The Absolute Best Cuban Restaurant in NYC [Updated 2024]

I have scoured every corner of this vibrant city to bring you a carefully curated list of the top cuban eateries that will transport you straight to the streets of Havana. With 12 restaurants under my belt, I have tasted the flavors of Cuba like no other.

From the traditional to the trendy, I have left no stone unturned in my quest for the most authentic and delectable cuban cuisine in NYC. So sit back, relax, and get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.

Welcome to the world of the best cuban restaurant in NYC!

Havana Heights

Highlights
Delicious food
Excellent cocktails
Friendly service
Tasty and satisfying meals
Recommended Horchata drinks

As soon as I entered Havana Heights, I was greeted with a warm and lively atmosphere that perfectly matches the vibrant spirit of Cuban culture. The scent of aromatic spices filled the air, instantly arousing my appetite.

The menu at Havana Heights boasts an array of enticing dishes that showcase the rich flavors of Cuban cuisine. From the moment I took my first bite of the succulent ropa vieja, I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special. Each mouthful was a delightful explosion of flavors, from the tender shredded beef to the perfectly balanced blend of spices. The portions were generous and left me feeling satisfied.

To complement my meal, I opted for one of their excellent cocktails. The expertly crafted mojito was the epitome of refreshing, with a delightful balance of mint, rum, and lime. It was the perfect accompaniment to my meal and served as a reminder of the Cuban heritage behind the restaurant.

The service at Havana Heights was impeccable, with the staff exuding an authentic Cuban warmth and friendliness. They went above and beyond to ensure that all of my needs were met, creating a truly memorable dining experience.

A standout highlight of Havana Heights was their Horchata drinks. I highly recommend trying this delicious and unique beverage. The creamy and sweet drink, made with rice milk, cinnamon, and vanilla, is simply divine and a perfect way to end the meal.

In conclusion, Havana Heights is a gem among the Cuban restaurants in NYC. From the delicious food to the excellent cocktails and friendly service, it offers an authentic taste of Cuba in the heart of the city. Whether you're a seasoned fan of Cuban cuisine or new to the flavors, a visit to Havana Heights is an absolute must.

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Mi Salsa Kitchen

Highlights
Fun Vibes
Latin Music
Couples Dancing
Classic Cocktails
Fair Prices

Walking into Mi Salsa Kitchen, I immediately felt the energy of the place. The vibrant colors, lively music, and the sound of couples dancing instantly transported me to the heart of Havana. The atmosphere was filled with a sense of joy and celebration, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a Cuban meal.

Speaking of the menu, Mi Salsa Kitchen offers a delectable selection of traditional Cuban dishes that will make your taste buds dance. From succulent roasted pork to flavorful empanadas, each bite was a burst of authentic Cuban flavors that left me wanting more. The prices were surprisingly fair, making it a delightful option for those on a budget.

One of the highlights of my evening was the live Latin music that had everyone tapping their feet. The combination of the delicious food and the infectious rhythm created an atmosphere of pure happiness. I couldn't resist getting up to dance with my fellow diners. It truly felt like a mini salsa lesson right in the heart of the city.

To complement the mouthwatering cuisine, Mi Salsa Kitchen boasts an impressive selection of classic cocktails. Their mojitos were exquisite, perfectly balancing the refreshing mint and lime flavors with a hint of rum. It was the ideal accompaniment to my meal.

Overall, my experience at Mi Salsa Kitchen was nothing short of extraordinary. The fun vibes, Latin music, couples dancing, classic cocktails, and fair prices make it a standout in the Cuban restaurant scene in NYC. I would highly recommend this lively and delicious spot to anyone in search of an authentic Cuban dining experience.

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Cabana

Highlights
Great experience
Phenomenal service
Delicious food
Freshly made dessert
Tres leches

From the moment I walked into Cabana, I knew I was in for a great experience. The vibrant atmosphere and cheerful staff immediately set the tone for an enjoyable evening. The phenomenal service only added to the overall positive impression.

Now onto the most important aspect - the food. Oh boy, was it delicious! Every dish I tried was bursting with flavor and truly represented the essence of Cuban cuisine. From the classic ropa vieja to the mouthwatering lechon asado, Cabana knows how to satisfy any Cuban food lover's cravings.

