Growing up in Jersey City, almost everyone called me Isa. My whole name is Isamar Veras. Many know me now as Skinny Minnie and that’s perfectly cool. My parents raised me in this city and brought me to a ton of places I can always go back to. All of these places are local favorites that have been around for generations, or have been paving their way to create new traditions. Whether a mom & pop shop or even just a quick service place to eat, food is something that can always hit home and make me remember why I’ll always love where I’m from. Writing about food places creates a call for adventure and Jersey City is my home with new adventures everywhere I turn.
Nick’s Restaurant
402 Communipaw Ave
Hours of Operation: 5:30 AM-1 PM, including Sundays
*Bacon, Egg, and Cheese $4.00*
I’ve lived in Bergen-Lafayette all my life, more specifically in the Liberty State Park area. Ever since I was a little girl, I’ve gone to Nick’s for breakfast and/or lunch. The owners are of Greek descent and always welcome you with open arms, whether you’re a regular or just walking in.
The place has booth tables, and even a bar top along with bar stools for the perfect diner feel everyone from New Jersey loves. You can eat in or order food to go for those looking for a quick pick me up.
This place is kid friendly and has one of the best breakfast choices, including platters, egg sandwiches, and even omelets for some of the best prices around.
Rowena’s Delight Cake House
444 West Side Ave
Hours of Operation: 6 AM-7:30 PM
*White Rice and Beef Steak $4.00*
Rowena’s on West Side Avenue to me is a very recent find, about 2-3 years ago to be exact. It is owned by the relative of a friend of mine, but I had just never stumbled upon such Filipino goodness (apparently, I was really late to catch on). Nonetheless, Rowena’s is a one bill meal ($5) that you can’t ever go wrong.
With numerous tables, Rowena’s is a very family-friendly place and can even seat larger parties. The divey-atmosphere is one that anyone from any generation would love and appreciate.
And even with the cheap and affordable prices, this mom-and-pop takes cash and cards!
Taqueria Gardenias Foodtruck
Stationed in front of 406 Communipaw Ave
Hours of Operation: Friday, Saturday, Sunday 12-10 PM (roughly)
*Tacos: $2.50 (each); Burrito: $8.00*
Taqueria Gardenias is a food truck that is relatively new to the Bergen-Lafayette area as of Summer 2016. It is a Mexican food truck that is stationed on Communipaw Avenue. It is a family-owned business, and they are only open on weekends. While only accepting cash, they also do local deliveries, so you will be able to give ‘em a call!
The food is amazing, however, when ordering for children, you might want to specify to go easy on the spiciness. It’s super affordable, and the quantity of food is great for all you get. It’s a delight and definitely something to look forward to on the weekends around the neighborhood!
Keep up with contributor Isamar Veras on Instagram!
THANK YOU FOR THE RECOMMENDATION! I WILL DEF TRY THOSE PLACES.