Authentic Puerto Rican Cuisine in Woodbridge, NJ: Surrender Cafe

Surrender Cafe Introduce

Welcome to Surrender Cafe, a vibrant and cozy destination right here in Woodbridge, New Jersey, where residents and visitors alike can embark on an authentic culinary journey to the heart of Puerto Rico. While the general term "American restaurant" might be used to describe the business, Surrender Cafe proudly specializes in true, traditional Puerto Rican cuisine, making it a unique and highly-rated local gem for those craving island flavors. It's much more than just a cafe; it’s a full-fledged dining experience designed to capture and deliver a genuine taste and ambiance of the island.

Surrender Cafe has quickly gained a reputation among New Jersey locals for its dedication to authentic flavors and generous portions. The atmosphere is casual, cozy, and intentionally set to transport you to the Caribbean, with many customers noting the delightful sounds of the coqui (a small frog native to Puerto Rico) as a special touch upon arrival. This establishment stands out not just for its food but also for creating an inviting, family-friendly, and inclusive environment, proudly operating as an LGBTQ+ friendly and Transgender safe space. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a satisfying dinner, or a special meal with family and friends, Surrender Cafe offers an experience that resonates with the warmth of home cooking and hospitality.

For many New Jersey residents who grew up with or love this type of cuisine, Surrender Cafe is a beloved find. Customers frequently praise the high quality and authentic seasoning of the dishes, affirming that the food is truly “spot on authentic to the island.” Beyond the culinary experience, the cafe aims to be a gathering place, and its success has led to expanded services, including a comfortable lounge for parties and events for up to 60 people, offering high-quality Latin American food for private gatherings.

The menu is extensive and features all the classic Puerto Rican dishes you would expect, alongside some creative Mexican-inspired options. From hearty appetizers like Sancocho and Alcapurrias De Yuca to signature main courses such as the famous Mofongo Relleno and Pernil Asado, there is something to satisfy every craving.

Location and Accessibility

Surrender Cafe is conveniently situated at 691 Amboy Ave in Woodbridge, NJ 07095, USA. The location is easily accessible for residents across Middlesex County and surrounding areas. For those driving, the restaurant provides excellent parking solutions, including both a free parking lot and free street parking in the vicinity, removing the common New Jersey worry about finding a spot.

Accessibility is a key priority at Surrender Cafe, ensuring that all members of the New Jersey community feel welcome and comfortable. The establishment is fully equipped with features that make it easy to access and enjoy for everyone:

Wheelchair accessible entrance.
Wheelchair accessible parking lot.
Wheelchair accessible restroom.
Wheelchair accessible seating.

The central location combined with a commitment to accessibility makes Surrender Cafe an ideal choice for groups, families, and solo diners in the Woodbridge area.

Services Offered

Surrender Cafe offers a comprehensive range of services to accommodate the diverse needs of its local New Jersey clientele, ensuring you can enjoy their authentic cuisine any way you prefer.

Dining Options: Available for both lunch and dinner service, featuring table service and comfortable seating.
Off-Premise Services: Includes convenient Takeout, Delivery (No-contact delivery is available), and full-service Catering for events and large gatherings.
Reservations: The restaurant accepts reservations, making it easy to plan your visit, especially for groups or during peak dining hours.
Private Events: Offers a party room for private dining and events with a maximum capacity of 60 people.
Payment Methods: Accepts a wide variety of payment options, including Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and NFC mobile payments for a seamless transaction.
Atmosphere: Provides a casual, cozy, and quiet yet trendy atmosphere suitable for families, groups, and solo diners.
Inclusivity: Proudly maintains an LGBTQ+ friendly and Transgender safe space environment.

Features / Highlights

What truly sets Surrender Cafe apart in the competitive New Jersey dining scene are its unique features and commitment to quality, speed, and flavor.

