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Little Tijuana
- 538 Market St, Newark, NJ 07105

Mexican restaurant, Restaurant ★4.0 (1476)·$50–100

538 Market St, Newark, NJ 07105, USA

4.0
The restaurant itself is beautiful with a great atmosphere, good vibes, and very reasonable prices. The food was delicious, and our waitress, manager, and the rest of the staff (other than security) were welcoming and professional.Unfortunately, the security experience really brought the mood down. We were only in the area briefly while waiting for my daughter’s concert to finish and decided to try the restaurant after checking the website and reviews. The website states that the dress code only applies after 7pm on Friday and Saturday. We went on a Sunday, but my son and I were almost denied entry because we had on Crocs. Security made a big deal about the shoes and we stood out there for 5-10 min just waiting because of the shoes (there was no line) After I pointed out the policy, security checked with the manager and then let us in.My sister also had her Stanley cup with water because it was hot outside, and the security guard was extremely rude and snotty about it, saying “you can’t bring that in here, y’all must not go out much.” He then made her leave it at the front door. That comment felt unnecessary and unprofessional, and it took away from the excitement we had walking in.We mentioned the situation casually to our waitress, and without us even asking, the manager came to our table to personally apologize. That gesture meant a lot, and it showed that management truly cares about their customers.Overall, the food and vibes were excellent, but the security staff needs more professionalism and consistency with following the restaurant’s actual policies. Parking is also tough, so be prepared to use valet (around $30).If the security experience matched the quality of the food and staff, this would have been an easy 5-star review. - charnetta holley
Little Tijuana Overview Intro Menu Detail Photos Location Reviews
$50–100 per person Reported by 1476 people$20–30$30–50$50–100$100+

Little Tijuana Introduce

For New Jersey residents seeking an immersive and stylish dining and nightlife experience, Little Tijuana, situated in Newark’s famed Ironbound district, offers a premier destination. More than just a Mexican restaurant, it is a full-service lounge and dining venue that combines stunning, artistic decor with an exquisite Modern Mexican menu and world-class cocktails. It has quickly established itself as one of the area's favorite spots for both casual dining and unforgettable evenings, distinguishing itself through its vibrant atmosphere and diverse offerings.

The establishment serves as a unique cultural and culinary hub, blending the energy of the Ironbound with a sophisticated, trendy vibe. Patrons can enjoy everything from satisfying weekday lunches and recommended weekend brunches to high-energy late-night dining and drinks. The beautifully decorated space, often described by customers as having "great atmosphere, good vibes," is designed to be an experience in itself, perfect for celebrating special occasions, a casual family meal, or an enjoyable night out with friends.

Little Tijuana is conveniently located at 538 Market St, Newark, NJ 07105, USA. This prime address places it right in the heart of the Ironbound neighborhood, an area well-known across New Jersey for its rich cultural history and diverse culinary scene. Its proximity to other popular Newark destinations makes it an ideal spot for visitors and locals alike.

Accessibility is a key priority for the restaurant. For those arriving by car, the Ironbound can be challenging for street parking. However, Little Tijuana addresses this by providing Valet parking options, which customers have noted is available at the address after 6:30 PM, or at an associated lot at 34 Jackson St. While valet is a convenient option, local users should be prepared for the associated cost, which reviews suggest can be around $30, and should also keep an eye out for free street parking where available. For all guests, the venue offers excellent physical accessibility, including a Wheelchair accessible entrance, Wheelchair accessible restroom, and Wheelchair accessible seating.

The array of services provided by Little Tijuana caters to a wide spectrum of dining preferences and times throughout the day, cementing its status as a full-featured Restaurant and entertainment venue in Newark.

  • Dine-in: Offering a memorable atmosphere with both traditional seating, a stunning indoor patio, and highly coveted Rooftop seating. Table service is provided.
  • Delivery and Takeout: For those who wish to enjoy the Modern Mexican flavors at home, the full menu is available for easy ordering.
  • Brunch Service: Available with reservations recommended, featuring a dedicated menu with signature dishes like Tijuana Pollo & Waffles and Huevos Rancheros Downtown.
  • Happy Hour: Offered on weekdays, featuring deals on both food and drinks, including 50% off Signature Cocktails, Margaritas, and select Appetizers (excluding wow cocktails and platters).
  • Late-Night Food: The kitchen remains open late on weekends, allowing guests to enjoy a meal well into the night.
  • Catering: Catering options are available to bring the Little Tijuana experience to private events and parties.
  • Reservations: Reservations are Accepted and strongly Recommended for Lunch, Dinner, and especially Brunch, helping patrons secure a table during peak hours.
  • Outdoor Seating: Offers a pleasant al fresco dining option for guests, weather permitting.

