A favorite Boca Raton landmark, The Cuban Café Restaurant has been a bastion of food excellence for almost two decades. The kitchen’s penchant for quality and sophistication has pleased devoted followers from all walks of life.
Proprietor Anamaria P r a d a a t t e n d s simultaneously to both management and food preparation at the front end (husband Jorge Mejia was not on site at this time) while Chef Mauricio Salazar is the kitchen’s creative force. From start to finish, the staff treats patrons with the utmost courtesy and promptness without the slight trace of haughtiness or indifference.
The dining area is effortlessly stylish and features a high counter at its center. Tables are arranged with ample space to provide a maximum degree of comfort and ease of conversation. From her vantage point behind the counter, Anamaria directs the seating as well as dispenses a range of specialty coffees, fabulous homemade sangria ($4.50/glass), imported wine and other beverages.
We arrived for lunch on a weekday in early October when one would expect a only a smattering of snowbirds and famished locals To our astonishment, the restaurant was overflowing with chic couples, young families and an assortment of professionals fortunate enough to have jobs. It obviously has become a destination for patrons who are looking for superior quality.
The menu offers a spectacular array of flavorful starters. Choriazo Espanol ($5.95) features a heap of tangy Spanish sausage simmered in a bracing sauce harboring sautéed onions and crisp bell peppers. It was an unexpected treat and a huge success. Sopa Gallego ($2.95/$3.50) described as “white bean stew” is a hearty soup that is absolutely satisfying and delicious. Yuca con Mojito ($4.75) features a super-abundance of crisp scrolls of yucca accompanied by vibrant salsa and mojito
Entrees will impress with their enticing textures and flavors. Lamb in Red Wine Sauce ($9.95/’lunch) delivers a succulent shank immersed in a magnificent sauce that enhances every morsel of the fork tender lamb. Fillet of Pescado al Ajillo ($9.95/lunch) is another indisputable winner with its gently sautéed portion of snapper energized by a masterful garlic sauce. Each main comes with a variety of sides and is also available as a dinner course.
Desserts are also quite appealing. The Chef’s Flan ($4.25) wows with its satiny texture and insistent flavors. Sips of Cuban Coffee ($1.50) and Cafe con Leche ($2.50) will improve your outlook even if you are obliged to return to work.
Enjoy multi-course Early Birds Monday thru Friday from 4 to 6 pm for only $12.95. The Café can provide accommodations on site for incomparable parties or cater any type of event. For more information, log onto www.cubancafe.com
3350 N.W. Boca Raton Blvd.
(Tel) 561-750-8860 Mon-Fri: 11:30am-9pm Sat: 4:30-9pm