Authentic Puerto Rican Cuisine: Specializing in Criollisimo dishes, including highly-praised items like Pernil Asado, Mofongo Relleno, and Bistec Encebollado.
Fast and Attentive Service: Known for providing quick service without compromising the quality of the food or the dining experience.
Exceptional Beverages and Desserts: Highlights include great coffee, a selection of Juices, Fountain Soda, Bottled Drinks, and homemade desserts like Homemade Caramel Flan and the Almond Delight Tres Leches Slice.
Diverse Menu Offerings: Catering to various dietary preferences with comfort food, small plates, healthy options, and plenty of Vegetarian options like the Veggie Burrito Bowl and Vegetable Platter. Beer and Wine are also available.
Family and Kid-Friendly: Features a dedicated Kids Menu with popular items like Kids Hamburger with Fries and provides high chairs.
Signature Dishes: Must-try items frequently mentioned by locals include the 360° Platter, Carne Frita With Tostones, and the Cuban Sandwich.
Value and Portions: The cafe is known for offering generous portions of food, ensuring great value and satisfaction for every diner.

Contact Information

To plan your visit, place an order, or inquire about catering or private events, you can reach out to the Surrender Cafe team using the following details:
Address: 691 Amboy Ave, Woodbridge, NJ 07095, USA
Phone: (732) 636-2300 (also available at +1 732-636-2300)
For specific hours of operation, it is always best to call ahead or check their official website.

What is Worth Choosing Surrender Cafe

Choosing Surrender Cafe means opting for more than just a meal; it means choosing an authentic cultural experience right in the heart of New Jersey. The cafe’s mission to be the best Latin American restaurant in the region is evident in its commitment to high-quality ingredients, traditional recipes, and warm customer service. It’s a place where the food is freshly prepared, the atmosphere is uplifting, and the staff works hard to ensure you feel like you've stepped off the streets of Woodbridge and onto the vibrant shores of Puerto Rico.

If you're in New Jersey and seeking flavorful, memorable food, Surrender Cafe is the local choice for a satisfying dose of authentic Caribbean goodness. The combination of classic starters like Sancocho, hearty Mofongo in various preparations, and beloved main dishes like the Pollo Guisado or Churrasco À La Parrilla, ensures a truly memorable dining experience. The consistent positive reviews highlighting the flavor, service, and atmosphere confirm that Surrender Cafe is a culinary treasure for the New Jersey community. For the best of Puerto Rican cuisine in the Woodbridge area, surrender yourself to the deliciousness at Surrender Cafe.

Surrender Cafe Menu

Starters
Sancocho $8.95
Alcapurrias De Yuca $9.45
Three cassava fritters filled with beef.
Sorullitos $9.45
Six fried semi-sweet cornmeal stick.
Carne Frita With Tostones $12.95
Chopped, fried pork shoulder.
Empanadas (4 Pieces) $11.50
Three filled with beef, chicken or cheese.
Homemade Guacamole And Chips Or Queso And Chips $10.95
Nachos Superb $14.95
Freshly made corn chips, with your choice of beef, chicken, pork or grilled veggies, topped with beans, pico de gallo, mild spicy queso sauce, sour cream and guacamole.
Banana Boat $11.95
Sweet plantains topped with beef, chicken or pork and sprinkled with mozzarella cheese.
Mofonguito $9.45
Fried green plantain balls mashed with garlic. Add chicken or pork for an additional charge.
Chicharrón With Tostones $12.95
Fried pork belly.
360° Platter $17.95
Sampler of your favorites, 2 alcapurrias, 2 mini-canoas beef, 2 sorullitos, and your choice of two empanadas served with our signature red sauce and mayo-ketchup.

Sides
Avocado $4.00
French Fries $4.00
Yuca Al' Ajillo (In Garlic Sauce) $4.00
Steamed Vegetables $4.00

