OU LA

- 29 Washington Ave, Carteret, NJ 07008

For discerning diners across New Jersey, OU LA Restaurant in Carteret offers a truly distinctive and elevated culinary experience that sets it apart. This sophisticated establishment has rapidly become a focal point in Central Jersey, celebrated for its core concept: a brilliant "Modern Caribbean Fusion." OU LA seamlessly merges the vibrant, bold, and soulful flavors of Caribbean cuisine—rooted deeply in Haitian heritage—with the refined techniques of global fine dining. The result is a menu that is at once comforting, innovative, and highly memorable.

More than just a restaurant, OU LA is a business with a powerful cultural identity, proudly identifying as Black-owned and women-owned. This dual identity fuels the passion and attention to detail that permeates the entire dining experience. From the immaculate, open-kitchen setting to the genuinely attentive service, the commitment to excellence is palpable. Customer reviews consistently highlight the staff's dedication, with servers like Devin and Ivy being celebrated for their amazing service and deep menu knowledge, ensuring every dining experience is "unforgettable."

The extensive menu is a testament to the fusion philosophy. Among the Signature Mains, the decadent Braised Oxtail Lakay ($46.00) is a must-try, often paired with the uniquely flavorful Djon Djon Rice ($16.00) and Sweet Plantains ($10.00). Seafood offerings are equally impressive, including the highly-rated Lobster Scampi Rigatoni ($44.00) and Pan-Seared Ora King Salmon ($40.00). For meat lovers, the 8oz Filet Mignon ($60.00) and 14oz Prime Ny Strip ($65.00) meet the highest standards of fine dining quality. The appetizer list is equally exciting, featuring Caribbean-influenced small plates like Haitian Meatballs ($16.00), Colossal Crab Cake ($28.00), and the intriguing Smoked Herring Spaghetti ($32.00).

The journey continues at the bar, which is famous throughout the region for its expertly executed beverage program. OU LA features a Bar onsite with a Great cocktails list and a Great wine list. Signature creations like the locally inspired Exit 12 ($16.00) and the innovative Ou La's Bittersweet ($16.00) are praised for being "perfectly made," complementing the rich flavors of the food. The atmosphere, described as both Cozy and Trendy, makes OU LA an excellent spot for both intimate dinners and lively gatherings of Groups or a fun Happy hour outing, ensuring a great vibe for everyone.

OU LA is ideally situated in a bustling, revitalized corridor of Central New Jersey at 29 Washington Ave, Carteret, NJ 07008. The location places it at the heart of the area's ongoing cultural and economic growth, directly across from the Carteret Performing Arts & Events Center.

• Driving & Parking Convenience: For New Jersey drivers, OU LA offers multiple, user-friendly parking solutions. Guests benefit from a Free parking lot, accessible On-site parking, and available Free street parking. For added convenience during peak hours, there are also nearby options for a Paid parking garage and Paid street parking, ensuring that finding a spot is never an issue.
• Physical Accessibility: The restaurant maintains comprehensive accessibility standards. It features a certified Wheelchair accessible entrance, a spacious Wheelchair accessible restroom, and fully accessible Wheelchair accessible seating, making the fine dining experience available to all members of the community.
• Inclusive Environment: Reflecting a commitment to community and respect, OU LA is explicitly designed to be LGBTQ+ friendly and is publicly designated as a Transgender safespace. The welcoming crowd is also notably Family-friendly.

OU LA’s service portfolio is comprehensive, designed to meet the sophisticated and dynamic needs of New Jersey diners, offering flexible and high-quality options for any occasion:

• Full-Service Dining: Offers Dine-in seating with attentive Table service for both weekend Brunch and evening Dinner. Counter service is also available.
• Planning and Reservations: The restaurant highly values organization, it Accepts reservations, and Dinner reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, to secure a table in this popular venue.
• Off-Site Options: Convenient Takeout and Onsite services are available for those who prefer to enjoy the cuisine at home or elsewhere.
• Special Events & Catering: Available for Catering and features a dedicated Private dining room, making it an excellent choice for corporate functions, birthdays, and celebrations.
• Bar and Social Offerings: A full Bar onsite serves a wide range of Alcohol, Beer, Hard liquor, and Wine. A popular draw is the daily Happy hour drinks and Happy hour food, which includes delicious Small plates like Parmesan-Crusted Chicken Wings.
• Extended Hours: A welcome feature is the availability of Late-night food, perfect for post-show dining or late-evening gatherings.
• Family Amenities: Provides comfort and convenience for parents with High chairs and a Restroom equipped with a Has changing table(s), earning its rating as Good for kids.
• Dietary Inclusivity: The menu features clearly marked and thoughtfully prepared Vegan options and Vegetarian options to accommodate all dietary requirements.

The elements that set OU LA apart as a premier Central Jersey dining destination are numerous and intentional:

• Unique Culinary Identity: The restaurant's foundation is the exclusive Modern Caribbean Fusion, which ensures a unique and exciting menu. This is highlighted by signature dishes like the Braised Oxtail Lakay and Lobster Scampi Rigatoni.
• Acclaimed Beverage Program: OU LA consistently earns praise for its bar, boasting a Great cocktails list with inventive options and a meticulously chosen Great wine list, elevating the overall fine dining atmosphere.
• Commitment to Diversity: As a leading Black-owned and women-owned business, OU LA represents an important cultural landmark in the community and provides a guaranteed LGBTQ+ friendly and Transgender safespace.
• Superior Service: Customer reviews frequently commend the "absolutely amazing" and highly attentive service team for their professionalism and ability to enhance the dining experience.
• Ideal Atmosphere: The combination of a Cozy and Trendy ambiance creates the perfect setting for a sophisticated meal, while the inclusion of Sports viewing caters to a relaxed social experience.
• Flexible Dining Times: The ability to enjoy weekend Brunch, daily Happy hour, and quality Late-night food makes OU LA a versatile choice for any time of day or night.

To arrange your next exceptional dining experience, reserve a table, or inquire about catering, please use the contact information below:

Address: 29 Washington Ave, Carteret, NJ 07008

Phone: (732) 860-3553

Mobile Phone: +1 732-860-3553

For New Jersey residents, choosing OU LA means selecting a dining experience that offers high quality, cultural depth, and unmatched convenience. It is the superior choice for several compelling reasons:

• Flavor Innovation You Can Trust: The culinary team’s commitment to fusing traditional Haitian flavors with modern techniques results in dishes that are both comforting and exhilarating. Whether you choose the complex flavor of Djon Djon Rice, the rich tenderness of Braised Oxtail, or the sophistication of the Filet Mignon, you are guaranteed a world-class plate of food. This level of innovative execution earns its high recommendation from local patrons.
• A Flawlessly Executed Evening: OU LA offers a fully polished experience. The synergy between the trendy environment, the stellar service team (known for their amazing attentiveness), and the exceptional bar program ensures that your entire night is smooth and memorable. From the moment you are seated after your recommended reservation, every detail is handled with professional care.
• Support for a Visionary Local Business: By patronizing this establishment, you are directly supporting a highly successful Black-owned and women-owned business that contributes significantly to the diversity and vibrancy of the Central Jersey food scene. This cultural commitment extends to ensuring a universally welcoming environment for all guests.
• The Ultimate in Convenience and Amenity: The restaurant’s strategic location in Carteret provides the best in local accessibility, offering multiple easy parking options (free lot, on-site, garage access), full wheelchair accessibility, and the popular inclusion of late-night food and a daily happy hour. OU LA simply makes high-end, culturally rich dining easy and enjoyable.

OU LA

29 Washington Ave, Carteret, NJ 07008, USA