Mambo's Cafe

Cuban restaurant · Riverside Rancho

Mambo's Cafe

Cuban restaurant · Riverside Rancho

4

1701 Victory Blvd, Glendale, CA 91201

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Mambo's Cafe by Infatuation - Reviews
Mambo's Cafe by null
Mambo's Cafe by null
Mambo's Cafe by null
Mambo's Cafe by null
Mambo's Cafe by null
Mambo's Cafe by null
Mambo's Cafe by null
Mambo's Cafe by null
Mambo's Cafe by null
Mambo's Cafe by null
Mambo's Cafe by null
Mambo's Cafe by null
Mambo's Cafe by null
Mambo's Cafe by null
Mambo's Cafe by null
Mambo's Cafe by null
Mambo's Cafe by null
Mambo's Cafe by null
Mambo's Cafe by null
Mambo's Cafe by null
Mambo's Cafe by null
Mambo's Cafe by null
Mambo's Cafe by null
Mambo's Cafe by null
Mambo's Cafe by null
Mambo's Cafe by null
Mambo's Cafe by null
Mambo's Cafe by null
Mambo's Cafe by null
Mambo's Cafe by null
Mambo's Cafe by null
Mambo's Cafe by null
Mambo's Cafe by null
Mambo's Cafe by null
Mambo's Cafe by null
Mambo's Cafe by null
Mambo's Cafe by null
Mambo's Cafe by null
Mambo's Cafe by null
Mambo's Cafe by null
Mambo's Cafe by null

Highlights

Mambo’s Cafe serves up bold, homey Cuban dishes like slow-roasted pork and crispy shrimp tostones, all in a cozy, music-filled spot.  

Featured in The Infatuation
Featured in Eater

1701 Victory Blvd, Glendale, CA 91201 Get directions

mamboscafela.com
@mambosla

$10–20 · Menu

Reserve

Information

Static Map

1701 Victory Blvd, Glendale, CA 91201 Get directions

+1 818 545 8613
mamboscafela.com
@mambosla

$10–20 · Menu

Reserve

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outdoor seating

Last updated

Jul 30, 2025

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@infatuation

The 11 Best Cuban Restaurants in LA

"To know Cuban food is to experience pork in all of its glory, whether it’s breaded, sliced in a sandwich, fried in chunks, or our personal favorite - slow-roasted to perfection. That’s where Mambo’s Cafe comes in, a Glendale restaurant (and occasional Latin jazz club) that specializes in roasted pork dishes with plenty of tart mojo. Rather than going on some spiel about the dozens of spices that make this massive hunk of pork something particularly special, we’re pleased (and kind of impressed) that the meat comes entirely unseasoned. Or at least at first. After hours of slow cooking in its own fat and juices, the tender meat is shredded, slapped on the griddle, and generously slathered in mojo sauce made from white wine, garlic, and tons of fresh citrus. The final product is a plate with rice, beans, sweet fried plantains, and chunks of shredded pork with crispy edges and plenty more sour mojo on top." - sylvio martins

https://www.theinfatuation.com/los-angeles/guides/best-cuban-restaurants-los-angeles
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@infatuation

Mambo’s Cafe Review - Glendale - Los Angeles - The Infatuation

"To know Cuban food is to experience pork in all of its glory, whether it’s breaded, sliced in a sandwich, fried in chunks, or our personal favorite - slow-roasted to perfection. That’s where Mambo’s Cafe comes in, a Glendale restaurant (and occasional Latin jazz club) that specializes in roasted pork dishes with plenty of tart mojo. Rather than going on some spiel about the dozens of spices that make this massive hunk of pork something particularly special, we’re pleased (and kind of impressed) that the meat comes entirely unseasoned. Or at least at first. After hours of slow cooking in its own fat and juices, the tender meat is shredded, slapped on the griddle, and generously slathered in mojo sauce made from white wine, garlic, and tons of fresh citrus. The final product is a plate with rice, beans, sweet fried plantains, and chunks of shredded pork with crispy edges and plenty more sour mojo on top." - Sylvio Martins

https://www.theinfatuation.com/los-angeles/reviews/mambos-cafe
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@eater