Hot Sandwiches, Wraps & More
Cuban Sandwich $12.95
Roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, mustard and pickles.
Spicy Cilantro Skirt Steak Wrap $19.95
Grilled skirt steak with delicious caramelized onions and red peppers, Swiss cheese, lettuce, tomato, and our homemade sauce spicy cilantro sauce.
Chick Oh' Rico Crispy $12.95
Fried chicken cutlet, mayo, American cheese, lettuce, and tomato.
Spicy Cilantro Chicken Wrap $13.95
Grilled chicken with delicious caramelized onions and red peppers, swiss cheese, lettuce, tomato, and our homemade sauce spicy cilantro sauce.
La Hamburguesa $11.95
Chargrilled burger, American cheese, lettuce, tomato, onions, mayo on a toasted bun.
Bistec Sandwich (Cube Steak) $12.95
Thin sliced bistec encebollado, onions, mayo and Swiss cheese.
Tripleta $13.95
Roast pork, bistec encebollado (cube steak) and ham, topped with potato sticks (French fries not included). What is a tripleta? Tripleta is a popular sandwich from Puerto Rico, its name derived from the fact that it is filled with three types of meat: cube steak, lechon pork, and ham. The meat is placed in a loaf of fresh bread and topped with potato sticks.
Adult Tenders $11.95
Chicken tenders served with fries.
Chicken Caesar Wrap $11.95
Grilled chicken, lettuce and Parmesan cheese and Caesar dressing.
Chick Oh' Rico Grilled $12.95
Grilled chicken, mayo, American cheese, lettuce, and tomato.
Pernil Sandwich $11.95
Roast pork, mayo and Swiss cheese.

Salads
Grilled Or Crispy Chicken Salad $12.95
Leaf lettuce, onions, cheese, tomatoes.
Taco Salad $12.95
Green leaf lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, onions, and your choice of ground beef, shredded chicken, or shredded chicken.
Rican Twist Salad $12.95
Shaved iceberg lettuce, tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and avocado sprinkled with olive oil and lemon. Add grilled chicken or pork for an additional charge.
House Salad $10.95
Leaf lettuce, onions, cheese, and tomatoes.
Todo Salad $12.95
Green leaf lettuce, tomatoes, carrots, egg, avocado, cheese and corn with our house cilantro - cream dressing. Add grilled chicken or pork for an additional charge.

Veggie Delight
Veggie Burrito Bowl $15.95
Chargrilled veggies, white rice, black beans, guacamole, cheese, sour cream, and pico de gallo.
Veggie Mexi-Taco $15.95
Three crispy or soft tacos, Mexican style with chargrilled veggies topped with diced onions and cilantro and side of spicy pico de gallo.
Vegetable Platter $14.95
Chargrilled veggies, onions, green peppers served with white rice and black beans.
Veggie Taco Loco $15.95
Three crispy or soft tacos, chargrilled veggies with lettuce, Cheddar cheese, sour cream and a side of spicy pico de gallo.
Crispy Veggie Quesadilla $15.95
Three cheeses, chargrilled veggies, onions, peppers. Served arroz con gandules and side of spicy pico de gallo and sour cream.
Veggie Burrito Rico $15.95
Chargrilled veggies, white rice, black beans, guacamole, cheese, & sour cream in a flour tortilla. Topped with black beans and pico de gallo.

Kids
Kids Hamburger (Homemade) With Fries $8.95
Kids plain Hamburger patty with side of fries
Kids Cheeseburger With Fries $8.95
Hamburger patty with white American Chesse and a side of fries
Empanada (2) And Rice $9.95
Kid's Tenders With Fries $7.75

Mofongo Relleno
Mofongo Carne Guisada $19.95
Mashed green plantains stuffed with beef stew and served with a side salad.
Mofongo Pork $17.95
Mashed green plantains stuffed with roast pork served with a side salad.
Mofongo Carne Frita $17.95
Served with a side salad
Mofongo Chicharron $17.95
Served with a side salad
Mofongo Pollo Guisado $17.95
Mashed green plantains stuffed with chicken stew served with a side salad.
Mofongo Bistec $17.95
Mashed green plantains, stuffed with Puerto Rican style thin sliced bistec and onions served with a side salad.
Mofongo Grilled Veggies $17.95
Mashed green plantains stuffed with grilled broccoli, zucchini, peppers and onions and served with arroz con gandules.
Mofongo Churrasco $22.95
Mashed green plantains stuffed with grilled skirt steak, served with a side salad.
Mofongo Pollo A La Parrilla $17.95
Mashed green plantains stuffed with grilled chicken breast and served with a side salad.

