We moved to Harrison a year ago and have had nothing but disappointing experiences with restaurants in the area and were starting to give up hope that we would find a restaurant that we could visit time and time again. Enter Casa d'Paco. The only word I have is wow. The food was amazing. I do not say that lightly being someone with very high expectations. Every single dish was amazing, fresh, packed with flavor, and served with a beautiful presentation. I spent a summer all over Spain in college, and this really brought me back. We had the crabcakes, scallops, both types of empanadas, the short rib, and the patatas bravas. I also had a cocktail which was delicious. We will be back! The service was amazing and you can tell that management and the owner really put a lot of thought into the entire experience, including having valet parking because there is no parking since it is located in a residential area. The only thing I can say is to make sure you bring cash because the valet is $5 and you should also tip the guy because he's really really nice. Also, make sure you have a reservation because the restaurant is a bit small so you may have trouble finding a table on the weekend. The restaurant is also a little pricey, considering the area but it's worth every single penny. Nicely done! read more

We are in town from the West coast Texas and lookup up this restaurant. Service was good (Juan was great!). Ordered lots of tapas but my favorites are Camarones Al Ajillo, Chipriones, Patatas Bravas, and Calameres a la Plancha. Tried the red and white sangrias - both were good but really liked the white sangria as it was very refreshing. Our party ordered the paella and everyone enjoyed it also. I could go on with other stuff we ordered (I did say we had LOTS of tapas) but bottom line is food and service were excellent! Ambience is nice - staff is friendly and attentive. We were first seated by the bar area but found it a little too loud. Requested to be seated in the back and they accommodated. read more

Casa d'Paco - Calamares a La Plancha and Patatas Bravas - Spanish Near Me - Newark, New Jersey

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This authentic family run tapas joint in Newark is terrific. The area in the front is the standard bar scene with futball, aka soccer, playing on everyone TV. The cramped back area is for dining and is always packed with locals as well foodies from all areas of NJ and even NYC! Avocado crab salad, octopus, shrimp with garlic, empanadas and sangrias were all great and the mom insisted we try their desserts which were complimentary. Bravo! read more

Seated in the cold outdoor heated tent where a large party was so loud in the cramped "room" that there was zero ability to talk to anyone at our table. Also: even tho we told the waitress we wanted all food to come together so those getting tapas as meals could eat with those getting main dishes as meals, that just didn't happen. So we ate separately and it was very awkward. I didn't complain but when she plopped down my tapas lamb something or other (very forgettable) it was with a gruff explanation: "the small plates always come first, that's how it always is.." even though I had said nothing. It made for an off tempo, strange outing that will never be repeated. No water either. We all asked several times for water. They'd bring a glass of water. We said again / no, we all want water and then another glass. Waitress was very cold and unaccommodating and folks there is no "valet parking" in any way we've seen it before. There's no lot. The place is on a tiny impassable single lane one way road and then there's a guy who double parks your car around the corner or down the block. Now: we are not new. We are all older. We know what tapas is and how it works so bf we ordered we asked: can everything come out together? Yes, we were told. Also- outside in a semi-heated covid era expansion room? Don't do it on a cold winter night. I guess the only good thing I can say is that my food was ok though unmemorable and at least we didn't feel like we got ripped off. It's reasonable. But then: you get what you pay for. read more

The best Spanish dining experience in the area! They serve a mix of classic and innovative Spanish dishes. Pairing any meal with their sangria is a guaranteed win. Excellent music and top-notch service, this is a must-visit spot! read more

We had 5 people in our party. We were so excited to visit this restaurant. Sadly, completely disappointed. Meats were incredibly salty, shrimp was completely dry, Paella was bland. There was nothing redeeming about our food. Surprised considering all of the good reviews. read more

The chicken and shrimp lacked flavor and we found a hair in the food. not the best tasting ceviche, will not return. read more

