The Best Cuban Restaurants in New York City
Cuban Restaurants have been around for a long time in New York City. With roots in NYC since the 1800’s, the Cuban Community in New York is vibrant and thriving. With this Cuban community comes incredible culture and amazing food. Today, there are countless traditional and modern Cuban restaurants to satisfy the palate all around the City. See below for our full list.
Cuba
222 Thompson Street, New York, NY 10012
(212) 420-7878
Located in Greenwich Village, Cuba will transport you to Havana with its Caribbean atmosphere. Cuba has been serving classic dishes like ropa vieja, arroz con pollo, and a variety of paellas for over 15 years. Their appetizers highlight Cuban ingredients such as yucca and plantains. In addition, they offer live music and original cocktails such as mojitos and sangria, capturing the Cuban essence.
Tina’s
179 Madison Ave., New York, NY 10016
(212) 679-3500 & (212) 679-2542
At Tina’s you will find all of the traditional dishes Cuban food has to offer. Whether for lunch or to take home, Tina’s offers a diverse Cuban menu. They of course have classic Cuban lunch food – specifically, Cuban sandwiches and fresh empanadas. Keep this place in mind for your next family dinner.
Havana
151 West 46th Street New York, NY 10036
(212) 398-7440
With three locations in the city, there is no excuse not to try Havana. Whether it’s for any celebration, event, Havana serves classic Cuban dishes that everyone can enjoy, starting with mouthwatering proteins like steak, garlic shrimp and grilled chicken. The restaurant isn’t shy about its drinks, offering a wide variety of rum punches, sangrias, and mojitos, making every celebration a memorable(ish) one.
Favela Cubana
543 LaGuardia Pl, New York, NY 10012
(212) 777-6500
Favela Cubana is recognized for its fusion of Cuban and Brazilian food, a great union of Latin cultures. Located between SoHo and the West Village, it’s a landmark worth trying. Its menu highlights the famous Cuban arroz con pollo along with tropical cocktails. Don’t forget to try their traditional Cuban and sweet plantain sandwiches on your next visit.
Calle Dao
461 W 23rd St, New York, NY 10011
(212) 414-4104
Calle Dao was created to pay tribute to Chinatown and mix the best of that iconic neighborhood with Latin culture. It’s the perfect “Chinese-Cuban” fusion, serving modern dishes with basic Cuban elements and traditional Chinese flavors. As an appetizer they offer Cuban egg rolls that imitate the traditional Cuban sandwich. Cuban fried rice that incorporates Cuban and Chinese ingredients, among others, also stands out on its menu. For a unique experience and approach to Cuban cuisine, it’s a must try in NYC.
Margon
136 W 46th St, New York NY, 10036
(212) 354-5013
Margon looks modest on the outside, but it serves authentic Cuban dishes on the inside. Their sandwiches, arroz y habichuelas and meat stew, will transport you to the Cuban countryside. This small but valuable place is the perfect location for a quick and quality lunch.
Guantanamera
939 Eighth Avenue, New York, NY 10019
(212) 626-5354
Guantanamera is distinguished from other Cuban restaurants by the authenticity served in each plate, which feels like it was cooked at home. They have an extensive menu of traditional Cuban dishes, and incorporate classics such as stuffed tostones, roast suckling pig, pork sandwich, and chicken rice. Book your table ASAP to transport your palate to Cuba.
Amor Cubano
2018 Third Avenue, Corner of 111th St., New York, NY 10029
(212) 996-1220
There is nothing better than homemade food. Amor Cubano is “the authentic Cuban experience”. The restaurant has been attracting East Harlem’s Latino community for over fourteen years. Its exquisite croquettes and fried yucca are the perfect appetizers to start your dinner. Main dishes include Valencian paella, barbecued chicken, and fried cow, among others. Bring your family for your next night out.
