Old San Juan

Great sandwiches! I went with my husband and we both really enjoyed their sandwiches. I got a sandwich de lechon and my husband got de tripleta. I also got a side of tostones and my husband got an empanada de queso. It was all super tasty! If your needing a boost of energy, get you a cup of their coffee. Woke us up lol. Highly recommend 😁.

The food was fantastic and the staff was great including the owner Joel. Very pleasant experience and I would suggest to anyone that likes Cuban and Latin food to give them a try. Definitely a fave of mine now.

I was here 11 years ago before moving to the area. I just recently remembered it was pleasantly surprised it was still open and very close to my work. I ordered a sizable pickup order and it was hot and ready when I showed up 15 min later! The food is authentic Cuban cuisine that is to die for. That black beans and plantains are so good and you really can’t go wrong with anything off the menu. Coupled with very kind owners, this place is a Lexington hidden gem!!

First time at the location. We ordered a cuban, shredded beef, and vegetarian sandwich with a kids meal of chicken and fries as well. I was extremely surprised by how large the portions were for an excellent price. First came out the chicken and fries for the kids and I thought I had mistakenly ordered 3 orders. I was wrong it was one. Huge portion. The sandwiches came out and they were also huge and delicious as well. We had to get a couple of to go boxes and have had left overs for 2 extra meals. The food is phenomenal, the service is fantastic, and the atmosphere made me feel like I was at an old friend's home. This place will be a staple for my family to go to for many years to come. Thanks again Old San Juan!!!

This is a small and humble cafeteria/mini market style restaurant. Cuban food was delicious and the employees and owner were very nice and kind. If we ever go back to Lexington, this will definitely be our place for lunch AND dinner. 🙂

When the new owner took over the food quality went up. However lunch today was disappointing. There was a big piece of sausage casing in my sandwich and the black beans were not cooked long enough and had less flavor than last two times. I’ll try again but not without talking to management about the issues.

Update: Another 5-star review! We finally did a second visit after our first one in Jan. or Feb. of 2021 and it was a lovely experience. The dining area is now open and we got to speak with the owner, who is very friendly. He shared a homemade sauce with us and asked for our feedback — it was amazing. The bread for their sandwiches is also homemade every day! Love love love and totally recommend. I was so excited to see some Cuban beans and rice in Lexington! My husband loved the "Triples" sandwich (No. 2 on the menu). The flan is amazing.

Service was very dismissive, my Cubano sandwich was cold and served on stale bread. The tostones were bland and swimming in flavorless grease. Disgusting.

It has been a long time since I last reviewed Old San Juan Cuban Cuisine. The owners have changed. The new owners have kept up the quality and even added to the menu selection. This is a wonderful place. Great food. And, real cubancoffee. I get the coffee with milk - maybe I'm a wimp, but it is perfect for me. The proprietors are wonderful. I highly recommend it. It may be a bit different than what most locals are used to. It is worth visiting and opening your experiences.

The food is made to order. So the wait is worth it. The black been and white rice combination just hits the right spot.

You know it's legit when they are offering money orders. My husband got the Cuban, I got the Ropa Vieja. The Ropa Vieja was excellent. Very flavorful and tasted fresh. The rice and beans were a little bland but well cooked. The Cuban came out fast, but the cheese hadn't really melted at all. The flavors all felt a little rushed, pre-packaged, even. The restaurant is very simple, and features a store of Latin goodies in the back. We will definitely visit again to try the empanadas.

The sandwich was huge and delicious! I had the vegetarian frijolada. My friend had two empanadas (one chicken and one beef) and chicken croquettes. She also said hers were good! You'll fare a bit better if you know a little Spanish! I know just enough to be polite. Visit them--it was clean. The food was delicious and good service.

I had a summer Friday off and decided today was the day that I tried this restaurant! I am so happy I did, I had a late lunch and was the only one in the place, everyone I encountered was kind helpful. I looked at the menu but already knew I was ordering a Cuban sandwich. They had many favors of Jarritos I was happy before I even got food! I got an amazing sandwich with pork and cheese, and enough for 2 servings. I really felt like I was in Miami where I had my somewhat authentic in the US Cuban. They had a huge take out business, that means the folks working in the offices around them approve. I did not try any of the side dishes, but that is a reason to go back. The location was easy to get to with easy parking, the staff was friendly and make you feel like family. This is a bit of out of the way for me, but I will be back.

Great cuban food! This restaurant is my new favorite. The food is great and the service is very friendly. I highly recommend the shrimp ane chicken. The cuban sauce is awesome. Their desserts are incredible, too. The tre's leche cake is amazing. If you're looking for some authentic and delicious cuban food, this is the place.

This place has great food- but I won't go there cuz it's next to a bar that OVER SERVES its customers and I almost got hit by one man in his truck. At a time when most people haven't been drinking, like 3:00 in the afternoon.

