$2.50 fee to order online feels like a lot, would probably come 2-3x as often if I could order without calling
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
BRIAN SCOTT HODGES
We left feeling light and happy.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Shishir Bhandari
I ordered the Fricase de Pollo, and it did not disappoint. The chicken was juicy, tender, and full of flavor. The rice, served with black bean soup, was equally satisfying—the beans were rich, creamy, and well-seasoned. The maduros (Cuban fried plantains) were an unexpected highlight, sweet and caramelized, and they reminded me of Filipino-style Banana Cue. Overall, I really enjoyed the lunch and will definitely be coming back to try more dishes.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 4
Service: 4
J Frank (JF1973)
El Cubano offers an authentic taste of Cuba right in the heart of town. From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted with a warm, inviting atmosphere that transports you straight to Havana. The highlight of the menu is undoubtedly their signature Cuban Sandwich, which truly lives up to its reputation. The sandwich features tender, roasted pork, flavorful ham, melted Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, all nestled between freshly baked Cuban bread. The bread is perfectly toasted, providing a crisp exterior while maintaining a soft, hearty interior. Each bite delivers a harmonious blend of savory, tangy, and smoky flavors, making it a satisfying experience.
Aside from the sandwich, El Cubano impresses with its authentic decor and friendly staff who are passionate about sharing Cuban culture through their cuisine. Their attention to detail, from sourcing quality ingredients to preparing everything fresh, makes a significant difference. The portion size is generous, offering great value for the price. Whether you're craving a quick lunch or a relaxed meal, El Cubano’s Cuban Sandwich is a must-try and undoubtedly one of the best in town. It’s a flavorful journey worth taking!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Eric Huezo
I have been going to El Cubano since it's humble beginnings as a food truck and a dream. Delron owner of El Cubano always had a line on the sidewalk forming and for good reason. This is the best Cuban you will find around, all the wonderful blends of sweet and savory, crispy and crunchy in all the right ways will make every visit a treat. Making the trip is worth the drive, walk, run, whatever. Don't miss a chance to try, their menu is the best way to get a taste of Havana in Carlsbad
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Kyle
Really good! I had the supreme cubano, I believe it was a special, not sure if it is an every day item. I am only giving 4 stars just due to portion size for the price. The food came out quick for how busy it was and it was hot/fresh. I only ordered the sandwich so I did not get to try their chips. Would recommend. Nice seating area here.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Karina Martinez
Comfort food at its finest, chefs kiss! Closest thing to a home cooked meal. Everything tastes fresh and always served HOT!
Food: 5
Frank Falivene
I grew up in Hudson county New Jersey and frequently visit Miami/ south Florida so I have had my share of Cuban sandwiches. Really didn’t think I was going to find one of the best in Southern California. Amazing from the meat to the bread to the press. Impressive! Update: In St Pete’s Beach and found Columbia Restaurant in Tampa Bay which claims to be the place where the Cuban sandwich was invented, very good but not as good as El Cubano!
Food: 5
Service: 5
Victor Rios
I was looking for a local mom and pop restaurant to support, something different. The food was amazing, like SO! delicious
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Cindy Perez
Authentic Cuban food, incredibly delicious! I will keep going back again and again. Que bueno
What a cute little hole in the wall ! I loved every bite.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Fricase De Pollo, Tostones, Breaded Chicken
Renae Smith (Yosemite Hotspot Rentals)
Very good food, will be back. Ordered the chicken bowl, Yuca Frita fries (my new favorite fries), & Papas Rellenas "potato ball" (delicious).
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Brian Keefer
We love Cuban food, but unfortunately there aren't many Cuban restaurants in San Diego. We visited El Cubano for the first time, and it was excellent. We tried 3 different plates (Ropa Vieja, Picadillo, and Chicken), and all 3 were outstanding. It is located in an area that I would describe as an open air food court with several small restaurants situated around a common outdoor seating area. We will gladly go back to El Cubano in the future. I want to try the Cubano Sandwich next time!
Kid-friendliness: Kid friendly with outdoor seating and plenty of room for kids to run around.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Grilled Chicken
trixie Guth
This place was delicious. Went with a group of friends at nearly closing and they were gracious hosts!! They took great care of us! The cubano was juicy and delicious. We tried several dishes and were just blown away with the portions the flavors and the price. The black beans and rice yum!! We brought a friend visiting from Cuba and he said it tasted like home.😋Didnt realize I liked Cuban food but now I can recommend it to anyone. Enjoy El Cubano, truly a “hidden gem”💍
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Hayley West
Picked up food for my boyfriend's birthday surprise- everything tasted amazing! Loved that I could place an order over the phone and grab it fresh 20 min later. Staff was friendly and welcoming.