Antojitos
Alcapurria De Yuca Single $3.45
Empanada Single $3.45
Beef, chicken or cheese.
Asopao De Pollo $8.35
Chicken Soup with Shredded Chicken and White rice (inside the soup) ,a side green fried plantains.
Gaspacho $9.45
Codfish mixed with our signature avocado salad.
Sorullito Single $2.10
Six fried semi-sweet cornmeal stick.
Mini Canoa $3.45
Beef, chicken, or pork.
Single Taco Loco $3.95

Family Trays
Family Tray 1 (Serves 6) $79.00
Choose your rice: white rice or yellow rice with pigeon peas. Meat : pernil,. Three sides : medium maduros, tostones and fries. Choose your sauce : red sauce, cilantro cream (reg or spicy), spicy mayo, mayo ketchup or mojo. Dessert for an additional charge: 2 homemade caramel flan and a tres leche cake.
Family Tray 2 (Serves 6) $79.00
Choose your rice: white rice or yellow rice with pigeon peas. Meat: pernil. Choose 6 empanadas: beef, chicken or cheese. Choose your sauce: red sauce, cilantro cream, (reg or spicy), spicy mayo, mayo ketchup. Dessert for an additional charge: 2 homemade caramel flan and a tres leche cake.

Mexi-Rico
Crispy Quesadilla $15.95
Chicken, ground beef or pork, three cheeses, onions, peppers, served with arroz con gandules, sour cream and side of spicy pico de gallo. Churrasco, or shrimp scampi for an additional charge.
Burrito Bowl $15.95
White rice, black beans, guacamole, cheese, & sour cream. Choice of chicken, beef or pork, grilled chicken, churrasco, or shrimp scampi for an additional charge.
Mexi-Taco $13.95
Three crispy or soft tacos, Mexican style with your choice of chicken, ground beef or pork, topped with diced onions and cilantro and side of spicy pico de gallo. Grilled chicken, churrasco, or shrimp scampi for an additional charge.
Loaded Quesadilla $14.95
Loaded quesadilla with chicken, three cheeses, onions, peppers, grilled broccoli. Served with spicy pico de gallo and sour cream.
Burrito Rico $15.95
Filled with white rice, black beans, guacamole, cheese, and sour cream in a flour tortilla. Choice of chicken, beef or pork and topped with black beans and pico de gallo. Grilled chicken, churrasco, or shrimp scampi for an additional charge.
Taco Loco $15.95
Three crispy or soft tacos, with your choice of chicken, ground beef or pork, with lettuce, Cheddar cheese, sour cream and a side of spicy pico de gallo. Churrasco, shrimp scampi, or grilled chicken for an additional charge.

Desserts
Carrot & Pumpkin Fusion $10.95
A combination of our homemade pumpkin flan and our homemade carrot cake. ***Seasonal and while supplies last***
Homemade Coquito Flan $7.95
Homemade coconut flan topped with coconut flakes.
Homemade Caramel Flan $7.95
Delicious, creamy, traditional flan.
Almond Delight Tres Leches Slice $9.95
Homemade Tres Leches cake with our own almond-y twist.

Criollisimo
Pollo Isleño $14.95
Grilled chicken with onions, served with fried green plantains and salad.
Pernil Asado $15.95
Roast pork served with arroz con gandules and green salad.
Pollo Empanado $14.95
Fried chicken cutlet, served with white rice and sweet plantains.
Pollo Guisado $14.95
Chicken stew served with white rice and sweet plantains.
Canoa Rellena $15.95
Sweet plantain stuffed with beef, chicken, or pork and sprinkled with mozzarella cheese: served with white rice and red beans.
Carne Guisada $15.95
Beef stew served with white rice and maduros
Pollo À La Parrilla $14.95
Grilled chicken cutlet, served with white rice and sweet plantains.
Rican Twist $11.95
Arroz con gandules served with a shaved lettuce salad and avocado. Add sm grilled chicken or pork for an additional charge.
Chuletas $15.95
Perfectly seasoned and tender pork chops served with white rice and tostones.
Bistec Encebollado $14.95
Puerto Rican style thin sliced beef, slow cooked with onions served with white rice and tostones
Churrasco À La Parrilla $20.95
Grilled skirt steak served with white rice and fried green plantains.

