La Fortaleza Passaic Introduce
Introduction / Overview
When New Jersey residents are searching for an authentic, flavorful, and comprehensive Mexican dining experience, La Fortaleza Passaic stands out as an essential destination. Categorized as a full-service Mexican restaurant, a specialized Taco restaurant, and a go-to for Tex-Mex favorites, this establishment offers a truly expansive menu that caters to every craving, from traditional homestyle plates to innovative modern dishes.
Located in Passaic, La Fortaleza quickly establishes itself as a vibrant local gem. As a proud Latino-owned business, it brings a genuine cultural flavor to the New Jersey food scene. The atmosphere is consistently described as being Casual, Cozy, and Trendy, making it a comfortable spot for various occasions, from a laid-back lunch to a lively dinner with friends.
The heart of La Fortaleza is its food, which is defined by "really big flavors," according to enthusiastic customer feedback. From fresh appetizers like house-made Guacamole and Ceviche De Camaron to hearty entrees, the emphasis is always on high-quality ingredients and generous portions. Patrons frequently highlight the tacos and Cecina for being "flavorful and big servings," underscoring the restaurant's commitment to both taste and value. Furthermore, the dedication to a full dining experience is evident in its exceptional bar program, featuring signature MARGARITAS, classic COCKTAILS, and a wide selection of TEQUILA and BEERS.
Designed to serve everyone—from Groups and Locals to Family-friendly crowds—La Fortaleza Passaic is more than just a place to eat; it is a community staple that embodies the rich diversity of North Jersey’s culinary landscape. With service options including Delivery, Takeout, and Dine-in, and a reputation for Fast service, it easily accommodates the pace of life in New Jersey.
Location and Accessibility
La Fortaleza Passaic is conveniently located at 204 Hope Ave, Passaic, NJ 07055, USA. This address places it within a dynamic and easily accessible area of the city, making it a simple choice for residents across Passaic and neighboring North Jersey towns.
The restaurant's position on Hope Avenue means it is well-connected within the local road network. For customers driving in, the availability of Free street parking is a significant amenity in a densely populated area, alleviating the common stress of finding a spot in an urban New Jersey setting. This accessibility makes it an excellent choice for family gatherings or for friends meeting up from different parts of the county.
The inclusion of multiple service options—Delivery, Takeout, and Dine-in—further enhances its accessibility for the busy New Jersey consumer. Whether you want to enjoy a leisurely Dinner with Table service inside the cozy, Trendy dining area, or you need a quick Lunch to be delivered to your office or home, La Fortaleza is set up to meet your needs. The acceptance of both Credit cards and Debit cards at the location ensures that transactions are smooth and efficient, perfectly aligning with a busy urban lifestyle.
Services Offered
La Fortaleza Passaic provides a complete spectrum of services, ensuring a great dining experience whether you are visiting in person or enjoying their food at home.
- Full Dine-In Service: Offering a casual, cozy, and trendy atmosphere with comfortable Seating and full Table service for Lunch and Dinner.
- Takeout and Delivery: Providing convenient options for customers to enjoy the full menu at home, supported by a reputation for Fast service.
- Extensive Mexican Menu: Featuring wide-ranging categories, including Tacos (like Tacos Birria and Tacos Gobernador), Burritos, Enchiladas, and specialties like Quesa-Birria and the impressive El Machete Fortaleza.
- Specialty Cemitas: A dedicated section for authentic Cemitas (traditional Mexican sandwiches), with an extensive selection of fillings like Cemita Cubana, Cemita Al Pastor, and Cemi-Birria.
- Full Bar and Cocktail Service: Serving a robust selection of Alcohol, Beer, and Cocktails, including signature MARGARITAS (e.g., La Doña Florinda), unique COCKTAILS (e.g., Cafe De Olla Martini), and various Tequilas and Mojitos.
- Catering: Offering Catering services for events, allowing groups to enjoy their rich flavors for parties, office meetings, or large family gatherings.
- Family and Kid-Friendly Amenities: Featuring a dedicated Kids' menu, High chairs, and Changing table(s), making it truly Good for kids and welcoming to young families.
- Dessert and Hot Beverages: Concluding the meal with delicious options like Flan, Fried Ice Cream, and Chocolate Caramel Churros, complemented by Coffee and Hot Chocolate.
Features and Highlights
La Fortaleza Passaic distinguishes itself in the highly competitive North Jersey dining landscape through several key features that enhance the customer experience.
