bustling local environment of Passaic. Patrons frequently note the accessible nature of the restaurant, which adds to its appeal as a reliable option for a quick bite or takeout order during a busy day or late evening.

The current operating hours are as follows, allowing for dining access throughout the day and into the night:

• Monday: Closed
• Tuesday - Saturday: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
• Sunday: 12:00 PM - 10:00 AM (Note: This opening time may be a minor error in public data, but the late closing confirms late-night availability.)

The atmosphere inside is described as Casual, making it a comfortable, unpretentious setting for a dine-in experience, though its popularity primarily stems from its excellent takeout service.

Services Offered

The business model of Hawaii Express is centered around providing fast, flavorful, and flexible dining solutions to its New Jersey community:

• Takeout: Highly praised as one of the best takeout experiences in the region, known for its efficiency and quality.
• Dine-in: A casual setting is available for customers who prefer to enjoy their meal on-site.
• Quick Bite / Small Plates: The menu is structured to offer quick, satisfying items perfect for a lunch break or a small, late-night meal.
• Lunch and Dinner Service: The restaurant operates during peak lunch and dinner hours, serving two complete menus.
• Late-Night Food: Its generous closing hours make it a favored spot for a satisfying meal later in the evening.
• Comfort Food Focus: The entire menu is built around hearty, satisfying comfort food, whether from the Chinese or Latin American side.

Features / Highlights

Hawaii Express has established a stellar reputation in Passaic by focusing on quality and a unique menu blend. These are the aspects that truly set it apart:

• The Dual-Cuisine Specialization: The seamless and expert integration of both classic Chinese dishes and authentic Latin American comfort food (often Peruvian/Dominican style) is its biggest draw, successfully catering to diverse local tastes.
• Best Pollo a la Brasa: According to dedicated customers, the rotisserie-style chicken, or Pollo a la Brasa, is a standout dish, often called "better than any Pollo a la Brasa" found in neighboring towns like Paterson and Clifton. It's noted for its rich flavor and perfect cooking.
• Exceptional Seasoning and Flavor: Patrons consistently highlight that the food, across both menu sections, is highly seasoned and flavorful, indicating a strong commitment to quality and taste beyond standard takeout fare.
• High Sanitation Standards: Unusually for a quick-service restaurant, the cleanliness of both the sitting and cooking areas is positively reviewed, giving customers high confidence in the food preparation.
• Signature Side Dishes: The Arroz Moro (Moorish rice) is a highly addictive side dish often mentioned alongside the Pollo a la Brasa, and the menu includes other traditional Spanish sides like Tostones (fried plantains) and Habichuelas Rojas (red beans).
• Top-Rated Chinese Classics: Even the Chinese menu items, such as the Lomein and Crab Ragoons, are praised for being the best and most flavorful of their kind.

Contact Information

To place an order for takeout, inquire about the menu, or confirm dining hours, you can reach Hawaii Express via the following contact details:

Address: 153 Central Ave, Passaic, NJ 07055, USA

Phone: (973) 916-8600 or +1 973-916-8600

What is Worth Choosing

When visiting Hawaii Express, New Jersey residents are encouraged to embrace the fusion and explore the unique strengths of this Passaic establishment. The absolute, non-negotiable must-try dish is the Pollo a la Brasa, which can be ordered as a half portion (La Mitad De Pollo Con Yuca Fridas) or served with its critically acclaimed side, Arroz Moro, for a truly addictive experience (La Mitad De Pollo Con Arroz Moro Y Ensalada). This rotisserie chicken is the cornerstone of their Latin offerings and a major draw for the community.

From the Spanish side, other flavorful choices include the Chuleda Frita Con Tostoness Y Ensalada (Fried pork chop with fried plantains and salad) and the Bisteck Encebollado Con Arroz Habichuelas Rojas (Steak with onions, rice, and red beans). Don't forget to add a side of Plantano Maduro (sweet plantain) for a traditional treat.

For those craving Chinese favorites, the menu delivers on flavor and quality:

• General Tso's Chicken or Sesame Chicken: Reliably well-prepared, flavorful, and satisfying.
• House Special Lo Mein: Praised as a 10/10 dish, highlighting the kitchen's superior seasoning.
• Crab Ragoons: Described as having great filling and flavor, moving beyond the standard fare.

Hawaii Express successfully offers two worlds of cuisine under one roof, providing an unbeatable combination of quality, flavor, and value that firmly establishes it as a local favorite in the New Jersey food scene. This is the place to go when you want more than just one kind of comfort food.

Hawaii Express

153 Central Ave, Passaic, NJ 07055, USA