Key Takeaways:
- Cuban Classics Done Right: Elena’s Cuban Cafe offers a wide range of authentic Cuban dishes, from empanadas to grilled meats. Their focus on traditional flavors and quality ingredients stands out.
- Options for Everyone: The menu includes kid-friendly meals, vegetarian choices, and hearty plates for meat lovers. There’s something for every appetite and preference.
- Easy Ordering & Great Value: You can order directly through https://www.elenascubancafe.getsauce.com/ with no hidden fees. Meals are well-portioned and affordable, making them great for solo diners and families.
How do you spot the must-tries on a menu with tempting Cuban dishes? It’s like standing in front of a table set for a family feast—everything smells amazing, and every dish has a story. That’s the experience at Elena’s Cuban Cafe. The moment you step in or scroll through their online menu, you’re greeted with flavors that feel home-cooked and rich in tradition. From flaky empanadas to tender pork with garlic mojo, it’s not just food—it’s a celebration of Cuban comfort.
In this piece, we’ll walk you through the best things to order at Elena’s Cuban Cafe. From appetizers to seafood, this guide will help you pick dishes you’ll want to come back for.
Appetizers To Start Your Meal Right
The appetizers at Elena’s Cuban Cafe are the perfect way to kick off your Cuban culinary experience. Each bite offers a taste of Cuban culture, blending crispy exteriors with savory fillings. Whether you prefer something meaty or cheesy, there’s an option to satisfy every craving. Here are some of the best appetizers to begin your meal:
- Ham Croquettes (Croquetas de Jamón): These crispy, golden croquettes are a beloved Cuban favorite. Each piece is filled with tender ham and creamy béchamel sauce for a rich, savory bite.
- Cheese Croquettes (Queso Frito): These golden croquettes are packed with gooey melted cheese. A creamy dipping sauce complements the crispy shell for a perfect cheesy treat.
- Ham & Cheese Empanada: A golden fried pastry pocket filled with savory ham and melted cheese. It delivers a satisfying crunch followed by a warm, flavorful center.
- Cheese Empanadas: These turnovers feature a rich cheese filling encased in crispy corn or wheat dough. Each bite offers a perfect balance of crunch and creamy goodness.
- Mozzarella Sticks (Queso Frito): Served in sets of six, these sticks are filled with gooey mozzarella and fried to crispy perfection. They’re an ideal snack or appetizer with a Cuban flair.
Delicious Cuban Sandwiches You Can’t Miss
When it comes to Cuban cuisine, nothing is more iconic than a well-made sandwich. At Elena’s Cuban Cafe, their sandwich selection is packed with bold flavors, featuring tender meats, fresh toppings, and the distinct taste of Cuban bread. Whether you’re looking for a traditional Cuban or a hearty pork sandwich, here are the top choices to satisfy your cravings:
Cuban Sandwich (10”)
The Cuban Sandwich is the quintessential Cuban meal, and Elena’s Cuban Cafe does it justice. This 10-inch sandwich combines roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, mustard, and mayonnaise, all nestled between pressed Cuban bread. The perfect balance of savory, tangy, and creamy flavors makes this sandwich a fan favorite.
Roasted Pork Sandwich (10”)
For a more straightforward but equally flavorful option, the Roasted Pork Sandwich is a great choice. This 10-inch sandwich features tender, slow-roasted pork paired with fresh lettuce, tomato, and creamy mayonnaise on a soft roll. Its simplicity highlights the rich flavor of the pork, making it a satisfying and comforting meal.
Cuban Toast (6)
Cuban Toast offers a lighter, yet equally delicious sandwich experience. Ham and Swiss cheese are layered on toasted Cuban bread, and the sandwich typically includes tangy pickles and a smear of mustard for a touch of zest. It’s the perfect choice if you’re looking for something smaller or a quick snack on the go.
Breaded Pork Loin (Sandwich de Lomo de Cerdo Empanizado)
The Breaded Pork Loin Sandwich delivers a crunchy, satisfying bite with its golden, breaded pork loin. Paired with the signature Cuban bread, the tender pork and crispy coating create a delightful contrast of textures. This sandwich is excellent for anyone craving a savory, satisfying meal.
Steak And Grilled Onions (Pan con Bistec Encebollado)
For steak lovers, the Steak and Grilled Onions Sandwich (Pan con Bistec Encebollado) is a must-try. The sandwich features grilled steak topped with flavorful, caramelized onions, creating a mouthwatering combination. It’s served on Cuban bread, bringing together the best Cuban cuisine in every bite.
Kids Menu: Tasty Options For The Little Ones
At Elena’s Cuban Cafe, the kids’ menu offers delicious and kid-friendly options that introduce younger diners to the bold flavors of Cuban cuisine. Each dish is carefully prepared to satisfy their tastes while being simple and easy to enjoy. Here are the best picks for little ones to enjoy their meal just as much as the adults:
1/2 Chicken & Yellow Rice With Black Beans Or Sweet Plantains
This kid-friendly meal includes tender chicken served with savory yellow rice and a choice of black beans or sweet plantains. It’s a balanced, flavorful dish that introduces young eaters to classic Cuban staples.
