El Familiar

Mexican Restaurant $$ 4.5 (1162)


El Familiar is widely regarded as a place to experience authentic Mexican and Colombian cuisine. Many customers rave about the freshness and flavor of the food, especially the empanadas and tacos, highlighting the generous portion sizes at reasonable prices. The restaurant's welcoming atmosphere and friendly service enhance the dining experience, although some patrons noted occasional inconsistencies in service speed.

Overall:

4.4

(941 reviews)

Authenticity:

4.5

Atmosphere:

4.1

Service:

3.9


Restaurant website: Website

Phone number: (732) 240-6613

Address: 1246 NJ-166, Toms River, NJ 08753, USA

Opening hours

Monday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Friday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Photo gallery

Service options

  • Dine-In Available
  • Takeout Available
  • Delivery Available
  • Reservable

Offerings

  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Dessert
  • Coffee
  • Vegetarian Options Available

Amenities

  • Restroom Available

Good for

  • Menu for Children
  • Good for Children
  • Good for Groups

Payment options

  • Credit Cards
  • Debit Cards
  • NFC Payments

Parking options

  • Free Parking Lot
  • Free Street Parking

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair Accessible Parking
  • Wheelchair Accessible Entrance
  • Wheelchair Accessible Restroom
  • Wheelchair Accessible Seating

Top Recent and Curated Reviews (10)

**Some reviews are curated to assist in analyzing authenticity, atmosphere, and service. These reviews enhance user feedback and help us provide better insights. Your genuine reviews make all the difference—share your experience today to enhance our ratings!**

" This spot is a gem! My family visited El Familiar after hearing about it online, and it did not disappoint. The salsa and tortilla chips they serve upon arrival were a delightful start. The chicken with plantains was absolutely delightful, perfectly cooked and seasoned. Among the various dishes we tried, nothing came close to how succulent the carne asada was. It was simply divine! Service was friendly and attentive, making our dining experience truly enjoyable. We will definitely be making this our go-to Mexican restaurant from now on! " (*Curated Review*)

" We took a chance on El Familiar following numerous referrals. I will say, the hype is real! The ambiance created a relaxing dining experience. The portions were generous for each dish. The empanadas were crispy and flavorful, while the tacos were equally delicious. Only downside was the delightfully long wait time for food on Friday evening; if you’re not in a rush, go for it! Otherwise, plan accordingly. " (*Curated Review*)

" El Familiar is everything I was looking for in a local eatery! The minute you walk in, you can tell it’s a labor of love. The food was ample and authentically prepared, especially the mole sauce which has a unique depth of flavor. The decor is very casual, matching the cozy vibes of a family kitchen. I was particularly impressed with how fast our food came out, likely due to the staff being highly attentive. In summary, it’s a perfect spot to enjoy Latin cuisine with friends! " (*Curated Review*)

" El Familiar has a special place in my heart. It's a family-run restaurant that serves meals filled with love. On busy weeknights, the smells wafting from the kitchen are incredible! I've brought friends here multiple times, and they all rave about the empanadas. Good portion sizes make it a solid choice for families or groups. The staff are always welcoming, like old friends. Although I’ve encountered a couple of slow service experiences, the food is worth the wait. It brings back the flavors of home in every bite. Not just a restaurant, it's an experience! " (*Curated Review*)

" Staying in the area for a work conference led me to find El Familiar. Was well worth the visit! The atmosphere has a nice local touch, and the food makes you feel at home. I had the empanadas to start which were warm and delicious. The mole burrito was large and filled with flavor. Portions are definitely ample, and they encourage you to bring your own drinks, which is a nice perk. I enjoyed my time there and would happily return next time I’m in town! " (*Curated Review*)

Archived Reviews (931)

" Typically, I like dining at family-owned restaurants; the warmth and humanity are usually there. El Familiar was no exception. I indulged in their chicken fajitas, and they really met my expectations. Everything from how it was seasoned to the portion sizes was commendable. Man, they even provided complimentary chips and salsa, which was a nice touch! The service was amiable, and felt more like shared experiences among friends. A visit here is highly recommended! " (*Curated Review*)

" I had high hopes for El Familiar, considering its glowing reviews. The interiors looked appealing, immersing you in a warm, inviting environment. However, the food lacked the punch I was expecting. My tacos were just mediocre, which is disappointing given the love for authentic cuisine in the area. The service was somewhat fast, which was a plus, yet it felt rushed. I might go back to give it another try, especially since so many people love it, but I wouldn't place it at the top of my list. " (*Curated Review*)

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