The Absolute Best Cuban Restaurant in Charlotte [Updated 2025]

Having personally reviewed twelve Cuban restaurants across the city, I've developed a keen understanding of what makes a truly authentic experience.

From traditional dishes bursting with flavor to vibrant atmosphere that captures the essence of Cuba, each spot offers its own unique twist.

Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Cuban cuisine or a newcomer eager to explore, I’m here to help you navigate your options.

Join me as we uncover the hidden gems and popular favorites, and discover where to find the best Cuban food Charlotte has to offer!

El Puro Cuban Restaurant

Highlights
Beautiful outdoor ambiance
Tasty coffee martini
Excellent vegetarian options
Perfect brunch menu
Convenient online reservations

El Puro Cuban Restaurant is a true gem tucked away in the heart of Charlotte. As I stepped into this vibrant establishment, I was immediately captivated by the beautiful outdoor ambiance—perfect for those balmy Carolina evenings. The charm of the surroundings set an excellent tone for what was about to become a culinary feast.

I started with their signature coffee martini, and oh, what a delightful concoction! Rich and sophisticated, it’s the ideal drink to kick off an evening of indulgence. For brunch, I was pleasantly surprised by the variety of excellent vegetarian options. It’s refreshing to see a Cuban kitchen embrace plant-based dishes without sacrificing authenticity.

Not only did the flavors transport me to the sunny streets of Havana, but the strategic brunch menu made my dining experience even more enjoyable. From perfectly sautéed plantains to savory ropa vieja, each bite felt like a mini-vacation. One of the best parts? The convenience of their online reservations meant I could plan my visit without the hassle.

In a city filled with diverse flavors, El Puro stands out as my top recommendation for the best Cuban restaurant in Charlotte. Simply unforgettable!

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Havana Carolina Restaurant & Bar

Highlights
Excellent customer service
Authentic Cuban cuisine
Great Mojito specials
Live music on weekends
Beautiful cafe decor

Havana Carolina Restaurant & Bar is a delightful gem that transports you straight to the heart of Cuba, right from your first step inside! The atmosphere is instantly inviting, thanks in part to the beautiful cafe decor that gives a warm, vibrant feel, perfect for both casual diners and those looking to celebrate a special occasion.

What truly sets this place apart, though, is the excellent customer service. The staff is friendly, welcoming, and eager to make your dining experience memorable. They effortlessly guide you through the menu, offering recommendations that are spot on!

Now, let’s talk about the authentic Cuban cuisine. The dishes are bursting with flavor, and the classics like Ropa Vieja and Vaca Frita are must-tries. Pair it with one of their delightful Mojito specials, and you’ll experience a taste of Cuba that dances on your palate.

To top it off, the restaurant features live music on weekends, adding a lively touch that makes the ambience even more enjoyable. Havana Carolina is not just another restaurant; it’s an experience that captures the essence of Cuban culture right in the heart of Charlotte. Don’t miss out!

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Suárez Bakery & Barra

Highlights
Handmade croquetas
Flavorful black beans
Perfectly prepared maduros
Delicious plant-based options
Great cafecito and dessert

Review of Suárez Bakery & Barra

Stepping into Suárez Bakery & Barra feels like a warm embrace of Cuban culture right here in Charlotte. As I approached, the tantalizing aroma of freshly made croquetas dancing through the air beckoned me inside. These handmade treasures delivered a crisp, golden exterior with a creamy, seasoned filling that left me craving more.

What truly caught my attention, however, were the flavorful black beans—each bite was a comforting reminder of home-cooked Cuban meals. Complementing the beans were the perfectly prepared maduros, their sweet, caramelized edges making them the ultimate sidekick to any dish. My meal was further elevated by their selection of plant-based options, which are as delightful as they are thoughtful, catering to a broader audience without compromising traditional flavors.

Let’s not overlook the brew! Their cafecito was rich and robust, the ideal pick-me-up. To top it off, I couldn’t resist indulging in their dessert that was as sweet as the experience itself. If you’re hunting for a spot that feels like a slice of Havana, Suárez Bakery & Barra is undoubtedly one of Charlotte's shining stars in Cuban cuisine.

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Miami Fusion Cafe Denver NC

Highlights
Delicious Cuban food
Exceptional customer service
Fresh ingredients used
Strong, flavorful cocktails
Soft and chewy Cuban bread

Miami Fusion Cafe Denver NC is truly a hidden gem! From the moment I stepped in, the vibrant atmosphere wrapped around me like a warm Cuban breeze. You can’t help but feel excited as the aroma of delicious Cuban food fills the air. I was particularly impressed by the fresh ingredients that enhanced each dish, bringing authentic flavors right to the table.

The Cuban bread was soft and chewy, a perfect companion to the rich, savory dishes I indulged in. I opted for the Ropa Vieja, and let me tell you, it was a flavor explosion! Every bite was tender and seasoned to perfection.

And let’s not forget about the cocktails! They mixed me a delightful mojito that was both refreshing and robust—definitely not shy on flavor.

Moreover, the customer service was exceptional; the staff was friendly and attentive without being overbearing. They treated me like family, making my dining experience even more enjoyable.

In a city brimming with eateries, Miami Fusion Cafe stands out as a top contender for the best Cuban restaurant in Charlotte. If you’re in the mood for authentic Cuban cuisine, this is the place to go!