Casa d'Paco - Ceviche - Spanish Near Me - Newark, New Jersey

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So, I haven't been here in over 4 years but my first experiences with this restaurant were amazing and left such an impression on me that I had recommended it to family, friends and coworkers. So I was delighted to come back here after the chaos of the pandemic. However, I had a very, uncomfortable and strange experience this time around. Because of the popularity of the restaurant and my own work schedule, I felt compelled to make a reservation. From what I had seen advertised on their IG they had a heated patio that I was very much interested in being seated at. So, on open table, I requested a reservation for a party of two on their outdoor patio at 5:30 pm. We arrived on time, when there was no crowd or wait times for anyone. I was happy to see the extension of the restaurant because I remembered what it was originally, however, the outdoor patio was not set up at all, which was fine, because it looked like there was a very nice indoor patio set up that I was sure I'd be sat there because of my reservation request. The hostess did not check the reservation, she simply asked me how many people were in my party, which I responded was two, and what name the reservation was under, which I gave. She then ushered us completely pass the indoor patio area to the very back of the restaurant, near the bathroom and bar area. The table she pointed to was extremely tiny and right next to another party who had also been sent to the back of the restaurant. I was, very uncomfortable and found it strange that with only a handful of people in the restaurant, we were made to sit in a dark, tight space and not the extremely spacey and well lit area of the indoor patio. Still, because I enjoy their food, I didn't say anything. Once the waiter began bringing bread and the sangria we ordered, space really became an issue, and we were forced to stack our bags on top of one another just to make room for our orders. At this point, I mentioned to the waiter that we were given very limited space for our food and he completely agreed with me, then stated he would ask if we could be moved to another table if there were no reservations. I thanked him, though again, I didn't understand how reservations were meant to work in the restaurant, especially if a request had already been made to sit in a certain part of it but was completely overlooked. I was also very aware that they needed larger tables for bigger parties but, still couldn't understand why we were sitting near the bar and not where I originally requested. A few minutes went by and we began to notice that the waiter hadn't in fact asked anyone if we could be moved. I had to bring the situation up again due to the tapas being ordered and not having anywhere to put them. He finally did ask someone who agreed we could be moved to a bigger table but we were still in the back and now under a tv that the servers insisted on turning up to watch their game while standing around. Because the experience was still not sitting well, we asked the waiter, who made the decision to sit some people in the indoor patio area and some in the back. His response was RESERVATIONS. I explained to him that I had made a reservation but was never given an option for seating. His response was "Well, we gave you a bigger table right?" Sigh...No, the answer was really not sufficient but because I had just gotten off an 11 hour shift, I decided to take it on the chin and hope that the food was worth it. Everything ordered, including the tapas and entrees was excellent. However, I will say, I'm not planning on returning. If anything, I may order takeout from them because I live locally and love the authenticity of their dishes but the service really turned me off and knocked two stars off a place that I had really loved. read more

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Two more visits since my original 5-star review, and I have to downgrade this place. The food has been average at best, dishes don't arrive hot, service has been really slow. read more

The food is delicious!! Seriously. It's like eating home cooked Michelin star quality food. We had the pulpo (grilled garlic octopus over boiled potatoes with olive oil and spice), garlic shrimp, sauteed vegetables and the white sangria. The ambiance is great for a first date, a group after work or a celebration. The service is consistently attentive. Parking in this neighborhood is hard to find, however, it's worth it three times over. This is definitely a place I will be bringing visitors to. read more

The food was excellent! The staff was not welcoming and they need to be trained on hospitality. We were a party of three and one of us is handicapped. There was no handrail at the front door with steep steps or and needless to say not a ramp. read more

What a lovely dinner! Fabulous food, fabulous service, fabulous drinks. What's not to love? Other than the fact I can't be there daily, LOL! We had several tapas for dinner, it was perfect. Parking was.... interesting. Valet parking is essentially double parking for a fee by an attendant, but it beat hunting for a parking spot, so would do again. Can't wait to come back! read more

The food is excellent. The croquetas are creamy and delicious, recommend the paella and the empanadas. We had the Maracuyá sangria- superb!! The service was prompt, professional and knowledgeable, they were able to answer any questions about the food on the menu. Although the place is small, it's enough to enjoy the visit. read more

Nice people! Enjoyable meal. Understand the strong suit here is a casual tapas bar, in a tavern vibe environment, and you'll enjoy your experience. Best to order multiple tapas, and sample the very fresh and high quality ingredients over multiple dishes. If you are looking for a more quiet intimate interlude, with a fine dining multi course experience, there are certainly other options in the Ironbound. Parking is via valet, and it consists of your car being double parked, but again, go with the flow, and enjoy the lively vibe, nice staff, and most of all the variety of quality prepared tapas, and you'll thank me! read more

Best tapa place!!! Me encanta este rincón Español creo que es lo más cerca que encontrarás en Nj similar a un bar Español. Highly recommend. Love it!! read more