Seven Essential Cuban Restaurants to Try in Los Angeles - Eater LA

"Maybe it sounds odd, but Mambo’s makes tostones filled with shrimp and pico de gallo. The dish makes for a delightful fusion treat. They press tostones into small cups and fry them to a crisp." - Alejandro Benes

https://la.eater.com/2018/6/11/17449136/best-cuban-restaurants-los-angeles-guide
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@tripledfan

Episode: Family Style

Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives - California
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David M

Google
Came across this spot …. So glad we did. The food has the flavor, the dishes provided are big so get ready to share, and the coffee …. Brings me back to Cuba…. Worth the time and drive getting here from the OC. Definitely coming back with the friends….

litlvic5

Google
I want this place to be so good, and I keep going back because of the friendly efficient staff. The roast pork plate at Versailles is excellent, tender and flavorful. Here it's dry and stringy. I no longer live near a Versailles and keep hoping for this place to improve. Sadly it hasn't.

Chris Shaul

Google
I haven't been here in a number of years and not for dinner. Today we brought a friend and we all loved the food. We started with the Tostones rellenos with shrimp - very good. I had the Mambos chicken and it was very good. Our friend had the steak. It was good but she had to take half home as it was a large steak. My wife had the Toston steak sandwich. Also very tasty. I especially liked the flavor of the black beans. We finished it off by sharing a flan. We shuffled out with full stomachs and a smile on our faces.

Reed McGinnis

Google
Love the roasted pork plate! The garlic sauce (fresh garlic, white wine...?) is deadly good!! :-) I've been here a dozen times over the last few years. Everyone is super great. The nicest staff and the best Cuban food!

SV Durand

Google
This place is a Glendale staple! Very tasty Cuban food, impeccable hospitality (thank you Ralph!) I hadn’t been here in many years; when I drove by it on my way to IKEA I busted a B without thinking twice and was so glad that I did! We ordered “el trio” appetizer, mambo chicken plate, and the avocado salad. The food was just as delicious as I remembered it! Our server Camila was also very warm and attentive. We’ll definitely be back very soon!

Lois Wildman

Google
I was hot and tired of your trip to the zoo. And Mambo's was nearby and it was time for a bite to eat and a cold drink. I've been wanting to try this place I had seen it on Diners Drive-Ins and Dives. Today I got a mango iced tea and a tuna salad with grilled vegetables very good. I don't know what the sauce was on the grilled veggies but I enjoyed it you. They are open for Dine-in and they also have outside seating.

GEORGE BROWN

Google
Good Authentic food. Comes hot out of the kitchen. Plantains were a bit salty, and iced coffee was not exactly as we thought it'd be. With that being said, they were good, but not what we were expecting. The Mojo sauce was definitely different from what we've had elsewhere. We'll go back for sure, service was Excellent, food was Great.

Aida Hernandez

Google
Very delicious! Highly recommend…the tostón sandwich was fire and the empanada de picadillo was also really good. My bf is Cuban and he said this place gave him a home feeling 🥰.
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Trang N.

Yelp
I have ordered the same dish each time I have come to Mambos Cafe: the Camarones a la Brava (comes with rice, plantains and black beans). Sometimes I will add a side of yuca (cassava). The Camarones a la Brava is rich in flavors and the shrimps have a little kick to them if you don't mind that. The portion is large in my opinion so you will likely leave with a delicious leftover. Usually, I would also order their red wine sangria. Also delicious and a good size! Friendly and fast service. Plenty of space in their parking area.
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Laurie L.

Yelp
Not what I expected it to look like inside or out. Dark and pub-like. Small with black and red colors. Photos of jazz players on the wall. Service was excellent. Food was very good. We are vegan and we were assured that everything on the vegetarian menu was also vegan except for the garden burger because the bun had egg. Their bread they offer also has egg so luckily we asked. The maduros and black beans were delicious over the rice and grilled vegetables. We ate our whole meal. The biggest gripe is they charge $3.50 for a teeny tiny amount of avocado. Next time I might bring my own avocado because that's crazy for how little you get. The sangria was wonderful but I kept having to add ice because of the heat. We are currently in a major heat wave and it was incredibly hot inside. I don't think their air conditioner worked. Everyone was sweating. I felt bad for the staff. The ice melted immediately. We asked for a large glass of ice and it turned into water almost instantly. It was quite uncomfortable eating there. I'd like to return when it's not so hot and try some of their other vegetarian/vegan options.
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Jessica A.