I've had the sandwiches from here and a couple entree's but their claim to fame for me was the fresh strawberry cake. There was a slight language ppl

Authentic Cuban cuisine made by real Cuban cooks. I felt like I was back in Cuba, eating shredded beef, green plantains, rice and beans. I couldn't have wished for a better experience. Great service and a really cute little restaurant. I loved the plants and the mini grocery store as well.

I wanted a quick meal, having cleaned out my perishable food for an impending vacation. I ordered online, and mine was ready when they said it would be, no sooner and no later. It seemed like some time was spent cooking it right. What I got was a grilled sandwich that seemed kind of like a panini with beans, cheese, and vegetables. There was a hint of spice, and the bread was delectably crisp. It was one of those things that I inevitably ending up burning my tongue on slightly because I wanted to eat it at peak freshness. They had a couple of decent-looking vegetarian options (most with Swiss cheese, and only the sandwiches rather than the entrees), which some of these sorts of restaurants do not. Do I need to be paying $10 for a sandwich? Not every day, but I like the fact that this place adds a different flavor to the Lexington scene, and I will likely be back and get some tostones with my next sandwich.

The owners are friendly. The place is a no fuss or frills and clean establishment. You come here for the food, which is the the main attraction! The fries are crispy and just right. Cuban steak sandwich was perfection. The platters are so tasty. You can watch the chefs cook right in front of you. The only complaint was we asked for tap water and they said okay. Then, brought us bottled water and charged us $2 a piece. Bring your own drinks. We loved it and will be back!

Authentic, delicious Cuban food. Family operation which is great to support. I generally call ahead for pickup so the not-fancy interior is ok for that.

There is a certain kind of restaurant but around a passion for its cuisine, served with love and enthusiasm. This is a great example. Everything about this casual place is a celebration of Cuban cuisine. Even the other customers couldn't help coming in with recommended for their favorites. We enjoyed the Cubano sandwich that we shared. We especially enjoyed the interaction with the proprietor.

If you're tired of eating from fast foods and chain restaurants, stop by this small, Latinx-owned business off Malabu Dr. It was so nice to be able to find a business in that area that I haven't already eaten at 100+ times. I went on a Thursday night, the place was pretty nice and clean. They had the tv going on in the background and the place was not busy. The host/take out guy was really nice and provided great company as I waited for my food. I ended up ordering Combo 3 which came with steak tips mixed with onions, rice and beans, and a side of your choice (I chose sweet plantains). I also ordered 2 cheese empanadas. The empanadas were really good! They were easy to bite into and the shell's lining was not too hard to eat. The steak tips was also great, although I thought they could've used a bit more sauce with it. The plantains were also the perfect kind of sweet, which I loved immensely. I'm not sure what the waffle looking meal was but it came with my meal! Overall, the prices here are pretty decent and I'm definitely looking towards trying new combos in the future!

The food was ready quickly, the take out didn't spill at all, and overall, it was DELICIOUS! I love Cuban food and haven't had any in Lexington until now. I will absolutely be going back. Everything is so flavorful and cooked perfectly!!! The portion sizes are great. There are options for vegans, vegetarians, everyone. And last, they put smiley faces on the takeout bags. Made my night!

Delicious food, if you have never had Cuban food this is a place you have to try. If you have had Cuban food before this is amazing. I'll say it now that it is not plated super pretty, but the food has so much flavor. From the platanos, the black beans to the ropa vieja it is all amazing. I thought it was a bit expensive for the portions, but it was perfect to wat and be full and not need to take home any leftovers. The ropa vieja sandwich is also a must. I can't wait to go back.

After wanting to try this place for months I finally made it out for lunch. Our table had the Cuban Sandwich, Ropa Vieja, and empanadas. The Cuban was amazing and I'd definitely get it again. We expected the empanada to be small so each ordered one. Wrong! They are pretty large and stuffed with filling. I'm not sure if they make the dough in house or not but it was delicious and had a perfectly chewy texture. The Ropa Vieja was good but I'd probably mix it up next time and order something different. Be aware that if you are in a rush you may need to come back some other time. While the food was delivered quickly after ordering it did take a while for anyone to come over and take our order. Also when we walked in it wasn't clear if we should grab our own table, order at the counter, or just sit. Same for when we were done...do we pay at the counter or wait. We ended up paying at the counter and all of the bills were laying beside the register so think that's the correct choice

I thought this was a Puerto Rican restaurant because of the name, but after reading the menu, I realized their cuisine is mainly Cuban. Got the sandwich, ropa vieja, croquettes, and platano maduro to go. Even after warming it up in the oven, it still tasted so delicious! A bit too expensive, in my opinion, but totally worth it. I will definitely go back and try something new. It might be family owned which, to me, makes it even more inviting. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

Food was good , but the workers spoke very little English and up charged my card 10 dollars over my meal price. I called to speak with someone to resolve this issue over the phone and they told me they spoke little English and hung up on me . Poor customer service !!!!!

