- Attraction: El Cubano
- Location: 870 Dodd Rd, West St. Paul, MN 55118
- Industry: Cuban Restaurant
- Website: https://elcubanorestaurante.com/
Picture this: tender, citrusy roast pork melting in your mouth while you’re seated under a charming thatched-roof table in suburban Minnesota.
El Cubano transforms a quiet corner of West St. Paul into a vibrant slice of Cuba and the Dominican Republic, delivering authentic Caribbean flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to Havana.
This family-owned gem opened in 2019 after transitioning from a popular food truck, bringing genuine Cuban and Dominican cuisine to the Twin Cities area.
The restaurant consistently earns rave reviews from visitors who praise its authentic flavors and generous portions, making it a must-visit destination for anyone craving real Caribbean comfort food.
Must-Try Menu Highlights
The Legendary Cubano Sandwich: You’ll discover a perfect, classic specimen with a crisp crust, juicy, citrusy pork, pickles, ham, Swiss cheese and a swipe of yellow mustard. Each sandwich arrives with golden yuca fries and their signature mojito dipping sauce that’ll have you licking the plate clean.
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Keep Exploring →Sancocho Stew: This traditional Cuban and Dominican stew includes a kitchen sink of meats — beef, pork and chicken — and is loaded with vegetables. The broth carries a subtle sweetness from pureed squash that creates the most comforting bowl you’ll ever taste. You’ll find yourself craving this hearty, nutritious meal whenever you’re feeling under the weather.
El Guajiro Platter: At just $10.95, this platter features that incredible roast pork served with rice, black beans, fried plantains and a salad. The mojo-marinated pork practically falls apart with each bite, while the sweet plantains provide the perfect caramelized contrast.
Bistec Encebollado: The thinly sliced steak topped with sautéed onions delivers rich, savory flavors that showcase traditional Cuban cooking techniques. You’ll get the full meal treatment with all the classic sides that make each bite feel like a celebration.
Empanadas & Appetizers: The beef and cheese empanadas pack more flavor than the chicken and cheese variety, offering flaky pastry shells stuffed with perfectly seasoned fillings. The croquetas and papa rellenas provide authentic Cuban street food experiences that’ll keep you coming back for more.
Specialty Sides: The tostones (twice-fried plantains) arrive golden and crispy, while the yuca fries offer a delightful alternative to regular fries. The perfectly prepared rice and beans become so delicious they could easily stand alone as a meal.
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Discover MoreAtmosphere & Outdoor Dining
Charming Thatched-Roof Seating: The excellent outdoor dining area features attractive thatch-roofed tables that create the perfect Caribbean ambiance. You’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a tropical paradise while staying right in Minnesota.
Cozy Interior Spaces: The restaurant sports two tiny but comfortable dining rooms that provide intimate seating when outdoor dining isn’t an option. The space feels attractive inside and out, with a very nice vibe throughout.
Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The business maintains a family-run feel where you’ll receive service with a smile. There’s a lot of love and care put into the food, creating an environment where you’ll immediately feel welcomed and appreciated.
Casual Counter Service: You’ll order at the counter and have your food delivered to your table, making the experience both efficient and personal. The outdoor seating, ideally at one of those thatch-roofed tables, is definitely the place to be.
Other Considerations
Exceptional Value: The food is priced very well for the quality and quantity you receive. Prices remain very reasonable across the menu, with generous portions that often provide leftovers for another meal.
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Keep Exploring →Parking & Location: You’ll find adequate street parking available, and the restaurant sits on a little wedge where Dodd Road and Annapolis Street meet. If you can’t find a spot in their small parking lot, street parking works perfectly.
Hours & Timing: The restaurant operates Tuesday through Thursday from 11am-7pm, and Friday-Saturday from 11am-8pm. They’re closed on Mondays and Sundays, so plan your visit accordingly.
Takeout Friendly: The restaurant is well set up for quick turnaround and pickup, making it perfect for grabbing authentic Cuban food on the go.
Authentic Experience: The restaurant truly captures the essence of Cuban and Dominican culture in their food, offering what many consider the most authentic Caribbean cuisine in Minnesota.
El Cubano
📍 870 Dodd Rd, West St. Paul, MN 55118