Yelp
I grew up coming here for my Cuban fix. I love the bread and salsa they bring to the table. The roast pork is the way to go in my opinion. Juicy, tender, garlicky, with onions.. all of my fav things. All of the plates are very fairly priced. Also shared the bananas foster with the hubby which was plenty for 2 to share came with great quality ice cream and fried plantains!
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Anna P.

Yelp
I've only gotten takeout from here but it is my go-to Cuban place when I have a craving. Everything has been tasty but I especially like the mambo's combo appetizer (you can try a bunch of different items) and their sandwiches. Do not miss out on the maduros!
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Eric H.

Yelp
There are only a handful of good Cuban restaurants in LA, and this is one of them! Mambo's Cafe has been going strong since 1988. The Grilled Chicken Breast (pounded thin), flavorful, tender and delicious. Served with white rice, black beans and Tostones . The Avocado and Shrimp Tostones is also excellent. In fact, everything on the menu that we've tried so far has been great. The service is very friendly and accommodating, and the dining room is comfortable. Also, they don't add any extra fees to the bill. If you are in the neighborhood definitely stop by. You cannot go wrong at Mambos Cafe.
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Odilia T.

Yelp
Chill vibe, came in to have dinner with my Mom. The restaurant is small but welcoming. My mom likes spot. I was pleased with my dish very tasty. The only complaint I have was the black beans they did not taste homemade. I did enjoy the yucca dish & avocado salad. I would return to try other options.
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Darkwing D.

Yelp
Everything is excellent, the staff is great. Usually get the pork and onions but everything we have had has been excellent and we come here like once a month.
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Rumer A.

Yelp
oh Mambo's I wanted to like you, I did! Man who took my order was a gem and the place was incredibly clean. Ordered a Toston steak sammie and a Medianoche. Both were bland and such a massive letdown. The pork in my Medianoche was INCREDIBLY tough (like leather?) and the Toston sandwich had no salt, lime or any sort of flavor. Had my BF take a bite and he immediately let it go as the pork was STIFF. Oh mambo's I hope I caught you on a bad day. 4/10 would come back.
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Elizabeth B.

Yelp
Great Cuban food, great service, lovely ambiance. I like the ropa Vieja but all the food there is really good. Plenty of parking.
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Tanya N.

Yelp
It's a small restaurant with good ambience and awesome customer service. We were welcomed as we first walked in and seated right away. They serve bread on the house. For food we ordered the plate of the day which was chicken with veggies, mambo chicken, steak sandwich, ropa vieja as main dishes. And for appetizers we ordered chicharrón de pollo and the trio which is 1 empana, 1 croqueta and 1 potato ball. They serve generous portions and the food is well seasoned. For the sandwich I opted to get a salad instead of the fries it was surprising to see a $3 extra charge and maybe it was on the menu but for the salad they put it's definitely not worth it- Get the fries. Also, don't forget to save space for dessert, the flan and the bread pudding were delicious! They also serve alcohol and the sangrias although I didn't order it, it seems it a must here as I saw other tables order it and it look delicious. I recommend this place.
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Chelle M.

Yelp
Really delicious food and adequate portion for the cost. Pretty busy on a Tuesday at lunchtime gets quiet at 2pm. Food came out in timely manner. Staff seem really friendly. They were just short staffed. Our drinks never filled. Only saw her when we placed our order and when we checked out. Aside from that we Will definitely be back food was delicious.
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Haylee S.

Yelp
I had never tried authentic Cuban food before, but my Cuban friend took me here because she LOVES it & now it will be one of my go-to spots in the area. SERVICE / ATMOSPHERE: Service was incredible. Everyone seemed super nice and welcoming. I went on a weekday night so it wasn't busy, and the atmosphere was dark & cool. It had a nice "local" feel to it. FOOD: We were served the bread & sauce before our meal which was already great! Then I ordered the Ropa Vieja which I was told was sort of a braised beef dish. It had a tomatoe-y taste, but was DELICIOUS. I also asked to have the rice and beans mixed together on the side. The sweet plantains or Maduros were also a fantastic add-on. I cannot rate this place high enough.
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Nate T.