- Authentic Cemitas Selection: The sheer variety and focus on Cemitas—the authentic Mexican sandwich—is a major highlight, with options from Cemita Lucha Libre to Cemita Carnitas, offering a unique taste of regional Mexican cuisine often less common in standard Tex-Mex spots.
- Impressive Bar Program: The restaurant boasts a full Bar onsite with an innovative Cocktails menu, especially the creative MARGARITAS and souvenir drink options like the Cantarote (a large-format drink), catering perfectly to a fun night out for Groups.
- Emphasis on Freshness and Flavor: Customer reviews consistently mention the food's quality, noting that appetizers like the Guacamole and entrees like the Cecina are exceptionally "fresh" and "flavorful," ensuring a memorable meal every time.
- Extensive Seafood and Soup Options: Offering beyond the typical taco fare with sophisticated seafood dishes like Ceviche De Camaron and Mojarra Frita, and hearty, traditional soups such as Pozole and Caldo De Mariscos.
- Latino-Owned Business: Identifying as a Latino-owned establishment, which adds to the authenticity and provides a genuine connection to the cultural roots of the cuisine being served.
- Dedicated Family Focus: Amenities like a Kids' menu, High chairs, and even a Changing table(s) demonstrate a clear commitment to accommodating families, making it a truly family-friendly option in Passaic.
Contact Information
For New Jersey locals planning a visit or needing to place an order, the contact details for La Fortaleza Passaic are as follows:
Address: 204 Hope Ave, Passaic, NJ 07055, USA
Phone: (973) 471-2883
What is Worth Choosing La Fortaleza Passaic?
For a local New Jersey diner, La Fortaleza Passaic is worth choosing for three primary reasons: Culinary Breadth, Authentic Flavors, and Superior Hospitality.
First, the sheer Culinary Breadth of the menu is unmatched. Whether you are craving a familiar Burrito Supreme from the Tex-Mex side or seeking the unique, regional taste of a Cemita Cubana or Tlacoyos, La Fortaleza has it. This extensive selection, from Tacos Albañil to Cecina Fortaleza to multiple seafood options, ensures that the restaurant can satisfy diverse palates and keep things interesting for repeat Locals.
Second, the restaurant delivers on Authentic Flavors. The food is consistently described as being delicious, fresh, and served in big servings. The focus on traditional preparations, from the rich flavor of Tacos Birria to the house-made Guacamole, offers a genuine, high-quality Mexican experience that transcends typical chain dining. Even the desserts, such as the tres leches cake (which one customer noted was "so good too!"), are executed with care.
Finally, the combination of Superior Hospitality and amenities makes it a reliable choice. The restaurant is Family-friendly with specific accommodations for children, and its reputation for Fast service makes it ideal for a Quick bite or a scheduled Delivery. Whether you are looking for a lively place with creative cocktails and a full bar or a comfortable spot for a casual dinner, La Fortaleza Passaic offers a complete, high-value dining experience right here in New Jersey.
La Fortaleza Passaic Menu
Apps (New)
- Ceviche De Camaron (New) $19.00
Marinated shrimp in lime juice with onions and spices.
- Flautas (New) $14.00
- Guacamole (New) $15.00
Made With Only The Freshest Michoacano Avocados, Jalapeno, Onion & Cilantro. Served With Oolden Tortilla Chips & Salsa.
- Nachos (New) $10.00
- Nachos Mix (New) $16.00
- Nachos Supreme (New) $18.00
- Queso Fundido (New) $10.00
Pick at this delicious fondue made of handpicked mixed cheese, topped with pico de gallo & your choice of: •PLAIN $10 •JALAPEÑO SLICES +$1 •SAUTEED MUSHROOM +$1 •cHORIZO (MEXICAN SAUSAGE) +$2 Roll up youR side of flour tortillas & dip away!
- Sopes (New) $11.00
- Tostadas (New) $10.00
Three crunchy tortillas topped with refried beans, lettuce, avocados topped off with drizzled crema Mexicana! Your choice of: Chicken, Vegetarian (mushroom, onion & green pepper), Refried beans, Steak, Cecina (dried & salted beef) or Tinga (Stewed Chicken)
- Tostadas De Camaron (New) $15.00
Four crispy tortillas topped with sautéed seasoned shrimp, guacamole dip & pico de gallo.
- Coctel De Camarones (New) $19.00
Fresh Shrimp With Chilled Calypso Cocktail Sauce, Garnished With Onions, Cilantro & Avocado.