Hands down the best tapas restaurant in Newark! The restaurant is small, but the environment makes it super inviting. The staff is always cheerful, on point, and helpful with any questions you might have. The food is excellent! I have yet to have a bad meal here. This is the only restaurant that remotely comes close to the tapas I had in Spain and have tried many of the exact same tapas in Spain. My favorite tapas are the croquetas de jamón iberico (Iberian ham croquettes), Pulpo a galega (Galician style octopus served with paprika and olive oil), Camarones al ajillo (Shrimp in garlic sauce), Patatas bravas (Crispy potatoes in spicy sauce), and the Tips De Sirloin y Camarón (Shell-steak tips sautéed with jumbo shrimp). The sirloin tips usually comes with mushrooms, but since I'm allergic to mushrooms, they take away the mushrooms to accommodate my food allergy. Don't forget the drinks - their sangria is great! It's strong without it being overpowering. If you're in the mood for a beer, they have beers from Spain that can't really be found at any other Spanish restaurant around. You can never go wrong with this place! read more

Hands down this is the best tapas restaurant in Newark, perhaps anywhere in NJ. It has grown on me to become my go to favorite restaurant for me and my gal, it feels right every time. The food is excellent, the interior inviting, but the real star of this show is the people who work here and the feeling of pleasure and gratitude from the patrons. Don't miss the octopus. In fact, order two or three. And wash it down with one of the fantastic Spanish ales on tap. We simply love this place, the owner, the staff, the interior and the delicious thoughtful and inspired food. It's small so come early and use the valet, larger parties can expect a bit of a wait but the bar is a great atmosphere, you can usually find the owner Angel there, truly a nice guy. 5+++ stars!!! read more

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Great find in Newark. The food was pretty amazing, especially the stuff that had a light gravy! I highly recommend the empanadas... The desserts were also clearly homemade and excellent. read more

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What a great place for Spanish tapas and sangria. Service was great always checking in on us. Flavors authentic to Spain. We order many tapas, the octopus is a must. I recommend trying this place out! read more

Best food. Best staff. Best vibes. I've come here in the afternoon for a quiet lunch with family, and some of the special events like Flamenco Night + Halloween Brunch with friends. Even if the energy is different - the food is always perfect and the staff is incredibly friendly. read more

Every time, is a GREAT time. I only ever had to wait for seating ONCE and that was during Spain soccer game. They set up a table so we could have a seat. Food: it's always a pleasure eating any dish as it brings back memories from my Galician grandfather just with a modern touch The service and ambiance still manage to outshine and the owners de dedication to catering an amazing environtment is unmatched. read more

I should have written a review sooner but I've been coming back to this restaurant none stop for the past couple years. Every time I come in they never disappoint. The food and drinks are always amazing and the atmosphere in the room and outside seating fits in well with the esthetics. One server that I always vouch for is Hendrick, he always treats me and other guests to the best of his ability and his hard work should not go unrecognized. read more

Oh my god this is a hidden gem of Newark food is amazing wish the portions were larger but here is what I ordered and ALL of it was amazing in my mouth and hit the spot. Garlic shrimp A++++ Crab cakes soooooogooooood A++++++ with the sauce even better melts in your mouth good Short beef ribs A++++++++++++ just falls off the bones DEFINITELY COMING BACK !!!!!!! So hungry I didn't have time for pics read more

This is our favorite place to go!!! Amazing food, service and ambience!!! I have not found another place, including Spain, where I can get such a good Sangr read more

Really fantastic service and food. We have been everywhere in Ironbound and this is our new favorite! Enrique and his crew will take good care of you! You must try! read more

Recommendations: Pulpo a feira - grilled octopus. Crab cake. Churrasco Casero - grilled pork rib & sausage with chimichuri sauce. Piquillos de cordero - pepper stuffed lamb. Calamares en su tinta - grilled squid over squid ink rice. Paella. read more

11/10 every single time, food is great, environment is fantastic, n most importantly service is top tier every time we come here! This place is a hidden gem! read more

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#ThankYouThursday #COVID It was only right that on this #ThankYouThursday I take some time to update my review of Casa d"Paco as this establishment is truly top notch! This is easily a spot that you will never get tired of going too! Their food, service, drinks and their newly renovated outside eating area makes this place an instant I can't wait to go back places. I had not been since pre-covid so I was really looking forward to seeing how they had converted their parking lot into this Instagram selfie MUST! I made reservations for my best friend's birthday which I highly recommend if you plan on going as seating is limited and this place still gets packed. And super happy to see they now have valet since finding parking was always tricky! We were seated quickly and as we walked to our table we couldn't help but admire the amount of detail that had gone into converting this empty lot into something truly beautiful. There were upside down red, white, and black umbrellas hanging from above, set over picnic tables with what looks like grass underneath. They named this area La Primavera as it's reminiscent of Spring Season in Spain, which is now heated and covered for the upcoming colder weather! And they skipped no steps in making this outside eating manageable as they know have a pickup window outside where the waiters pick up food. They also have an area right next to La Primavera that is a bit more intimate where you fill find that Instagram La Terazza logo along with Paquito the mascot! He is the cutest little thing!! Needless to say once we absorbed it all in, we had an amazing night! Started with a pitcher of sangria and ordered Chipirones Da Casa for appetizers and we shared a Paella Casa d'Paco. Everything was really good and the chipirones are a def must order! The pairing of the grilled squid with onion and spicy cherry peppers was executed perfectly. The Paella was good too and came with safrron rice, lobster, clams, shrimp, squid, mussel, chicken and chorizo. Definitely enough for 2 people to share with leftovers. So on this #ThankYouThursday I am grateful this establishment put so much thought and effort into making the customer experience truly memorable especially during these tough times. I can't wait to go back. read more

