Little Tijuana

Name: Little Tijuana
Address: 538 Market Street, Newark, NJ, 07105, US
Telephone: (973) 230-9417
Price range: $$
Rating: 3.6

Little Tijuana: Bold Mexican flavors, vibrant vibe, and craft cocktails.

3.6(5 reviews)

mexican

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About

Little Tijuana is a Mexican restaurant at 538 Market St, Newark. The venue impresses with beautifully decorated interiors, a vibrant Mexican vibe, and a solid menu. Guests rave about flavorful cocktails and chicken tacos, along with friendly, attentive service and reasonable prices. A welcoming spot for a lively dining experience and bold flavors.

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Location

538 Market St, Newark, NJ 07105, USA

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Information

538 Market Street

Newark, NJ, 07105

(973) 230-9417 www.littletijuana.com/

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Services

Authentic Mexican Cuisine

Enjoy a diverse menu featuring traditional dishes like fajitas, tacos, and guacamole, prepared with fresh ingredients and bold flavors.

Craft Cocktails & Drinks

Sip on expertly mixed cocktails, including margaritas and piña coladas, in a vibrant bar setting perfect for socializing.

Group Dining & Events

Host gatherings with spacious seating and a festive atmosphere, ideal for parties, celebrations, or casual group outings.

Lunch & Dinner Service

Dine in for lunch or dinner with extended hours, offering a full menu and welcoming service throughout the day.

Takeout & Delivery

Order your favorite Mexican dishes for convenient takeout or delivery, bringing our flavors straight to your home or office.

3.60 · 5 reviews

Overall rating

Cindy Juarez

via Google

· 10 months ago

This was honestly one of the worst places I’ve eaten at. The food was terrible, nothing tasted fresh and most of it seemed stale. We went during the week and the menu was super limited, barely any options. From the fajitas to the birria tacos, everything tasted off and not authentic at all. It felt super Americanized. I would’ve rather eaten at Chipotle or even Taco Bell. I also ordered a piña colada and it was disgusting. It tasted super fake, like they used some kind of powder mix instead of making it fresh. I couldn’t even finish it. I ordered a Coke too and got a tiny glass full of ice with barely any soda. They didn’t even give me the can, which was annoying because it felt like they kept the rest of my drink. On top of that, they automatically added an 18% gratuity for a party of four, which is crazy considering that’s not even a big table especially with how bad the food and service were. The prices were high, and I don’t mind spending money on good food, but this definitely wasn’t it. The place looks nice from the outside, but the food is not good at all. Huge disappointment.

Nikiea Hawkins

via Google

· 11 months ago

Food was delicious (albeit not hot) so I'll give 4 stars. And the atmosphere was amazing. The staff was very unfriendly I guess bc my sister and I are Muslim. We sat there in am empty restaurants at the smallest table they had until I just got fed up and moved myself. I'll attach some photos so you can see that is actually beautiful. But they only want Spanish people in their spot 🙄 of the owner or manager disagrees then by all means invite us back. We spent $140 for cold food. And weak drinks! This is my honest respectful review!

Gayathri Gopal

via Google

· 11 months ago

Had a wonderful time at this Mexican place! The cocktails were great, and the chicken tacos were absolutely amazing. The service was friendly and attentive, and the place had a lovely Mexican vibe. Overall, a fantastic experience — would definitely visit again! 🌮🍹

charnetta holley

via Google

· 1 year ago

The restaurant itself is beautiful with a great atmosphere, good vibes, and very reasonable prices. The food was delicious, and our waitress, manager, and the rest of the staff (other than security) were welcoming and professional. Unfortunately, the security experience really brought the mood down. We were only in the area briefly while waiting for my daughter’s concert to finish and decided to try the restaurant after checking the website and reviews. The website states that the dress code only applies after 7pm on Friday and Saturday. We went on a Sunday, but my son and I were almost denied entry because we had on Crocs. Security made a big deal about the shoes and we stood out there for 5-10 min just waiting because of the shoes (there was no line) After I pointed out the policy, security checked with the manager and then let us in. My sister also had her Stanley cup with water because it was hot outside, and the security guard was extremely rude and snotty about it, saying “you can’t bring that in here, y’all must not go out much.” He then made her leave it at the front door. That comment felt unnecessary and unprofessional, and it took away from the excitement we had walking in. We mentioned the situation casually to our waitress, and without us even asking, the manager came to our table to personally apologize. That gesture meant a lot, and it showed that management truly cares about their customers. Overall, the food and vibes were excellent, but the security staff needs more professionalism and consistency with following the restaurant’s actual policies. Parking is also tough, so be prepared to use valet (around $30). If the security experience matched the quality of the food and staff, this would have been an easy 5-star review.

beldim2010

via Google

· 1 year ago

Beautifully decorated spot with good food but impersonal service. My wife and I visited Little Tijuana for an early dinner in May 2025. The moment we walked in, we were struck by the restaurant’s beautiful, artistic decor, which instantly set the tone for a pleasant dining experience. The overall experience was mixed though. Most of the food ordered was excellent with a couple of exceptions. The drinks were flavorful, but noticeably diluted. Service was efficient but impersonal. Everything arrived correctly and politely, yet we never felt truly cared for - no one stopped by to ask if we liked the food or drinks, no smile, no friendly chat. We can recommend Little Tijuana for its ambiance, décor, and solid food — just don’t expect much beyond what's served at your table. Food ordered Guacamole Trio - three types of guacamole to try and all three were absolutely tasteless :( Mexican Fajita - excellent. Flavorful and sizzling. Lamb Barbacoa (lamb shank) - excellent. Melting in the mouth.

Dario's Tex Mex serves quick, flavorful Mexican dishes at 20 Academy St, Newark. Reviewers praise delicious bowls, tender chicken, flavorful rice, and the chicken salad bowl, with taco bowls around $9 for solid value. The on-site owners and friendly staff earn high marks, delivering welcoming service in a casual, hole-in-the-wall spot.

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