"El Artesano, a family-owned restaurant, is located on the bustling corner of Bergenline Avenue and 41st Street in Union City, NJ. This lively establishment was founded in 1974, after the brothers Ignacio and Rafael Alfonso migrated to the United States from Cuba. Full of energy and ambition, the brothers have endeavored to satisfy thousands of customers with homestyle cooking at reasonable prices. The loyal following and new clientele represent not only Cubans but also many other nationalities.

With over 25 years of service, the menu of El Artesano has expanded. At first, the offerings were typical Cuban dishes. But today, the great variety includes not only the traditional menu items like congri rice with pork and yucca, and ropa vieja, but also authentic dishes from Spain such as paella and shrimp in wine sauce. The family is also quick to point out that El Artesano is the only restaurant in the area that prepares just one of the many dishes that make the restaurant a worthwhile trip: pechuga de pollo rellena con camarones y cangrejo (breast of chicken stuffed with shrimp and crabmeat).

The Alfonso family looks forward to welcoming you and serving up a great meal!"

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Time Out Magazine

"El Artesano... whose Cubanos are consistently hot, well-packed and delicious. Sit at the counter of this rocking luncheonette and listen as the piped-in salsa is overpowered by the combined humming of juicers, blenders and meat slicers. Along with your Cubano -- which the counterman prepares patiently, making sure it emerges from the press hot and crusty, with properly melted cheese -- try an order of maduros, fried sweet plantains. Or, for a real treat, get the yuca in a mojo sauce of garlic, oil and lime juice. This fantastic side dish will make you swear off french fries forever, and you can't beat the price."