Mesón Criollo

- 236 Main St, Ridgefield Park, NJ 07660

New Jersey’s Bergen County is home to a rich tapestry of international flavors, and Mesón Criollo, located right on Main Street in Ridgefield Park, stands out as a genuine local haven for those craving authentic Latin American comfort food. This restaurant is a full-service Latin American dining establishment that promises a warm, casual, and family-friendly atmosphere, serving traditional cuisine that resonates with the diverse heritage of the region, notably featuring strong Dominican and Caribbean influences, as evidenced by dishes like the famous "3 Golpes" breakfast and hearty stews.

The culinary philosophy at Mesón Criollo centers on robust, satisfying flavors and generous portions—a commitment noted by local patrons who highlight the generous portions and the deliciousness of their takeout orders. The menu is structured to cater to all major meals of the day, offering everything from traditional morning fare to elaborate dinner entrees. Customers can begin their day with a traditional Latin American start, move into a fulfilling lunch with stews or sandwiches, and settle into a dinner of succulent meats, fresh seafood, or the signature Mofongos.

More than just a place to eat, Mesón Criollo aims to be a cozy and welcoming spot for the local community. The presence of a "Milagrosa" statue, a "mother’s virgin," noted in a customer review, speaks to the deep, personal cultural connection and friendly service that aims to make every visitor feel at home. It’s a place where locals meet, families dine, and authentic Latin American culture and cuisine are celebrated right here in New Jersey.

Mesón Criollo is ideally situated at a readily accessible address, making it a convenient destination for diners throughout Ridgefield Park and the surrounding Bergen County communities. Its location on a main thoroughfare simplifies both local delivery and in-person visits, whether for a quick bite or a relaxed, full-service meal.

The physical address is:

236 Main St, Ridgefield Park, NJ 07660, USA

The restaurant provides excellent accessibility and convenience features to ensure a pleasant visit for all customers:

• Parking: Diners benefit from the availability of a Free parking lot, which is a significant amenity in a busy Main Street setting, complemented by Free street parking options.
• Accessibility: The interior includes Wheelchair accessible seating, demonstrating a commitment to accommodating all guests who wish to enjoy the cozy, casual dining room atmosphere.

The combination of a central location and thoughtful amenities like on-site parking and accessible seating makes Mesón Criollo an easy choice for a dine-in experience or a quick carryout order.

Mesón Criollo understands the modern needs of its New Jersey customer base, offering flexible service options that allow patrons to enjoy their authentic Latin American meals anywhere, anytime:

• Dine-in: Provides a comfortable and Cozy, Casual atmosphere with Table service for those who prefer to relax and enjoy the meal on-site. The restaurant is popular for Lunch, Dinner, and Solo dining.
• Takeout: Efficient service for patrons who want to pick up their food and enjoy it at home or at work.
• Delivery: Offering home or office delivery, ensuring that authentic flavors are accessible across the Ridgefield Park area.
• Children and Families: The restaurant is explicitly Good for kids and is Family-friendly, offering High chairs to make dining out easier for parents.
• Pet-Friendly Feature: For those stopping by with their furry companions, Dogs are allowed outside, which is a thoughtful amenity for a local spot.
• Payment Versatility: Accepts major payment options, including Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments, ensuring quick and hassle-free transactions.

The menu at Mesón Criollo is a vibrant journey through Latin American and particularly Dominican culinary traditions, showcasing a blend of hearty comfort food and savory small plates:

• Traditional Breakfast Staples: The morning menu is headlined by the iconic 3 Golpes ($15.00) and 4 Golpes ($17.50), traditional Dominican breakfasts featuring mangu (mashed plantains), fried cheese, fried eggs, and salami or Dominican sausage—a truly authentic start to the day.
• Signature Mofongos: A standout specialty, the Mofongos menu offers this beloved dish of fried, mashed plantains mixed with savory ingredients. Options range from the Plain Mofongos ($12.50) to the richly flavored Pork Crackings Mofongos ($18.00) and premium Shrimp Mofongos ($21.00).
• Hearty Stews and Meats: The restaurant excels in slow-cooked favorites, with features like Oxtail Stew ($29.00), Goat Stew, Chicken Stew, and Pork Stew. The daily Lunch Menu also highlights these comforting, affordable dishes, such as Beef Stew Lunch ($16.00).
• Savory Appetizers: Perfect for a quick bite or sharing, the appetizers include various Empanadas (Beef, Fish, and Shrimp), Quipes, and Croqueteas, which offer a taste of authentic Latin American street food.
• Diverse Sandwiches and Salads: From the Cuban-inspired Cuban Sandwich ($15.50) to the classic Steak Sandwich ($14.00), the sandwich menu is substantial. Lighter options are also available, such as the refreshing Mix Salad With Avocado ($11.00) or a complete Caesar Salad With Chicken ($16.00).
• Fresh Juices and Beverages: Complementing the rich food are unique, non-alcoholic drinks, including Fresh Lemonade, Mango Juice, and the traditional Dominican milkshake Morir Soñando (a blend of milk and orange juice), providing a true taste of the Caribbean.
• Small Plates and Comfort Food: The entire menu is classified under Comfort food and Small plates, ensuring every dish, from Tostones to Yuca Frita, feels satisfying and homestyle.

To experience the authentic Latin American cuisine at Mesón Criollo, or to place an order for delivery or takeout, please use the following contact details:

• Address: 236 Main St, Ridgefield Park, NJ 07660, USA
• Phone: (201) 853-9453
• Mobile Phone: +1 201-853-9453

The restaurant is a great spot to visit for a casual meal with seating available for lunch and dinner, or to simply grab a cup of Black Coffee or Coffee With Milk to go.

For New Jersey residents in search of a genuine Latin American dining experience, Mesón Criollo is highly worth choosing for several compelling reasons. The restaurant offers a deeply authentic menu that is rare to find outside of major metropolitan areas, making it a culinary landmark in Ridgefield Park. It stands out by providing both the familiar and the specific, from a simple yet perfectly executed Plain Omelette to complex, traditional dishes like Goat Stew and the variety of Mofongos.

Customers consistently praise the trifecta of a great meal: delicious food, generous portions, and affordable pricing. The friendly and welcoming staff enhance the overall experience, creating a Casual, Cozy atmosphere that makes both locals and newcomers feel like part of the family. Whether you are craving an authentic Dominican breakfast to start your day, a rich, slow-cooked stew for lunch, or a full dinner featuring Fried Red Snapper or Steak With Onions, Mesón Criollo delivers quality and authenticity. The excellent amenities, including Free parking lot access and a family-friendly environment with High chairs, solidify its status as a top local choice for Latin American cuisine in Bergen County, NJ.

Mesón Criollo

236 Main St, Ridgefield Park, NJ 07660, USA