Raleigh's Best Cuban Restaurant [Updated 2026]

After diving into the vibrant flavors and rich culture of Cuban cuisine, I’ve had the pleasure of reviewing 12 top locations around town. Each place brings its own twist to classic dishes, leaving me with a full belly and a heart full of stories. With years of experience exploring the culinary landscape and countless taste tests under my belt, I’m thrilled to guide you to the spot that truly stands out.

Whether you’re a longtime aficionado or new to the wonders of Cuban food, I promise you’ll find something to love. From mouthwatering ropa vieja to the perfect café con leche, let’s discover where Raleigh’s heart beats strongest when it comes to Cuban cuisine!

Lechon Latin BBQ & Bar

Highlights
Authentic lechón BBQ
Crispy, flavorful plantains
Warm, inviting atmosphere
Tender, juicy roasted pork
Recommended for BBQ lovers

Lechon Latin BBQ & Bar offers a delightful escape to Cuba right in the heart of Raleigh. As soon as I walked in, the warm and inviting atmosphere enveloped me, setting the stage for what would be a lip-smacking culinary adventure. I couldn't resist starting with their authentic lechón BBQ, and let me tell you, it was nothing short of spectacular! The tender and juicy roasted pork melted in my mouth, showcasing the expertise behind the grill.

But the real star of the show? Those crispy, flavorful plantains! They were a perfect accompaniment to the rich main dish, adding that delightful crunch and sweetness that balances everything so well. As a self-proclaimed BBQ lover, I can confidently recommend Lechon as a must-visit destination for anyone in the area craving Cuban flavors.

Whether you're a fan of savory dishes or just on the hunt for something new, this restaurant has something for everyone. So, gather your friends or a loved one and indulge in some of the finest Cuban cuisine that Raleigh has to offer. Trust me, Lechon is a fiesta for your taste buds!

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Falls River Cafe

Highlights
Great food and service
Delicious Dominican breakfast
Shaded patio dining
Friendly and attentive staff
Tasty beef empanadas

Falls River Cafe in Raleigh is a delightful gem that’s perfect for those craving a touch of Cuban magic. As I stepped inside, I was immediately enveloped by the rich aromas wafting from the kitchen, a precursor to the culinary adventure that awaited me. The service was refreshingly attentive yet unobtrusive, setting a warm tone for my meal.

The real star of the show? The delicious Dominican breakfast! It was a vibrant mix of flavors that truly captured my heart. Between bites of perfectly seasoned dishes, I found myself enamored with their beef empanadas—crisp on the outside and packed with juicy goodness inside; they were simply irresistible!

Dining on the shaded patio made the experience even better. It wonderfully complemented the laid-back vibe, allowing me to unwind as I savored each bite.

The staff's friendliness added a personal touch, making me feel right at home. If you’re seeking a spot that serves up flavorsome Cuban fare and a charming atmosphere, Falls River Cafe is not to be missed! I left feeling thoroughly satisfied and eager to return for another taste of their delightful offerings.

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Che Empanadas

Highlights
Delicious carne empanadas
Friendly and helpful staff
Great hot sauce option
Located in food hall
Perfect for snacks

Che Empanadas: A Delightful Cuban Adventure in Raleigh

Nestled in a lively food hall, Che Empanadas takes your taste buds on a vibrant journey to Cuba with each bite. I was immediately greeted by the friendly and helpful staff, who made me feel right at home. The menu boasted an array of options, but I couldn’t resist the delicious carne empanadas. Upon taking my first bite, I was transported to culinary bliss! The flaky pastry enveloped savory meat, seasoned to perfection, and made for a snack that was both hearty and satisfying.

What truly elevated my experience was their great hot sauce option. Just a drizzle brought a delightful kick that danced on my palate, enhancing the already incredible flavors of the empanada.

There’s something enchanting about enjoying such authentic Cuban cuisine in a vibrant food hall setting. Che Empanadas is not just a restaurant; it’s a cozy corner of Havana in Raleigh. Whether you're looking for a quick snack or a delightful meal, Che Empanadas is truly a gem that captures the essence of Cuban culture and flavors. I can't wait to return for another round of those irresistible empanadas!

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koki - Creative Puerto Rican Kitchen

Highlights
Fresh Made to Order
Great Wall Art
Must-Try Empanadas
Latin Music Vibe
Clean Scenery

Koki - Creative Puerto Rican Kitchen Review

The moment I stepped into koki - Creative Puerto Rican Kitchen, I was greeted by an immersive ambiance that perfectly encapsulates the lively spirit of Latin culture. The great wall art caught my eye, each piece telling a story of its own, setting the perfect backdrop for my culinary adventure.

Now let’s talk about the food! Koki prides itself on serving fresh made-to-order meals, ensuring that every bite bursts with flavor. I couldn't resist trying their must-try empanadas; these delightful pockets of goodness were crispy on the outside and packed with a savory filling that left me craving more. Each bite was a tantalizing celebration of taste!

As I savored my meal, the Latin music vibe added a lively rhythm that made the experience feel even more authentic. I appreciated the clean scenery offered within, allowing the food and ambiance to take center stage without distraction.

While Koki focuses more on Puerto Rican cuisine, the vibrant atmosphere and delicious offerings make it a worthy spot to explore for those in search of Cuban flavors too. If you're in Raleigh, treating yourself to Koki may just be the leap into flavor you've been looking for!