Man what a great find this was!! Small family-owned business serving up amazing food. I started with the Cubano which is a traditional sandwich that they add chorizo to to make it a unique experience. I also had the Ropa Vieja with toasted plantains (Maduro) and black beans. The shredded beef was seasoned perfectly and the plantains reminded me of local cuisine I had in Central America. I finished with a slice of handmade flan that made me forget that cheesecake ever existed. The staff was happy and helpful with a great atmosphere. Can't recommend them enough.

Ay dios mío! This South Florida native was one happy camper when I stumbled upon this little gem in Lexington. The reviews were spot on & man, it did not disappoint! We ordered the ham croquetas, chicken empanada, Cuban sandwich, and ropa vieja. It's the closest I've come to real Cuban food since moving to kentucky 2 years ago! Such a treat! But our favorite item.. the FLAN! It was superb, the BEST I've ever had! I don't come to Lexington often, but I'll definitely be coming back sooner than planned to enjoy this place again. The server was wonderful and the chef came out and said hello to myself and my kids. Charming all around! Must try!

The best Cuban place you can go to! The Cuban sandwich is to die for. Find workers are also nice and pleasant.

Awesome food, tried the ropa vieja sandwich and pork chop plate both delicious!!! Tried the cuban coffee with milk as well and would be ordering it next time again:) Friendly service!!

We've eaten here a couple of times and it has been really good. Here's why. 1 small business owners who make everyone fell welcome. A couple of check ins to make sure everything is tasty. 2 excellent quality of food with fresh ingredients 3 big, shareable portions or leftovers for the next day 4 reasonable prices for the portion and quality Something fun with a twist on old favorites.

I had such high expectations after so many recommendations but my experience was very underwhelming. I will say that the staff was friendly but I guess you have to be when it takes more than 25 minutes to make a Cuban after the lunch rush. When I unwrapped my sandwich I literally thought they may have forgot to put anything inside the bread. There was one measly slice of ham and and pork (it was also a bit strange this was sliced like deli meat thickness). This isn't Fyre Festival, I'm expecting some substance to my sandwich. The flavor was okay but it mostly tasted like a buttered roll with pickles and mustard. Maybe their other food is good but I'd steer clear of this Cuban.

This place is a hole in the wall. With much heart, it has delicious food options and well priced!!! Highly recommend!!!!

Great sandwiches!! But unreliable hours. Tried to stop by yesterday, but shop was closed for the day, even though hours said they would be open.

I liked this place, but I felt out of place eating there. The food was good, but communication was difficult, as I don't speak Spanish. The tortas were really simple and delicious, but a little salty. The empanada was amazing. I absolutely love the empanada dough that they use. I could have eaten twenty of them! I also got the tres leches cake to go and ate it later that night. It too was phenomenal. It was less cake and more pudding, which I loved. The atmosphere here is very basic and not at all fancy, but it serves its purpose. The prices are decent. The staff is very nice and they clearly work very hard. It seems to be family-run, which is great.

Good is pricey and service isn't Hehe greatest but only good Hispanic food besides Mexican food here in Kentucky. Being from Florida I miss the food bull this place hits the spot but truly is pricey and wasn't a fan of service.

I love Cuban foood. And I'm rather picky after my trip to Cuba last year... I mean, the most amazing Cuban family made us an AAAAAMAZING home cooked spread. And let me tell you, this place does not disappoint. 1. Its a little mom and pop shop, which is a huge win for me - they were the cutest old couple. I wanted to put them in my pocket, take them home, and adopt them as my Cuban grandparents (is that even possible?) 2. I got my favorite ropa viejo dish and OH EM GEE. So so good. Tender and flavorful pulled pork in a light tomato, garlicky sauce. Served with rice, beans, and fried plantains. YUMMM. 3. I will deduct 1 star because I didn't love the empanadas. Too much dough, not necessary in my opinion, but alas, to each his own. I will say I liked the beef one over the chicken. Will def be back to get my Cuban fix and to visit my adopted grandparents.

Another small, family owned place where they do it right! I got a Cubano sandwich, chicken croquette, tostones and a double espresso. All very delicious!! The husband & wife owners could not have been more hospitable and attentive. You can taste the love they put into every bite. The prices are very reasonable as well. I will definitely be back!

New owner are lovely. Food was fast and delicious. A cozy casual environment. Highly recommend if you want an authentic, locally owned, charming experience

Great service, delicious food, impeccably clean. We had the Cubano and Tripleta and they were both amazing

This is an excellent choice if your looking for a great meal and great service. We tried the beef and the cheese empanadas and the pork chop dinner. We had tres leches cake for dessert. All we ate was homemade , nothing from a pre-made pouch here ! All was delicious too. Make sure to stop by if you want any some good homemade food and some Great service !!

