Padrino’s (Boca Raton)

AMAZING!!! This is the most authentic and delicious Cuban food in the Boca Raton area. Anything you order is absolutely delicious. The service is fantastic and the food is nothing short of perfection. It’s like my grandmother is cooking in the kitchen. As far as drinks, I highly recommend a Cuba Libre or any one of their Mojitos. My favorite appetizers are the Fiesta Tostones which are hand pressed green plantains, topped with creole chicken or chorizo sausage, cheese and fresh cilantro tomato salsa. I also recommend the Croquetas de Jamon, ham croquettes that are of course, house made.

For our main courses Doris had the Lechon Asado, slow roasted pork, seasoned with citrus mojo and topped with sautéed onions. Served with Congri’ and yucca. For those not familiar with the names of the dish, Congri’ is mixed rice and black beans. When she finally came up for air, all that Doris could come up with was one word, AMAZING! I ordered the Palomilla which is marinated minute steak topped with sautéed onions, served with Fried Sweet Bananas and Congri’, again, simply delicious. The presentation of both dishes was very appealing and not over the top.

The atmosphere and service was fantastic and the food amazing. Our server, Thaynann, was friendly and very attentive. I have been here many times over the years for many family meals and I have always experienced the best quality service. This was my first time back at Padrino’s since they remodeled, but it won’t be my last. In the front they now have a brand new “Cuban lounge” area with a fully appointed bar. The dining area looks open, clean, inviting and reminiscent of Havana in its heyday.

My mother turned me on to Padrino’s I believe it was back in the late 90’s when they had a stand in the Festival Flea Market food court. I remember it because it was the only stand that was always busy. My father and I would park in the back of the building and we would place our order in a small separate dining area that they had. Usually I’d buy 3 or 4 Cuban sandwiches to take back home with me to NJ.

This is not an exaggeration because without a doubt the food here is consistently good and the service always on point. My advice to everyone, do not miss the experience in this restaurant, not only are the employees amazing but the food is too, everything was excellent. The service was very efficient and everything delivered and removed in a timely manner. The staff is so team oriented that once a dish is ready to be served; the next available server picks it up and brings it to the table for your server who may be assisting another customer. Reservations are highly recommended, be sure and make them several days in advance. This place is deservedly popular as well as very conveniently located in Mission Plaza at 441 / 7 and Glades. This restaurant is the best in the City. I cannot wait to go again.