In Miami, finding a decent Cuban joint is easy. In Atlanta, it’s trickier as places are few and far between. And the recent, sad closure of Kool Korners grocery in Midtown enhanced the belief that good Cuban cuisine is scarce. However, fear not. There are some real gems in the city. And thanks to some intrepid work at Metromix, we know the best places in town to get plantains, pressed sandwiches and black beans and rice.
Hankering for Cuban?
Despite recent closings, good Cuban cuisine can be found
By Matt Amato
Special to MetromixJanuary 13, 2009
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Las Palmeras
368 5th St NE - Atlanta404-872-0846
A piece of news: It’s sill open! According to the owner, a nearby competitor (we won’t say who, but you can guess by the addresses) spread the word that this 19-year-old neighborhood hangout had closed its doors. Given its Midtown location, nestled among the residences of Fifth Street, the spot is easy to miss. What makes it particularly appealing, however, is the little store next door, where many patrons buy beer, as Las Palmeras doesn’t have an alcohol license. So remember to bring your own booze. The food, served and prepared by friendly staff, is authentic and excellent. There are daily lunch specials, which can be enjoyed on the outside patio.
Papi's
216 Ponce De Leon Ave NE -
Atlanta
404-607-1525
Given its convenient Ponce location, Papi's has exploded in popularity since it opened a few years ago. Having started as a take-out place, it has expanded to a restaurant complete with full bar. Papi's, which has an excellent sandwich selection, still offers take-out and remains a Midtown favorite for lunch and dinner. Nights are also lively.
La Fonda Latina
2813 Peachtree St. - Atlanta404-816-8311
Strictly speaking, this eatery isn’t Cuban. Instead, its menu draws inspiration from many types of Latin cuisine. Nevertheless, the Cuban influence shouldn’t be understated. Black beans and rice, sandwiches, plantains—the island’s staples—are all on the menu, as well as a number of seafood dishes. The paella, a mixture of shellfish and sausage mixed with rice, is highly recommended by patrons. The two patios at the Ponce restaurant are also a huge plus.
Coco Loco Cuban & Caribbean Café
2625 Piedmont Road - Atlanta404-364-0212
This family-owned cafeteria-style restaurant, bedecked in bright colors, opened in 1988 and has remained a Buckhead favorite ever since. Most of the menu is Cuban-based but there are a number of other Caribbean items. Given the size of portions, prices are very reasonable. The atmosphere is also lively, and the free Wi-Fi, a perk not common among most holes-in-the-wall, encourages patrons to come for more than just dinner. Occasionally there’s live music and dancing, too.
Rey's Cuban Grill
3939 Hwy. 78 Suite 103 - Loganville770-554-4440
The suburbs (yes, Loganville) may not seem like a place to find authentic Cuban dishes. But it's worth the drive to this casual spot, which is known for its freshly made plantain chips. You'll also want to try the traditional meat dishes, as well as the classic Cuban sandwiches.
