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Best Cuban Restaurants Los Angeles

Cuba, known for its vibrant culture and flavorsome cuisine, has left an indelible mark on the food scene in Los Angeles. The city boasts a plethora of Cuban restaurants that offer an authentic taste of the island’s culinary delights. From traditional dishes such as ropa vieja and lechon asado to refreshing mojitos and delectable flan, these establishments are a haven for food enthusiasts seeking a taste of Cuba in the heart of Los Angeles. In this article, we will explore some of the best Cuban restaurants in Los Angeles, each with its own unique charm and mouthwatering specialties.

Index

    Versailles Cuban Restaurant

    Located at 10319 Venice Blvd., Los Angeles, Versailles Cuban Restaurant is a renowned establishment, serving up an extensive menu of Cuban delights. This family-owned restaurant has been a beloved fixture of the neighborhood since it opened its doors in 1981. With its vibrant decor and lively atmosphere, Versailles transports diners to the streets of Havana.

    The menu at Versailles offers a range of Cuban classics, including their famous garlic chicken and succulent roasted pork. Each dish is prepared with utmost care, using traditional recipes and authentic ingredients. The tender meat, marinated in a blend of spices and slow-cooked to perfection, simply melts in your mouth. Accompanied by fluffy white rice, sweet plantains, and black beans, these dishes are a true representation of Cuban cuisine.

    No Cuban meal is complete without a refreshing mojito, and Versailles does not disappoint. Their mojitos are made with fresh lime juice, mint leaves, and rum, creating the perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess. For dessert, don’t miss their creamy flan, a rich custard topped with caramel sauce.

    El Colmao

    Nestled at 2328 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, El Colmao is a charming Cuban restaurant that has been serving up authentic Cuban fare since 1998. The restaurant’s ambiance reflects the rustic charm of a Havana cafe, with exposed brick walls, vintage posters, and Cuban music playing in the background.

    El Colmao is particularly known for its hearty and flavorful dishes, which are reminiscent of home-cooked meals in Cuba. One of their standout options is the ropa vieja, a classic Cuban dish made with shredded beef, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes. The tender meat is cooked in a sauce infused with garlic and spices, resulting in a dish that bursts with flavors.

    Another must-try item at El Colmao is their traditional Cuban sandwich, known as the Cubano. Made with layers of roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, all pressed together on a crispy Cuban roll, this sandwich is a true delight for the taste buds.

    El Floridita Restaurant

    Stepping into El Floridita Restaurant feels like being transported to the glamorous days of Old Havana. Located at 1253 Vine St, Los Angeles, this Cuban restaurant has been serving authentic Cuban cuisine since 1987. The restaurant’s elegant decor, adorned with vintage photographs and Cuban memorabilia, adds to its charming ambiance.

    El Floridita is renowned for its seafood dishes, as well as its lively salsa nights featuring live music and dancing. One of their signature dishes is the camarones al ajillo, which consists of succulent shrimp sautéed in a garlic and white wine sauce. The dish is bursting with flavor and pairs perfectly with a side of fluffy white rice and sweet plantains.

    Another standout item on the menu is the paella, a Spanish-Cuban fusion dish made with a medley of seafood, chicken, and saffron rice. Each bite is a symphony of flavors, with the tender meats and aromatic rice creating a truly satisfying dining experience.

    Baracoa Cuban Cafe

    Tucked away at 3175 Glendale Blvd, Baracoa Cuban Cafe is a hidden gem in Los Angeles. This cozy restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, with dim lighting and vibrant artwork adorning the walls. Known for its generous portions and reasonable prices, Baracoa is a favorite among locals.

    The menu at Baracoa features traditional Cuban dishes, as well as some unique creations that fuse Cuban and Mexican flavors. One of their standout dishes is the puerco asado, slow-roasted pork marinated in a blend of spices and citrus juices. Served with black beans and rice, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser.

    If you’re in the mood for something different, try their Cubano tacos, which combine the flavors of a classic Cuban sandwich with the convenience of a taco. These mouthwatering tacos are stuffed with roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, creating a fusion of flavors that will leave you craving for more.

    Gigis Café Cubano

    Located at 2200 W Temple St, Gigis Café Cubano is a charming little eatery that brings a taste of Cuba to Los Angeles. This family-owned restaurant offers a cozy and intimate setting, with colorful walls adorned with artwork showcasing Cuban culture.

