Kashif K.
Yelp
The food is delicious, the service is congenial, and the vibe is, well, interesting. Kuba Cabana seems to be trying to be a lot of things (Cuban restaurant, Mediterranean hookah lounge, cabaret) all at once.
The arroz imperial here is the best I've had yet. I think of it as the rich cousin of the Spanish paella. It's a rice casserole with cheese, saffron, shredded chicken, sweet and hot peppers, and peas, among other flavorful ingredients. The whole fried red snapper is also one of the best renditions of the simple pescatarian dish that I've had in recent years. The lobster thermidor is an interesting spin on the French classic, with an aji amarillo based sauce. I found myself wondering why they use Maine lobster rather than local Florida spiny lobster (at least when in season), but I enjoyed the dish all the same.
The toreja (Cuban French toast) is the perfect way to finish the meal. My personal favorite is the Timba (soaked in guava milk shake and topped with candied guava). I've been here for dinner and for Sunday brunch. The only difference I have noticed in the menus is that the brunch menu includes the delightful arroz imperial and a wider variety of torejas.
The service, as already noted earlier, is friendly and attentive. Special shout-out to Marlon and Raul!