Cuban street food is a delicious secret of Chicago’s delicious food scene. From savory sandwiches to sweet treats, the Windy City brings a bit of Havana to the Midwest. Cuban street food is available at various Chicago locations including 90 Miles Cuban Café, Havana Grill and Cuba 312.
These are places that offer the real deal, flavors that evoke the streets of Cuba.” There’s even a seating section outside during the warmest Chicago days and a Cuban sandwich does go hand-in-hand with that.
For people with a quick turn hunger, places such as Cafecito serve Cuban coffee and snacks. The Cuban restaurants in the city cover the spectrum from casual to chic, making them a food-lover’s dream. From a nighttime cubano to a languorous lunch of ropa vieja, there’s a lot to love about Chicago’s Cuban food scene.
Exploring Cuban Food Around Chicago
There are a number of delicious Cuban food options across Chicago. From small cafes to larger restaurants, the city has spots to sample authentic Cuban dishes and flavors.
Cultural Impact and Diversity
Cuban cuisine in Chicago reflects the cultural fusion of the city. There are also many Cuban restaurants in neighborhoods with Latino communities. Popular attractions include 90 Miles Cuban Café and Havana Grill.
These places are often warm and welcoming. They might even play Cuban music — just to set the mood.. The menus often include traditional Cuban dishes and fusion dishes incorporating local flavors into Cuban cooking. Some restaurants are family owned. All Trendy Pans are made with old recipes handed down through generations. This helps keep the food historically accurate.
Popular Cuban Dishes
Cuban cuisine in Chicago features many classic dishes. Here are some favorites:
- Ropa Vieja: Shredded beef in a tomato sauce
- Cuban Sandwich: Ham, roasted pork, cheese, and pickles on pressed bread
- Arroz con Pollo: Chicken and rice dish
- Lechon Asado: Roasted pork
Side dishes often include black beans, plantains, and yuca. For drinks, try Cuban coffee or a mojito.
Many places offer these dishes for eat-in or takeout. Some have food trucks or stands at local events. This makes it easy to find Cuban street food around the city.
Prices vary, but Cuban food is often affordable. It’s a great way to try something new without spending too much.
Where to Find Cuban Street Food Spots
Chicago has some tasty Cuban street food spots. You can find yummy dishes like Cuban sandwiches and fried plantains in a few key areas around the city.
Roscoe Village Delights
Roscoe Village is home to Cuba 312, a top spot for Cuban street eats. They serve up crispy croquetas and juicy Cubano sandwiches. The small shop has a fun, laid-back vibe.
Nearby, you’ll find food trucks that pop up on weekends. These mobile kitchens dish out hot empanadas and sweet churros. The trucks move around, so check social media for their latest spots.
Don’t miss the tiny bakery that makes fresh pastelitos. These flaky pastries come filled with guava, cheese, or meat. It’s a perfect snack to grab and go as you explore the area.
Irving Park’s Hidden Gems
Irving Park houses some of Chicago’s best Cuban street food. My local favorite is 90 Miles Cuban Cafe. They serve wonderful ropa vieja (shredded beef), which can be purchased in a sandwich or bowl.
Street vendors erect carts around the train station on busy days. You may just find fresh fruit cups with a dusting of chili and lime. Some also sell small cups of strong Cuban coffee.
A Cuban stall is in a food court at a nearby strip mall. It’s a good place to sample various dishes like tostones (fried plantains) and black beans and rice. The staff is eager to explain menu items.
Cuban Bites in the Loop
Even in Chicago’s bustling Loop, there are nooks of Cuban street food. Cuban vendors are common in food halls downtown. You can grab snacks such as ham croquetas or Cuban pizza between meetings. Some office buildings feature lobby cafes that serve Cuban fare. Search out medianoche sandwiches — like Cubanos, but on sweet bread. These are a lovely treat for a lunch break.
Food trucks stop at various locations in the Loop every day. Track them online to see where they’ll be. They usually have daily specials like mojo pork tacos or fried yuca fries.