Cafes

El Coqui Cafe

4.9 132 reviews 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM 12 Market St, Clifton, NJ 07012, United States

Discover this place

El Coqui Cafe is a hidden gem located at 12 Market St, Clifton, NJ, captivating patrons with its authentic Puerto Rican flavors. Renowned for their coquito latte, which consistently garners rave reviews, the cafe offers a blend of traditional and innovative dishes. Customers frequently highlight the Cuban sandwich and the San Sebastian sandwich as must-try items, with flavors that leave a lasting impression.

Visitors rave about the spicy green sauce, describing it as legendary and a perfect complement to their meals. The cafe's atmosphere, though cozy, is filled with heart and charm, featuring decor that resonates with its vibrant culture. Patrons commend the friendly staff who help create a welcoming environment. Many express their eagerness to return, not just for the food but to explore the diverse menu further. Whether you're indulging in homemade beef empanadillas or soaking in the lively ambiance, El Coqui Cafe promises a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

With reasonable prices and a menu that celebrates Puerto Rican culinary heritage, El Coqui Cafe is not just a place to eat but a culinary journey worth every minute of travel.

Photos

Amenities & More

Service options

No-contact delivery
Delivery
Onsite services
Takeout
Dine-in

Highlights

Great coffee
Serves local specialty

Popular for

Breakfast
Lunch
Solo dining
Good for working on laptop

Dining options

Breakfast
Lunch
Dessert

Amenities

Restroom

Atmosphere

Casual
Cozy
Quiet
Trendy

Note: Amenity details are aggregated from verified visits, the venue's website and Google. They may change without notice. We recommend confirming key details (pet policy, accessibility, reservations) directly with El Coqui Cafe before visiting.

Reviews for El Coqui Cafe

4.9

132 reviews

100%

Review highlights

Based on 132 reviews

El Coqui Cafe in Clifton, NJ consistently receives praise for its authentic Puerto Rican and Cuban-inspired menu, highlighted by standout items such as the coquito latte, Cuban and San Sebastian sandwiches, and empanadas. Reviewers frequently note the rich flavors and generous portion sizes, with attention to detail in replicating traditional recipes. The cafe’s intimate setting, complemented by charming decor and friendly, welcoming staff, creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. While waits can vary depending on the time of visit, patrons generally find the experience and quality well worth the brief delay. The cafe’s reasonable pricing and dedication to both meat and vegetarian-friendly options further enhance its appeal. Overall, El Coqui Cafe is recognized as a vibrant neighborhood spot that combines heartfelt service with authentic, flavorful cuisine, encouraging repeat visits and exploration of its diverse menu offerings.

Tanmay Buch

Jul 04, 2025

Proper Puerto Rican style coquito latte. Proper Cuban sandwich. Proper breakfast sandwich. Spicy green sauce is legendary. Veg friendly. Cravings will start, you’ll stay up, you’ll go back to Clifton and have the legendary husband and wife duo’s stellar authentic rican food. Peace and love to all

lomie

May 27, 2025

The San Sebastian sandwich was soooo good, worth coming back for that alone! Very short wait even when busy. Must try the iced coqui latte, beef empanadillas, coming back to explore the menu, thank you !

Ivy Carbone

May 20, 2025

Amazing coquito latte! This is their most popular item – and for a reason! We went early on a thursday and there was no wait or line. This place is small but has a lot of heart and I loved the decor and dominoes table. They were sadly out of the tiramisu tres leches when I went but all the more reason to visit again! I definitely recommend this place.

Anthony M. Scullion

May 11, 2025

First time here since they switched up the menu from just desserts. The Cuban sandwich was delicious, the portion size was big also. I had a empanada a as well which was good. The staff was very friendly and polite. A little bit of a wait depending on the time of day you go but well worth the wait. Reasonable prices on their selections. With cherry Coke just do your.

Elisa Hernandez

May 06, 2025

Exceed my expectations! The staff is so welcoming and sweet. The sandwiches were bursting with flavor and sauce. The coquito latte was immaculate! So worth my 2.5 hrs drive!

Victor O

Apr 21, 2025

I went today for the first time with my mom and I gotta say it was amazing. We had the coffee, sandwiches and the tres leches and alfajores and nothing disappointed. The customer service was amazing, the place felt cozy and we will def be returning to try the rest of the menu

Emmanuel Amador

Mar 31, 2025

I was so happy to come across this small cafe that serves Puerto Rican food. I highly recommend it, the coffee was delicious. Service was great and staff were very friendly. The set up inside makes you feel like you’re in the island.

Paola Montalvo

Mar 17, 2025

As soon as you walk in you feel at home. The style on top of their kitchen bar made of zinc can make you remember your abuelitas house out in the mountains in Puerto Rico. I loved the dominos table made out of bamboo with mini calderos on every corner! The food was amazing, the coquito latte was the perfect choice! Definitely recommend anyone to visit this place and I will be coming back soon!