Yelp
I was recommended to try this spot from my business colleague Hugo and let me tell you...this is the spot for authentic Cuban food. It's got that small family style vibe but the nostalgic pictures of musicians all around the wall really make it unique. Service from the owner Raul was spot on especially for our party of 6. We didn't order anything from the menu as we let Raul bring out the favorites. Everything is delicious! But my favorite was the mesitas de puerco. If you like sangria they make a stiff one. I'll for sure be back to try the sandwiches
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Yeni A.

Yelp
Mambos cafe continues to be one of my favorite places for home made food in LA. #IYKYK Their Cuban 'gusto' is on point. Their black beans are just like mom makes and the service is like walking into a friend's house. You can't go wrong with the ropa vieja or the daily special. I've had some of the best cuban dishes at this place and take my parents there every time they come to LA to visit. They ask for it by name. Ok, now I'm craving some ropa vieja. See you soon, Mambo's!
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Ika I.

Yelp
Flavorful food and warm services! After a long and fun day at the LA zoo, we decided to find a place to grab some decent lunch. We stumbled upon Mambos Café, and we had a wonderful experience there. Located in Burbank and minutes from the zoo, this Cuban restaurant appears to be family owned. Both indoor and outdoor sitting are available, and there is parking in front of the restaurant. While inside, our server greeted us warmly, and we seated quickly. We were offered complimentary warm bread and salsa dips while we looked through the menu. For the appetizer, we had Fish a la Mari, and it was a flavorful appetizer with a generous serving of halibut and avocado under a spicy sauce. For the entrée, I had the Camarones Ajillos, with a generous portion of shrimp, plantains, rice, and a side salad. Overall, the appetizer was the highlight of the meal, and the lunch entrée was delightful as well. As for the pricings, most entrees were between $18-$25. Service was fast during lunch hour, and the restaurant also advertised live Cuban music on some evenings. The ambiance felt relaxed and intimate for small gatherings. It is a good place for dates or small gatherings for friends and family. Great place, and I look forward to trying some of the dishes on my next visit!
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Tovan T.

Yelp
What's not to love about Mambo's? I mean except for the tiny parking lot. Mambo's has been around for ages, and it continues to be good. I was in one random lunch and the special was arroz con pollo. It was so good! Rice cooked in a flavorful stock with plenty of chicken and sprinkling of some vegetables. Garnished with a few fried plantains for a sweet palate cleanser. I would happily eat that arroz, again. But maybe only half of it. I was a little sleepy the rest of the day because it is a lot of food. Service is friendly and efficient. They understand that folks have a limited time for lunch.
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Ericka K.

Yelp
Mambos chicken was dry Yucca sauce not very good Shrimp and chicken, and basically everything needed more salt. Yucca itself was good, service was prompt, but our memory of this place was better than reality.
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Scott D.

Yelp
We went last night for dinner. They had a special "Pork Chunks with Shrimp Fried Rice" on the board. Since I have bee going to this restaurant for years I wanted something different. Boy am I glad I did. The pork was cooked perfectly in a sauce that was out of this world. The shrimp fried rice was perfect and the fried plantains were as usual the perfect compliment. Let's just say I will be back. All their food is great but this was unbelievable. I apologized for eating the design off the plate. They are going to see even more of me in the future.

David G.

Yelp
My friend and I went there for the first time. It was wonderful! Thank you Camila for the warm welcome and excellent service!
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Rick S.

Yelp
I loved the food, the atmosphere and the owner was very nice and done to earth. I highly recommend this cuban place to all my family and friends
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Anthony G.

Yelp
Came in for lunch from Warner Brothers Was packed so that was the first positive thing I had the El Pedro It was amazing I really enjoyed the warm bread and the dipping sauce They played great 70s music and a little jazz The servers were amazing. Can't wait to come back.
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misty m.