Soups & Salads (New)
- Caldo De Camarón*** $18.00
- Pozole (New) $15.00
A Savory Hominy Soup With Tender Pork, Accompanied By 2 Tostadas Topped With Crema Mexicana, Frijoles Refritos, Lettuce & Cheese.
- Pancita*** $15.00
- Viva La Dieta***
- Mole De Olla $15.00
- Caldo De Mariscos $20.00
Tacos (New)
- Tacos (New) $12.00
- Tacos Albañil (New) $16.00
- Tacos Gringas (New) $15.00
- Tacos Birria (New) $18.00
- Cecina Tacos (New) $13.00
- Tacos De Lengua $15.00
- Tacos Arabe (New) $16.00
- Tacos De Cabeza $14.00
- Tacos Gobernador $19.00
- Tacos Placeros Chile Relleno $16.00
- Tacos Placeros Bistec $17.00
- Tacos Placeros Mixtos $18.00
Fan Favorites (New)
- Burrito (New) $15.00
10-inch flour tortilla with melted monterey jack & cheddar cheese served with rice, frijoles refritos, pico de gallo, crema Mexicana & guacamole -covered in your choice of salsa roja, verde o bandera. The tortilla is stuffed with your choice of the following: Vegetarian, Chicken, Steak, Carnitas Michoacan Style, Shrimp.
- Burritos Mixed (New) $17.00
10-inch flour tortilla with melted monterey jack & cheddar cheese served with rice, frijoles refritos, pico de gallo, crema Mexicana & guacamole -covered in your choice of salsa roja, verde o bandera. The tortilla is stuffed with your TWO choices of the following options:
- Burritos Supreme (New) $18.00
10-inch flour tortilla with melted monterey jack & cheddar cheese served with rice, frijoles refritos, pico de gallo, crema Mexicana & guacamole -covered in your choice of salsa roja, verde o bandera. The tortilla is stuffed with your THREE choices of the following options:
- Enchiladas (New)
Corn tortillas stuffed with your choice of meat, coated in smooth salsa roja, verde or bander & a touch of crema Mexicana -all topped with lettuce, melted cheese & avocado.
- Fajitas (New) $16.00
Your Choice Of Meat Sauteed With Green Peppers & Onions. Served With Rice, Frijoles Refritos, Crema Mexicana, Pico De Gallo, Guacamole & Flour Tortillas.
- Combination Fajitas (New) $20.00
Your Choice Of Meat Sauteed With Green Peppers & Onions. Served With Rice, Frijoles Refritos, Crema Mexicana, Pico De Gallo, Guacamole & Flour Tortillas.
- Supremo Fajitas (New) $22.00
- Quesa-Birria $18.00
- Quesadilla (New) $10.00
- El Machete Fortaleza
- Mojarra Frita $22.00
- Burrito Chido
- Quesadillas Tortilla De Maíz Tinga $16.00
- Quesadillas Tortilla De Maiz Mixtas $17.00
- Quesadilla De Queso Oxaca Maiz $13.00
- Burrito De Birria $21.00
- Quesadilla Tortilla Maíz Champiñones $16.00
- Quesadillas Tortilla Maíz Flor De Calabaza $16.00
- Quesadilla Tortilla Maíz Bistec $16.00
- Quesadilla Tortilla Maíz Chicharrón $16.00
Cemitas (New)
- Cemi-Birria (New) $19.00
- Cemita Al Pastor (New) $14.00
This delicious cemilta is a great combination of avocado, pastor style pork and oaxaca cheese with a side of spicy green sauce and limes.
- Cemita Albañil (New) $16.00
- Cemita Arabe (New) $14.00
- Cemita Cabeza $15.00
- Cemita Carnitas (New) $14.00
Tender Michoacán Style Pork Served With Avocado, Oaxaca Cheese, Cilantro & Onions With A Side Of Spicy Green Sauce & Lime.
- Cemita Cecina (New) $16.00
Fine Cut Salted Steak With Oaxaca Jalapeño & Spread Guacamole.
- Cemita Chorizo (New) $15.00
- Cemita Cubana (New) $16.00
A Delicious Combination Of Creamy Avocado, Grilled Ham, Breaded Sirloin Steak, Carnitas, Oaxaca Cheese, Papalo & Homemade Chipotle.
