The 5 Most Authentic Cuban Restaurants in Philadelphia
Philadelphia is home to historic sites, family activities, and some of the best restaurants in the country. There is a variety of Cuban restaurants Philadelphia offers that provide delicious food and a friendly atmosphere. If you’re visiting the city or you’re looking for new and exciting eateries in your community, here are some of the most authentic Cuban restaurants in the Philadelphia area.
1. Alma de Cuba
1623 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 988-1799
If you’re planning a small celebration with friends or want to take your significant other to a special dinner, check out Alma de Cuba. The vaca frita is one of the tastiest items on the menu, and you’ll also love the short rib ropa vieja if you’re looking for authentic Cuban dishes with a twist. If you’d rather have a seafood entree, try the seared salmon with beluga lentils and celery root puree. Alma de Cuba also offers delicious rice dishes like the Chicken Imperial with saffron rice and the Paella Vegetale with mushrooms, artichokes, and fava beans. There are several empanadas to choose from as well, include the Verde with beef picadillo and the crab empanadas with lemon aioli. If you want to end your meal with a sweet treat, the chocolate cigar is a great choice.
2. Cuba Libre Restaurant & Rum Bar
10 S 2nd St Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215) 627-0666
Cuba Libre is one of the best Cuban restaurants Philadelphia has to offer, especially if you’re looking for delicious and creative cocktails to go with your appetizers or entrees. Appetizers like the grilled pineapple with fresh salsa and spinach are a wonderful way to start your meal, and crab guacamole is understandably popular as well. The Arroz con Pollo with peas and fresh asparagus is some of the best in town. You’ll also enjoy the vaca frita with onions and cilantro. If you’re in the mood for a lighter meal, try the soup and salad combo that includes a garden salad with the black bean soup or seafood soup. Cuba Libre also offers tasty paella entrees in seafood or vegetarian varieties. Don’t forget to try the decadent tres leches cake, churros, or Cuban flan for dessert.
3. Sabor Latino
33 Garrett Rd, Upper Darby, PA 19082
(610) 352-8414
This Upper Darby eatery offers tasty and authentic Cuban food in the Philadelphia area. The restaurant’s casual atmosphere makes it a great place for a quick lunch or a family meal. Start your meal with the nachos bistec or the Plato Sabor Latino with fried pork skins, green plantain, sweet plantain, sausages, and a stuffed baked potato. Light entrees include the Romain salad with seasoned chicken or the mixed salad with tomatoes, avocado, and lime vinaigrette. Beef dishes include the bistec encebollado with beans and rice, or you can try the chicken quesadilla with Poblano chiles and guacamole or three tacos al pastor filled with flavorful chicken. If you prefer a seafood dish, the grilled shrimp kebabs with peppers and plantain are a delicious choice.
4. Loco Lucho’s Latino Kitchen
51 N 12th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
(267) 314-5525
The large tostones fried to perfection are part of what makes Loco Lucho’s Latino Kitchen stand out. You can order the tostones as a snack or appetizer, or enjoy them on the side of your fried chicken entree served with yellow rice and stewed red beans. The paella is some of the best in the city and is filled with a variety of fresh vegetables and sautéed seafood. If you prefer a Cuban sandwich, this Philadelphia eatery is the place to go, but you can order a delicious burger at Loco Lucho’s as well. Sandwiches are served with a side of grilled sweet plantain. Entrees and tostones are served with a side of mayo-ketchup sauce to provide the perfect finishing touch to your meal.
5. Mixto
1141 Pine St., Philadelphia, PA 19107
(215) 592-0363
Mixto offers some of the tastiest empanadas in Philadelphia, and these savory pastries are a tasty way to start your meal. You can also try the ceviche trio or the mofongo with fried pork skins or seafood. The pulpo saltado makes a delicious appetizer as well. There are several flavorful soups to choose from as well, like the Cuban chicken soup, the seafood soup, or the black bean soup. Mixto has several delicious salads to choose from as well, like the Ensalada de pulpo or the delicious vegetarian salad with mango and avocado. If you’re in the mood for a hearty meat dish, the Borrega is a great choice, and the Churrasco with garlic shrimp is a delicious surf and turf option. Classic dishes like the Arroz con Pollo Cubano is sure to satisfy your craving for authentic Cuban food. Mixto has several smoothies for a light dessert, and you can choose from flavors such as pineapple, mango, banana, and papaya.
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