Little Tijuana is packed with features designed to enhance the customer experience, focusing on high-quality offerings and a distinctive ambiance that sets it apart from many other Mexican restaurants in New Jersey.

  • Extensive Bar Program: A highlight for many, featuring a Great beer selection, Great cocktails, Hard liquor, Wine, and specialty drinks like their famous Margaritas and Tequila Flights. Happy hour specials make this a must-try.
  • Unique Dining Environment: Features Live music, a Trendy and Cozy atmosphere, stunning artistic décor, and a Bar onsite. The Rooftop seating is a major draw, offering beautiful views and a unique dining space.
  • Menu Diversity: Offerings include Alcohol, Coffee, Comfort food, Small plates, and excellent Vegetarian options such as the Beyond Mexi Veggie Nachos, Enchilada Vegan, and Cauliflower Tacos.
  • Nightlife and Social Scene: Known for its lively crowd, it is a great spot for Groups, Tourists, and is explicitly LGBTQ+ friendly. It occasionally features guest DJs and a private VIP area, making it a nightlife destination as well.
  • Customer-Focused Amenities: Provides Fast service, a Restroom, Wi-Fi, NFC mobile payments, and a Private dining room for exclusive gatherings. It is also Family-friendly, offering High chairs and a dedicated Kids' menu with options like Chicken Tacos and Cheese Quesadilla (The Nana).

Patrons in the New Jersey area looking to contact Little Tijuana for inquiries, reservations, or to place an order can use the following information:

Address: 538 Market St, Newark, NJ 07105, USA

Phone: (973) 230-9417

Mobile Phone: +1 973-230-9417

Little Tijuana is particularly worth choosing for the unmatched ambiance and a menu that successfully blends authentic Mexican flavors with modern culinary creativity. While some initial guest interactions, particularly concerning the dress code on weekends after 7 PM (no plain white tees, athletic/sweatsuit attire, baggy attire, inappropriate headwear, work boots, or slippers/flip flops), have sometimes been inconsistent with the stated policy, management is known for its attentiveness and commitment to customer satisfaction. The quick and professional apology from the manager regarding a security issue mentioned in a customer review shows a deep commitment to maintaining a welcoming environment, despite the occasional lapse.

The food itself is generally excellent and worth the visit. Standout dishes like the meltingly tender Lamb Barbacoa (prime lamb shank roasted for eight hours) and the sizzling Mexican Steak Fajitas come highly recommended. Their Taqueria Tijuana section offers a variety of specialty street-style tacos, including the highly-praised Tacos De Birria and unique options like Cauliflower Tacos and Flaming Hot Cheetos Sweet Street Elote for adventurous palates. It is a favored spot for all main dining options—Lunch, Dinner, and Brunch—and caters well to Solo dining, proving its versatility as a key Newark eatery.

Little Tijuana Menu

  • Sides

  • Guacamole (Small) $4.60
  • Side Salad $8.00
  • Black Beans $4.60
  • Roasted Veggies $4.60
  • Kids

  • Beef Tacos $10.30
  • Chicken Fingers $10.30
  • Chicken Tacos $10.30

    Grilled chicken with shredded cheese and lettuce in a flour tortilla.

  • Quesadillas $10.30
  • Brunch - Mains

  • Enchilada Vegan $16.00

    Vegan. Roasted cauliflower, peppers, onions & black beans. Served in tomatoes sauce & topped with shredded lettuce and avocado cream.

  • Chilaquiles Verdes $18.25

    Chilaquiles served on salsa verde, Mexican sour cream, queso fresco, eggs.

  • Huevos Rancheros Downtown $23.95

    Eggs, toasted tortilla, black beans purée, ham, red onions, avocado, Mexican sour cream, queso fresco, rice & frijoles charros.

  • Tijuana Pollo & Waffles $22.80

    Farm fried chicken with Belgian waffles.

  • Tijuana Steak & Eggs $23.95

    Iron flat steak served with chilaquiles verdes, eggs, and frijoles charros.

