Cubita Café

Cubita Café is an absolute gem in Nutley! From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted with warmth, great vibes, and the aroma of something amazing cooking in the back. Their award-winning empanadas live up to the hype—my personal favorite is the Oxtail Mac (seriously, it’s life-changing, make your inner child smile 😊). Rich, flavorful, and perfectly crispy on the outside. The Ropa Vieja is another standout—tender, savory, and packed with authentic Cuban flavor. You can tell everything is made with love and real attention to detail. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or sitting down for a full meal, Cubita Café delivers every time. Can’t recommend it enough!

Been wanting to go to this spot for a min. Finally went today. The place was cool. Really liked the biggie on the wall. Music was dope. We loved the Pan con Bistec it was perfect and wasn’t heavy. I also had a couple of empanadas and a papa rellena. Loved it and will go back. Now I wanna open a Cuban spot.

Cool little cafe staff was friendly and the food was good. I got a small coffee which was strong but not too bitter. The empanadas were good too. Got one with guava and cheese, the Cuban sandwich and the chimmichuri chicken. The only thing that was missing was the pickles. Empanadas were thick. The side sauces were great. One was filled with garlic which was amazing. Will definitely come back to try more of their menu.

This place is really really cool. Great decor. The girl that handles the orders at the front one I went in amazing a really hard worker blown away by her service The sandwiches are delicious but nothing out of This world I did have a specialty sandwich with a guava mustard, but I don’t know if they put that in there because he did not taste any different than the regular Cuban sandwich . They were absolutely delicious. Either way, and I am Cuban lol

From one business owner to another fellow business owner, this is an awesome place. The business owner is very passionate about his business. Everything’s always clean and neat. The food is excellent and I go there to decompress. It’s a great environment with great people!! Cubita for life !!!

I decided to give this Cuban bakery a second try because the food is decent, but once again, the customer service left me really disappointed. I ordered food and coffee, and they completely forgot the coffee. What made it more frustrating is that the person who helped me only spoke Spanish — which is totally fine because I speak Spanish too, so there should have been no confusion. Still, my coffee was never prepared, and there was no apology, no acknowledgment, nothing. It felt like my order just wasn’t taken seriously. When you go to a local spot, especially one that should pride itself on hospitality, you expect a basic level of attention and care. That was not my experience. I left feeling dismissed and frustrated. The food is okay, but the lack of accountability and poor service makes it hard to want to come back. I hope they work on customer service — it’s just as important as what’s coming out of the kitchen.

Got a chance to meet the owner Gus. He is extremely friendly and his team prepares amazing food. The empanadas were delicious and the coffee was excellent. Will be back soon.

Had a great Cuban sandwich over here for lunch. My big complaint was the salad which they give on the side with an entree or at additional cost with sandwich. As you can see in the picture, they made me pay $5 for a salad with old lettuce, sliced tomatoes and onions with no dressing. I have had better quality salads from halal food carts at lesser cost. I would suggest not selling/providing salads if you don’t want to take it seriously. Edit after the owners comment: I have never gotten mayonnaise as a salad dressing. I thought it was provided as a side to my sandwich. I disagree, the lettuce did not seem fresh to me but I understand that it is according to your standards.

The establishment is vibrant, great hip hop music was playing in the background. Service was wonderful as well!! All the empanadas I've had from here were excellent, the fried rice one, the oxtail mac and cheese, all of them too many to name, but I've had at least 6-7 of them m. Just wonderfully seasoned and made. However, to me to Classic Cuban is one of the bests that I've had in a long long time. Everything was damn good!! My only regret was that I only got one!!

I was immediately greated upon entering the store. I needed a few minutes to decide what to get and the person at the front was really helpful in answering all my questions. I ended up getting the Maduro and cheese empanada, guava and cream cheese empanada, and Oreo empanada. I wasn't crazy about the guava and cream cheese empanada - in my opinion it was overstuffed, but the Oreo empanada was one of the best things I've ever eaten!!! The place is really cool! The menus are all handwritten on a black dry erase board and neon colors and there's bar-like seating on the wall so you wait/eat your small bites. I can't wait to back and try some of their sandwiches

Came here while in town on Memorial Day, after a town event. We were able to find abundance of parking. We were greeted by a very kind gentleman at the register. We ordered the Coquito latte, chimichurri chicken empanada, chorizo egg and cheese empanada, pan con bistec, and Cubits breakfast Sammy. Everything was tasty, delicious and came out warm. We loved the old school hip-hop vibe of the Cafe. Very unique and inviting spot with wonderful service. Definitely returning for additional tasting