Wow!! The food was delivered warm and fresh!! Perfect!! I love the Cuban sandwich and the sweet plantains. An amazing taste of Miami in Lexington. I definitely will order again!! Thanks

Super cuban sammie shop in Lexington, KY no less. It would benefit you to speak a little Spanish but you can get by without it. Family run business with what looked liked 3 generations working inside. Tres leches postre was great as well. Pregame sammie!

Delicious, fresh food and great service. They bake the bread for their sandwiches in house and have delicious, authentic Cuban food. While there was a bit of a wait for the food, it was well worth it.

Walking in, right away, reminds me of the ambiance of a country restaurant in Brazil, and smells like any restaurant on the street in St. Croix. PuertoRican music playing softly in the background and the humidity from outside barely noticeable inside... I glanced up a few times imagining large fans circulating the air as I sipped my Malta Goya. Today my low-carb diet was going to wait and surrender to this treat of sliced and skillet fried wheat bread roll drenched in butter. Satisfied sighs of pleasure escape my lips, my nose... every pore of my being as I eagerly anticipate my camarones dinner plate (shrimp sautéed in tomatoes, onion and garlic served with rice, black beans and sweet fried plantain). I half expect to turn around and see the beach... I need a shoulder massage to complement this comfort food for my soul.

Just moved to town and was looking for a good Cuban place. This is it!!! The food was amazing (best black beans I've ever had) and they they were so kind. Highly recommend it.

It is very homey and the staff is helpful and welcoming. I love their empanadas!!! Their milkshakes are good too.

Great little restaurant! The Ropa Vieja is amazing! We are from out of town and we are glad we found this spot. It has a family owned feel, which is always great. Thanks for the great food and service, see you next time!

Ok, yum! We are from South Florida and have had some very authentic Cuban cuisine. And we were taken back today with our delicious lunch! We had beef empanadas, a Cuban sandwich on fresh Cuban bread the owner made this morning and Piccadillo that was so good we ordered a second platter. Dessert was tres leches, a guava milkshake and Cuban coffee. I highly recommend this restaurant! Now go support them and get full and satisfied on authentic Cuban cuisine!!!

First of all, it took us way too long to finally try OSJ. Been looking at it forever. The food was delicious! We got two Cubans, one beef torta, and one beef beans and rice dinner. Everything was wonderful. The staff was so friendly. Only downside was they were sold out of empanadas. Just a good excuse to go back soon!!

Delicious Cuban food with big portions, plenty of flavor, and great service. I did a takeout last week and wow. Lexington definitely has a hidden gem with this one!

I lived in Miami for two years, and ever since I moved away I have been searching for that authentic Cuban meal that I missed so much, and this is where I finally felt at home again. The atmosphere is perfect, the food is incredible, and it is very affordable! The waitstaff was so friendly, and helpful to explain nuances to my friend (Hollie) that I brought with me to try the place out. The menu has several Cuban classics, like the Cuban sandwich, arroz congrí, pastelitos, and little pastries that were fresh made and ready to be served. Personally, I got large plate beans and rice and a side order of madrudos, as Hollie got ropa vieja, and we shared a plate of tostones. She also tried cafe con leche for the first time, and she fell in love with it! I had a pineapple jarrito to drink, but of course I took a sip of the coffee, which was delightful. I often go out to eat to get things that I cant make myself, or simply dont want to deal with the hassle, but there's something about cuban food that I cannot master in my own kitchen. This place has the special touch of magic to make it what I was missing so dearly, to the point of where I was expecting to see palm trees or Dadeland when I walked back outside. Please go give this small business your love, because when you step inside, you will feel their love and passion for their resturaunt.

this place is absolutely phenomenal, the cuban sandwich is to die for ,and the staff is very friendly and attentive, please don't let the outside of the restaurant fool you stop and go inside you wont be disappointed you will be glad that you stopped. charles.

My family and I came from North Carolina to visit for the first time Kentucky, and we love to get Hispanic food. We came to this place and we loved it. The service was excellent and the food was great. This is a family owned restaurant and you can taste the love they put in their cooking. The tostones where amazing, ropa vieja was amazing, the bread is freshly made,if your looking for homemade meal. This is the place to be. It was a wonderful experience. If your visiting Kentucky come and eat here you will be amazed.

First time here and I must say there is great food and friendly staff! I love the Cubano sandwich and the sweet fried plantains, next time I plan on trying the tripleta sandwich which has been recommended to me.

Discovered this place tonight, the food was delicious! The cheese and chicken empanadas were tasty, and the chicken/shrimp plate I had along with plantains and black beans was really good. Got to try some Cuban sodas as well! Moreover the owners were extremely nice and welcoming.