  • Enchiladas Verdes $18.25

    Enchiladas served with salsa verde, Mexican sour cream, lettuce, fresh tomatoes, queso fresco.

  • Tacos De Chorizo & Eggs $20.55

    Choice of chorizo, beef or chicken, eggs, avocado, queso fresco & Mexican crema.

  • Little Tijuana Pancakes $16.00

    Mexican pancakes, served stuffed with berries,mini churros, cajeta rum, whipped cream and traditional syrup.

  • Taqueria Tijuana

  • Tacos Al Pastor $18.25

    Pork marinated for a minimum of 12 hours and slow roasted, grilled pineapple, onions, cilantro. All of our corn tortillas use whole kernel unprocessed corn that’s stone ground and are made using traditional methods for a taste that’s both fresh and incredible.

  • Fish Tacos $18.25

    Expertly blackened seasoned grilled fish served in a flour tortilla topped with red cabbage, pico de gallo, chipotle mayo & Mexican crema.

  • Downtown Street Taco $17.10

    Fried crispy chicken breast, cabbage salad, fresh cilantro, fresh lime juice, pico de gallo, & garlic chipotle mayo.

  • Tacos De Carne Asada $20.55

    Fresh avocado, red onion, shredded lettuce, Cotija cheese, tortillas. All of our corn tortillas use whole kernel unprocessed corn that’s stone ground and are made using traditional methods for a taste that’s both fresh and incredible.

  • Tacos De Tinga $16.00

    Slow braised chicken, fresh yellow onions, cilantro, queso fresco. All of our corn tortillas use whole kernel unprocessed corn that's stone ground and are made using traditional methods for a taste that's both fresh and incredible.

  • Tacos De Birria $18.25

    Braised beef cheeks, white onions, cilantro, and queso Oaxaca. All of our corn tortillas use whole kernel unprocessed corn that's stone ground and are made using traditional methods for a taste that's both fresh and incredible.

  • Cauliflower Tacos $18.25

    Fried tempura cauliflower tossed in General Tso sauce and topped with sliced jalapeños. All of our corn tortillas use whole kernel unprocessed corn that’s stone ground and are made using traditional methods for a taste that’s both fresh and incredible.

  • Brunch - Sides

  • Bacon $4.60
  • Bites

  • Little Tijuana Salad $12.00

    Chopped lettuce, diced tomatoes, diced pineapple, pickled red onions, queso fresco and avocado.

  • Elote $10.00

    A Tijuana classic, grilled corn, queso fresco, cilantro, lime, garlic aioli.

  • Salsa & Chips $5.00

    Little Tijuana's homemade salsa and fresh handmade chips.

  • Mexican Shrimp $16.00

    Sautéed shrimp deglazed with Mexican dark beer, served in shrimp bisque sauce.

  • Beyond Mexi Veggie Nachos $18.00

    Beyond meat, black beans, roasted vegetables, queso fresco.

  • Shrimp Tostada $16.00

    Fresh baby shrimp, fresh jalapeño, fresh lime juice, fresh tomatoes, red onions, avocado, Mexican sour cream, queso fresco, black bean purée served on a crispy corn tortilla.

  • Queso Fundido $10.00

    A mix of Monterey Jack, white cheddar, chihuahua and Oaxaca cheese.

  • Flaming Hot Cheetos Sweet Street Elote $14.00

    Mayonnaise, lime juice, queso fresco, tajin powder & topped with crumbled hot flaming Cheetos.

  • Jumbo Chicken Wings $15.95

    choose one sauce: Traditional BBQ , Hot Buffalo Sauce, Chipotle Honey Raspberry, Habanero Mango Sauce Choose on dressing: Ranch or Blue cheese extra sauce or dressing $1.00

  • Street Fries $16.00

    Premium ground beef, black bean purée, ranchero sauce, chipotle ketchup over a bed of fries and garnished with fresh greens.

  • Guacamole Classico $16.00

    Authentic guacamole with fresh avocados, hand squeezed lime juice, cilantro, jalapeños, red onions, tomatoes, expertly made in house.

  • Birria Nachos $19.00

    Beef cheek birria (braised Mexican beef stew) black bean purée, pickled jalapeño, queso fundido ranchero sauce, cilantro.

  • Desserts

  • Tres Leches $10.30

    Vegetarian.

