By SJ Food Finds January 13, 2026
CHERRY HILL, NJ — If you drive down Route 70 fast enough, you might miss it. And honestly? The locals probably prefer it that way.
In a South Jersey dining scene dominated by splashy grand openings, hour-long waits for “vibes,” and overpriced tacos that taste mostly of lettuce, it is easy to forget what real Mexican food tastes like. But tucked away on Marlton Pike, far from the trendy downtowns, sits a kitchen that is quietly putting the rest of the region to shame.
Welcome to La Cita Authentic Mexican Cuisine.
The “Anti-Hype” Experience
There are no neon angel wings on the wall for your Instagram selfie. There is no DJ booth. There is just a small, brightly colored dining room, the smell of sizzling onions and cilantro, and a family-run staff that treats you like a regular from the moment you walk in.
While everyone else is fighting for a reservation at the “newest” spot, savvy foodies are bringing a bottle of wine (yes, it’s BYOB) and settling in here for a fraction of the price.
What to Order
The menu is a masterclass in traditional flavors, but two dishes are absolute non-negotiables if you visit:
1. The Molcajete Azteca This is the showstopper. Served in a bubbling, scorching-hot lava rock mortar, this dish is a mountain of grilled steak, chicken, shrimp, chorizo, cactus (nopales), and cheese, all simmering in a house-made salsa that you will want to drink with a straw. It arrives at the table sizzling loud enough to turn heads.
2. The Birria Tacos The trend that won’t die—and for good reason. La Cita’s version features slow-braised beef that falls apart if you look at it wrong, stuffed into corn tortillas dipped in consommé and griddled to a perfect crisp. It is messy, rich, and unforgettable.
The Secret Sauce
What sets La Cita apart isn’t just the recipes; it’s the execution. The salsas are clearly made fresh daily (the green tomatillo salsa has a kick that wakes you up immediately), and the tortillas have that distinct texture that you only get from hand-pressing.
The Verdict
We love a trendy night out as much as anyone. But in January, when you just want food that warms your soul without emptying your wallet, La Cita is the undisputed champion of Cherry Hill.
Pro Tip: Because the dining room is intimate, it fills up fast on Friday and Saturday nights. Call ahead, or go on a Tuesday to take advantage of the quieter atmosphere.
📍 Where to find it: La Cita Authentic Mexican Cuisine Marlton Pike West (Route 70), Cherry Hill, NJ
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