Yelp
I've never been here before and had a lovely lunch! We were a large group (20 plus) and they worked fast and efficient for the amount of people that we had. Lots of authentic Cuban dishes to choose from, and everything came out hot and fresh! Ambiance is casual, and I appreciate that they work fast. The servers were friendly and on top of it. Make sure to add the black beans to the rice... it made it taste extra good! Parking is tight (I had to park a ways away) but other than that, I'd totally come back!
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J L.

Yelp
Excelent home made flavor food. Very friendly staff. Cinco estrellas para ustedes. Gracias !
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Rick S.

Yelp
Just discovered this spot today. I liked the vibe and the staff was fantastic. I tried the Mambo Chicken and it was pretty dry, but my friend had a different kind of chicken that wasn't dry so I'll try something else next time. The rest of the food was great. I will say that there appears to be no A/C and that's a little crazy for a restaurant in the valley. There were fans but I was sweating while I was there. But again, staff was great and I'm willing to give it another try.
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Malou T.

Yelp
We've been here every now and then when we are hankering for some good cuban food. I always get the picadillo and my husband always the roast pork. They are both delicious. In the past I've also tried their shrimp dishes and thoroughly enjoyed it. But the food that I cannot go past is their fried plantains. We always order order it as an appetizer. We love coming here for lunch.
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Daryl L.

Yelp
Delicious food, a hidden gem. The staff is tremendous. Highly recommend and look forward to going there again
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Ann L.

Yelp
This is a charming little Cuban restaurant with fantastic food. The Cuban chefs, and the Cuban servers all make a wonderful experience
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Tina L.

Yelp
I was invited her for lunch and was SO impressed and pleased with the food, attitude if the employees and friendliness. It felt like a home feeling . Just so relaxing!! So much enjoyment that I returned 2 evenings later with 3 others and we all loved it!! They even said this be returning soon. Upon leaving I asked a few questions, met the owner ( such a terrific guy) and found it's a family owned restaurant, and long term restaurant! I can see why. I'll be back to try yet another delicious meal and enjoy the atmosphere.
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Gary D.

Yelp
Had lunch with some friends and actually ran into some other friends there. Very popular place. Staff was really friendly and attentive and the restaurant itself was very clean. Service was great. We had ordered the Ropa Vieja and it was delicious! Would definitely stop on in again when I'm in the neighborhood.

Nicole B.

Yelp
So delicious, always excellent and friendly service! I wish I could give more stars. The place is so beautiful clean, and has the best music, and Cuban vibe. This is the best home made Cuban food you will get in LA. I have Cuban family so I am very particular. We have been coming here since I was in elementary school and I hope they never close! Their bread they serve with salsa when you are seated is the best we always devour it! I can never get enough of the salsa. My usual is the breaded steak, rice and beans and I love to squeeze a little lemon on my steak. My son loves and always gets the Cuban sandwich. I did move away from the this area but we frequently come back whenever we are craving Cuban food!
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Cynthia B.

Yelp
Great food and service!! We went when it was not so busy. Enjoyable and relaxing. We will be returning.
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Entelodon R.

Yelp
I came in at a slow hour, had 2 expressos, then decided to get a hot sandwich and bowl to go. It was little gamey but maybe that's what it's supposed to taste like. It wasn't quite hot, more like warm and slightly tough, both the bread and meat. Service was friendly.
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Milan D.

Yelp
Best, most authentic Cuban food I've ever had in my whole life. Super cutie staff and service too. Thank you Mambos! Xx
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Isabela L.

Yelp
Such a cute place. All the food was super flavorful. Good price. And the sangria was sooo good. Loved it. Just wish they had sour cream for the fried plantains.
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M. S.

Yelp
We wanted a DDD place for lunch and so glad we made the right choice. Our server was such a great help since everything looked so good. We chose the combo platter, yucca fries for appetizers so we can sample most items. Our 4 year old loved the tostones and chorizo so much that he ended eating all of them and didn't share with us. He is a picky eater too. We shared Pan Con Lechon, Media Noche, Pan Con Piccadillo and Pan Con Bistec. The Piccadillo and Kedia Noche was our favorite. We will be back to try their entrees.
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Lynn P.

