Welcome to El Ranchero Taqueria
Welcome to El Ranchero Taqueria, a vibrant gem nestled in Jersey City, NJ. Our story is woven from authentic Mexican culinary traditions, where every dish reflects the rich flavors of our heritage. We take pride in serving mouth-watering empanadas, hearty fajitas, and soul-soothing sopas, crafted from the freshest ingredients. Customers rave about our signature birria tacos and chilaquiles, which leave an unforgettable impression. Beyond exceptional food, our welcoming staff and lively atmosphere promise a delightful dining experience, whether you're here for breakfast, brunch, or lunch. Join us, and savor the true essence of Mexican comfort food.
- 382 2nd St, Jersey City, NJ 07302 Hotline: (973) 939-1478
Welcome to El Ranchero Taqueria, a vibrant gem nestled in the heart of Jersey City, NJ. Located at 382 2nd St, this cozy establishment captures the essence of authentic Mexican cuisine, offering a delightful array of dishes that will transport your taste buds straight to Mexico. With the friendly ambiance and artistic decor, every visit feels like a mini-vacation south of the border.
At El Ranchero, the menu is expansive yet carefully curated, showcasing everything from breakfast empanadas to satisfying platters. Highlights include the Pechuga de Pollo a la Plancha, featuring perfectly grilled chicken accompanied by rice, beans, tortillas, and salad for just $16.00. If you’re in the mood for a fiesta, don’t miss the Fajitas Mixtas, combining chicken, steak, and shrimp for a flavorful extravaganza at $23.00, served with the same comforting companions.
- Camarones a la Mexicana - Delicious shrimp cooked in classic Mexican spices, served with rice, beans, tortillas, and salad for $20.00.
- Bistec a la Mexicana - A generous serving of steak cooked Mexican style, and accompanied by all the traditional sides for $18.00.
- Ham and Cheese Empanada - A delightful option for a quick snack at just $4.00, combining flaky pastry with rich fillings.
The reviews speak volumes about El Ranchero’s commitment to quality and flavor. Customers rave about the chilaquiles, often describing them as an addictive must-try. As one diner stated, “Every ingredient is so flavorful and fresh, and the portions are large.” The taco offerings, particularly the birria and tinga tacos, receive similar acclaim for their freshness and authentic taste.
Savoring a meal here feels not only indulgent but also deeply satisfying. Many guests note the welcoming service that complements the delicious dishes. From the attentive staff to the charming environment, dining at El Ranchero transforms a simple meal into a cherished experience, reminiscent of home-cooked meals shared with family and friends.
Whether you’re looking for a place to unwind over a leisurely brunch, grab a quick bite, or even have a casual date night, El Ranchero Taqueria has something for everyone. For those on the go, its brisk take-out and delivery service ensures you can enjoy these delightful flavors, even from the comfort of your home.
In conclusion, El Ranchero Taqueria is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of Mexican culture and cuisine. If you haven’t yet ventured to this culinary haven, now is the perfect time to discover why it has quickly become a beloved staple among locals.

Food was amazing. It was a little cramped for seating but overall amazing . The staff was great. I would definitely recommend for lunch. I will come in the morning to try the breakfast.

Fantastic environment and delicious food! Such a great spot tucked away in our neighborhood. From the decor to the music to the full menu, you'll enjoying stopping in here at any time of day. They do a very brisk take away and delivery business, so my only critique is that the staff can get bogged down or might be on the phone and juggling tasks when you go to pay. The fajitas are grilled to perfection. The Mexican quesadilla is unlike any quesadilla I've ever had, and is packed into a thick toasted tortilla. Definitely get the tinga, beautifully flavored pulled chicken that is light and tasty (the bowl is actually a plate with all of the ingredients separated). Even the rice and beans, which we usually take for granted as a side, were flavorful and delicious.

As always, another fantastic experience at El Ranchero Taquiera. Service is always quick and prompt, and it makes the trip out of the city worth it to stop by this favorite of mine! I ordered the lamb birria torta for the first time, and was glad I did! The bread was soft and fluffy, and the combo with the meat, cheese, jalapeños, and avocado dipped in the consume was very enjoyable. I always worry that I don't have enough consume when I start my meal, but it always ends up being the perfect amount! We also split a tres leches slice for dessert, which was moist, sweet, and the perfect end to a hearty, homey meal.

I keep coming back every week for the chilaquiles. It's an addiction at this point. Every ingredient is so flavorful and fresh, and the portions are large. Highly recommend.

I had these delivered and they were still ridiculously good. I bet they'd be even more delicious if I ate them fresh at the restaurant. One of the better birria tacos I've had.

Fantastic Mexican food. So yummy and authentic. I love this place. Everything is great

Not sure if these are the best tacos in any geographic region, but the portions sure are big and the staff sure are friendly, so I'm not complaining. My Flautas were crispy and generously portioned at 4 large rolls. The Chicken Tinga will make your tongue tingle (haha, get it?), while the Birria with beef is just classic comfort food. Wash it all down with some Jamaica agua fresca, and you've got a casual taqueria experience that wouldn't be out of place in the streets of Oaxaca.

I haven't even finished my food yet but I had to write a review about the amazing experience I had at this tiny, colorful, mexican eatery. Immediately I was received well and sat down by my hostess who had my chicken flautas out in less than 20 minutes. The food was perfectly cooked, seasoned and plated. Very happy with my food and would recommend to a friend!

Love this place!! Everyone is so kind and friendly. The food is even better, this place reminds me of home (Puebla Mexico) the ingredients and the decor is just like back home. My favorite is the flautas and the aguas frescas they're all so good! Defiantly in my top 5 Mexican spots in Jersey City

Hidden, tasty, worth a try. I was craving gooood birria tacos, ones that reminded me of my first ever birria taco experience at the first jersey city smorgasborg birria taco vendor that I have yet to see return. These were quite great! Not as perfect as I'd hoped but close enough. I was serviced perfectly. The waiter noticed I was on the phone in a deep conversation so allowed me to settle myself before coming over to ask what I wanted to order. No complaints. There were a few couples here...I could see this as a very low key date spot if you're looking for a discreet 1st date location with great food and vibrant setting. Or, a place to take your kids to lunch where it's a quiet environment less rowdy. Go, enjoy!!