This article is sponsored by El Gordo Peruvian Eatery.

Nearly 30 years of legacy-driven expertise can be tasted in every bite at El Gordo Peruvian Eatery, a fast-casual, woman-owned Peruvian restaurant with three New Jersey locations. Built on the perseverance of a single mother's dream, El Gordo is still run by the loving family behind it all — and the youngest member of that family, Madison Velis, has recently brought the tradition to Montclair. Located at 324B Orange Road, El Gordo is the latest addition to the MTC food scene, packing a mighty punch of traditional Peruvian eats available for dine-in and take-out.  Read on to learn more about Montclair’s newest restaurant, El Gordo Peruvian Eatery.

Family Roots

It all started back in 1996 when Monica Velis immigrated from Peru with a dream. Monica was determined to open a restaurant, but not just for the sake of starting a business: she wanted to build a lasting legacy, one her daughters would be proud of. To Monica, El Gordo represents the American Dream and her personal story of perseverance, passion, and legacy, built on decades of tradition. 

El Gordo is the kind of place where both Peruvians and food lovers alike can taste and experience the authentic flavors of “home.” Food is more than just a meal — it’s a celebration of culture, history, and togetherness that spans generations. The heart and soul of Peru are infused into every dish, honoring family tradition while embracing the local community. Monica’s — and El Gordo’s —  love language is food.

The Montclair Expansion

What originated as a single location has flourished into the El Gordo Peruvian Eatery brand with three locations, a second sister brand called El Gordo Sauces, and nearly 30 years of top-tier Peruvian eats infused with Monica’s lasting entrepreneurial spirit. Each location is owned and operated by members of the founding family. Monica leads the Passaic location, with daughter, Lizeth Morales, running the Jersey City and Union locations. Now, the next generation is proudly stepping in to continue the legacy as Monica’s youngest daughter, Madison Velis, opens the new Montclair location at 324B Orange Road.

Growing up immersed in the restaurant world, Madison saw firsthand the hard work, love, and resilience that built El Gordo into the New Jersey institution it is today. Now, she’s stepping into her own role within the family business, embracing the opportunity to honor her mother’s vision while bringing fresh energy and ideas to the table. 

“This location represents more than expansion—it’s a new chapter in a journey that started with a mother’s dream and continues with the next generation,” the team shared with The Montclair Girl.

On The Menu

El Gordo is most known for its savory Peruvian classics such as Pollo a la Brasa (rotisserie chicken), Chaufa (Peruvian fried rice), Lomo Saltado (marinated steak, veggies, fries + rice), Arroz con Pollo (chicken + rice), and fresh Ceviche, all complemented by the signature Peruvian green sauce —which is so popular, patrons can buy it by the bottle. The sauce has a creamy, bold, and flavorful kick that acts as the perfect addition to any El Gordo dish. Dessert is a no-brainer with  Alfajores (dulce de leche-filled cookies) or a Vanilla Dulce de Leche Cake.

Customers are always welcome to dine in El Gordo’s cozy, convenient atmosphere for a quick bite, but the restaurant’s primary focus is takeout and delivery, available on Uber Eats, GrubHub, and DoorDash.  

Outside of the restaurant, El Gordo even provides catering services for small and large-scale events, from intimate family gatherings to corporate events, weddings, birthday parties, and more.

Locals can try El Gordo Peruvian Eatery’s cuisine at 324 B. Orange Road in Montclair, 2179 Morris Ave in Union, 291 Central Avenue in Jersey City, and 295 Monroe Street in Passaic. Online delivery + pick-up orders can be placed here.