Submitted by John on Thu, 12/10/2009 - 11:54am
I have never been to Cuba although I must admit, there is a burning desire for me to get to the Caribbean island before I am officially allowed to do so. I understand the politically isolated island through only two representations – the writings of Ernest Hemmingway and La Isla Restaurant in Hoboken. Both quietly inspire me to write my Letter From Cuba. From the outside, La Isla appears to be an unassuming Latin American diner. When you take a seat at the counter or small table, the scurryingly busy, attentive and friendly staff makes you feel right at home. And with energetic Latin music playing on the stereo, you would be forgiven for thinking you were in a backstreet eatery in Havana, not 10 feet removed from Washington Street in the birthplace of baseball and Frank Sinatra.
The menu is deliciously simple. Lunch specials change daily and they are all from $8-$11. Rabo Encendido (Oxtail Stew), Chuletas a la Parilla (Grilled Pork Chops) and Bistek en Casserole (Braised Steak Casserole) have been my favorites as of late. And the special that is offered each day is the Pollo Asado (Roasted Chicken). It’s a simple as it sounds and when it’s served with black beans, rice and a few different hot sauces, it’s exactly what the soul ordered. If you are looking for a sandwich, don’t feel cliché about ordering the Cuban sandwich, after all, when in Havana… The Pan con Lechon (Roast Pork with garlic mojo) is also tops in the sandwich department. And with your sandwich or anything you order, make sure you grab a side of the Tostones con Mojo – I could eat these twice fried green plantains with garlic sauce for breakfast.
104 Washington Street
Hoboken, New Jersey 07030
201.659.8197