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Outstanding food and service and authentic. I had the crab cakes, garlic shrimp and potatoes and all were outstanding. Finding parking was tough until I realized you can valet for cheap. Must try if you in the area. read more

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Amazing service! (Henrique) A group of us came in on a reservation and were treated like family! Definitely came by multiple times to see how we were doing and to let us know how our food was coming along. Most of my group had wayyyy too much of the sangria pitchers (yes it's that good)! The steak main, paella and sangria pitchers are a MUST! read more

Amazing food option particularly the patatas bravas, burgers and the spices they come with. Service is good and ambiance is authentically Spanish. The drinks are either really good or just ok. Just get something you know you would like, drink wise. read more

This place has an absolutely adorable outdoor seating area. They're have good amount of seating between low tops and high tops. Everything was also equally separated which makes it better during these times. Let's get started on the good stuff, the food! So when we decided to go to this place we didn't realize that it was tapas but these small plates are full of flavor! We ordered the garlic shrimp, mini crab cakes, house salad, bacon wrapped fillet mignon and paella! Yup, we over ordered. Bonus we took most of our paella home which was great leftovers the next day I don't think there was anything we didn't like. Everything was absolutely amazing! Our waiter was hands down great! He was such a pleasure and helped us with recommendations. I do recommend making reservation because there is a long wait when you don't. Parking is also pretty tight there, they do offer valet which I think is them double parking your car. I recommend coming a bit early to find some parking if you're not into valeting. Overall great experience, fantastic food, and lovely staff highly recommend!! read more

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Embarrassing. Extremely over-priced, little food that wasnt good. All presentation and no taste. Meals that tasted boiled. Though the most disappointing part was that in a family table of 8 people where the restaurant was not busy the food came out one person at a time over about an hour and a half. The last dish was a $20 salad that you could've gotten better at Chipotle. After knowing how absolutely terrible the dinner and service was the manager came out at the very end to "apologize." There wasn't an effort to comp anything, in fact they put forward the server to just say "not to tip." Feel free to come for overpriced drinks and bland, pretty food. read more

Outstanding food. Love the chipirones and the albondigas are to die for. Highly recommended if read more

Everyone was nice, the place is subpar & parking is rediculous. I don't see why this place has high ratings. The entries weren't presented well and tasted as bad as it was presented. Sorry, not a place for me. Maybe the bartender makes this place, but I didn't have drinks. read more

Casa d'Paco - Short Rib marinadated for 48 hours, too bland for $36. - Spanish Near Me - Newark, New Jersey

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Loved the octopus, potata bravo and short rib. Wasn't too crazy about the stuffed avocado but everything else we had was delicious.

Amazing food and service, been coming here for years with family and friends.. actually already even did a company's Christmas here too and everyone loved it. 10/10 read more

service, food, ambiance was spectacular. the manager was very attentive and we had great conversation and laughs. The food never disappoints and i love all the gin specialty drinks. overall a very welcoming and warm place to be. read more

Chorizo and potatoes was excellent. They did a great job with the food. The waiter was very nice. The hostess seated us quickly as well. They had a nice outdoor area, it was small, but the tables were spaced out nicely. read more

Exceptional! My boyfriend and I had been wanting to go here for months and were so excited to finally try it because we were in the area. We sat outside on the cute little patio and our server was so attentive and friendly. We wanted to try one of everything on the menu but decided on the entraña a la plancha which was absolutely delicious with the best tasting chimichurri. We also had the patatas bravas and they were so good that we ended up ordering another. The sauce was on point and they transported me back to my time in Spain. The lobster roll was full of huge chunks of lobster and the escalopes al limón sauce was so good too! You could tell the empanada dough was homemade because it was flaky and delicious. My boyfriend had the chocolate cookie cake and he made me take a bite to see how delicious it was. It was so light and fluffy without being too sweet or heavy. We really cannot wait to go back to try more things on the menu! read more