TLDR
Authentic Cuban food & lively atmosphere near Times Square. Praised for empanadas, Pernil, and Cuban sandwiches [1]. Great for pre-theater or happy hour.
Instagram Posts References
Havana Central is praised for its authentic Cuban dishes, offering a memorable dining experience. The reviewer highlights their extensive menu, including highly recommended empanadas, amazing Pernil (slow-roasted pork), and a "gooey" Cuban sandwich. The restaurant features a happy hour on weekdays from 3 to 7 PM, with drinks under $10 and half-price empanadas. Beyond the food, the ambiance is described as transporting, with perfect decor, and the staff is singled out for being super kind, accommodating, and attentive, significantly enhancing the overall visit. The daily menu is also lauded for its quality.
Details
Havana Central offers a vibrant and energetic dining experience with authentic Cuban cuisine, perfect for a pre-theater meal or a lively night out. The restaurant is noted for its delicious empanadas, amazing Pernil, and a 'gooey' Cuban sandwich. With a transporting ambiance and exceptionally kind and attentive staff, it provides a memorable dining experience [1]. The daily menu is lauded for its quality, and they also feature a happy hour with drink specials and half-price empanadas on weekdays.
Food Overview
The restaurant is celebrated for its authentic Cuban dishes, with standout recommendations including empanadas, Pernil (slow-roasted pork), and a 'gooey' Cuban sandwich [1]. They also offer a Mango Salad described as 'chef's kiss' and a Tres Leches cake for dessert. Happy hour includes half-price empanadas [1].
Highlights / Recommended
"Highly recommended dishes include the empanadas and the Pernil (slow-roasted pork). The Cuban sandwich is also noted as being 'gooey' and a must-try [1]."
Customer Sentiment
Customers generally have a positive experience, highlighting the authentic Cuban dishes, lively ambiance, and friendly, attentive staff. The food is frequently praised, with specific recommendations for empanadas and Pernil [1].
Caveats
One Reddit user noted that while Havana Central is tasty, it can be considered 'touristy-fied' [4]. Another described it as good, convenient for theater, but not NYC's 'best cuisine.' [1]
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About HAVANA CENTRAL
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Something Easy Lunch Or Dinner For 2 Demoralized
"Havana Central is a fun restaurant in the area with good food and a lively atmosphere."
PositiveFrom post: Looking For Places Named After Other Locations
"Havana Central was listed as a restaurant named after another location."
NeutralFrom post: Where Can I Find Cuban Food In The Times Square
"Havana Central is mentioned as a recommendation for Cuban food in the Times Square area, though noted as being 'touristy-fied' but still tasty."
PositiveFrom post: Best Iconic Times Squaretouristycant Miss
"Havana Central is listed as a kid-friendly restaurant option near Times Square."
PositiveFrom post: Need Help Finding A Restaurant
"The commenter suggested Havan Central as a potential option for hosting a private breakfast event for a large group."
NeutralFrom post: Prebroadway Lunch With Kid Sister
"Havana Central was described as having good Cuban food in a large, energetic space, solid and convenient for theater, but not NYC's "best cuisine.""
Neutral