Carlitos Tequileria is preparing to open its new flagship restaurant in North Arlington, with a soft opening planned for Thursday, August 20th.

The restaurant is located at 185 River Road and marks the latest expansion for the team behind Carlitos, which began as a barbecue taco food truck in 2017 before growing into multiple brick-and-mortar locations.

The group previously introduced the full-service Carlitos Tequileria concept at Palisades Center in West Nyack.

Partners Carlos Castillo, Sabrina Castillo, Martin Moliné and Fernando Campo are behind the North Arlington location, with Castillo serving as executive chef.

The concept centers around elevated Mesoamerican cuisine incorporating influences from across Latin America.

The menu builds on the tacos that helped establish the Carlitos brand, including oak-smoked brisket, crispy fish, birria and chicharron, with tortillas hand-pressed from heritage-corn nixtamal.

Larger offerings include grilled and smoked meats such as churrasco, carne asada, chicken, shrimp, brisket and pulled pork, along with shareable dishes and desserts.

The bar places a particular emphasis on agave spirits, with a selection of tequilas and mezcals alongside margaritas, cocktails, wine and beer.

Fresh-squeezed juices are used throughout the cocktail program, while the wine list includes selections from Mexico, Argentina, Chile, California and New York.

Designed by Salvador Juarez, the restaurant takes inspiration from traditional Mexican architecture while incorporating contemporary finishes, earthy tones, dramatic arches, greenery and artwork by Mexican street artist La Piztola.

The approximately 180-seat restaurant also includes private dining areas and a rear patio overlooking the Passaic River.

The team also plans for the restaurant to transition into a livelier late-evening atmosphere on select nights, with bottle service and live music among the planned offerings.

Carlitos Tequileria will begin its soft opening on August 20, with the restaurant located at 185 River Road in North Arlington.

Carlitos Tequileria
185 River Road
North Arlington, NJ
Website