    Gigis Cafe Cubano is known for its breakfast and brunch offerings, as well as its irresistible Cuban sandwiches. For those seeking a hearty breakfast, their Cuban-style omelettes are a must-try. These fluffy omelettes are packed with flavorful ingredients such as ham, Swiss cheese, onions, and bell peppers.

    When it comes to their sandwiches, Gigis does not disappoint. Their Cubano sandwich is a crowd favorite, with layers of roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, all pressed together between crispy Cuban bread. Whether enjoyed for breakfast or lunch, every bite is a delicious homage to Cuban street food.

    La Taverna Cubana

    Situated at 5424 Laurel Canyon Blvd, La Taverna Cubana is a lively Cuban restaurant with a modern and vibrant atmosphere. The restaurant’s colorful decor, featuring Cuban flags and artwork, sets the stage for a memorable dining experience.

    La Taverna Cubana takes pride in its extensive menu, which offers a wide range of Cuban specialties. One of their standout dishes is the vaca frita, a succulent dish made with shredded beef marinated in a citrus and garlic sauce, then pan-fried to perfection. The result is tender and flavorful meat with a crispy exterior.

    If you’re a seafood lover, don’t miss their camarones enchilados, sautéed shrimp served in a tangy tomato sauce. The dish is topped with onions and bell peppers, adding an extra layer of flavor. Pair these dishes with a side of fried plantains and a refreshing mojito for a complete Cuban dining experience.

    Soto’s Cuban Kitchen

    Nestled in the Barranca Street Food Hall at 2020 Barranca St Unit 103, Soto’s Cuban Kitchen is a hidden gem for those seeking authentic Cuban flavors in Los Angeles. This food hall offers a casual and communal dining experience, with various food vendors serving up an array of cuisines.

    Soto’s Cuban Kitchen stands out with its flavorful dishes and strong emphasis on quality and authenticity. Their ropa vieja, a traditional Cuban dish made with shredded beef in a tomato-based sauce, is a crowd favorite. The dish is slow-cooked to perfection, allowing the flavors to meld together, resulting in tender and succulent meat.

    For those looking for a lighter option, try their Cuban salad. Made with fresh leafy greens, avocado, black beans, and tomatoes, and topped with tangy lime dressing, this salad is a burst of freshness and flavor.

    Casa de la Musica LA

    Situated at 1828 S Vermont Ave, Casa de la Musica LA is not only a Cuban restaurant but also a lively venue for live music and dancing. The restaurant’s vibrant decor, featuring colorful murals and a dance floor, creates a festive atmosphere.

    Casa de la Musica LA offers a variety of Cuban dishes, each bursting with flavor. Their arroz con pollo, a classic Cuban dish made with seasoned chicken and yellow rice, is a staple on the menu. The dish is cooked slowly, allowing the flavors to meld together, resulting in a dish that is both comforting and satisfying.

    For seafood lovers, their mariscada is a must-try. This seafood stew combines a medley of fresh fish, shrimp, mussels, and clams in a flavorful tomato-based broth. Served with a side of white rice and tostones, this dish is a nod to the coastal flavors of Cuba.

    Versailles Cuban Restaurant (Second Location)

    Versailles Cuban Restaurant also has a second location in Los Angeles, situated at 1415 S La Cienega Blvd. This branch offers the same authentic Cuban experience as the original location, with an extensive menu boasting a range of mouthwatering dishes.

    One of the standout items on the menu is their lechon asado, a traditional Cuban dish made with slow-roasted pork marinated in flavorful spices. The meat is tender and juicy, with a crispy skin that adds an extra layer of texture and flavor.

    For a unique twist on a classic, try their ropa vieja empanadas. These crispy turnovers are filled with the tender shredded beef, sautéed onions, and bell peppers of the traditional ropa vieja dish. Served with a side of tangy cilantro sauce, these empanadas are a true fusion of flavors.

    Made in Havana

    Located at 8116 Beverly Blvd, Made in Havana is a Cuban restaurant that prides itself on its homemade Cuban cuisine. The restaurant’s rustic decor and warm ambiance create a cozy and inviting atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a leisurely meal.

