A Taste of Havana in West Palm Beach: Consistently Exceeding Expectations 24/7

Doris and I recently found ourselves unexpectedly in West Palm Beach around late lunch time, and there was absolutely no question where we were heading. We stopped into Havana Cuban Restaurant on South Dixie Highway. There is something incredibly comforting in knowing that no matter the time of day or night, you can count on a place for unwavering, exceptional, authentic food quality.

Havana has been a staple of the West Palm Beach culinary scene since 1993, when founders Roberto and Debbie Reyes brought their family’s heritage to this corner. What started as a passionate dream has grown into a legendary local landmark, famous not just for its sit-down dining, but for its iconic, walk-up ventanita (window) at Dixie and Southern, which serves authentic Cuban coffee and delicious treats 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

To kick things off, Doris and I ordered from their Jugos Naturales (Natural Juices) selection. Doris chose the guava while I went with the mango—both were refreshing and vibrant. Of course, no visit here is complete without their signature pressed garlic bread. It arrives at the table warm, perfectly crisp, and is so delicious it practically serves as its own appetizer.

The Entrées

For her main course, Doris ordered the Bistec de Pollo a la Milanesa. This dish features a seasoned, boneless breast of chicken, lightly breaded and fried to a perfect golden brown, then topped with their special Spanish sauce, juicy ham, and melted mozzarella cheese. The portion size was absolutely incredible, only matched by the spectacular balance of flavors. Every element—the chicken, the savory sauce, the ham, and the rich cheese—complemented the next beautifully. It came accompanied by sweet platanos (plantains) fried to a golden perfection and tostones, which, when paired with their garlic sauce (mojo), made for a match in heaven.

I opted for a classic favorite: the Bistec de Palomilla. This thin cutlet of choice top round steak was seasoned and grilled to absolute perfection. It came finished with a generous mound of fresh grilled onions. It was incredibly savory and delicious. For my sides, I naturally went with the traditional black beans and rice, which I practically inhaled.

A Grand Finale and Past Favorites

Even though the portions here are wonderfully generous, we couldn’t resist wrapping up the meal with our usual dessert choice, the Tres Leches. True to form, the size of the slice, was generous enough for sharing, and it was the perfect sweet finish to a stellar lunch.

As we were wrapping up, I noticed at least eight party trays and six massive chafing dishes of food leaving the kitchen for a catering order. To me, seeing high-volume catering move through the doors like that is always the ultimate indicator of just how fresh the turn-over and ingredients are.

Reflecting on our previous visits, Havana never fails to surprise and delight. We’ve thoroughly enjoyed their Vaca Frita—tender, simmered beef marinated in Havana’s signature mojo sauce, then sautéed with fresh onions until it gets those beautiful, slightly crispy edges. On a past visit with my mother and cousin, we also ordered the Empanadas Sampler, a fantastic platter of mini beef, chicken, and cheese empanadas served with a stellar side of their signature chimichurri sauce.

I’ve even sampled their croquetas de jamon, and sandwiches, including the Pan con Bistec, featuring that perfectly seasoned top round steak, with sautéed onions, lettuce, tomato, and crispy potato sticks on hot-pressed Cuban bread. On another trip, I took a chance on the Especial de West Palm Beach—a hearty press of ham, turkey, bacon, Swiss cheese, lettuce, and tomato on Cuban bread. I admit that I was hesitant to order a turkey and bacon sandwich at a traditional Cuban spot, but it completely caught me by surprise. Seriously, it is an absolute must-try.

The Verdict

Every single time we visit, the service is impeccable, professional, and welcoming. The food is as close to “Grandma used to make” as you can possibly get. My only real complaint? I really wish they would open a location a little closer to us down in Broward County! Just as their website claims, they truly do serve the best Cuban food in town.

Restaurant Information

  • Name: Havana Cuban Restaurant
  • Address: 6801 S. Dixie Hwy, West Palm Beach, FL 33405
  • Phone Number: (561) 547-9799
  • Website: www.havanacubanfood.com
  • Hours: Main Dining Room open daily; Walk-up Window open 24/7