But let's not forget the highlight of the meal - the tres leches dessert. This sublime creation of soaked sponge cake in three types of milk was nothing short of divine. The richness and creaminess of each bite transported me to Havana, and I found myself savoring every spoonful.

What I truly appreciated was that all the dishes were freshly made, which made a noticeable difference in taste and quality. It's evident that Cabana takes pride in using high-quality ingredients and pays attention to detail in their food preparation.

In conclusion, Cabana is definitely a front-runner in the search for the best Cuban restaurant in NYC. It checks all the boxes - from the great experience and phenomenal service to the delicious food and irresistibly tempting tres leches dessert. If you're looking to satisfy your Cuban cravings, make sure to visit Cabana. Your taste buds will thank you!

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Cantina Cubana

Cantina Cubana is a playful little spot in NYC that oozes Cuban charm. The aromas of roasted pork and fried plantains hit you as soon as you step through the door. The flavorful cubano sandwich and mojitos are a match made in tropical heaven. A must-visit for any lover of Cuban cuisine!

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Guantanamera

As soon as I stepped into Guantanamera in NYC, I was transported to the lively streets of Havana. The vibrant decor and bustling atmosphere set the stage for a delicious culinary adventure. The aromatic blend of traditional Cuban flavors filled the air, making it impossible to resist the mouthwatering menu. From succulent ropa vieja to delectable tostones, each dish was a true work of art. The exceptional service and authentic Cuban cocktails added an extra flair to the dining experience. Guantanamera in NYC is truly a must-visit for anyone seeking the best Cuban cuisine in the city.

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Cuba

Cuba in NYC is a playful yet professional option for those seeking the best Cuban restaurant in the city. With a vibrant atmosphere and authentic flavors, this lively spot serves up mouthwatering dishes that will transport you straight to Havana. Get ready to indulge in bold and spicy flavors that will leave you craving more.

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Amor Cubano

If you're looking for a playful and delicious Cuban experience, look no further than Amor Cubano in NYC. From the moment I walked in, the lively atmosphere had me dancing to the beat of the music. The flavorful dishes, like the succulent ropa vieja and the crispy plantains, transported me straight to Havana. The staff's warm and friendly demeanor only added to the charm of this establishment. Don't forget to try their refreshing mojitos that perfectly complement the vibrant flavors. Amor Cubano truly lives up to its name and is a standout among the Cuban restaurants in NYC.

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Havana Central Times Square

Havana Central Times Square in NYC is a vibrant and lively Cuban restaurant that truly captures the essence of Havana. From the moment you step in, the upbeat music and colorful decor transport you straight to the Caribbean. The menu is filled with classic Cuban dishes like mojitos and ropa vieja, all bursting with authentic flavors. The service is friendly and attentive, making you feel like a welcomed guest. Whether you're stopping by for a quick bite or a full meal, Havana Central Times Square is the place to experience the taste of Cuba right in the heart of NYC.

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Victor's Cafe

Victor's Cafe exceeded my expectations with its playful and professional vibes. The delicious and authentic cuban dishes transported me straight to Havana. The mojitos were so refreshing that I could almost feel the Cuban breeze. With its charming atmosphere and mouthwatering menu, Victor's Cafe is definitely a top contender for the title of the best Cuban restaurant in NYC!

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Floridita

Floridita in NYC is a lively and vibrant spot that truly captures the essence of Cuban cuisine. The succulent flavors of their dishes paired with the energetic atmosphere created a captivating dining experience. From the zesty mojitos to the tender and juicy ropa vieja, Floridita exceeded my expectations. It's a must-visit for any lover of Cuban cuisine.

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Favela Cubana

Oh, let me tell you, Favela Cubana is like a carnival for your taste buds! The flavors of Cuba dance on your tongue, from the savory ropa vieja to the crispy tostones. The ambiance is lively, the staff is attentive, and the mojitos are fantastic. A must-visit for any Cuban food lover.

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Sophie's Cuban Cuisine - Murray Hill

The vibrant atmosphere at Sophie's Cuban Cuisine - Murray Hill in NYC is a feast for the senses. The heavenly aroma of authentic cuban spices fills the air, while the playful décor adds a touch of whimsy. I couldn't resist ordering the Ropa Vieja, and it was melt-in-your-mouth delicious. This restaurant is definitely a top contender for the best cuban restaurant in NYC.

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