- Cemita Enchilada (New) $14.00
- Cemita Hawaiana (New) $16.00
- Cemita Jamon (New) $13.00
- Cemita Lengua (New) $16.00
- Cemita Lucha Libre (New) $17.00
- Cemita Mexicana (New) $15.00
Fresh Guacamole, Sirloin Steak, Onions, Jalapenos & A Handful Of Oaxaca Cheese.
- Cemita Milanesa (New) $14.00
- Cemita Pata (New) $16.00
- Cemita Pierna Adobada (New) $14.00
- Cemita Quesillo $13.00
- Cemita Steak (New) $15.00
Alambres (New)
- Combo Fortaleza. $16.00
- El Poblano (New) $16.00
- El Ranchero (New) $16.00
- Alambre (New) $16.00
Entrees (New)
- Bistec A La Mexicana (New) $16.00
- Bistec Encebollado (New) $16.00
- Bistec Ranchero (New) $18.00
- Camarones A La Diabla (New) $19.00
- Cecina Fortaleza (New) $19.00
Thinly Sliced Salted Pork, Cooked On The Cirill & Served With Rice, Refried Beans, Corn Tortillas, Toasted Chiles, Nopal & Chives
- Chilaquiles (New) $12.00
Corn Tortillas Mixed With Homemade Sauce With Peppers, Onions & Spices ·Topped With Fried Eggs. Served With Refried Beans & Crema Mexicana ·Garnished With Cheese & Avocado. Select From Roja, Verde Or Bandera Salsa & The Following Choices: Chicken, Steak, Cecina.
- Gorditas De Chicharron (New) $14.00
- Milanesa (New) $13.00
- Pollo Parrillado (New) $13.00
- Tlacoyos (New) $15.00
- Costillas De Res $25.00
Kids (New)
- Chiquilladas (New) $9.00
Delicious Flour Tortillas Filled with Melted Cheese & Served with Rice.
- Para Los Pollitos (New) $10.00
Savory chicken fingers. Served with french fries.
- Para Los Pollitos Con Arroz $10.00
Side Order (New)
- Aguacate (New) $4.00
- Arroz Mex (New) $4.00
- Bandera Side (New) $6.00
The best trio side dip combo: Guacamole, Sour Cream & Pico de Gallo!!!
- Chiles Toreados (New) $4.00
- Chips Y Salsa (New) $2.00
- French Fries (New) $4.00
- Frijoles (Refried Beans) (New) $4.00
- Guacamole Side (New) $4.00
- Jalapeño Side (New) $2.00
- Maduros (Sweet Plantains) (New) $4.00
- Nopales (New) $4.00
- Nopales Y Cebollas (Grilled Prickly Pear Cactus & Onions) $7.00
- Pico De Gallo Side (New) $2.00
- Queso Fresco $2.00
- Queso Oxaca $4.00
- Salsas
- Sour Cream Side (New) $2.00
- Tortillas De Harina (New) $1.25
- Tortillas De Maiz (New) $1.25
- Pata Side $10.00
- Chipotle $2.00
- Side De Papalo $1.00
- Cebollas Cambray $5.00
Desserts (New)
- Chocolate Caramel Churros (New) $8.00
- Flan (New) $8.00
- Fried Ice Cream (New) $8.00
- Platanos Fritos Con Lechera (New) $8.00
Soda y Jugos (New)
- Coca Cola (New) $2.00
- Diet Coke (New) $2.00
- Sprite (New) $2.00
- Seltzer Water (New) $2.00
- Piña Colada Virgen $6.00
Aguas Frescas (New)
- Jamaica (New)
- Horchata (New)
- Tamarindo (New)
- Lemonade
Mexican Soda (New)
- Jarrito (New) $4.00
- Sangria Señoral Soda (New) $4.00
- Boing Mango (New) $4.00
- Sidral Mundet (New) $4.00
- Coca Cola Mex Imported (New) $4.00
- Squirt $4.00
Water & Hot Beverages (New)
- Bottled Water (New) $2.00
- Seltzer Water (New) $2.00
- Coffee (New) $3.00
- Tea (New) $3.00
- Hot Chocolate (New) $3.00
Shakes
- Batido De Fresa $8.00
Food Specials
- Chile En Nogada $21.00
MARGARITAS
- Mango Chamoy $26.00
- Cielito Lindo $24.00
- Pink Margarita $17.00
- La Doña Florinda $27.00
- Popis Watermelon Margarita $21.00
- Cantarote $200.00
- La Perrona $29.00
- Espiritu Monarca $35.00
- Paloma Negra $27.00
- Love Posion $18.00
PINA COLADA
- Piña Colada Glass $0.00
- Pina Colada En Piña Real $0.00
- Piña Colada Cantarito $0.00
- Virgin Pina Colada Glass $0.00
- Virgin Pina Colada En Piña Real $0.00
- Piña Colada Virgin Cantarito $0.00
- Frida Fresa $21.00
COCKTAILS
- Mezcalina $27.00
- Cafe De Olla Martini $17.00
- Mariachi Loco $21.00
- Un Coco Loco $21.00
- Mariachi Ardiente $16.00
- Caribbean Catrina $19.00
- Weber Agave Martini $16.00
- Long Island Iced Tea $17.00
- Fortaleza Moscow Mule $25.00
SOUVENIR DRINKS
- Cantarito Margarita $0.00
