Mexican restaurants

La China Poblana

A 22-seat kitchen run by Eleni & Yassine, serving the dishes their grandmothers argued about on Tuesday nights in Kreuzberg.

556 NJ-18, East Brunswick, NJ 08816, United States $10–20
4.5
836 notes from regulars
01 The story, in three paragraphs

Why everyone keeps coming back.

Nestled in the heart of East Brunswick, La China Poblana is a standout Mexican restaurant that brings an authentic taste of Mexico’s rich culinary heritage straight to New Jersey. Whether you’re a seasoned lover of Mexican cuisine or seeking a new and vibrant dining experience, this gem offers an impressive menu that showcases the depth and variety of traditional flavors with a modern touch.

The extensive platillos section is a celebration of Mexican meat dishes, highlighted by items such as the Carne Asada Grilled Steak Platter, featuring tender, perfectly grilled steak served alongside fluffy rice, savory beans, crisp salad, and warm tortillas—a true feast for the senses at $20.99. For those seeking rich, home-style comfort food, the Mole Poblano enchants with its complex blend of spices and chocolate-infused Mexican gravy, all priced affordably at $18.99. If you’re more adventurous, the Lengua en Salsa Verde o Roja offers a delicately tender tongue simmered in your choice of vibrant green or smoky red sauce, showcasing authentic regional flavors at $24.99.

Seafood lovers will find themselves equally delighted by dishes like Camarones al Mojo de Ajo, succulent shrimp bathed in aromatic garlic sauce ($20.99), or the lightly spicy Camarones Enchipolados ($24.49), which deliver bold, lively tastes that dance on your palate. The freshness of each ingredient is palpable, and the balance of heat and seasoning feels perfectly curated.

Dessert here is not an afterthought. Indulge in a rich, silky Flan or its tropical cousin, the Flan de Coco, both priced at $10. For a delightful twist, the Choco Flan melds creamy chocolate and caramel in a luscious finale that leaves a lasting impression.

Beyond the food, La China Poblana offers a warm and inviting atmosphere. The space is cozy but buzzing with energy, reflecting the genuine care that goes into every dish. Customer reviews lovingly describe it as a local treasure: “The tamales were great and my chimichanga was delicious,” says Frank Li, praising the hearty portions and fair pricing. Another frequent patron, Alex Murphy, notes a steady rotation of favorites ranging from flautas to tacos, all fresh and vibrant in flavor.

The staff’s professionalism and prompt service further enhance the dining experience, creating a balanced environment where relaxed enjoyment meets high culinary standards. The ambiance encourages lingering over plates of food that bring authentic Mexico into everyday life, making it a go-to spot in the East Brunswick area for both casual meals and special occasions.

For anyone craving a genuine Mexican feast delivered with passion and authenticity, La China Poblana is a rare find that delights with every bite. It’s a place that not only fills your stomach but also nurtures your love for traditional flavors crafted with care and precision.

03 Notes from regulars

836 notes — the real pulse of the room.

4.5
Based on 836 verified notes
5 609
4 141
3 43
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All
Frank Li.
2 month ago
Having lived in SF and NYC, I'll confidently say that this place is up there with the best Mexican food I've ever had. The tamales were great and my chimichanga was delicious, and the pricing was fair for such huge portions. 10/10 would recommend
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Ceaz G.
3 month ago
Talk about authentic. La china Poblana is the real deal. The food is as fresh as can be and the flavors are all there. I definitely recommend if you in the East Brunswick area to try this place. The staff were very professional and prompt. Good atmosphere. Would definitely go back to try out more dishes.
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Carla Minchala.
3 month ago
I really loved the food. I wish this place was close to home but ofc New Brunswick stays having the best genuine Mexican food. I went here because of the recommendation from Reddit to google reviews. As a Valentines gift from my bf this made my day. It does get busy for this restaurant and it’s small yet I wouldn’t mind waiting as the food makes you forget these things. The prices are affordable and the taste along with the many plates you can get is what makes me want to come back. I wish up North the quality of Mexican food could top this restaurant but sadly no…
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Gorilla King.
4 month ago
This is the best Mexican food in New Jersey. I'm from SoCal and spent many summers in Mexico. I know authentic Mexican food, before this I didn't think NJ offered it to this degree. The prices for the portion sizes are beyond fair and the salsa is easily top 3 salsa verde (including even Mexico) I've enjoyed. The breakfast is made perfect whether you enjoy a classic American style or something Hispanic you'll be satisfied. The ambiance and decor is beautiful and well done. The staff is extremely friendly and everything is extremely clean. Not to mention many classic Mexican pastries and a variety of aguas frescas!!!
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Alex Murphy.
4 month ago
Since discovering this gem over the summer, I’ve been in practically every week! I’ve had flautas, burritos, quesadillas, tacos, and more and I have never been let down. I absolutely love the chicken tinga and salsa verde here. Everything is so fresh and tasty!
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Cindy Soto.
5 month ago
Authentic Mexican food that is always fresh and delicious. The prices are fair, and the portions are great. Free delivery, and BYOB if dining there. The folks who work there are very nice.
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Benedict Zoe.
5 month ago
We've vacationed in Mexico for several years. The flavors and food presentation at La China Poblano is typical comfort food. The menu is surprisingly extensive and we'll have lots of opportunity to explore it. Portions sizing is good. Service is good. Seating is a little tight since half the restaurant is dominated by an open kitchen.
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Christopher Frometa.
5 month ago
The wife and I wanted to give this place a shot as we have driven past it a few times and have seen good google reviews. We were served chips, with a refried bean salsa and green salsa. Both excellent. Their homemade guacamole was also very good. We ordered our meals and were so happy with the not only the taste but the size. My burrito was huge. Filled with meat and cheese. Only thing I wish I did was cover it in some sort of salsa which I saw the table next to me do. Do I think this place is a 5/5, probably not. More so like a 4.5 but definitely not a 4! Excited to go back and try a few other things on their menu.
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04 When to visit & how to find us

Hours & the door on Bergmannstraße.

Opening hours
Monday (today) 10:30 AM - 09:30 PM
Tuesday 10:30 AM - 09:30 PM
Wednesday 10:30 AM - 09:30 PM
Thursday 10:30 AM - 09:30 PM
Friday 10:30 AM - 09:30 PM
Saturday 10:30 AM - 09:30 PM
Sunday 10:30 AM - 09:00 PM
Finding the door

556 NJ-18, East Brunswick, NJ 08816, United States

05 What makes this place friendly

The details you usually have to call and ask.

Service options
  • Curbside pickup
  • No-contact delivery
  • Delivery
  • Onsite services
  • Takeout
  • Dine-in
Highlights
  • Fast service
  • Serves local specialty
Popular for
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Solo dining
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair accessible entrance
  • Wheelchair accessible parking lot
  • Wheelchair accessible restroom
  • Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
  • Coffee
  • Comfort food
  • Quick bite
  • Small plates
  • Vegetarian options
Dining options
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Catering
  • Counter service
  • Dessert
  • Seating
  • Table service
Amenities
  • Restroom
Atmosphere
  • Casual
  • Cozy
  • Quiet
Crowd
  • Groups
Planning
  • Accepts reservations
Payments
  • Credit cards
  • Debit cards
  • NFC mobile payments
Children
  • Good for kids
  • High chairs
  • Kids' menu
Parking
  • Free parking lot
  • Free street parking
  • Parking
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