Jaimito's

- 389 Lexington Ave, Clifton, NJ 07011

Welcome to Jaimito's, a beloved and long-established culinary fixture in Clifton, New Jersey, celebrated for its unique and authentic Peruvian and Chifa cuisine. For decades, Jaimito's has been a cherished local gem, serving a vibrant fusion of flavors that perfectly represents the rich cultural tapestry of Chifa—the incredible blend of Chinese and Peruvian cooking traditions. This family-owned restaurant is not just a place to eat; it is an institution in the North Jersey dining scene, offering huge, satisfying portions and a genuinely welcoming atmosphere that keeps locals coming back for more. Whether you’re a long-time resident or just passing through, Jaimito's promises a memorable meal that expertly combines the savory, stir-fried techniques of Chinese food with the zesty, complex spices and ingredients of Peru.

The history of Chifa cuisine itself is a fascinating story, born from the convergence of Chinese immigrants and Peruvian culture in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This fusion results in dishes that are simultaneously familiar and excitingly new, incorporating elements like soy sauce and Chinese noodles with Peruvian staples such as aji peppers, cilantro, and rice. Jaimito’s proudly puts this incredible heritage on full display, offering an extensive menu that caters to both Peruvian food enthusiasts and those new to the Chifa style. From classic Peruvian comfort food to signature Chinese-inspired preparations, Jaimito's is a must-try destination for any New Jersey foodie seeking a rich and flavorful dining adventure.

The restaurant is run by a dedicated Peruvian Chinese couple, with their son also involved, ensuring a personal, friendly service experience that reflects their commitment to the community. They have been honored to serve the New Jersey community for 40 years and counting, a testament to the quality and consistency of their food.

Location and Accessibility

Jaimito's is conveniently located at 389 Lexington Ave in Clifton, NJ 07011, making it easily accessible for residents across Passaic and Bergen Counties and beyond. Clifton is a hub for diverse Peruvian dining, but Jaimito's Chifa specialization truly sets it apart. The location, situated on a well-known avenue, has a casual and cozy atmosphere, often described as trendy yet unpretentious.

While the restaurant is a local favorite, potential patrons should be aware that parking can sometimes be tricky. The establishment benefits from available street parking, though patience is advisable during peak dining hours. It's best to plan accordingly, especially for dinner or on busy weekend days. The restaurant does accept credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments for convenience.

The address and contact details are as follows:

Address: 389 Lexington Ave, Clifton, NJ 07011, USA

Phone: (973) 546-2549

Services Offered

Jaimito's is committed to providing a flexible dining experience to suit all customers. Their services include:

Available Services:

• Dine-in service in a casual, cozy, and trendy atmosphere.
• Takeout is available, making it easy to enjoy the flavors of Chifa at home.
• Accepts reservations for planning your visit.
• Catering services for events and larger gatherings.
• Lunch and Dinner service is offered, appealing to locals and tourists alike.
• Table service provided by friendly and attentive staff.
• The venue is good for kids, making it a great family dining option.

Features / Highlights

Jaimito's stands out in the New Jersey dining landscape due to several unique features and popular offerings:

Key Highlights and Popular Menu Items:

• Authentic Chifa Cuisine: Specializing in the distinctive fusion of Peruvian and Chinese cooking traditions.
• The Iconic Lomo Saltado: This must-try main dish features sauteed slices of flank steak (Carne de Res) stir-fried with onions and tomatoes, served over white rice and French fries. It's also offered with Pollo (Chicken), Pescado (Fish), Mariscos (Seafood), or Camarones (Shrimp).
• Highly-Rated Arroz Chaufa: A staple of Chifa, this Peruvian-style fried rice is offered with numerous options including Pollo (Chicken), Carne De Res (Beef Steak), Pato (Roasted Duck), Mariscos (Seafood), and a popular Pollo Y Camarón combination.
• Signature Ceviches: The menu features fresh Pescado (Fish) and Mixto (Seafood Mix & Fish) ceviches, a traditional Peruvian dish of raw fish marinated in citrus juices.
• Generous Portions: Customers consistently rave about the huge portions, offering great value for a moderately priced menu.
• Exceptional Sauces: The signature bright-green Aji sauce (Salsa Verde) is legendary among regulars, known for its vibrant flavor and significant heat, a perfect complement to almost any dish.
• Peruvian Comfort Food: Beyond Chifa, traditional Peruvian favorites like Papa a la Huancaína (boiled potatoes in creamy cheese sauce), Cau-Cau, and Tacu-Tacu Con Zarza Criolla are also featured.
• Long-Standing Local Business: Serving the community for over 40 years, Jaimito's is a well-established and loyal family business.

What is Worth Choosing

When visiting Jaimito's in Clifton, you are presented with a truly diverse menu, but a few dishes come highly recommended by loyal patrons. The experience should start with one of the appetizers that showcases the fusion, such as Wantan Frito ($7.50) served with a sweet and sour salsa de tamarindo dipping sauce, or the very Peruvian Papa a La Huancaína ($8.00).

The true heart of the Chifa experience lies in the main courses. The Lomo Saltado ($17.00 for Carne de Res) is an absolute classic and a must-order for first-time visitors, embodying the perfect marriage of East and West with its blend of soy sauce-marinated steak, tomatoes, onions, rice, and French fries. Similarly, the various Arroz Chaufa (Peruvian Fried Rice) options are incredibly popular, with the House Special Chaufa (Especial) being a great choice, featuring chicken, grilled pork, and shrimp ($18.00).

If you are in the mood for noodles, the Tallarines Saltados (Salted Noodles) offer delicious, savory combinations. Try the Sam Si Especial ($18.00) with chicken, pork, and duck for a truly rich flavor profile. For those seeking fresh seafood, the Ceviche Mixto ($17.50) is often praised for its fresh, zesty flavor.

Do not overlook the soups, particularly the celebrated Sopa Wantan Especial. Reviews consistently mention that this soup is a standout, packed generously with wontons, chicken, and pork. A final, crucial recommendation is to utilize their famous Salsa Verde (Aji sauce). This bright, flavorful, and spicy Peruvian chili paste is the culinary secret that elevates every dish at Jaimito's, making it a critical part of the dining experience. Its availability in generous quantities, whether for dine-in or takeout, is a highlight noted by local food critics and customers alike. The combination of huge portions, authentic Chifa flavors, and the iconic Aji sauce makes Jaimito's a top choice for Peruvian and fusion cuisine in New Jersey.

Jaimito's

389 Lexington Ave, Clifton, NJ 07011, USA