Naeemah Leonard 
Essex County is home to some of the state’s most genuine international eateries, where family recipes and cultural narratives shine through in every dish. These hidden treasures, scattered throughout the county, celebrate the rich diversity that makes North Jersey a true foodie destination. The Montclair Girl has put together a list of our favorite spots that reflect community spirit, creativity, and cultural heritage, each serving up a unique story with every meal. Keep reading to learn about some of Essex County’s culinary gems.
Narda’s Kitchen | 74 Morse Avenue, Bloomfield
As you walk into Narda’s Kitchen, the sounds of Reggae Bossa Nova fill the air, instantly slowing down time. The delightful scent of herbs and spices mingles with laughter and warmth, transporting you right to Jamaica — no need for a plane ticket.
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Owner Narda Morant leaped from her investment banking career to create something meaningful: a space that nourishes both body and soul. She opened her first eatery at just 23 to showcase her signature drink, Narda’s Ginger Punch, a concoction she developed alongside her sister. Although she would later close that restaurant, the Ginger Punch found its way onto shelves in major stores like ShopRite and Fairway.
During her break from the restaurant scene, Narda dreamt of a culinary comeback. Guided by faith, she stepped out again to create what she calls her temple — Narda’s Caribbean Kitchen — designed to nourish and uplift her community. Notably, her current restaurant is in what used to be her beverage plant, marking a beautiful full-circle moment filled with love and intention. Growing up in a home where food and laughter united people, Narda draws inspiration from her mother’s determination and her father’s love for hosting. This influence is evident in the restaurant’s spirit today. Inside, walls adorned with inspirational quotes serve as gentle nudges to breathe, smile, and enjoy the moment. Out back, a garden crafted by Narda herself feels like a scene from a movie, inviting guests to relax and connect, not just eat.
Initially, Narda envisioned a modern menu, but a nudge from a friend prompted her to dig deep into her roots. The result honors tradition while embracing contemporary tastes. Alongside classic offerings like strip steak, oxtail, curried goat, and jerk chicken, vibrant vegetarian and vegan dishes have also found their place. Her cooking celebrates simplicity — fresh herbs, local ingredients, and flavors that enhance rather than overpower. During our visit, we savored fried plantains, bammy (a cassava flatbread), vegetable stir-fry, and Narda’s signature salmon, paired with her refreshing Lemon Ginger Punch. Each bite felt like a heartfelt tribute to Jamaica.
As Narda puts it: “We’re the best restaurant because you can trust our ingredients, and I’d never serve anything I wouldn’t eat myself. But it’s the best place to be because people leave a little more loved — feeling like they can breathe and that it’s not all that serious.”
Nimman Thai Eatery | 551 Franklin Avenue, Nutley
Walk through the door of Nimman Thai Eatery, and you’re met with a serene ambiance. Owned by husband-and-wife duo Krit and Vasinee Aryusook, this establishment has quickly gained a reputation as a secret treasure for those who appreciate authentic Thai cuisine.
Krit and Vasinee moved to New Jersey from Thailand over 30 years ago, making Nutley their new home. The concept for Nimman came to be after they met at the Dhammakaya International Meditation Center in Fanwood, where they’ve practiced for 20 years. Krit credits his youthful energy and focus to meditation: “It helps us stay present in everything we do — especially managing daily stress.”
This mindfulness permeates every aspect of their restaurant, from the peaceful décor they created themselves to the care infused in each dish. Their chef, hailing from Northern Thailand, draws inspiration from the country’s four major culinary regions, crafting a menu that’s a rich blend of authentic Thai flavors. While traditional Thai dishes often use fish sauce, the chef has mastered vegan and vegetarian versions of nearly every dish, maintaining the same depth of flavor without compromising authenticity. “Even the smallest ingredient can drastically change the aroma,” Vasinee notes. “We attend to every detail.” Even the water they use is special, with a purified filtration system that enhances the quality of cooking water. “The quality of water affects everything — even the rice,” he explains. “Pure water amplifies the aromas of the herbs.”
