The delights of Cuban food are many: perfect cafecito (sweet espresso) or steaming hot café con leche at bargain prices, a pressed sandwich filled with garlicky roast pork, and affordable and fortifying plates of white rice and black beans, often mixed together in a signature dish called Moros y Cristianos (“Moors and Christians”).
Once upon a time neighborhoods like Chelsea, the Upper West Side, Astoria, and Corona were paved with Cuban cafes, though Union City, New Jersey still is. Sadly, the number of working class Cuban lunch counters in the city has dwindled, though with the recent renewed interest in Cuba, more upscale places have appeared.
Here is a guide to the best spots located in and around New York City, according to Eater senior critic Robert Sietsema — from the best place in town, Rincon Criollo, to a Times Square restaurant with old-timey decor.
Note: This map is arranged geographically from north to south.
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