
5

"A classic Cuban diner on Hoboken’s main drag since 1970, La Isla, under chef Omar Giner, has become a kind of expatriate clubhouse and offers a surprisingly comprehensive menu for its small size. I sat at one of the twirling stools and enjoyed ham croquetas ($3 each)—big batons of crushed ham with a lingering smoky flavor—and noted larger entrees such as a voluminous lechon asado ($14), served with mountains of rice and a pond of pink beans shot with pig parts that’s mellow and worth taking home. The least expensive meals are the pressed sandwiches, including an outsize Cubano ($9) and the neighborhood favorite pan con bistec." - Robert Sietsema