Food porn bucket list checked off! Ive had my eye on this spot for awhile, and glad i finally made my way here. Honestly, this wont be the last time either. I cant stop thinking about the shrimp with garlic rice. this had me smiling. i am a hater, and let's face it, empanada spots are a dime a dozen now, but this one was incresibly impressive. Why is this spot unique? The crust, the flavor, and how full each one is. The flakey to gently fried shell of each empanada is what helps hold in these heavy, but tasty little meals. the flavor was on point for all 3. i did favor certain ones over the others, but i didnt hate any. each one i had (4 in total), had layers and levels of seasoning. arroz con leche: end your meal with this one. its perfect on its own too. the rice is cooked well, but its not too sweet. i love how unique it is, because although i love guava and cheese or your regular nutella empanada, theyre played out. this one killed. chicken: felt like a chicken stew, good flavor, but i didnt fall in love with it. i know this is a greatest hit, but i just didnt fall in love with it. i think i want more of the chicken to come through. however, i loved how full it was and loved the seasoning overall. also, i was gifted this for free by the owner, which is always appreciated. everything bagel with cheese: tasty and unique. i love the seasoned shell. this murdered. the cheese inner was nice, but i feel it might need 2 types of cheese? not sure, but the inner was underwhelming compared to the outter. im sure the bacon egg n cheese is a different animal and lives up the hype. shrimp with rice and garlic: oh my lord. im coming back for this alone. its filled. shrimp comes through. the garlic creeps on you. rice is cooked well. its delicious in every bite. the shells holds it in. the place itself is small, narrow, but great for a quick snack. seems like a good take out spot too. theres maybe 3 small tables, open concept so you can see them cooking, and an area with a hightop area in the front. the smoothies are tasty too! ask for the 2 side sauces to dip yours in, but im warning you..each empanada had so much flavor, the sauce isnt needed. staff is welcoming, friendly and really happy to talk to you about the food. cant wait to come back!

I have been meaning to get here , and I finally had some time to escape work. I ordered online for pick up, the specialty cuban and breakfast empanada with pork roll. The empanada was delicious, I wish it had some more pork roll in it (it was a little under done too) but the egg was cooked perfectly, and the dough was super fresh, flaky soft yet crispy. The addition of the everything seasoning really made it feel like a bagel. The specialty cuban was fantastic as well. Locally sources iberic ham was a great addition to the pork. The pork was slightly dry , but overall it had great flavor. The bread was great as well and held up as it should.

Cubita is the place to come for the best coffee and empanadas. Yes, their sandwiches are delicious but for me - a cafe con leche and a chicken empanada is the way to go. All their coffee is great, the cortadito, the coquito latte. You can't go wrong, it's strong delicious coffee and it's hand crafted to perfection. The empanadas have the perfect crispy shell and jam packed with flavor and ingredients. The chicken and the platano maduro are my favorites. I've tried all of them and my boyfriend loves the breakfast empanadas and the Cuban as well. I still have to try their arroz con pollo one day. I also find street parking is easy and the staff is super friendly. The interior is laid back with some really fun decor. I'm very happy this place is close by. It's my go to for a coffee pick me up and a little indulgent savory treat. Oh and don't forget the sauce for the empanadas - delicious!

Food: 5 out of 5. The chicken chorizo empanadas was so delicious and well seasoned. The Cuban sandwich was amazing as well, honest can prob be split between two people. Taking a bite into the sandwich you could tell it was home made. The maracuja shake with water was also refreshing. Service: 5 of 5 the employees here were super friendly and patient. They were helpful in answering any questions we had about the menu. Ambiance. Space isn't too big however you can def come here to sit and have a quick lunch.

PROS: The staff is very nice, food is fresh and good, menu variety is plentiful and it's priced well, it's clean inside, there's street parking and a lot behind it. CONS: They were slow with making the coffee and the place is cramped inside OVERALL: This is by far the best empanada place ive ever been to. I will be coming back

Cubita is a stylish, welcoming spot with bold Cuban flavors. The empanadas are packed with flavor, and the Cubano sandwich is perfectly pressed and delicious.

the food was okay... for something left out for hours!! also the "head chef" is a complete a hole and also doesn't even make the food on his own menu? yeaaa save time n hit whatever is close to it!