Yelp
Food and service are great and it is a very casual place. Try the Sangria and Mambos chicken, you can't go wrong. Also, the bread and salsa they service is worth the trip!
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Eddy L.

Yelp
Great ambiance and outstanding service. Food tasted authentic and prepared by Cuban staff.
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Daisie L.

Yelp
So great! Love the atmosphere a lot too, it definitely gives family-owned vibes in the best way and the service is really friendly. Probably my favorite tuna melt I've had at any restaurant.
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Lulus P.

Yelp
Food is absolutely mouth watering, delish perfection! Service is very friendly & on point! Ambiance is really warm & inviting! Definitely best Cuban food in the San Fernando area! Highly recommend!
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Talia K.

Yelp
Delicious food! Quick service! Went for lunch and was back at the office inside an hour. We will definitely eat here again! Tables are a bit small and close together but it has a nice charm and warmth. There is also outdoor seating.
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Andrea M.

Yelp
I love this place so much! The food is delicious. Fresh, flavorful, and cravable! Even the bread is delicious. The pork is not fatty, it's just flavored well and perfect consistency. The beans and rice are the perfect side with flavors and perfect mixed. The plantains are the perfect end to the meal, not greasy, just to die for. The place is small, but service is great; friendly and attentive. A completely wonderful experience!
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Katharine H.

Yelp
... love this place, and have for years! bfrom the maduros to the chicken to the various desserts, the food and service is superb.
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Maddy F.

Yelp
I've been here before on an evening that I was attending a nearby event. I guess I remembered it better than it was. Went to lunch here on a Sunday and it was not a great experience. Very few patrons which should have given me a clue. Only one waiter serving who was pleasant but overworked so his service was spotty. I ordered the pork that according to them was one of their best dishes. It tasted like it had been sitting for a long while. Not only was the pork dry (inside and out) but the congri was the same. Seems like due to the lack of patrons the food tends to sit around. They got my lunch companion's order incorrect and although somewhat tasty had no authentic Cuban flavors. Disappointed as there are so few good Cuban restaurants in LA.

Loanne N.

Yelp
This place is a hidden gem in Glendale! My sister and I stop in for an early dinner Thursday night. The parking lot was a good size and the spaces roomy. The inside was like stepping into a cozy warm kitchen and the whole restaurant was extremely clean. Nothing lavish in decor, but we could tell that the owner and staff takes great pride in the upkeep of the restaurant. Neither my sister or I had ever had Cuban food before and the owner was so patient with our questions. We ordered the Avocado Shrimp, and it was delicious! Best part is, this dish is made using wild tiger shrimp. For the price, it's an amazing deal. The Spicy Beef was tender, flavorful and not too spicy. We loved the perfectly cooked rice and sweet sauté plantains. We also got the crispy plantains and they were tasty! We will definitely be back!
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Niki H.

Yelp
When you are craving Cuban food, this is the place that you want to go and have some delicious Cuban food. The environment of this restaurant is so cozy. The food is Amazing!! The spices that there put in every dish are so tasty. I love their Cuban sandwich, the bread is so fresh, and they pressed it! I will come again and again and again to this place. You all need to check out this place.
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David R.

Yelp
If your in the mood for Cuban food or just coffee, then this is the place. Great food & Service. We'll be back.
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Alma C.

Yelp
Ordered the steak & onions ... excellent. The food and service was great.... I'll be back!

Jason S.

Yelp
The food is totally bland and has zero flavor at all. Would not recommend coming here if you like Cuban food and have ever had it before. It's kind of sad tasting. Seems like the place either has had their day if they used to be good, or people in the area must not like food that is made with any flavor at all. Everything was bland and dry and soggy. Kind of gross to be honest.
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Andre M.

Yelp
One of Glendale's finest gems! Food is amazing and atmosphere is great. Always look forward to coming here and come about once a week, if not more often. Waiters and waitresses always go above and beyond to make sure everyone is taken care of. Especially Susan! Thank you for everything Mambo's family, really appreciate you making my family feel welcome. Unlike many restaurants, Mambo's is appreciative of your business! Shrimp fajitas pictures below, soooo good.