La Cubanita -- Dallas, Texas

After our original plans fell through on a Friday night, we were able to haphazardly get everyone together for dinner around 8:00 at La Cubanita. I was dubious at first, thinking it would be a more pricey version of Cuba Libre, but I was pleasantly surprised.

First off, this is McKinney Avenue, and during peak times, you’re going to have to valet. It’s frustrating, yes, but it’s just part of coming down here. Some areas have more parking than others, but I find it to be less of a hassle, if you just go ahead and valet. I think it is unfortunate that they don’t validate valet, but it’s just part of it.

While we waited for everyone to arrive, the waiter recommended we start off with the mariquitas con Guacamole and a pitcher of Mango Sangria. The black bean dip that was served with the appetizer was extremely tasty. The Cuban salsa was so-so, but it did have a good flavor. Everything was fresh. The Mango Sangria was out of this world. I thought the flavors meshed well together, and it was very smooth. Absolutely incredible. We finished off three of these throughout the meal.

Entrees around the table included the churrasco, the churrasco de pollo, Cuban Lechon Asado, the garlic shrimp, and a side of sweet potato fries. Our waiter recommended the churrasco and the Cuban Lechon Asado as being the best things on the menu. He wasn’t kidding. The churrasco had a great flavor; it was extremely tender, and cooked to perfection. My mouth still waters thinking about it. The Chimmichuri sauce had an excellent flavor, and it wasn’t overpowering. The Cuban Lechon Asado was so tender; it literally would fall apart with a fork. They served it with a garlic sauce on the side that really added another dimension to it. Very tasty. The chicken was slightly overcooked and dry, but the seasoning was tasty, though admittedly, the steak received more rave reviews at our table. All the sides had good flavor, though it can be a LOT of food. Finally, the garlic shrimp was good – served in a sauce, not unlike the Chimmichuri sauce with an addition of cilantro. The shrimp were tiny, but everything was flavored well. The Cuban flatbread was fresh, too. The sweet potato fries weren’t greasy at all.

La Cubanita has a lot of character, with doors that open onto the patio throughout the restaurant and beautiful lighting during the evening. It has old world charm, reminding me of many restaurants I visited in small towns in Italy. The slight breeze that comes in through the open doors can be refreshing. The dining room is very small, but it’s cozy in a good way. The service was unassuming and prompt. Our waiter was always there when we needed him, but not intrusive throughout the meal. My only complaint is the large television that can be distracting, but it’s not a deal breaker.

As a whole, we felt it was a great experience, though it can be on the pricey side. The food was quality and tasty. If you go, be sure and try the mango sangria. It’s a great way to cool off on a hot summer night. I haven’t been to Cuban, so I can’t comment on the authenticity, but this is definitely one of the better restaurants I’ve been to in Dallas. Everyone in our party of 6 thoroughly enjoyed it.