- Attraction: Taco Stop
- Location: 1812 NJ-35, South Amboy, NJ 08879
- Industry: Mexican Restaurant
- Website: Facebook Page
Forget everything you think you know about roadside taco joints.
Tucked along Route 35 in South Amboy sits a family-owned Mexican restaurant that’s quietly earning a devoted following among locals and passersby alike.
Since opening in 2021, Taco Stop has been turning out authentic Mexican cuisine that has people driving from neighboring towns just to get their hands on those legendary birria tacos.
What started as a small operation has blossomed into one of the area’s best-kept secrets, earning stellar ratings and reviews that speak to the quality and authenticity pouring out of this unassuming kitchen.
With a menu that spans traditional street tacos to hearty platters and a bakery section featuring Mexican sweets, this spot delivers the kind of flavors that transport you straight to Mexico.
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Keep Exploring →Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch or settling in for a leisurely meal, you’ll discover why so many visitors find themselves making regular return trips.
Menu Must-Tries
The Birria Tacos: These are the stars of the show and for good reason. You’ll get three tacos loaded with tender, slow-cooked beef that’s been braised until it practically melts on your tongue.
Each taco comes topped with cheese, cilantro, and onions, but the real magic happens when you dip them into the rich consommé that accompanies every order.
The broth is savory and deeply flavored, making each bite an experience. People wake up dreaming about these tacos, and you’ll understand why after your first order.
Chicken Birria Option: If beef isn’t your thing, the chicken birria tacos deliver that same rich, satisfying flavor profile with tender shredded chicken instead. They come with the same delicious accompaniments and that crucial dipping consommé that elevates the whole experience.
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Discover MoreAl Pastor and Carne Asada: For those seeking traditional street taco flavors, these options won’t disappoint. The al pastor features marinated pork with authentic seasoning, while the carne asada brings perfectly grilled steak.
Both are served simply with cilantro and onions on corn tortillas, letting the quality of the meat shine through.
Carnitas Tacos: The pulled pork option brings fork-tender meat with a subtle richness. When paired with cheese, these tacos offer a comforting, homestyle taste that keeps people coming back for more.
Fish Tacos: Grilled to perfection, these tacos showcase fresh seafood served with cilantro and onions. They’re a lighter option that doesn’t skimp on flavor and have earned praise from visitors looking for something beyond the traditional meat options.
Chorizo Tacos: The Mexican sausage here packs a flavorful punch with just the right amount of spice and seasoning. It’s a bolder choice that delivers authentic taste in every bite.
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Keep Exploring →The Quesadillas: The birria quesadillas are massive and generously stuffed with your choice of meat and plenty of melted cheese.
These come with the signature consommé for dipping, creating a messy but incredibly satisfying meal. The chicken quesadilla on a corn tortilla is another standout, offering a lighter but equally delicious option.
Burritos: Whether you go for the birria burrito or the al pastor version, expect substantial portions wrapped tightly with beans, lettuce, tomato, cheese, and sour cream. These are hearty enough to satisfy even the biggest appetites.
Tortas: The Mexican sandwiches here bring authentic flavors on fresh telera rolls. The carne asada torta is particularly popular, offering all those delicious flavors in sandwich form.
Sides, Drinks & Bakery Treats
The Sauces: You’ll receive complimentary chips with your order, and they come with both green and red house-made salsas. Both pack heat and flavor, with enough kick to satisfy spice lovers without overwhelming your palate.
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Discover MoreGuacamole: Made fresh daily in-house, the guacamole here is creamy and pairs beautifully with the chips or as an add-on to any of your tacos or burritos.
Rice and Beans: Traditional Mexican sides that round out your meal perfectly. The portions are generous, and they complement the main dishes well.
Horchata: This refreshing rice-based drink is sweetened to perfection and provides the ideal cooling counterpoint to spicier dishes. On a hot summer day, there’s nothing better.
Jamaica (Hibiscus Tea): Order the large, and you’ll get a generous serving in what customers describe as a literal deli soup container. The sweetness is balanced beautifully, making it incredibly refreshing.
Passion Fruit Juice: Another refreshing beverage option that pairs wonderfully with the rich, savory flavors of the tacos.
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Keep Exploring →Bakery Section: Don’t leave without checking out the Mexican sweets. The conchas are fluffy and topped with that classic crunchy cookie layer, while the flan is smooth and perfectly sweet. These traditional desserts provide an authentic finish to your meal.
Atmosphere & Setting
The Space: This is a small, casual spot that keeps things simple and unpretentious. The interior is bright and welcoming, with a straightforward layout that puts the focus squarely on the food rather than fancy decor. It’s the kind of place where you know immediately that what matters here is what comes out of the kitchen.
Seating Options: You’ll find both indoor seating and outdoor tables available. On pleasant days, the outdoor seating offers a nice spot to enjoy your meal. When the weather turns hot, though, most people opt for the air-conditioned interior or takeout.
The Vibe: The atmosphere is relaxed and laid-back, making it perfect for a casual lunch with coworkers, a quick dinner stop, or a family meal. There’s nothing pretentious here—just good food served in a comfortable environment.
Highway Convenience: Located right off Route 35, the spot is easy to find and makes for a convenient stop whether you’re a local or just passing through the area.
Practical Information
Pricing: You’ll find the prices very reasonable, especially considering the quality and authenticity of the food. Tacos run around $3 each, making it easy to try several varieties without breaking the bank.
Most full meals fall in the $10-$20 range per person, which represents excellent value for the generous portions you receive. This is solidly affordable dining that doesn’t sacrifice quality for price.
Parking: There’s a small private parking lot in front of the restaurant with space for about four cars. It can get tight during busy times, but turnover is usually quick since many people opt for takeout.
Service Style: Taco Stop operates as a quick-service restaurant where you order at the counter. Despite the casual setup, you’ll receive friendly service and food that comes out remarkably fast, even during busy periods.
Family Friendly: The menu includes options that work well for kids, including a children’s menu with items like chicken quesadillas and fries. The casual atmosphere makes it a comfortable spot for families.
Timing Your Visit: Like many popular local spots, Taco Stop can get busy during peak lunch and dinner hours. Be prepared for a possible wait during these times, though most agree the food is absolutely worth any short delay. The restaurant is closed on Sundays, so plan accordingly.
Delivery and Takeout: If you prefer enjoying your meal at home, Taco Stop offers both takeout and delivery through various platforms. The food travels well and arrives hot and fresh.
Best for: This spot excels as a quick lunch destination, a casual dinner option, or a convenient stop when you’re craving authentic Mexican food. It’s ideal for anyone seeking quality tacos and traditional Mexican dishes without fuss or formality.
Taco Stop
📍 1812 NJ-35, South Amboy, NJ 08879