Stopped in for what my friends were telling me is the best Cuban sandwich around these parts & im here to tell you it's no lie!! This sandwich is constructed perfectly with the correct bread and ingredients you can tell that are prepared with pride and love for what they do. The empanadas are also made from scratch including their dough. The one I had was with Madura and Swiss cheese (yum). If you have even the slightest hankering for a Cuban sandwich then come straight to Cubita and see for yourself.

So many different types of empanadas, I need to try them all. Their sandwiches are delicious and their guava ice cream special was life changing.

Cubita is Cuban only by ownership. Sandwiches are served on bread crust (no chew in the bread) and are very Americanized. If you stick a Cuban flag pick into a Big Mac that doesn't make a Cuban burger. Empanadas are average in size and creativity, no Cuban flair. It took 20 minutes to make 2 cups of coffee with minimal walk in clientele. If they put as much focus on the food quality as they do with music they try to entertain with the food would be much better. A third of the meat portion of Ropa Vieja dish was squishy (unappetizing) chopped up fat. The high sodium level will have you drinking plenty of water afterwards. This concept has potential but just requires some fine tuning of food quality and preparation, also team coordination. A lot of shouting between kitchen and front area due to music level. Service is friendly and accommodating just not coordinated. Seating is adequate for breakfast or lunch stop. They can't accommodate a group more than 4 people. Decor is on point displaying Hip Hop with a Cuban influence. Don't understand this fusion but it's creative. GOOD LUCK GUYS!

I've been meaning to come here for a minute but it wasn't in the cards until today. I got a cafe bombon and it was just right. The ratio of espresso and condensed milk was perfect, just perfect. I got four empanadas: platano maduro with cheese, guava and cheese, bacon-egg-and-cheese and chorizo-egg-and-cheese. My go-to empanada growing up has always been a guava and cheese, you know, the traditional one. I have to say, the untraditional ones really won me over. The platano one is the runner up and the winner was the chorizo-egg-and-cheese. I would've never have predicted this. They were so sweet and savory and overall really well-crafted. They look compact but they are stacked on the inside. Chef's kiss. I'll be honest, I've paid $4-$5 for "artisanal" empanadas that lacked flavor, an actual stuffing and creativity. So I came here with somewhat of a hesitation but an open mind. I'm glad optimism prevailed because these were delicious. I'll be back for a sandwich next time.

Service is excellent , Cuban sandwich was authentic!! The food was amazing. Must try!! Not for big groups , more for takeout but so worth it!!

Ok so I went back to Cubita Cafe and had a nice conversation with the owner. Young guy and has a passion for good food. He told me that he changed up how he makes the Cuban. I will say this, the sandwich is NOT dry by any means. The bread was nice and crispy, the meat was very moist. The pappa Rellena was tasty as well.....real potatoes very good. The Croquetas had a nice smoked ham flavor and were moist. Bottom line a definite stop. I had a cortadito (espresso with a little bit of steamed milk) think mini cappuccino. I even got to sample his chicken and rice. I would've eaten the whole pot 'cause it was that good.

I UberEats a breakfast order and while delicious, I would not suggest such a heavy meal for breakfast. Instead, save it for lunch. Got the Cubita Cuban sandwich and the loaded fries. Both were very tasty and full of flavor but HEAVYYYY--from the gruyere cheese and all the sauces used. I enjoyed it but would not recommend ordering the loaded fries with a cuban sandwich, just too much haha. Would definitely order from here again.

Delicious. Love the twist on the sandwiches by using plantains! Everything was fresh and tasty.

In the heart of Nutley is a hidden gem stone, an adorable scratch made kitchen cuban cafe. inside has the coolest artwork and decor, definitely hip hop vibes! I had a cortado which was so strong and beautifully made. I also tried the bacon egg and cheese, beef, and cheese empanadas, wow I have never tried an everything empanada before, the taste was just incredible. And every bite was even cheesier than the last ! My friend and I also shared the Cuban sandwich, one of the best I ever had, secret is in the sauce for sure. Last we shared the tres leches, so creamy and delicious you can tell it was made with love, we will definitely be back !

