Cuban heritage and culture runs deep in Hudson County.  Enough can’t be said about the cuisine, yet the Empanada is my favorite. The Cuban Empanadas are typically filled with seasoned meats folded into dough and deep-fried. Golden, flakey crust gives way to a hot, cheesy inside. Steak, chicken or vegetables are flavored with fresh herbs and cheese.

My friends and I recently dined at The Cuban, and tried their take on the Empanaditas, which includes the Chicken Fricassee, the Ropa Vieja (steak), and the Escalivada (fire roasted vegetables, goat cheese). Piping hot and full of flavor, to say they were delicious would be an understatement. Add some Cuban Guacamole and a Mojito and my taste buds were buzzing!

The Cuban is located at 333 Washington Street http://www.thecubannj.com.