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Guasaca South American Grill - North

Highlights
Delicious and tasty food
Clean dining environment
Variety of arepa bread options
Similar style to Chipotle
Needs improvement in service

At Guasaca South American Grill - North, I was greeted by a lively atmosphere that instantly boosted my spirits. The vibrant colors and clean dining environment set the stage for what was to come. Delicious and tasty food is the main attraction here, and they do not disappoint!

I dove into a selection of arepa sandwiches, each filled with generous portions of savory meats and fresh toppings. Choosing from their variety of arepa bread options was a fun adventure in itself; it reminded me of a Chipotle-style build-your-own experience, except with a tantalizing South American twist. Each bite was a fiesta of flavors, from the smoky pulled pork to the zesty chicken.

However, this experience wasn’t without its hiccups. The service left something to be desired; the staff seemed a bit overwhelmed during lunchtime. Despite this, the quality of the food more than makes up for the sluggishness.

If you’re looking for a casual dining spot with satisfying Cuban flavors, Guasaca is a must-try. I left feeling satisfied and excited to return for more of their mouthwatering offerings!

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La Casa Del Sabor Food Truck

Nestled in a vibrant corner of Raleigh, La Casa Del Sabor Food Truck packs a flavorful punch that transports you straight to Cuba. The juicy lechón is a standout—tender, well-marinated, and fabulously crispy on the outside. Don’t miss their signature Cuban sandwich, with layers of savory goodness that are simply divine. The lively atmosphere and friendly staff add to the charm, making each visit feel like a celebration. Whether you're a longtime fan of Cuban cuisine or a curious newcomer, La Casa Del Sabor is a must-try gem that delights the palate and warms the heart.

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Casa Cubana

Casa Cubana in Raleigh is a delightful gem that transports your taste buds straight to the heart of Cuba! The moment I stepped in, the vibrant atmosphere enveloped me like a warm embrace. The Ropa Vieja was a standout – tender, shredded beef bathed in a luscious tomato sauce, bursting with flavor. Equally impressive was the tostones, perfectly crisp with a hint of garlic. The staff exuded warmth and passion for their cuisine, making each visit feel like a family gathering. If you’re hunting for authentic Cuban fare, Casa Cubana is a must-visit delight that you won’t want to miss!

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Casa Restaurant & Rum Bar

The moment I stepped into Casa Restaurant & Rum Bar, I was greeted by a vibrant ambiance that instantly transported me to Cuba. The flavors here are nothing short of extraordinary—the Ropa Vieja was tender and infused with spices that sang! Don’t skip the mojitos; they're refreshingly sublime, accentuating the meal perfectly. The staff was warm and engaging, making my visit feel like an evening among friends. Casa is not just a meal; it’s an experience—an inviting escape into the heart of Cuban culture right here in Raleigh. If you crave authentic Cuban, you simply must indulge in Casa.

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Aroma de Cuba

Aroma de Cuba is an absolute gem in Raleigh's culinary scene! From the moment I stepped in, the vibrant atmosphere whisked me away to the lively streets of Havana. The Ropa Vieja was tender and bursting with flavor, while the Yuca Fries had the perfect crispy edge—simply irresistible! The friendly staff made me feel like family, enhancing the already welcoming vibe. Don't skip the flan; it's a heavenly finish that left me dreaming of my next visit. If you’re craving authentic Cuban cuisine, Aroma de Cuba is a delightful escape that will leave your taste buds dancing!

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Havana Spin

During my delightful visit to Havana Spin, I was instantly captivated by the vibrant atmosphere and the tantalizing aroma of authentic Cuban cuisine wafting through the air. The Ropa Vieja was a standout—tender, shredded beef swimming in a rich, flavorful sauce that danced on my taste buds. The Tostones were crispy perfection, providing a delightful crunch to complement the soft, savory rice. Service was warm and inviting, making me feel right at home. Overall, Havana Spin is a must-visit for any lover of Cuban food, delivering both flavor and flair in the heart of Raleigh!

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Carmen's Cuban Cafe & Lounge

Carmen's Cuban Cafe & Lounge is a vibrant gem in Raleigh that transports you straight to the heart of Cuba! From the moment you step in, the colorful decor and upbeat music set a delightful mood. I indulged in the classic Ropa Vieja, which was tender and bursting with flavor, accompanied by fluffy white rice and savory black beans. The signature mojito was refreshingly perfect, balancing sweetness and mint with finesse. To top it off, the staff provided warm, friendly service that made me feel right at home. For anyone seeking an authentic Cuban experience, Carmen's is a must-visit!

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La Cocina De Mama Greta

La Cocina De Mama Greta in Raleigh is like stepping into a warm hug from abuela. The moment I walked in, the tantalizing aroma of sizzling garlic and spices enveloped me. I savored the Ropa Vieja, which was an absolute standout—tender, flavorful, and perfectly accompanied by rice and plantains. Don’t skip the Cuban sandwich, either; it’s a true delight. The vibrant décor adds to the experience, making it feel both lively and welcoming. Overall, Mama Greta delivers authenticity and warmth, making it a top contender for the best Cuban restaurant in Raleigh. A must-visit!

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