EL CID Introduce
For decades, the New Jersey culinary landscape has been graced by a number of exceptional international dining destinations. Among the most cherished in Bergen County is EL CID Spanish Restaurant, located in Paramus, NJ. This establishment is not merely a place to eat; it is a long-standing neighborhood gem that has captivated local diners with its authentic Spanish flavors, sophisticated atmosphere, and unwavering commitment to superb service. Following a period of transition, it has triumphantly reopened, much to the delight of its loyal clientele, with new management dedicated to preserving and even enhancing its original glory.
The essence of EL CID lies in its ability to transport diners straight to the heart of Spain. Customers frequently rave about the impeccable preparation of classic dishes, which include perfectly cooked steaks and an array of flavorful seafood options—the aroma of which, as one customer noted, is noticeable and inviting. Beyond the food, the restaurant’s commitment to providing an all-encompassing experience is evident in every detail, from the warm, attentive service to the comfortable and upscale environment.
Patrons who have returned post-reopening celebrate the fact that the quality they remember has returned in full force. Items like the famous red sangria are described as "amazing as always," and the highly anticipated spicy steak tips and butter-soft Kobe steak have proven to be "just as good as remembered," affirming that the kitchen's standards are as high as ever. EL CID remains an ideal destination for those in New Jersey seeking a truly authentic and high-quality Spanish dining experience.
This restaurant is a fantastic choice whether you are planning a romantic dinner, a significant family gathering, or a productive business lunch in the Paramus area. The atmosphere is versatile, moving seamlessly from casual and cozy during the day to romantic and upscale in the evening, making it suitable for any occasion.
EL CID is conveniently situated at 205 Paramus Rd, Paramus, NJ 07652, USA. Its location in Paramus makes it easily accessible for residents and visitors throughout Bergen County and beyond. The area offers excellent road connections, ensuring a straightforward journey whether you are driving from a nearby town or traveling up from southern New Jersey.
For those arriving by car, the restaurant offers ample parking solutions, including a complimentary private parking lot and free street parking, eliminating the typical stress of finding a spot in a busy New Jersey locale. Furthermore, EL CID is committed to providing an inclusive dining experience for all patrons, offering full accessibility features:
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
This commitment ensures that every guest can enjoy their meal in comfort and with ease.
EL CID provides a comprehensive set of dining services tailored to meet various customer needs and preferences. From a quick meal to a luxurious evening out, they are prepared to serve their New Jersey community with excellence.
- Dine-in Service: Full table service is provided for lunch, dinner, and dessert, with seating options available. Dinner reservations are recommended, and the establishment happily accepts them, though be advised that there is usually a wait during peak times, a testament to its popularity.
- Takeout: For those on the go or preferring to enjoy the authentic flavors of Spain at home, takeout is available.
- Table Service: Attentive and professional table service is a highlight, with multiple servers ensuring drinks are refilled and plates are cleared promptly, even for large groups.
- Reservations: The restaurant accepts reservations and strongly recommends them, particularly for dinner, to ensure a smooth dining experience.
- Private Dining/Groups: The atmosphere and amenities, including the capacity to accommodate large groups, make it a perfect spot for celebrations and gatherings.
- Payment Options: The restaurant accepts Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and modern NFC mobile payments for customer convenience.
Several key highlights contribute to EL CID’s reputation as a premier Spanish dining destination in the region. These features span from the quality of the food and beverages to the overall environment and guest service.
- Fast Service: Customers consistently praise the efficiency and attentiveness of the service staff, noted as being "impeccable," even when serving large parties.
- Great Drink Selections: The restaurant is celebrated for its excellent selection of high-quality alcoholic beverages, including a great beer selection, imaginative cocktails, and a great wine list. Signature drinks, like the red sangria, are a customer favorite.
- Diverse and Delicious Offerings: The menu features Alcohol, Beer, Cocktails, Coffee, Comfort food, Hard liquor, and Wine. It also responsibly includes healthy options and a full dessert menu.
- Atmosphere: The dining environment is best described as an elegant mix of Casual, Cozy, Romantic, Trendy, and Upscale, making it suitable for any social scenario.