- Cazuela Margarita $0.00
- Pomo Magico $0.00
- El Charro Margarita $0.00
- El Futbolero Margarita $0.00
TEQUILA
- 1800 Silver $0.00
- 1800 Reposado $0.00
- 1800 Añejo $0.00
- Casamigos Silver $0.00
- Casamigos Reposado $0.00
- Casamigos Añejo $0.00
- Don Julio Silver $0.00
- Don Julio Reposado $0.00
- Don Julio Añejo $0.00
- Don Julio 70 $0.00
- Patron Silver $0.00
- Patron Reposado $0.00
- Patron Añejo $0.00
- Patron Extra Añejo $0.00
- Herradura Silver $0.00
- Herradura Reposado $0.00
- Herradura Añejo $0.00
MOJITOS
- Original Mojito $14.00
- Mexican Mojito $21.00
- Cantarito Mojito $0.00
BEERS
- Sol $0.00
- Carta Blanca $0.00
- Corona $0.00
- Corona Light $0.00
- Modelo Especial $0.00
- Negra Modelo $0.00
- Pacifico $0.00
- Victoria $0.00
- XX Amber $0.00
- XX Lager $0.00
- Blue Moon $0.00
- Coors Light $0.00
- Heineken $0.00
- Heineken Light $0.00
SANGRIA
- Red Sangria $0.00
- Blue Sangria $0.00
- White Sangria $0.00
- Passion Fruit Sangria $0.00
La Fortaleza Passaic Details
From the business
- Identifies as Latino-owned
Service options
- Delivery
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Quick bite
- Small plates
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
- Wi-Fi
- Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Trendy
Crowd
- Family-friendly
- Groups
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Locals
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
Children
- Good for kids
- Has changing table(s)
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
Parking
- Free street parking
- Parking
Pets
- Dogs allowed outside
La Fortaleza Passaic Photos










La Fortaleza Passaic Location
La Fortaleza Passaic Reviews
cemitastacosenvironmenttastepriceshousebirriamusicelviratlacoyo
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1It's a very small place with really big flavors lol food was amazing I had a stroller with my baby it was kind of uncomfortable because the place was so small but other than that place is great.
June 12 · yeimi velasquezEverything was delicious!! Guacamole and wings for appetizers tasted fresh. The entrees we had tacos and Cecina and both were flavorful and big servings. Dessert we had tres leches cake and was so good too!
November 11 · Jackie IllaIf you want some AUTHENTIC Mexican food, stop wasting your time scrolling around the internet. This is your spot. The Bistec a la Mexicana is to die for. The food is well seasoned and the portion is huge. You'll definitely bring some back home. Staff is lovely and you will have an awesome time.
August 06 · Jonathan ColonI’ve been coming to this restaurant since 2008, and while the food has generally remained consistent, the service—especially from one particular waitress, Irma- has significantly declined over the years. I’ve had the same server multiple times, and unfortunately, each visit seems to be marked by repeated issues.Despite going over my order several times, mistakes continue to happen. There always seems to be an excuse when something goes wrong—whether it’s a mix-up in the food, a forgotten item, or a delay in basic service. It’s disappointing because after so many years of dining here, I expected better consistency and attention.It honestly feels like the service quality has dropped because gratuity is automatically included, removing the incentive for good customer care. I don’t mind tipping well for good service, but when the standard keeps slipping and concerns go unaddressed, it makes me reconsider returning.Hoping management takes this feedback seriously—longtime customers notice when standards change.
May 27 · Jociy mI got chicken and fries and they were so good even better than McDonald's and they were kinda cheap at 12$
September 27 · David Rojas
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