Drinks
Juices $3.50
Passion fruit, guanabana, pineapple, papaya, apple,,tamarindo.
Fountain Soda $3.75
Pepsi, Pepsi Zero Sugar, Orange Crush,Brisk Ice tea, Mountain Dew
Bottled Drinks $3.25
Malta, Coco Rico, ginger ale.

Homemade Sauces and Dressings
Guacamole $2.75
Spicy Pico $2.75
Pico De Gallo $2.75

Surrender Cafe Details

Service options
No-contact delivery
Delivery
Takeout
Dine-in

Highlights
Fast service
Great coffee
Great dessert
Serves local specialty

Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining

Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Wheelchair accessible restroom
Wheelchair accessible seating

Offerings
Beer
Coffee
Comfort food
Healthy options
Quick bite
Small plates
Vegetarian options
Wine

Dining options
Lunch
Dinner
Catering
Dessert
Seating
Table service

Amenities
Restroom

Atmosphere
Casual
Cozy
Quiet
Trendy

Crowd
Family-friendly
Groups
LGBTQ+ friendly
Tourists
Transgender safespace

Planning
Accepts reservations

Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards

Children
Good for kids
High chairs
Kids' menu

Parking
Free parking lot
Free street parking
Parking

Surrender Cafe Photos

Surrender Cafe Location

Surrender Cafe

New Jersey Middlesex County Woodbridge Township Woodbridge Amboy Avenue

691 Amboy Ave, Woodbridge, NJ 07095, USA

Surrender Cafe Reviews

An average rating of ★4.5 from 1525 user reviews.

empanadaspernilspanish foodarroz con gandulesalcapurriastres lechestostoneschurrascoBYOBsancocho

★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

Delicious food and they have done a great job at capturing and delivering a lil taste of Puerto Rico for us here in NJ with the aesthetics and vibe.All the food we had was delicious the 360 platter was a smash! Everything on that plate was spot on authentic to the island.Bacalao plate was fresh and flavorfulChicken cutlets plate was perfectly seasoned and moist. Only reason I didn’t give it a 5 star was the mofongo’s presentation, it was a first for me being served that way so it was not that appealing at first but flavor wise it was delicious, not dry and the pernil on top was perfectly seasoned.My family and I would definitely visit again!!🇵🇷🇵🇷🇵🇷🇵🇷🇵🇷🇵🇷🇵🇷🇵🇷
May 18 · Ms. Medina
Great place for authentic Puerto Rican food ! Loved the sounds of the coqui when you arrive to the front of the establishment.The Perfect homemade Caribbean dinner !
May 18 · Gary Beltre
Absolutely loved my visit to Surrender Cafe! The food was delicious, the atmosphere was cozy, and the service was top-notch. Our server, Melanie, was amazing—super friendly, attentive, and made us feel right at home. She really went above and beyond. Highly recommend this spot and definitely ask for Melanie when you go!
April 10 · Aaliyah Diaz
Omgg! Where do I start. The place was amazing. Go there TODAY! NOW! As soon as you can. The staff made the experience wonderful. Especially Melanie!!! And Harold. Melanie was absolutely amazing to us. Melanie was very attentive and accommodated us to whatever we may have asked. She is awesome ! The food was amazing.. it reminded me of home, and as well was the service, and music. If you want to go to a Puerto Rican restaurant that reminds you of home, go here. Puerto Rican banners hanging everywhere, beautiful art of Puerto Rico and San Juan all around. All in all just beautiful. It was my birthday & I took a gazillion photos, and Melanie did not mind at all. They wanted the experience to be nothing but amazing. Thank you guys for making my birthday dinner amazing.
July 30 · Kaylee Mangual
Melanie was such a great server ! She was so sweet super friendly and made my experience trying this spot for the first time perfect absolutely 10/10 !!
September 19 · Lizbeth Santana