    Made in Havana offers a variety of classic Cuban dishes with their own unique twist. Their vaca frita tacos are a standout item on the menu. These flavorful tacos feature tender shredded beef, sautéed onions, and bell peppers, all topped with tangy cilantro sauce. Each bite is a burst of flavors and textures.

    If you’re in the mood for something sweet, try their tres leches cake. This traditional Cuban dessert is made with a sponge cake soaked in a mixture of three different types of milk, resulting in a moist and decadent treat. Served with a dollop of whipped cream, this dessert is the perfect ending to a Cuban feast.

    El Rincón Criollo

    Situated at 4361 Sepulveda Blvd, Culver City, El Rincón Criollo is a Cuban restaurant that offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. With its vibrant red walls and Cuban memorabilia, the restaurant exudes a warm and lively vibe.

    The menu at El Rincón Criollo is filled with traditional Cuban dishes, each prepared with love and care. One of their standout dishes is the arroz con mariscos, a flavorful seafood rice made with a medley of fresh fish, shrimp, squid, and clams. The dish is packed with aromatic spices and herbs, creating a burst of flavors with each bite.

    For meat lovers, their churrasco steak is a must-try. This juicy and tender steak is marinated in a special blend of spices, giving it a unique and delectable flavor. Served with a side of yuca frita and tostones, this dish is a savory delight.

    La Cubana Restaurant

    Situated at 801 S Glendale Ave #3, Glendale, La Cubana Restaurant is a vibrant Cuban eatery with a lively and festive atmosphere. The restaurant’s colorful decor, featuring Cuban flags and artwork, adds to the vibrant ambiance.

    La Cubana Restaurant offers an extensive menu of Cuban favorites, as well as some unique creations. One of their standout dishes is the lechon asado, a succulent roasted pork dish marinated in a blend of spices and citrus juices. The meat is tender and juicy, with a crispy skin that adds a delightful crunch.

    Another must-try item on the menu is the Cuban-style picadillo. This dish features seasoned ground beef cooked with onions, garlic, peppers, raisins, and olives, resulting in a flavorful and savory filling. Served with white rice and black beans, this dish is a taste of home.

    Versailles Restaurant

    Located at 17410 Ventura Blvd, Encino, Versailles Restaurant is a neighborhood favorite that has been serving up Cuban cuisine since 1979. The restaurant’s inviting atmosphere, with its warm lighting and rustic decor, creates a cozy and welcoming dining experience.

    Versailles Restaurant is known for its flavorful and generous portions, as well as its lively ambiance. One of their standout dishes is the pollo al horno, a succulent roasted chicken marinated in a blend of spices and cooked to perfection. Served with a side of yellow rice and sweet plantains, this dish is a true celebration of Cuban flavors.

    For a unique twist on a classic, try their ropa vieja pizza. This inventive creation features a thin and crispy crust topped with tender shredded beef, bell peppers, onions, olives, and a blend of cheeses. Each bite is a fusion of Cuban and Italian flavors, resulting in a delicious and unique dining experience.

    Mambo’s Cafe

    Situated at 1701 Victory Blvd, Glendale, Mambo’s Cafe is a cozy and welcoming Cuban restaurant that offers a taste of the tropics. The restaurant’s vibrant decor, featuring palm leaves and colorful artwork, sets the stage for a memorable dining experience.

    Mambo’s Cafe specializes in traditional Cuban dishes, each prepared with love and care. One of their standout dishes is the camarones al ajillo, a garlic and white wine-infused shrimp dish that is bursting with flavor. Served with white rice and tostones, this dish is a delightful combination of textures and tastes.

    For a taste of Cuba’s street food, try their Medianoche sandwich. This sandwich features roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, all pressed together on a sweet and fluffy Cuban roll. With its balance of savory and sweet flavors, this sandwich is a true treat for the taste buds.

    El Criollo Cuban Bar & Grill

    Located at 916 W Burbank Blvd, Burbank, El Criollo Cuban Bar & Grill is a vibrant and lively Cuban restaurant that offers a taste of the Caribbean in the heart of Burbank. The restaurant’s colorful decor and lively music create a festive atmosphere that transports diners to Havana.

    El Criollo Cuban Bar & Grill is known for its flavorful dishes and vibrant cocktails. One of their standout dishes is the ropa vieja, a traditional Cuban dish made with shredded beef, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes. The tender meat is cooked in a savory sauce, resulting in a dish that is packed with flavor.