First ever I've heard of breakfast empanadas and what a creative delicious idea! Costs a bit more than common ones but I think these will fill you up nicely & well worth it. I tried the chorizo & the bacon egg n cheese. They will stuffed empanadas which I greatly appreciate! Gosh with egg & such beautiful layers! What a kewllll empanada. Beware these sell out quick they say so make sure to get there early before late morning. Their decor btw is super dope. Besides Biggy on the wall, my favorite is the golden piggy in the bathroom I definitely recommend & look forward to trying more things here.

An amazing hidden gem! The food is absolutely amazing and the staff is very friendly! Highly recommend this place especially the empanadas! Best ive had!

Amazing food, friendly staff and awesome atmosphere. Surprised there's not a line out the door all day long!

Came in while it was a slow morning. Got a Cuban sandwich empanada and a Guava and cheese empanada. I am team Guava&Cheese girl all the way I love this combo but their savory empanadas are great as far as the flavors I got to try. The Cuban sandwich you cannot get without the Garlic Aioli, it's a MUST! Gives it a little something extra. Try this place, they heat up the empanadas in a toaster oven which gives them the fresh out of the oven taste and feel, very nice touch. Need to come back to try their sandwiches! Service was good but I'll need to see them on a busy day.

So I checked this place out after reading an article on NJ.com about their breakfast empanadas. I so badly want to give this place five stars, but I am going to give them four, and try them again in a few months. I think I went in with high expectations because I love Taylor Ham, Egg, and Cheese and I love empanadas and the idea of combining those with everything seasoning was so exciting, but if I'm being honest, they were just good not great. My friend also agreed. This place is absolutely adorable. The shop is clearly redone with a cute coffee bar in the front and a few small tables in the back. Service is excellent. What disappointed me: You can only order two of the same empanada. I don't see the point of this unless they just want you to order more which is what happened. I wanted to try the Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Everything Empanada and the Taylor Ham, Egg, and Cheese Everything Empanada. Two empanadas is $6.00. The Empanadas were smaller than I imagined and there could be more meat and cheese inside and less egg to give it more flavor. I also wish the meat was cooked a little more to add to the flavor complexity. If the proportions were more balanced, I would have given this five stars. What I loved: This place is adorable, good vibes. Service is excellent. The creativity with the food. The price point is pretty reasonable. I got four empanadas and a coffee for $17 and that fed two people. The Cafe Con Leche was good! This is a fairly new business and it seems promising. I hope they'll be receptive feedback and continue with their creative ideas. It is worth checking out, but I'm not sure I would go again unless someone asked me to. I will go back in a few months to review again. I also hope they will add their menu online!

One of the perks of my work is getting to travel in NJ and getting to try new spots just like this one! Walked in and was nicely greeted and given a scope of what food was being served. It's Cuban food with a twist but also some American classics with a Cuban twist. That said, I went with two empanadas (one was beef and another was sweet plantain with cheese). Served up with a nice chipotle sauce that had a nice kick to it. Went along great with my Diet Materva (Cuban soda). The empanadas were delicious and not greasy (which is usually the case when you go to most other places). Definitely will be back to try their sandwiches and other items for sure.

A while back i tried to get a job here after i got laid off from wingstop. They accused me of taking money from the till. The owner of this place said he aint tryin to have a juggalo lookin mf up at the register and im too much of a distraction. I said my music is a whole nuther genre of clown based music. He gave me an empanada on my way out. That ish was fire. Go here