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Bulla Gastrobar

Highlights
Great customer service
Accommodating staff
Light and filling dishes
Well-thought-out desserts
Flavorful food experience

Review of Bulla Gastrobar

As I stepped into Bulla Gastrobar, I was instantly embraced by the vibrant atmosphere that feels both lively and welcoming. The customer service here is nothing short of exceptional—every staff member was accommodating and ready to make recommendations if I found myself indecisive, which, let’s be honest, is a common predicament when faced with so many delicious options!

I opted for some of their lighter yet fulfilling dishes, and each bite was a celebration of Cuban flavor. The balance of spices was spot-on, igniting bursts of taste that danced on my palate. But it was the dessert that truly took me by surprise—each selection was well-thought-out, blending traditional flavors with a modern twist that left me craving more.

Overall, my experience at Bulla Gastrobar was nothing short of delightful. From the flavorful food to the vibrant ambiance and attentive service, it’s undoubtedly one of the best places to enjoy Cuban cuisine in Charlotte. If you're looking to indulge in a culinary adventure, this spot should definitely be on your radar! The spirit of Cuba is alive and well, just waiting for you to savor.

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Bohio Tipico Restaurant

Highlights
Amazing tamales
Phenomenal ox tail
Large portions
Great Dominican food
Hidden gem

Bohio Tipico Restaurant: A Hidden Gem in Charlotte

Stepping into Bohio Tipico Restaurant is like embarking on a delightful culinary journey to the heart of Cuba. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle, this little gem offers a menu that could make any food lover swoon, and believe me, it did. One standout dish that made my taste buds dance was the amazing tamales. They were moist, packed with flavor, and had just the right amount of spice to keep things interesting.

But the real showstopper was the phenomenal oxtail. Each bite seemed like a lavish hug from the dish—a rich, savory experience that left me wanting more. And let’s not forget about the generous portions! When they say large, they truly mean it—good luck finishing an entire plate unless you bring your appetite.

The menu also features some great Dominican food, giving diners a taste of diverse flavors. The warm and inviting atmosphere made me feel at home; I truly felt embraced by the delightful sounds and aromas wafting through the air. If you’re searching for the best Cuban restaurant in Charlotte, look no further than Bohio Tipico Restaurant—it’s a delectable discovery you won’t want to miss!

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A Piece of Havana

A Piece of Havana in Charlotte is a delightful oasis of Cuban flavor that captures the vibrant spirit of the island. As soon as I stepped inside, the aroma of marinated meats and fresh herbs filled the air, enticing my taste buds. The Ropa Vieja was a standout—tender, savory, and cooked to perfection, it practically melted in my mouth. I also adored the yuca fries, which added a perfect crunch to the meal. The lively decor and friendly staff made me feel right at home. If you're craving authentic Cuban cuisine, this spot is a must-visit!

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Calle Sol Latin Café & Cevicheria

My recent visit to Calle Sol Latin Café & Cevicheria was nothing short of delightful! The vibrant atmosphere instantly transported me to the heart of Cuba. Their Ropa Vieja, tender and flavorful, was a standout dish that danced on my taste buds. Pairing it with a refreshing Mojito elevated the experience to new heights. I loved the attentive staff, who were both friendly and knowledgeable about the menu. The Ceviche was a zesty revelation—perfectly marinated and bursting with freshness. If you're seeking a piece of Cuba in Charlotte, Calle Sol is a must-visit gem! 🍽️✨

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Azucar

During my recent visit to Azucar, I was transported straight to Havana with every bite. The ambiance is vibrant and welcoming, making you feel at home from the moment you walk in. I savored their Ropa Vieja, which was tender and bursting with flavor—each forkful was a savory delight! The mojo sauce drizzled on my meal added a zesty kick that danced on my palate. Don’t skip the flan; it’s the perfect sweet ending. Overall, Azucar captures the heart of Cuban cuisine with a modern twist, making it a must-visit for anyone craving authentic flavors in Charlotte!

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Havana Carolina Cafe

Havana Carolina Cafe is a delightful find that transports you straight to Cuba! The vibrant atmosphere and charming decor set the stage for an unforgettable culinary journey. I savored their Ropa Vieja, a tender, shredded beef dish that was both rich and flavorful, paired perfectly with their mojo sauce. The plantains were crispy, providing the ideal contrast to the savory entrees. Don’t miss their Malanga fritters – they are simply divine! The staff was warm and welcoming, enhancing the overall experience. For a taste of Cuba right in Charlotte, Havana Carolina Cafe is a must-visit!

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Punta Cana Dominican Restaurant

Though its name suggests a Dominican flair, Punta Cana offers a delightful twist of Cuban influences that left me craving more. The vibrant atmosphere envelops you as you step inside, making it a perfect spot for both casual dinners and special occasions. I savored the Ropa Vieja, which was tender and bursting with flavors, paired with perfectly cooked Arroz Congrí. Each bite was a dance of spices on my palate! The service was warm and welcoming, further enhancing the experience. While not exclusively Cuban, this hidden gem certainly deserves a mention in the quest for the best Cuban restaurant in Charlotte!

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Azucar Cuban Restaurant

During my delightful excursion to Azucar Cuban Restaurant, I was swept away by the vibrant atmosphere and the tantalizing aromas wafting from the kitchen. The serve-them-hot empanadas were crispy wonders, perfectly complemented by their house-made mojo sauce. The standout dish, however, had to be the Ropa Vieja—tender, flavorful, and offering a classic taste of Cuba that transported my palate straight to Havana. The staff radiated warmth and hospitality, making each moment feel like a family gathering. If you’re craving authentic Cuban cuisine, Azucar is a must-visit gem that delights both the stomach and the soul!

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