Eloy Y.
Google
The Garden State’s diverse culinary landscape wouldn’t be complete without the cuisine of the Philippines, especially as the state’s growing Filipino population now tops 118,000 residents.
Pinoy dishes, a blended product of Spanish, Chinese, American, and local Filipino culinary influences, are finally being recognized in the U.S. for their diversity and ingenuity, something that culinary experts have been predicting for years.
One may also notice some establishments have grocery sections or mini markets in them, which I visited today for lunch.
Located inside Casa Delfina on Main Street in the heart of Hackensack, Mama Fina was named one of the best restaurants for Filipino cuisine in 2025 according to nj.com.
Upon arrival as a first timer inside their cozy clean but un-air conditioned store where outside temps was in the lower 90s, I went to the front counter with the food menu where patrons would place their order for inside dining or takeout. They’ll assign a table where I sat at the beginning where they start.
Their menu is known for the sisig which comes from family recipe, tapsilog, and palabok, to name a few as well as desserts, shakes, smoothies and slushies.
Eager to taste, which I haven’t had in a long time, I decided on Bihon Canton Guisado consisting of smaller, thinner glass like noodle sautéed with a combination of meats, and fresh vegetables, all seasoned with soy sauce and a hint of garlic.
The food was authentic, tasted good and arrived fairly quick. The price was reasonable to the portion size. Unfortunately, the customer service is very bad as Filipinos are known for being hospitable.
I would come back to try the sisig when it gets cooler.
