Zafra

There are two reasons to go to Hoboken, maybe three. Maxwell’s, this place, and the Cuban cafe on Washington and 1st.

Really good South American food is hard to come by; and this place is rather affordable compared to New York Latin American. The owner is a delight, and will get to know you; the service is also incredible.

A bright, sunny place with an excellent outdoor eating area. When I lived in Hoboken, friends from Brooklyn and the Bronx would visit just to eat here.

The steak, tamales, and breakfast/brunch are amazing. Don’t forget the fantastic iced coffee frappe thing (I can’t remember what it’s called).

I believe the owner also wrote a cookbook that you can buy.

Last: this place is so good, the first time I went there I forgot to tip them…so I was so wrecked with shame, I ran there the next morning to give them my money!