Authentic Mexican Cuisine Converts A NewbieWords like guacamolito, poblano chile and mole never had much meaning to me growing up, except that I used to call one of my Monchichis “guacamolito” as a pet name. But my recent experience at a Hoboken Mexican restaurant has opened my eyes to an area of Mexican food that was previously a mystery to me.

I can count on one hand the number of times I have been to a truly authentic Mexican restaurant, yet when I left the pyramid-themed, dimly-lit Charrito’s of uptown Hoboken, I felt more satisfied than a sunburned Cancún tourist after a cold Dos Equis.

Exceptional service and a cheery atmosphere highlighted the evening, but the traditional and regional menu may have stolen the show. From the typical Carne or Pollo Asada, or Quesadillas, to the less common Tacquitos or Enchiladas Oaxaqueñas (both totally new to me), the menu covers a wide range of Mexican cuisine, from what I could tell.

We started our meal with chips and zesty salsa, and the wonderful addition of guacamole made fresh, right at our table. A woman in distinct Mexican attire wheeled out a wooden cart filled with avocados, seasoning, a bowl, and a mixing tool that makes more advanced culinary tools look childish. She crushed and tailored the mix of ingredients to our level of spicy desire, then wheeled her cart to another table of awe-struck patrons who wondered if they’d just stepped into 1863 Oaxaca.

I opted to go with the more traditional Chicken Enchiladas for my entrée, and I have to say it was the best I’ve ever had. From the way the rice was seasoned to the flavorful cheese and mole sauce, I inhaled this dish and did not come up for air.

It’s important to note that Charrito’s is a BYOB restaurant with a twist. If you are thinking ahead, it would be wise to bring a red wine or a bottle of Jose Cuervo tequila, as the waiters will be glad to use either to concoct a fruity pitcher of sangria or a salt-covered, tangy margarita. We had brought a nice bottle of Spanish wine, and within minutes it had been transformed with Sprite, fruit, and other secret ingredients into a very tasty Sangria that complemented the cuisine perfectly.

The restaurant itself has a cozy, warm feel to it - thanks, in part, to the Aztec-themed murals and brick walls. Some may argue that the tables are too cramped, but personally this added to the ‘family’ feel for me. The glasses, the half-sewn tablecloth, the paper menus and even the wallet-sized check-holder all added to the quaint atmosphere.

The prices, while by no means a bargain, were reasonable, and the service was friendly and accommodating. I would recommend Charrito’s gladly to a friend looking for a quality, Mexican meal with an authentic vibe.

Now I’ll never think of guacamolito or poblano chile in the same light. Instead, those terms will remind me of a meal I’m anxious to try again.

Charritos Restaurant
1024 Washington St
Hoboken
(201) 659-2800
http://www.loscharritos.com/
(Also located in Union City, downtown Hoboken, and in Weehawken soon)

— by Johnny Strongarms
Johnny Strongarms is a Jersey native currently residing in Hoboken.

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