  • Mexican Flan $10.30

    Vegan. Beyond meat, crispy corn tortilla, lettuce, pico de gallo, and salsa verde.

  • Mains

  • Roasted Tijuana Chicken $20.55

    Roasted chicken, served with rice and beans, fries and homemade salsa verde.

  • Street Quesadilla Vegetarian $18.25

    Vegetarian. Pumpkin flowers, mexican green squash, caramelized onions, fresh jalapeño, fresh epazote, queso Oaxaca & green salsa.

  • Enchilada De Pollo $18.25

    Chihuahua cheese, jalapeño cream sauce, salsa roja, and served with rice.

  • Lamb Barbacoa $31.95

    Prime lamb shank delicately roasted for 8 hours to build layer upon layer of flavor. Served with white rice, roasted corn, and an oven roasted garlic cream.

  • California Burrito $20.55

    Flat iron steak, white rice, mixed cheese, French fries, pico de gallo, guacamole, chipotle mayo.

  • Tijuana Burrito $18.25

    Ground beef, an authentic blend of 3 cheeses, Mexican sour cream, salsa, pico de gallo, soft tortilla, and served with rice and beans.

  • Street Quesadillas $17.10

    A staple of Tijuana, featuring la coche mushrooms, Oaxaca cheese, cilantro and served with rice.

  • Mains

  • California Burrito $24.00

    Flat iron steak, white rice, mixed cheese, French fries, pico de gallo, guacamole, chipotle mayo.

  • Steak Street Quesadilla $22.00

    Skirt steak, Oaxaca cheese, Monterrey cheese, chihuahua cheese, rice beans, sour cream Sub: Shrimp

  • Roasted Tijuana Chicken $24.00

    Roasted chicken, served with rice and beans, fries and homemade salsa verde.

  • Carne Asada $32.00

    Flat iron Steak, rice, beans, Pico de gallo, chimichurri sauce

  • Chicken Street Quesadilla $16.00

    Chicken Tinga, Oaxaca cheese, Monterrey cheese, Chihuahua cheese, rice beans, sour cream

  • Lamb Barbacoa $34.00

    Prime lamb shank delicately roasted for 8 hours to build layer upon layer of flavor. Served with white rice, roasted corn, and an oven roasted garlic cream.

  • Mexican Steak Fajitas $30.00

    Skirt steak, red bell peppers, green bell peppers, onions and jalapenos side of guacamole, ,sour cream, Pico de gallo, 4 flour tortillas

  • Enchilada De Pollo $16.00

    Chihuahua cheese, jalapeño cream sauce, salsa roja, and served with rice.

  • Steak Burrito $22.00

    Skirt steak, mixed cheese, rice, beans, pico de gallo, sour cream, green mild salsa Sub: Shrimp

  • Birria Quesadilla $22.00

    Famous birria quesadilla, birria beef stew, mix cheese, onions, cilantro, green mild salsa

  • Tijuana Burrito $16.00

    Ground beef, an authentic blend of 3 cheeses, Mexican sour cream, salsa, pico de gallo, soft tortilla, and served with rice and beans. Sub: Chicken,

  • Kids

  • Steak Tacos (The Devon) $10.30
  • Cheese Quesadilla (The Nana) $10.30
  • Chicken Tacos $10.30

    Grilled chicken with shredded cheese and lettuce in a flour tortilla.

  • Bites

  • Elote $10.30

    A Tijuana classic, grilled corn, queso fresco, cilantro, lime, garlic aioli.

  • Shrimp Tostada $18.25

    Fresh baby shrimp, fresh jalapeño, fresh lime juice, fresh tomatoes, red onions, avocado, Mexican sour cream, queso fresco, black bean purée served on a crispy corn tortilla.

  • Queso Fundido $11.40

    A mix of Monterey Jack, white cheddar, chihuahua and Oaxaca cheese.

  • Flaming Hot Cheetos Sweet Street Elote $18.25

    Mayonnaise, lime juice, queso fresco, tajin powder & topped with crumbled hot flaming Cheetos.

  • Mexican Shrimp $18.25

    Sautéed shrimp deglazed with Mexican dark beer, served in shrimp bisque sauce.

  • Little Tijuana Salad $13.70

    Chopped lettuce, diced tomatoes, diced pineapple, pickled red onions, queso fresco and avocado.

