New Jersey Hotspot Named 'Best Mexican Restaurant' in America

One of the many benefits of living in New Jersey is its diversity.

With that diversity comes different cultures, backgrounds, and experiences.

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Diving into unique cuisine from around the globe is a blessing, and since Jersey is so close to New York and Philadelphia, phenomenal flavors are everywhere.

One of the many phenomenal flavors is Mexican.

For me, authentic Mexican cuisine must be rooted in culture.

Each dish should tell a story.

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Take hand-pressed tortillas, for example. Whether used for enchiladas or tacos, they tell the story of craftsmanship.

If a restaurant does not use fresh, authentic, and vibrant ingredients, it is missing another key component of quality Mexican food.

The cuisine will be vibrant, from ripe avocados to freshly grilled meat, if the ingredients are correct.

While many Mexican restaurants pride themselves on a tradition that dates back hundreds of years, it's always nice to see classics reinvented with a new and tasty twist.

As with any cuisine, the food can be top-notch, but an A+ experience will not be complete without an inviting atmosphere.

Alexander Shalamov

I always enjoy a welcoming Mexican establishment that takes you back to the roots of the culture.

The drinks are a cherry on top.

The dining experience can continuously be enhanced with a handpicked assortment of tequilas, non-alcoholic horchata, aguas frescas, and other mezcal and margaritas can be served.

After what seemed like an eternity, a new Mexican restaurant recently opened its doors in Toms River.

Sofia's Taqueria on Kettle Creek Road is getting rave reviews from everyone I talk to.

Folks are over-the-top about Sofia's food and drink.

The interior is also fresh and popping.

This new Mexican hotspot in Ocean County may be a contender for one of Love Food's future "best of" features.

Love Food, a food lifestyle site recently went state-by-state to crown the "best Mexican restaurant" in every state.

New Jersey's pick is genuinely one of the nation's best. It continues to leave us wanting more, and this restaurant seems to be expanding.

Love Food's Jessica Morris says:

The vibrant decor is the first thing people notice about Orale, which has outposts in downtown Jersey City, Hoboken, and Morristown. At each location, the walls are plastered with original murals, while pendant lamps create a warm atmosphere. The food doesn’t disappoint, either, with popular menu options like bone marrow tacos, and various twists on guacamole.

Mushroom enchiladas? Yes, please.

Have you ever dined at Orale Mexican Kitchen?

They have locations in Morristown, Jersey City, and Hoboken.

Orale Mexican Cuisine has "nailed it" regarding its food and the atmosphere.

One word comes to mind when I think of Orale. Fun.

Now, Orale Mexican Kitchen may be tops in Jersey, but there are plenty of quality eateries to put on your list to try.

How many of these have you been to?