The story starts charmingly: founders Andrea and Phil sold tacos from a truck at Grove Montgomery before moving into the permanent Grove Street digs back in 2005. Since then, the place has grown into a neighborhood fixture—and even spawned a sister spot in Manhattan’s Lower East Side—while keeping the same “come as you are” spirit. Inside, you’ll squeeze into a lively, compact room lined with vintage photos and locals posted up at high-tops; it’s exactly the kind of space that turns strangers into table-mates after a round of chips and margaritas.

The vibe: unfussy, buzzy, and downright social

Think casual dining room, quick-moving servers, and that constant clink-of-glasses soundtrack. Happy hour can be rowdy in the best way—margaritas and sangria are part of the legend here—and late evenings still draw a crowd, especially on Thursdays and weekends. There’s also patio seating (even heated in winter), which turns into the unofficial “backyard” for groups who want air and elbow room. No complicated rules—just good energy, cold drinks, and hot plates.

What’s on the menu (and what regulars order)

The lineup leans classic and comforting. You’ll find tacos (carnitas, bistec, barbacoa, chorizo, cactus, fish), tamales (rojo, verde, rajas), tortas, flautas, enchiladas, and a full spread of quesadillas and sides. If you want a greatest-hits pass, do this: start with Guacamole Chips, then build a taco trio—Carnitas, Bistec, and Pescado—and add a Steak Quesadilla to share. It’s an easy way to taste the range, from crispy-edged pork to juicy grilled steak to the flaky fish taco that regulars swear by.

You can also tap the online ordering menus if you’re running a team lunch or night-in. The Taqueria Downtown Catering Co. site mirrors the in-house favorites and adds practical bundle options; delivery apps list burritos, bowls, quesadillas, and more, so you’re covered whether you’re dining in or keeping it couch-casual.

Why it wins with locals

First, value: prices stay reasonable, portions are generous, and chips hit the table warm. Second, consistency: the tacos are reliably well-seasoned, and the kitchen moves. Third, drinks: those hibiscus (jamaica) margaritas and big-batch sangrias loom large in the lore, which is why the bar rail fills up fast after work. Add in the staff’s easygoing pace—no fussy rules, no over-complication—and you get the kind of neighborhood place people recommend without thinking twice.

Planning your visit (quick tips)

Address phone: 236 Grove St, Jersey City, NJ 07302. (201) 333-3220. Plug it in and roll up hungry.
Hours: generally 11:00 a.m.–10:45 p.m. daily; check their Locations page for today’s cut-off times before you head out.
Seating: Inside is compact and can get busy; aim for the patio if you’re with a crew or want a more relaxed pace. Winter? They’ve done heated seating.
Reservations: It’s a walk-in culture; peak hours mean a short wait, but turnover is brisk.
Takeout delivery: Their catering/online portal and delivery partners make it easy to bring the fiesta home.