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What makes an empanada great? Crisp, yet flaky crust. Well-seasoned fillings that actually fill their wrapper. At Mi Gente Café, 7 Central Avenue, you’ll find exemplary versions on display in a glass case along with other deep-fried delectables. There’s a long list of lunch specials for under $10, too. Try any of the chicken dishes, a great pernil or pastelon (ground beef, Swiss cheese and sweet plantains) with a side of rice and beans.
Lunch at The Green Chicpea, 59 Halsey Street, a kosher restaurant serving some of Newark’s best Middle Eastern fare, is worth the wait. Foodies from Newark’s corporate and college communities crave its excellent renditions of shwarma, tabbouleh and other fresh, flavorful and healthful salads. You can’t go wrong with the falafel. Freshly made, full of a vibrant, herby flavor and perfectly fried.
Looking for an old-school, over-stuffed Italian-style sub sandwich with quality cold cuts, carefully-prepared hot items and amazingly fresh bread? Hero King, 406 Market Street, is the real deal. A half sub (most under $10), will fill all but the most enthusiastic eaters. A recent special of tender roast pork and sautéed broccoli rabe covered in a blanket of thinly-shaved provolone cheese is a lunchtime sandwich that makes you wonder why people bother with fast food.
Burger Bound at 62 Van Buren Street makes crisp, grease-free French fries served in a stylish metal container with a decadent topping of parmesan cheese and truffle oil. Yahoo Travel dispelled any doubts about their goodness when it chose these spuds as tops in New Jersey in its 50 States of French Fries — the Best Across the U.S. The black bean patties filled with melting cheese and a honey mustard dipping sauce on the side, aren’t bad either. In warm weather, enjoy them on the cool outdoor deck.
In truth, it’s hard to find a bad custard cup anywhere in the Ironbound. Alvaro’s version has a slightly different texture to its filling that sets them apart. That’s one opinion. You’ll find plenty more on Ferry Street.
Story By: Vince Baglivo
Newark Bound Magazine: It's all about Newark. Flip through the glossy for an in-depth look at Newark's world-class attractions, endless dining options, upscale and discount shopping, accommodations, and more. NewarkBound explores and reports on the highlights, trends, celebrities, humor, history and perspective that reflect life in and around New Jersey's largest city.
