Welcome to Carretica Restaurant
Carretica Restaurant, nestled in Paterson, NJ, transports diners to Costa Rica with its authentic, home-style cuisine. This cozy eatery offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere paired with outstanding customer service, making every visit feel like a cherished gathering among friends. Signature dishes like the flavorful "arroz con pollo" and celebrated "Gallo Pinto" showcase the expert craftsmanship of Costa Rican chefs. Diners rave about the savory soups and delicious empanadas, with many proclaiming them among the best they've tasted. Carretica’s commitment to freshness and traditional flavors, combined with its unpretentious charm, makes it a must-visit destination for food lovers.
Carretica Restaurant: Reviews & Ratings
I had the ‘arroz con pollo,’ and it was delicious. The chicken was perfectly cooked and well-portioned with the rice. The mixed vegetables added great flavor to every bite.
A little piece of “tiquicia” away from Costa Rica. The GalloPinto, the Mondongo soup and the arroz con leche are definitely made by a costarricense cocinera that really knows about costarican sazon. Place is small and cozy and gives you that I am home feeling.
The food is delicious and definitely prepared by costarricenses. This cozy, unpretentious small place makes you feel at home! The staff is very nice and their warm customer service (pura vida) won me over; which is crucial for customers. Other places don’t get this: it’s not just the food, decor or even the location — is how they make people feel — good old customer service that keeps people going back!!!!!
Although I’m Latina all Latin food is NOT the same. This restaurant is Costa Rican and the food was delicious! It is cute, clean, & homey...like being in your friend’s kitchen. The young lady serving us was sweet and attentive. FOOD...fresh, tasty but not overly seasoned, and savory. I’m a soup girl and this soup made my top 3. Hubby LOVED his dish and we were amazed by their rice pudding dessert 3 A special shout-out for empanadas WOOHOO! Hubby is Cuban and I’m Colombian & Puerto Rican and these Costa Rican empanadas go to the #1 spot on our list!!! Prices are definitely reasonable :) FYI street parking, cash or credit card has service fee, sit-down or takeout, closed on Tuesdays.
Great place! The food was delicious. The staff was kind and kept the place very clean. I drove all the way from Brooklyn for their food and would definitely eat here again. I highly recommend Carretica Restaurant to anyone looking for good Costa Rican food or just great food in general.
We love it here! The food is always so good and fresh! They are nice people too We won't go to any other Costa Rican restaurants.
Omg one of the best Costa Rican Restaurants I have eaten. The place is nice, staff is great and the food... I can't express how much I love the food in this place. Pura vida y saludos.
Super clean restaurant and amazing food! Came into town to visit family and decided to find a breakfast spot and thankfully we drove passed carretica because it’s probably the best food in New Jersey!
Location
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662 River St, Paterson, NJ 07524, United States Hotline: +1 973-782-5575
Welcome to Carretica Restaurant, a delightful gem nestled at 662 River St, Paterson, NJ. If you’re seeking authentic Costa Rican cuisine, look no further. This cozy eatery stands out for its warmth and the genuine flavors that transport you to “tiquicia,” the heart of Costa Rica. Every dish is a testament to the skill of their talented chefs, who craft meals with love and expertise.
One of the highlights on the menu is the arroz con pollo, praised by diners for its perfectly cooked chicken and well-portioned rice that harmonizes beautifully with mixed vegetables. It’s a dish that evokes comfort and satisfaction in every bite. Customers rave about the Gallo Pinto and Mondongo soup as well, reflecting the restaurant’s commitment to showcasing traditional recipes that capture the essence of Costa Rican flavors.
This warm and inviting restaurant features a small, unpretentious setting, making it feel like home—where you gather around the table with family and friends. Patrons have noted the excellent customer service; the staff embodies the spirit of “pura vida,” ensuring that every experience is pleasant. It’s this remarkable service that keeps customers coming back for more.
On a personal note, the empanadas are not to be missed; they’ve earned rave reviews and have quickly become a favorite amongst visitors. For those with a penchant for sweets, the arroz con leche tempts the taste buds and finishes the meal on a delightful note. As noted by satisfied diners, Carretica Restaurant doesn’t just serve food; it creates memories, offering an authentic taste of Costa Rica right in Paterson.
Whether you choose to dine in or take out, make sure to visit Carretica Restaurant—where great food meets heartfelt service. Don’t forget, they’re closed on Tuesday, so plan your visit accordingly!