Let's talk about Cubita. My initial experience here was not a great one and my review sparked some ire from the owner and we exchanged words back and forth a few times. At one point, he offered to buy my lunch and I told him I would return, I didn't want a free lunch, but I would come back and try his food again. I am really glad that I did. This time around, it still smelled when I walked in, but this time the aroma was intoxicating and delicious. My mouth was watering. I ordered a Pan con Bistec once again but this time I asked them not to use the Aioli, I just wanted the Pan con Bistec, no lettuce, no tomato, caramelized onions, and swiss cheese; to place the papitas (the potato sticks) on the side. They also gave it to me with Pan de Media Noche. Which is not common, but for me - huge points. I saw a few things I missed the first time around and ordered those too. First, let me point out that I made a mistake. I originally did not notice they made a standard Cuban sandwich for $14. I thought it was only the more expensive Cubita version with the expensive ham and gruyere cheese. Having both of those options makes total sense. Folks can buy a sensible sandwich or go for the higher end version for a few more bucks. That mistake is on me. I saw they had a cold brew, which is no big deal, but it also said: "Tres Leche Whip Cream" -- Now I'm intrigued. Plus I ordered a normal serving of Tres Leche cake. Which I am eating at the moment. It's the best one I've had in the area. Wow! That's all I had ordered. I was waiting for some time, and then I finally met the owner after I was asking about him and asking the young attendant why it seems like a lot of the Cuban items are hidden throughout the cafe. Meeting Gus, after a number of our exchanges, I was expecting someone very different. To say simply he won me over would be accurate; but really, the food won me over and made me a customer that will keep coming back. I invited him to sit with me while I had my lunch, and we chatted. There was a gentleman and another woman who came in after me and somehow they got their pan con bistec first. I thought was odd, but easily understandable if it was an online order that was technically ahead of mine. I had only just ordered in person. It took about 20-25 minutes. But part of me thought for a moment: "Is it possible they give this gentlemen my Pan con bistec?" I'm not sure if that is what happened, but they did give me a version of the sandwich that was not at all what I ordered. With the owner sitting with me at my table. They politely went back and corrected the sandwich. There were still two mistakes. The young lady asked me if I wanted chimichurri, originally in my order. This is not normal for a pan con bistec, but if you know what chimichurri is, you're not likely to refuse it on any type of steak. However, I did not realize it was a chimichurri aioli. Thankfully, they did not put it on the sandwich it was on the side. I think they heard me talking to Gus when I said I don't want stuff like that on my food. My sandwich also did not have the swiss cheese. Like I said...this was a small blessing in disguise. If anything, I think it helped me drill home the point I was trying to make to the owner about overdressing his food. Let me tell you, that pan con bistec is quite possibly one of the best I've ever had, and it was as plain jane as it could get. Bread, caramelized onions, and the high-quality prime grade meat - which is not Palomilla but was so tender, juicy, and flavorful I didn't care. Every bite was melting in my mouth. I never once had to fight or over-chew the sandwich. It was perfection. The swiss would have helped mellow some of those flavors. The aioli, garlic, chimichurri, or otherwise would have overpowered the meat. As it did for me the first time around. Gus... Your food is fucking delicious (to poorly quote Action Bronson). "It's fucking delicious!" Don't hide your food behind a ton of extra. Let people taste the passion and love you have for Cuban food! I'd advise others to order the aioli on the side and you can dip your sandwich 'Au Jus' style. This pan con bistec is a bit more expensive than the usual you'd get elsewhere, but this was absolutely worth it. Now, while we were sitting, Gus offered me an empanada, and as much as I kept saying no thank you, he kept offering. He has a new jersey style Taylor sandwich as an empanada and has an empanada dough made up in the style of everything bagels. He gave me one of those with chorizo and egg and cheese. In my previous review, I pointed out that some of the best empanada's I've had were unfair to compare to because they were in Miami. This was right up there if not better in flavor. It was game-changing. I'd come back just to have that. The cold brew I mentioned with the Tres Leche whipped cream was phenomenal. I don't mind being wrong. My first time there was just a weird experience. I was blown away today.

I just wanted tobwrite a quick review. My daughter's and I LOVE Gus and all the staff at Cubita cafe!! Every visit we have gone ,which is around 20x, the food is 100% on point!! Everyone should take a few minutes to grab an empedanda and a ququito latte!! Stop by Cubita cafe and grab some expends! Thanks​

Just stop by to try their new choripan sandwich. Absolutely delicious! Must try if you're looking for something satisfying and going to hit the spot.

Came here on a whim because I wanted Cuban coffee. Ended up also order the pan con bistec and it did not disappoint neither did the café con leche. My sandwich came out pretty quick however my coffee took about 30 mins. The guy at the register was on his own taking orders and preparing coffees. A man came in, maybe the owner or a manager perhaps and they were prepared coffee before my order was even prepared. Overall I enjoyed what I had and I look forward to coming back to try other menu items.

I loved loved loved my coffee. It was may favorite part of my purchase. I had the tres leches cold brew with homemade whip and caramel drizzle. I also loved the chorizo and egg empanada. My Cuban sandwich was just ok. The bread to meat ratio was off. I emptied ou one have off the sandwich and put it in the other half and then it was perfect.

Stopped in for some empanadas for lunch, being in the area. These are best empanadas I have had in a long time natural, didn't feel heavy and so good. Definitely loved the hip-hop decor around. Will definitely stop by again and pick up for an evening for the fam.