- Amenities: The premises include a full bar onsite and a clean restroom. High chairs are available for families dining with children.
- Popularity: EL CID is popular for Lunch, Dinner, Solo dining, and is particularly welcoming for large Groups.
- High-Quality Dishes: Reviews consistently highlight dishes like Escargot in a delicious sauce, spicy steak tips, and perfectly prepared steaks and seafood, all cooked to perfection.
For New Jersey residents interested in dining at or contacting EL CID, the information is as follows:
Address: 205 Paramus Rd, Paramus, NJ 07652, USA
Phone: (201) 843-0123
Mobile Phone: +1 201-843-0123
Customers are encouraged to call ahead, especially to make dinner reservations.
Choosing EL CID is an investment in a memorable and authentic Spanish dining experience right here in New Jersey. It stands out not only for its impressive menu of classic Spanish cuisine, but also for its commitment to the total customer experience. The reviews speak for themselves, describing the establishment as a "neighborhood gem" with enduring "charm" and a quality that has been restored to its "original glory."
From the moment you are greeted to the final farewell, you are assured of impeccable service, highlighted by managers like Paul who personally visit tables to ensure satisfaction. Whether you are craving the comfort of traditional Spanish food, looking for a place with an upscale ambiance for a special night, or simply desiring a restaurant that offers both fast service and high-quality beverages, EL CID consistently delivers. The combination of its convenient, accessible location, its versatile and appealing atmosphere, and its famously delicious food makes it an undeniable Bergen County staple and a worthwhile choice for any New Jersey diner seeking the best in Spanish cuisine.
EL CID Details
Service options
- Takeout
- Dine-in
- Delivery
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great beer selection
- Great cocktails
- Great coffee
- Great wine list
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Hard liquor
- Healthy options
- Wine
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Romantic
- Trendy
- Upscale
Crowd
- Groups
Planning
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
- Usually a wait
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- High chairs
Parking
- Free parking lot
- Free street parking
- Parking
EL CID Photos










EL CID Location
EL CID Reviews
lobsterprime ribsurf and turffilet mignonchipsgarlic shrimpleftoversspinachchilean sea basssteakhouse
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1We had a large group dine at El Cid, a spot many had gone to years ago. We were excited to try the food again after all these years, and it did not disappoint. The service was some of our best, especially for a large group of our size. Every dish that came out was made to perfection. The steaks and seafood were perfectly cooked with flavor you could smell in the air. We left full and deeply grateful that this neighborhood gem has reopened with the same charm it has always been known for. Thank you for a fantastic time, El Cid!
May 31 · Alexandria QuintanaMy fiancé and I have been waiting for El Cid to reopen and we’re so happy they finally have! This restaurant has been a staple for us, and the new management has brought it back to its original glory!The red sangria was amazing as always. The service was impeccable, with multiple servers checking in on us throughout the meal and clearing plates, refilling drinks, etc. The manager, Paul, was very friendly and personally came to the table to make sure we were enjoying our experience.I’ve been dreaming about the spicy steak tips and they were just as good as I remembered! The escargot came in a delicious sauce and the Kobe steak was like butter! Though management has changed, the food is as good as ever and we’ll definitely be back!
July 10 · Christina LLocal Favorite! ...you can find us there at least once a week!! Delicious Food, Cozy Atmosphere, Best Bartenders! What more could you ask for. Love You El Cids!
July 31 · Margaret RicciHighly recommend this restaurant. Surf and turf was great. The filet mignon cooked perfectly and was delicious. The lobster tails with the surf and turf were great. Garlic shrimp and escargot appetizers were fantastic. The rest of my table got the Chilean sea bass, Kobe skirt steak, while lobsters and everything came out really good.
March 09 · Danny ChongI recently had a party here and it could not have turned out better. Every single person went out of their way to tell me how amazing the food was, and how efficient the staff and service was. Needless to say, we’re so happy they’re open again and I’m already planning my next party here.
June 30 · Jamie Wojdyla
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