On our visit, we enjoyed spring rolls, coconut shrimp, and pad Thai. Still, the Nimman Noodle Curry, a Northern Thai specialty with egg noodles, red onion, cilantro, and pickled cabbage in a rich curry broth, truly stole the show. It felt like a comforting embrace on a rainy day — fragrant and unforgettable.
Besides serving incredible dishes, Krit and Vasinee host monthly meditation sessions, highlighting that nourishment goes beyond just food at Nimman.
El Matador | 418 Broad Street, Bloomfield
If you’re in search of Mexican food that brings back memories of dining at your abuela’s house, make your way to El Matador in Bloomfield. Family-run by brothers Hector and Heriberto Herrera, along with their brother-in-law Jesus Hernandez, this restaurant has been dishing up authentic flavors for four years, quickly becoming a local favorite for genuine Mexican cuisine.
Walking in feels like stepping into Mexico itself. The vibrant décor is filled with traditional figures, Día de los Muertos art, and portraits of Frida Kahlo — a celebration of heritage and pride. The sunny garden patio is a great spot to enjoy tacos or burritos, or even host a small celebration.
What started as family meals in Mexico has blossomed into a flavorful legacy — the same scents and stories now fill their kitchen in Bloomfield. “Cooking brings back memories of family,” Hector shares. “Just like our restaurant name, El Matador, we aim to captivate your senses and palate with our authentic dishes.” That passion is evident in every bite. The extensive menu reflects Mexico’s rich culinary diversity — from crispy empanadas and saucy enchiladas to hearty burritos and street-style tacos. During our visit, we sampled the shrimp tacos, and the flavor explosion was nothing short of remarkable — fresh, seasoned to perfection, and vibrant. El Matador focuses on honoring tradition rather than fusion or shortcuts, welcoming every guest as family.
Whether you choose to eat inside surrounded by colorful art or outdoors in the garden, El Matador is a delicious reminder that you don’t have to travel far for authentic Mexican food — it’s right here in Bloomfield, prepared with love by a family deeply rooted in their culture.
Tasha’s Caribbean + Soul Food Cuisine | 405 Dodd Street, East Orange
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Tasha’s Caribbean and Soul Food Cuisine in East Orange is a takeout-only spot that has become a cherished community favorite over its five years of operation. Owned by Natasha “Tasha” Williams, who hails from Trinidad, and her husband James Williams from Newark, this restaurant feels like home before you even take a bite.
Their love story is as heartwarming as their food. They first met in 2003 when Tasha prepared a pot of lima beans for James, and he’s been hooked ever since. Married for 18 years, they humorously share their kitchen roles: “James is the fry master. I handle everything else,” laughs Tasha, the head chef at the heart of their operations.
The chalkboard menu reads like a culinary journey through the Caribbean, the American South, and even Europe. You’ll find dishes like curry chicken and jerk chicken inspired by Tasha’s Trinidadian roots, as well as Indian-influenced dhal puri and Swedish meatballs that reflect her travels abroad. Additionally, you’ll find classic Southern fare such as fried catfish, candied yams, and Grandma’s mac & cheese. Everything is made from scratch — including the BBQ sauce, cornbread, and house-made juices — resulting in a flavorful experience that bursts with soul. On a recent trip, the enticing aromas made it impossible to wait until we got home. We dove right into our fried whiting, yams, and mac & cheese at the small counter, and one taste confirmed what locals already know: this is one of New Jersey’s best Caribbean and soul food spots.
James, a seasoned farmer, recognizes the bond between growing food and nourishing the community. “Freshly grown produce carries the same energy your body needs,” he says. “Think of your body like a luxury car. What you fuel it with is what you’ll get out of it.”
Together, Tasha and James are more than just restaurant owners — they’re cultural storytellers, using food to connect people and celebrate heritage while literally feeding the soul of East Orange.
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