Price doesnt allow for 5/5... However taking the hit 1x , definitely deserved... Mamey shake was,awesome, coquiti coffee (no alcohol) very good flavors... Cuban Sandwich: if it was a little thicker or longer, they get 5/5... but it was a regular sized cuban from the 80's at 2023 14$ price (price dbles, size stays the same) HOWEVER with that said flavors were on point, pork seasonings wasnt salty or oily.... it was just right. Steak sandwich, same good flavors, potato sticks (baby fries) could have been more or thicker for price.

As a Nutley resident, I am so happy that Cubita opened here! I love to support independent local restaurants, so I was really eager to try this place. I have been here multiple times now, and I can say without a doubt that this place is special. I have spoken with the owner and some employees, and they just "get it". These are food people who love what they do, and it shows through their food. The empanadas are the best I've had and I've tried most of the varieties. The difference is that they make the dough fresh. It is outstanding. Honestly, every single one is delicious so try them all. The Cuban sandwich is exceptional. The bread is crispy, soft, and perfect. They had a plantanos maduros special and I can't understand how they got them so flavorful. Also, get a fruit shake. I had soursop and it was ridiculously good. You will not be disappointed with this gem. I look forward to eating here for years to come.

My son urged me to take him here since major hype was being played on tictoc. I took him for his birthday lunch. Parking wasn't bad . I parked in the rear of the building. We showed up the music was over powering. I ordered the Cuban sandwiches. Since these two clowns on tictoc hyped their flavor. They were 14 bucks each. I also ordered their dinner of pork for my hubby home. Was told the the wait was five minutes that later would turn into half hour. I ordered their other famous empanadas for the wait. They were flavorful however truth be told soggy. Finally the sandwiches came . My son wasn't impressed being we are fans of the polo (best Cuban sandwiches in nj)in Hudson co. There was no going back we ate them but Cuban sandwich's don't go with mayonnaise. They were smothered in mayonnaise. Partially cold I ended up just eating the ham and pork. Was it worth the wait , Hell no! It's overhyped and over priced as you will see in the pics provided. The bread isn't what a true Cuban uses. If you want to be authentic this bread and mayonnaise use is not it. Once I hit home my hubby was waiting for the dinner . Once he opened it the disappointment on his face said it all. To be nice now I warn anyone reading this . Don't believe the hype I'm really trying here Never ever again !!!! Question these media ppl with their reviews . Was it the worse no but is it worth it definitely NOT . The nutley diner sell a Cuban just as good and definitely less wait time. This business needs to improve its customers service . The music overpowers the environment. The staff needs to improve their skills and to keep it authentic use what these simple Cuban dishes all for. Otherwise, your just a nouveau attempt to Cuban food. The owner clearly doesn't comprehend constructive criticism. Gets all defensive lol Never said didn't like the music , I said the music was extremely loud. Both sandwiches had mayonnaise on them , again he's assuming they didn't because He's infallible lol . I don't care nor need this arrogant owner to make things right . I state the facts and have the receipt with pics etc . Enjoy your short lived business adventure Sir , this attitude gets you closed .

Stumbled on this place while scrolling on TikTok. This sandwich was amazing! Super flavorful, bread was toasted to perfection, every bite was delicious! Mango shake was super delicious and the coquito latte for the ride home was perfectly well balanced. Took some guava and cheese empanadas too, ugh those were perfect too! I highly recommend checking this place out, staff was awesome, super clean inside too!

Must have for any lover of Cuban food. The pan con bistec is second to none. The coffee is always on point. The owner is truly passionate about the quality of the food and honoring the Cuban traditions while elevating the

The food is phenomenal. You get what you pay for. The owner, Gus, is a great guy who always goes above and beyond for his customers. If you haven't given this place a try yet, I don't know what you're doing! Can't wait to visit soon again.

By far the best coffee and pan con bistec I've ever tasted! This place reminds me of the old school Union City/West New York Cuban spots that I loved growing up. Def recommend!

