If you find yourself near Dania Pointe, shopping in Boca, or cruising through Plantation, you are in luck. You are less than 10 minutes away from a restaurant that has been systematically defining Cuban excellence in South Florida for decades.

Located in some of the most vibrant hubs in the region, Padrino’s Cuban Cuisine is a family-run clinic in hospitality and high-quality comfort food.

A Legacy of Excellence

For me, a great meal isn’t just about the plate; it’s about the legacy. For over 50 years, the Padrino family has been serving up exactly that. What began as a small food market in 1930s Cuba has blossomed into a third-generation, family-owned collection of restaurants that I—and many other locals—consider the gold standard for Cuban cuisine.

The SoFloDining “Must-Tries”

The Standard-Bearer — Caldo Gallego: Before we talk about the mains, I have to mention the Caldo Gallego. I have had this homemade white bean soup at every Padrino’s location, and it is consistently one of the best I’ve ever had. It’s a testament to their skill; whether you’re in Boca Raton, Plantation, or Dania Pointe, that soup hits the mark every single time.

The Ultimate Starter — The Cuban Combination: If you’re bringing a group, let me tell you: you have not lived until you’ve had the Cuban Combination. It’s the definitive way to kick off a meal—loaded with Mariquitas, Croquetas de Jamon, Picadillo Empanadas, Fiesta Tostones, and that signature Black Bean Salsa.

Chef Dan’s Favorite — Cha Cha Chicken: During our recent late lunch visit to the Dania Pointe location, this was the standout. Imagine perfectly grilled chicken and caramelized onions topped with melted mozzarella, all tucked between hot-pressed Cuban bread. It is a rich, savory experience that stands out even among their legendary lineup.

Doris’ Favorite — The Truffle Pig: Doris absolutely swears by this one. It features slow-roasted shredded pork drizzled with honey truffle and topped with crispy fried onions on hot-pressed Cuban bread. It is phenomenal and definitely a top-tier choice for those looking for a modern twist on classic flavors.

The “Impeccable” Factor

While the food honors its 1930s roots, the service is what truly sets this visit apart. In an era of automated service, the staff here provides a personal touch that is hard to find. On this visit, the service was absolutely impeccable. From pulling out the seat for Doris to the server’s perfect timing—allowing us the right amount of time to browse the drink menu before taking our order—every detail was spot on.

I don’t say this lightly; with over 200 reviews under my belt, this is one of the very few times I can say the service we received was flawless.

Traveler’s Note: Location & Convenience

If you’re looking for authentic Cuban dining near FLL or the surrounding suburbs, skip the chains. Padrino’s offers a high-end experience in a vibrant, welcoming setting that remains remarkably easy on the wallet for the level of craft they put into the food.

  • Dania Pointe Address: 149 SW 7th St, Dania Beach, FL 33004
  • Proximity: ~10 mins from FLL Airport / Port Everglades
  • Vibe: Modern twist on classic Cubano style
  • SoFloDining Tip: Don’t overlook the standbys like the Arroz Relleno, Vaca Frita, or the Camarones al Ajillo.

The Verdict: In a competitive dining landscape, Padrino’s remains a powerhouse. We’ll definitely be coming back—to the Daina Pointe location!