Eating Out: New Jersey

Oh the Garden State, I don't even know where to begin with you but instead of taking cheap shots at New York's little brother, I'll concede the fact that you are loaded with great eateries. Kicking things off is Jose Tejas and even though there are two (Woodbridge and Fairfield) I choose the Woodbridge version.

For starters, the place looks like it belongs on the set of Once Upon a Time in Mexico as the exterior looks like it was dropped in from the southwest. But if the exterior's not enough to convince you to give the place a try, perhaps the giant, neon sign that reads EAT with an arrow pointing to the restaurant is? 


I have literally eaten every item on the menu, some more than a handful of times, and nothing has ever disappointed. Serving a mix of Cajun and Tex-Mex treats, J. Tejas has something to satisfy everyone. For starters, I wholly recommend the Tejas Chicken (think of it as a buffalo wing on a stick), Blackened Chicken Fingers (also an entreé but I go for the app. here), and the Chorizo Flambado. Trust me when I tell you that you really cannot go wrong here.


Since I've started going here, some 15 years ago, I've lost faith in the tortillas w/salsa (salsa is fresh and home made but the tortillas leave something to be desired and used to be better.)


Now that I got the negativity out of the way, back to the goods. The entreés are always hot, fresh, and delicious. It makes me wonder how many cooks there are since the place is generally always picked and the food is served so fast! Two of my favorites are the Filet Mignon Jim Bowie Style and the Chimichurri Steak. Don't sleep on the Creole Chicken. If you're less daring, the Fajitas are a great, safe bet.


The next time you find yourself in the Central Jersey region (or up North on 46) hit up Jose Tejas and be prepared for a great meal, but be warned that if you get there anywhere around supper time you will be waiting a while to get your table. Want to find your way to Tejas? Click here and enter your address for directions to the location on Route 1 in Woodbridge. Want a preview of the fine foods offered at Tejas? Click here! And please remember, if you are planning a visit as a result of reading this, don't forget to invite me.