Let’s get familiar with the Cuban lunch restaurant menu.
Today, I’m identifying some basic Traditional Cuban lunch restaurant menu options. You can find variations of these treats at other Caribbean lunch restaurants like Puerto Rican, Dominican or Jamaican restaurants. Each country has their own unique recipes. These Cuban dishes are easy to make at home as well – you can find some great versions on my Recipes page.
Medianoche: The sweeter cousin to the world-famous Cuban sandwich, this is a signature Cuban cafe staple. Sweet ham, sliced or pulled pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, mustard and butter, pressed and toasted to perfection in a Challah-inspired roll. This sandwich translates to Midnight, because it’s a popular night-owl snack, but a good Medianoche will leave you happy, regardless of the time.
Tostones: Tasty double-fried green plantains are served with a squeeze of lime and a pinch salt, but go best with my Garlic Mojo. This cheap treat is packed full of crunch and flavor. If you crave a sweeter plantain instead, try Maduros, where the green plantain ripens to a much sweeter flavor. Most Caribbean countries abundantly use plantains as a staple in their cuisine, and I am forever grateful to have tried many delicious Plantain dishes.
Empanadas: These are everyone’s favorite traditional Cuban lunch! Golden-fried turnovers filled with meat, chicken, or ham. They’re the perfect treat for parties, beach visits and an on-the-go snack. Empanadas are a worldly item and can vary from the many Latin and Caribbean countries. These Cuban ones were crunchy on the outside, juicy and meaty on the inside. Perfecto.
Let me know if you’ve got a favorite Cuban lunch treat, I’d love to hear what you’re eating!
Try my Empanadas, Medianoche and Garlic Mojo recipes, coming soon!