Excellent food!
$2.50 fee to order online feels like a lot, would probably come 2-3x as often if I could order without calling
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
We left feeling light and happy.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
I ordered the Fricase de Pollo, and it did not disappoint. The chicken was juicy, tender, and full of flavor. The rice, served with black bean soup, was equally satisfying—the beans were rich, creamy, and well-seasoned. The maduros (Cuban fried plantains) were an unexpected highlight, sweet and caramelized, and they reminded me of Filipino-style Banana Cue. Overall, I really enjoyed the lunch and will definitely be coming back to try more dishes.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 4
Service: 4
El Cubano offers an authentic taste of Cuba right in the heart of town. From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted with a warm, inviting atmosphere that transports you straight to Havana. The highlight of the menu is undoubtedly their signature Cuban Sandwich, which truly lives up to its reputation. The sandwich features tender, roasted pork, flavorful ham, melted Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, all nestled between freshly baked Cuban bread. The bread is perfectly toasted, providing a crisp exterior while maintaining a soft, hearty interior. Each bite delivers a harmonious blend of savory, tangy, and smoky flavors, making it a satisfying experience.
Aside from the sandwich, El Cubano impresses with its authentic decor and friendly staff who are passionate about sharing Cuban culture through their cuisine. Their attention to detail, from sourcing quality ingredients to preparing everything fresh, makes a significant difference. The portion size is generous, offering great value for the price. Whether you're craving a quick lunch or a relaxed meal, El Cubano’s Cuban Sandwich is a must-try and undoubtedly one of the best in town. It’s a flavorful journey worth taking!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
I have been going to El Cubano since it's humble beginnings as a food truck and a dream. Delron owner of El Cubano always had a line on the sidewalk forming and for good reason. This is the best Cuban you will find around, all the wonderful blends of sweet and savory, crispy and crunchy in all the right ways will make every visit a treat.
Making the trip is worth the drive, walk, run, whatever.
Don't miss a chance to try, their menu is the best way to get a taste of Havana in Carlsbad
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Really good! I had the supreme cubano, I believe it was a special, not sure if it is an every day item. I am only giving 4 stars just due to portion size for the price. The food came out quick for how busy it was and it was hot/fresh. I only ordered the sandwich so I did not get to try their chips. Would recommend. Nice seating area here.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Comfort food at its finest, chefs kiss! Closest thing to a home cooked meal. Everything tastes fresh and always served HOT!
Food: 5
I grew up in Hudson county New Jersey and frequently visit Miami/ south Florida so I have had my share of Cuban sandwiches. Really didn’t think I was going to find one of the best in Southern California. Amazing from the meat to the bread to the press. Impressive!
Update: In St Pete’s Beach and found Columbia Restaurant in Tampa Bay which claims to be the place where the Cuban sandwich was invented, very good but not as good as El Cubano!
Food: 5
Service: 5
I was looking for a local mom and pop restaurant to support, something different. The food was amazing, like SO! delicious
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Authentic Cuban food, incredibly delicious! I will keep going back again and again. Que bueno
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Restaurantji Recommends
What a cute little hole in the wall ! I loved every bite.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Fricase De Pollo, Tostones, Breaded Chicken
Very good food, will be back. Ordered the chicken bowl, Yuca Frita fries (my new favorite fries), & Papas Rellenas "potato ball" (delicious).
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
We love Cuban food, but unfortunately there aren't many Cuban restaurants in San Diego. We visited El Cubano for the first time, and it was excellent. We tried 3 different plates (Ropa Vieja, Picadillo, and Chicken), and all 3 were outstanding. It is located in an area that I would describe as an open air food court with several small restaurants situated around a common outdoor seating area. We will gladly go back to El Cubano in the future. I want to try the Cubano Sandwich next time!
Kid-friendliness: Kid friendly with outdoor seating and plenty of room for kids to run around.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Grilled Chicken
This place was delicious. Went with a group of friends at nearly closing and they were gracious hosts!! They took great care of us! The cubano was juicy and delicious. We tried several dishes and were just blown away with the portions the flavors and the price. The black beans and rice yum!! We brought a friend visiting from Cuba and he said it tasted like home.😋Didnt realize I liked Cuban food but now I can recommend it to anyone. Enjoy El Cubano, truly a “hidden gem”💍
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Picked up food for my boyfriend's birthday surprise- everything tasted amazing! Loved that I could place an order over the phone and grab it fresh 20 min later. Staff was friendly and welcoming.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
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