Excited to try this spot. We're a Cuban and Puerto Rican household and it's always hard to find good Cuban food, as it's started to lack in NJ. First off, the staff was 100% overwhelmed. We both have come from the industry, so we didn't mind it since you could tell the staff was stressed. I could definitely see how waiting 10+ min for someone to acknowledge you could bother someone and we could hear others chatting about it behind us. Food took over 30+ minutes to get to us; Cuban, croquetta preparada, 3 empanadas, fries and two batidos. The restaurant is set up where you feel like it's a quick service spot but it definitely is not quick. I think this could throw people off when coming in. When we finally got the food - it was worth the wait. One of the best Cuban sandwiches we've had in awhile and the best in NJ. My husband tore up his croquetta preparada and we loved the batidos. The empanadas were good but I think the sandwiches were the stars for sure. It's very pricey but right now with inflation everything is and with the quality of the ingredients I could understand how they have to charge this while prices are high. Maybe they'll adjust as inflation adjusts but you are buying what you pay for. We both could have finished the entire sandwich in one sitting but probably felt too full after. We saved one half of each and reheated it later and the sandwiches were still delicious. So we got two meals out of it!

Decided to stop and check this place out. Hubby got the beef and cheese empanada. I got the Cuban sandwich empanada. Hubby also got the espresso and for dessert we got the tres leches. Everything was very good. The garlic sauce that comes with the Cuban sandwich empanada is GREAT!!! Will definitely stop by again. Next time for the Cuban sandwich. The meat was very tasty in my Cuban sandwich empanada!!!

Ok so first of all, the food is top notch. The maduros - te la comiste making these. They're as good as my grandmother used to make them. The ropa vieja - coñó! The only negative is the service - and it's not that they're not nice. They ARE SO NICE. But it's just every time I go in there, they seem disorganized. Like they just opened & the staff seems overwhelmed by the volume. Which would make sense if it was new, but I was there six months ago and their ease behind the counter seemed completely unimproved since the last visit. That said, I'd still go back just for those maduros.

The iced coffee is addicting! And the special sauces for some of the empanadas are worth the trip alone. The platano empanada with the sauce is fire. Everyone's always friendly, it's one if my favorite local spots in nutley!

Finally got around to trying this place, and it is a lot smaller than I imagined. There's no seating, it's a cute grab-and-go kind of spot. I asked the girl at the register what was the most ordered sandwich, she said the Cubano. The guy next to her chimed in and said the chimichurri chicken empanada was the most popular one so I got that as well and for dessert the guava and cheese empanada. 1. I was really hungry so I started the chicken empanada in the car, flavorful. But I just felt like something was missing. When I got home I made a little mayo and Sriracha mix to dip.. and yes! If you're management here, I give you this idea free of charge, it was perfect with the dip. 3. The Cubano, it was okay. One side of my sandwich had a really thick cut piece of pork in there and it was a little pink on the inside which scared me so I pulled it out just to be safe. Soft bread, mustard was not overpowering. 4. I wish I had taken a bite of the guava and cheese empanada while it was still hot straight from the store, by the time I got home 10 minutes later and ate my other items the empanada dough was a little chewy. But the filling was good. Willing to go back and try other items since the place was nice, I like to support small/ local business, good staff...oh, I waited outside with my dog and the guy behind the register was nice and brought my food out to me, that was sweet.

The first time in the cubits cafe I had the Cuban sandwich and I asked for it to be a bit altered and unlike most places they were very gracious and accommodating. The sandwich was great! I also had in batido de trigo, croqueta and an espresso at the end. One of the best Cuban cafe meals I've had in NJ!

One time i went up there and had me a empanadas i ask the guy behind the counter if it was safe to have alot of them cuban coffees.. he said this is merica you can do whatever you want... thats when i knew i was dealin with a bad azz. Anway i had 3 of em i swear i seent gawd!

Great food. Great Service. Great Specials. Always a good experience and Chef Gustavo always has something new in mind for the next round of specials.

#AfterWeLawyerWeEat. #NewRestaurantAlert. #FirstTimerAlert. Cubita Cafe on Franklin Ave., in Nutley. Beautiful shop, well decorated with class and character. Owner was quick to provide some recs which I gladly took. Priced just right. Very happy I tried it out. Started off with their own custom Coffee Espresso. Had a Spicy Platano Maduro with Cheese Empanada. Then the Cubita Cuban (Roasted Pork, Gruyere, Locally Sourced Cured Ham, Pickle Relish, and Mojo) with a Side of Fries. Grabbed Oreo Empanadas on the way out. Wow. Check it Out!

Really good food. Stopped twice this week for lunch. Interesting and tasty empanadas and good prices. There's a big parking lot behind so very convenient for a quick stop