We've been watching a significant change in dining out in New Jersey.

Younger generations prefer locally owned and family-run restaurants over chains.

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This is causing many once massive chains to close their doors. This includes TGI Fridays and Rainforest Cafe.

You can't blame folks for gravitating toward neighborhood establishments. These places are often places where the community comes together for good food and great company.

Sure, you can save a few bucks at one of the chains, but as we are seeing, people don't mind paying a few extra bucks for a homemade meal.

Photo by Elena Jiang on Unsplash
Photo by Elena Jiang on Unsplash
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READ MORE: This is New Jersey's Best Mom & Pop Restaurant

Especially when we know our money goes to our neighbors working for local establishments.

Some of the best local cuisine comes from family-run restaurants.

There are roots in their food, and their recipes go back many generations.

When you cook with your family, there are better vibes that add that extra special something to a dish.

Love Food had the assignment to travel the Nation and identify each state's best family-run restaurant. Not a bad gig, right?

I'll drink to that!
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Before scrolling to Love Food's choice for New Jersey, I was almost positive they would highlight an Italian restaurant.

After all, there aren't many places that have more exceptional family-run Italian spots than New Jersey.

The best family-run eatery in New Jersey is a Cuban restaurant.

In Cuba, rice and beans are a part of almost every meal. Plantains are another Cuban staple.

Then, there's the famous (and delicious) Cuban sandwich.

Another popular Cuban dish is ropa vieja, stewed beef, and tomatoes served over fresh rice.

Have you ever dined at La Isla in Hoboken?

Love Food says:

Little La Isla has been serving flavor-packed Cuban food since 1970, and is a small but popular spot with seating for just 39 diners. Be transported to Havana as you enjoy tender ropa vieja (stewed beef and tomatoes) or a classic Cuban sandwich. The joint is BYOB and serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a Sunday brunch menu.

LOOK: Food history from the year you were born

From product innovations to major recalls, Stacker researched what happened in food history every year since 1921, according to news and government sources.
 

Gallery Credit: Joni Sweet