  • Street Fries $11.40

    Premium ground beef, black bean purée, ranchero sauce, chipotle ketchup over a bed of fries and garnished with fresh greens.

  • Salsa & Chips $6.85

    Little Tijuana's homemade salsa and fresh handmade chips.

  • Birria Nachos $18.25

    Beef cheek birria (braised Mexican beef stew) black bean purée, pickled jalapeño, queso fundido ranchero sauce, cilantro.

  • Guacamole Classico $13.70

    Authentic guacamole with fresh avocados, hand squeezed lime juice, cilantro, jalapeños, red onions, tomatoes, expertly made in house.

  • Taqueria Tijuana

  • Cauliflower Tacos $18.25

    Fried tempura cauliflower tossed in General Tso sauce and topped with sliced jalapeños. All of our corn tortillas use whole kernel unprocessed corn that’s stone ground and are made using traditional methods for a taste that’s both fresh and incredible.

  • Fish Tacos $18.25

    Expertly blackened seasoned grilled fish served in a flour tortilla topped with red cabbage, pico de gallo, chipotle mayo & Mexican crema.

  • Tacos Al Pastor $18.25

    Pork marinated for a minimum of 12 hours and slow roasted, grilled pineapple, onions, cilantro. All of our corn tortillas use whole kernel unprocessed corn that’s stone ground and are made using traditional methods for a taste that’s both fresh and incredible.

  • Tacos De Birria $18.25

    Braised beef cheeks, white onions, cilantro, and queso Oaxaca. All of our corn tortillas use whole kernel unprocessed corn that's stone ground and are made using traditional methods for a taste that's both fresh and incredible.

  • Our Famous Crispy Shrimp Taco $16.25
  • Downtown Street Taco $17.10

    Fried crispy chicken breast, cabbage salad, fresh cilantro, fresh lime juice, pico de gallo, & garlic chipotle mayo.

  • Tacos De Carne Asada $18.25

    Fresh avocado, red onion, shredded lettuce, Cotija cheese, tortillas. All of our corn tortillas use whole kernel unprocessed corn that’s stone ground and are made using traditional methods for a taste that’s both fresh and incredible.

  • Tacos De Tinga $16.00

    Slow braised chicken, fresh yellow onions, cilantro, queso fresco. All of our corn tortillas use whole kernel unprocessed corn that's stone ground and are made using traditional methods for a taste that's both fresh and incredible.

  • Brunch - Kids

  • Bacon & Eggs $10.30
  • Kids' Tijuana Pancakes & Eggs $10.30

Little Tijuana Details

  • Service options

  • Outdoor seating
  • Delivery
  • Takeout
  • Dine-in
  • Highlights

  • Fast service
  • Great beer selection
  • Great cocktails
  • Live music
  • Rooftop seating
  • Serves local specialty
  • Popular for

  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Solo dining
  • Accessibility

  • Wheelchair accessible entrance
  • Wheelchair accessible restroom
  • Wheelchair accessible seating
  • Offerings

  • Alcohol
  • Beer
  • Cocktails
  • Coffee
  • Comfort food
  • Happy hour drinks
  • Happy hour food
  • Hard liquor
  • Late-night food
  • Private dining room
  • Small plates
  • Vegetarian options
  • Wine
  • Dining options

  • Brunch
  • 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
  • Tourists
  • Planning

  • Brunch reservations recommended
  • Lunch reservations recommended
  • Dinner reservations recommended
  • Accepts reservations
  • Payments

  • Credit cards
  • Debit cards
  • NFC mobile payments
  • Credit cards
  • Children

  • Good for kids
  • High chairs
  • Kids' menu
  • Parking

  • Free street parking
  • Valet parking

Little Tijuana Photos

Little Tijuana Picture 1Little Tijuana Picture 2Little Tijuana Picture 3Little Tijuana Picture 4Little Tijuana Picture 5Little Tijuana Picture 6Little Tijuana Picture 7Little Tijuana Picture 8Little Tijuana Picture 9Little Tijuana Picture 10

Little Tijuana Location

Little Tijuana

538 Market St, Newark, NJ 07105, USA

Little Tijuana Reviews

An average rating of ★4.4 from 4017 user reviews.

brunchhookahDJmimosasvaletchicken and wafflesr&bbouncerplatinumdress code

★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

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