Jose Tejas Menu Prices 2026: Fajitas, Cadillac Margaritas & Tex-Mex Classics

Jose Tejas is located at 700 Route 1, Iselin, NJ 08830, situated on Route 1 in Middlesex County, Central New Jersey. The restaurant is easy to reach from the Garden State Parkway and NJ Turnpike, which is why it draws diners from across the tri-state area — New York City, Newark, the Jersey Shore and beyond. There is ample free parking on-site. Visit josetejas.com for current hours and directions.

Jose Tejas has been open since 1984 — over 40 years. It opened as one of the first Tex-Mex restaurants in New Jersey and quickly became a beloved local institution. The restaurant has retained its festive, lively atmosphere across four decades and multiple generations of loyal fans. Very few independent restaurants in the state can match its longevity and consistent popularity, making it a true NJ dining landmark.

The Cadillac Margarita is Jose Tejas' legendary signature cocktail — around ~$18 — and arguably the drink most associated with the restaurant's reputation. It is made with premium top-shelf tequila (typically a Reposado or Añejo), a Grand Marnier float on top, and fresh lime juice over ice with a salted rim. The 'Cadillac' designation in margarita culture refers to a top-shelf upgrade from the standard house build, and Jose Tejas has been making theirs in generous, overflowing portions for decades. It's the drink regulars order first and visitors remember most.

The dishes Jose Tejas is best known for include: the sizzling Fajitas (chicken ~$22, beef steak ~$26) that arrive at the table still steaming on a cast-iron skillet; the Combination Plates piled high with enchiladas, tacos and rice & beans (from ~$16); the Nachos Supreme (~$14) loaded with beef and jalapeños; and the Cadillac Margarita (~$18). For dessert, the Sopapillas (~$7) and Fried Ice Cream (~$9) are perennial favorites. Regulars especially recommend the Beef Steak Fajitas and any of the combination plates for the best value and most satisfying experience.

Jose Tejas is primarily a walk-in restaurant and is well known for its lively, bustling atmosphere — especially on weekends, when wait times can extend to 30–60 minutes or more. The wait is part of the experience for many regulars who enjoy drinks at the bar while they wait. It is recommended to call ahead or check the official website at josetejas.com for the most current reservation and wait-list policies, as these can change. Arriving early (especially on weeknights) or during off-peak lunch hours is the best way to minimize wait times.

Jose Tejas has been a Central Jersey institution for over 40 years for several reasons: generous, affordable portions of Tex-Mex comfort food; an atmosphere that feels like a party from the moment you walk in; the legendary Cadillac Margarita that has become synonymous with the restaurant's identity; and the consistent quality that keeps multi-generational families coming back. Located on busy Route 1 in Iselin, it serves a broad swath of Central Jersey and draws diners from NYC and across the tri-state area. In a state with a rich and competitive dining scene, very few independent restaurants match Jose Tejas' combination of value, festivity and four-decade consistency.