We admit, the guacamole –made fresh at the table --at Rosa Mexicano has always been a driving force behind our relationship with a favorite New York restaurant.

We’ve waited all summer for New Jersey’s first Rosa Mexicana to open its doors. And we’re happy to say, its arrived.

This new Rosa is part of the Riverside Square Mall restaurant row expansion which includes P.F. Chang’s China Bistro and Maggiano’s Little Italy. The locally owned Mexican chain is notorious in the city with three locations, also in Atlanta, Palm Beach, Miami and Washington.

The Mexican food is upscale and inventive, beyond basic taco and burritos. The menu includes marinated pork and herbed chicken with mole sauce, grilled garlic shrimp. But you need to order the guacamole starter. They blend the avocado, jalapeno, onion, tomato and cilantro to the spiciness of your liking. Get enough for your guests and a huge bowl of tortilla chips to dip. You’ll be craving more soon.

Owner Doug Griebel is from Kinnelon. According to a recent profile in The Record, he and his partners ---many of them New Jersey investors-- plan to expand to twenty restaurants over the next few years.

Rosa Mexicana is one more reason to stay on this side of the Hudson for lunch or dinner- just remember to order our favorite appetizer!