La Costena Market

- 201 Essex St, Hackensack, NJ 07601

For New Jersey residents seeking a taste of authentic South American cuisine, a hidden culinary gem awaits in Hackensack: La Costena Market. More than just a typical restaurant, La Costena Market provides a unique blend of a market atmosphere and a kitchen offering delicious, homestyle Colombian fare. Located conveniently in Bergen County, this establishment has become a beloved spot for locals craving flavorful, freshly prepared meals, from hearty breakfasts to comforting dinners.

In the bustling North Jersey food scene, where new restaurants constantly pop up, La Costena Market stands out by staying true to its roots. It offers a genuine, no-frills experience focused on quality, traditional Colombian cooking that feels like it came straight from a family kitchen. Customers consistently praise the rich flavors, generous portions, and the feeling of warmth that their food provides—often described as the perfect remedy for a tough day.

While its exterior may suggest a simple grocery or market setting, the food preparation here is anything but simple. This dedication to authentic Latin cuisine, including daily specials and staple Colombian dishes, is what keeps local users coming back, turning first-time visitors into loyal patrons. If you are looking to try a delicious and reasonably priced alternative to fast-food lunches or dinners, La Costena Market promises a freshly cooked, satisfying meal every time.

The core of La Costena Market's appeal lies in its menu of daily menu combinations (Combinacion de Menú Diario). These prepared dishes allow locals to enjoy a complete, balanced meal quickly and efficiently, perfectly suited for the busy New Jersey lifestyle. The daily combinations typically feature a choice of protein served alongside a selection of traditional Colombian sides.

Signature dishes available all day as part of the Daily Menu Combinations include:

• Pollo Al Horno / Baked Chicken ($10.00): A tender and flavorful chicken option.
• Res / Beef ($14.00): A robust and satisfying beef plate.
• Cerdo Al Horno / Roast Pork ($13.00): Succulent, slow-roasted pork.
• Guisado De Pollo / Chicken Stew ($11.00): A deeply flavorful stew, perfect for comfort.

These main courses are complemented by a variety of classic Acompañantes (Sides), ensuring a complete and authentic meal. Diners can choose from staples such as White Rice (Arroz Blanco) or Yellow Rice (Arroz Amarillo) for $6.00, along with a selection of beans, including Frijoles (regular beans) and Frijoles Negros (Black Beans), both priced at $5.50. For those who enjoy a bit of sweetness with their savory, the Plátanos Dulces (Sweet Plantains), offered in a generous portion of 6 pieces for $3.00, are a popular and delicious addition. They also offer hearty soups, with one customer claiming they have "the best soup" they've ever tasted, emphasizing its comforting and revitalizing qualities.

Beyond the daily platters, La Costena Market is famous for its small bites and appetizers. Their empanadas—a favorite snack in Colombian culture—are a must-try. Available in Beef (Res) for $2.25, Chicken (Pollo) for $2.00, and Cheese (Queso) for $2.00, these crispy, flavor-packed pastries make for a perfect quick bite or appetizer. Other á la carte meat selections like Cerdo Frito (Fried Pork) and Cerdo Al Horno (Roast Pork) are available for $7.00 per portion.

The culinary experience is rounded out by traditional Latin American beverages (Bebidas) such as Colombiana and Inca Cola, both available for $2.00, alongside the classic Coca Cola.

Conveniently located in Bergen County, La Costena Market is a highly accessible destination for a broad range of New Jersey residents.

Contact Information

Address: 201 Essex St, Hackensack, NJ 07601, USA

Phone: (551) 303-7243

The location at 201 Essex Street in Hackensack places it within easy reach of major local roadways, making it a viable option for a quick stop during a commute or a planned family meal. Furthermore, La Costena Market is committed to accommodating all guests. For those with mobility needs, the venue offers a Wheelchair accessible parking lot, a Wheelchair accessible restroom, and Wheelchair accessible seating. Guests driving to the market will also benefit from the provision of a Free parking lot, though a review notes that parking can be limited in the back, suggesting an early arrival might be best during peak hours.

The atmosphere itself is described as Casual and Cozy, providing a relaxed environment for a meal. While minimal seating is available for a quick dine-in experience, the primary focus is on fast, fresh, and convenient food service for the local community, whether dining solo or with groups.

La Costena Market tailors its services to the fast-paced life of New Jersey users, prioritizing convenience and flexibility.

• Service Options: Delivery, Takeout, and Dine-in are all available, offering maximum flexibility for customers.
• Dining Availability: They serve food for every meal of the day—Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, and Dinner.
• Catering Services: The market also offers Catering, making it a great option for parties, corporate events, or large family gatherings looking for authentic Colombian food.
• Event Planning: The business Accepts reservations, which is useful for groups planning to dine-in.
• Payment Flexibility: They accept Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments for easy transactions.
• Family-Friendly: The market is considered Good for kids, making it a welcoming spot for families.

Several key features distinguish La Costena Market as a prime destination for Colombian cuisine in New Jersey.

• Authentic Colombian Cuisine: A strong focus on traditional recipes ensures an authentic taste of Colombia, often featuring a 'Serves local specialty' highlight.
• Exceptional Coffee: The business is highlighted for its 'Great coffee,' a staple of Latin American markets and bakeries, perfect to start the day or enjoy with dessert.
• Freshly Cooked Comfort Food: The menu is categorized by 'Comfort food' and 'Quick bite' options, perfect for a satisfying meal on the go. One review emphasizes the home-style, freshly cooked, flavorful Latin food, noting its quality over comparably priced fast food.
• Daily Variety: With a focus on the Combinacion de Menú Diario, customers can find consistent quality in their favorite main dishes and sides, alongside the daily specials in soup and rice mentioned in other search results.
• Friendly and Dedicated Service: The inviting atmosphere and dedication to customer satisfaction contribute to its reputation as a local favorite.

When you visit La Costena Market in Hackensack, you are choosing more than just a meal; you are choosing an authentic, flavorful experience deeply rooted in Colombian tradition. For New Jersey locals, the value proposition is clear: high-quality, freshly cooked, home-style food at a great price, offering a genuine alternative to mass-produced meals.

The Empanadas—Beef, Chicken, and Cheese—are non-negotiable must-try items, celebrated for their authentic preparation. However, the most talked-about item is their exceptional soup. One highly enthusiastic customer review noted, "They have the best soup! Please please please keep this soup just the way it is!!!... this soup brings me back to life!!!!" This high praise underscores the commitment of La Costena Market to dishes that truly nourish and satisfy the soul, appealing to those seeking authentic, therapeutic comfort food.

The daily combinations, such as the Pollo Al Horno or Res served with a selection of rice and beans, provide a complete, affordable, and deeply flavorful meal that is perfect for a busy workday lunch or a quick family dinner. The availability of both quick bites and full meals, along with flexible service options like takeout and delivery, makes it an ideal spot for Hackensack residents and beyond. Whether you're fueling up with a classic Colombian breakfast, grabbing a quick Empanada, or indulging in a hearty dinner, La Costena Market offers a consistently positive and authentic dining experience that is well worth seeking out in North Jersey.

The blend of a market setting with a serious, high-quality kitchen makes La Costena Market a unique and valuable part of the New Jersey culinary landscape. It is a place where you can rely on getting "freshly cooked home style flavorful Latin food," offering superior value and taste compared to conventional fast-food options. It is an ideal spot for individuals, families, and groups looking for genuine Colombian flavor in a casual, convenient, and friendly setting.

La Costena Market

201 Essex St, Hackensack, NJ 07601, USA