What do you get when you blend Cuban traditions with American nostalgia? Add a bit of Miami flair and you’ve got El Cuban Diner, an aptly named eatery in the heart of Little Havana. Taking over the former El Santo Taqueria, the compact restaurant has been transformed into a microcosm of 1950s Havana with retro signage, cherry-red furnishings and vintage Coca-Cola ads (plus a branded fridge full of glass-bottled sodas).
The vibe: Classic with a deep reverence for all things Coca-Cola, which had a strong presence throughout Cuba in the 1950s when the company’s operations were well-established. “More popular than Coca-Cola” is a known Cuban saying that points to the brand’s once-ubiquitous presence.
The food: A mix of diner classics and Cuban staples plus a handful of comfort dishes—think hot dogs, salads and hearty bowls. The Wagyu beef burger is excellent, as is the pepperoni pizza (unexpected but it works). The tuna melt—my go-to at any diner—did not disappoint.
The drink: El Cuban Diner features a full bar but save your drinking for dessert—the milkshakes here are worth it. The Strawberry Maria Cookie tastes like a sophisticated strawberry Nesquik and should be the first one you try.
Time Out tip: El Cuban Diner sits right in the middle of Calle Ocho, so it’s loud and lively—a good thing as far as we’re concerned.