Chicken Nuggets (6) With French Fries & Soda
Six crispy chicken nuggets are served with golden French fries and a refreshing soda. It’s a simple, satisfying option that’s perfect for picky eaters.
1/2 Cuban & Soda
This meal features half a classic Cuban sandwich with roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard. Paired with a soda, it’s a fun and approachable way for kids to enjoy authentic Cuban flavors.
Chicken Dishes: Flavorful And Satisfying
The chicken dishes at Elena’s Cuban Cafe offer various flavorful options that highlight the richness of Cuban cooking. Whether you prefer your chicken served with savory rice, grilled, or shredded, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some standout choices that bring bold Cuban flavors to the table:
Chicken & Yellow Rice With Black Beans Or Sweet Plantains
The Chicken & Yellow Rice with Black Beans or Sweet Plantains is a comforting, traditional dish that combines tender chicken with the savory goodness of yellow rice. Paired with either black beans for a more savory option or sweet plantains for a touch of sweetness, this meal brings a balance of flavors that will satisfy any appetite. It’s a complete meal that represents the heart of Cuban cuisine.
Chicken & Yellow Rice Without Side
For those who prefer a simpler option, the Chicken & Yellow Rice without Side focuses on the delicious, tender chicken and flavorful yellow rice. This dish allows the quality of the chicken and rice to shine through without the additional sides, perfect for those who want a more straightforward yet satisfying meal.
Grilled Chicken Breast Steak (Pechuga a la Plancha)
The Grilled Chicken Breast Steak (Pechuga a la Plancha) offers a lean and flavorful choice for chicken lovers. Grilled to perfection, the chicken breast is tender and juicy, served with a simple seasoning that lets the natural flavors of the meat shine. This dish is a great option for those looking for a lighter, yet equally delicious, Cuban meal.
Shredded Chicken
For a more versatile and flavorful option, the Shredded Chicken is an excellent choice. The chicken is slow-cooked and shredded to perfection, making it tender and easy to enjoy. Whether served alone or paired with other Cuban sides, this dish offers a satisfying and comforting taste of Cuban home-cooked goodness.
Pork & Beef: Traditional Cuban Favorites
When it comes to Cuban cuisine, Elena’s Cuban Cafe offers some of the most beloved pork and beef dishes, each prepared with the authentic flavors and techniques that make Cuban food so special. From tender steaks to crispy fried pork chunks, these dishes bring the rich, savory tastes of Cuba to your plate. Here are some top picks to try:
- Beef Steak with Onions (Bistec Encebollado): This classic dish features a tender beef steak topped with sweet, caramelized onions. Served with white rice, black beans, and sweet plantains, it offers a hearty mix of savory and sweet flavors.
- Fried Beef Chunks (Vaca Frita): These crispy beef chunks are perfectly seasoned and fried to a golden finish. Paired with white rice, black beans, and sweet plantains, they deliver a satisfying contrast of textures in every bite.
- Top Sirloin Steak (Bistec de Palomilla): This grilled sirloin steak is tender, juicy, and lightly seasoned to highlight the meat’s natural flavor. Served with Cuban sides, it’s a simple yet filling meal.
- Fried Pork Chunks (Masitas de Cerdo Fritas): These golden pork chunks are crispy on the outside and tender inside, seasoned for rich flavor. Combined with rice, beans, and plantains, they make a deliciously indulgent dish.
- Smoked Pork Chops: Slow-cooked for maximum tenderness, these smoked pork chops offer bold, savory flavor. Served with traditional Cuban sides, it’s a hearty and balanced meal.
- Skirt Steak with Chimichurri (Churrasco Con Chimichurri): This tender skirt steak is topped with a vibrant chimichurri sauce that adds a zesty, herbaceous kick. It’s a flavorful and satisfying Cuban steak option paired with classic sides.
Seafood: Fresh Cuban Flavors From The Ocean
For seafood lovers, Elena’s Cuban Cafe brings the taste of the ocean straight to your plate with dishes that combine crispy coatings and tender, flavorful fish and shrimp. Each dish celebrates the vibrant Cuban culinary tradition, using fresh ingredients and bold flavors to highlight the beauty of seafood. Here are the top seafood options to try:
Breaded Shrimp (10) & Fries (Camarones Empanizados Con Papas Fritas)
The Breaded Shrimp (Camarones Empanizados Con Papas Fritas) is a crispy, satisfying dish featuring ten perfectly breaded shrimp served alongside a side of crispy French fries. The shrimp are lightly fried to create a crunchy exterior while keeping the interior juicy and tender.
Breaded Fish Fillet (Filete de Pescado Empanizado)
The Breaded Fish Fillet (Filete de Pescado Empanizado) offers a flaky, tender fish fillet coated in a crisp breading. The dish is served with white rice, black beans, and sweet plantains, bringing together both savory and sweet flavors in each bite. The light, crispy coating complements the delicate fish, making this a flavorful and satisfying option for anyone craving Cuban-style seafood.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re stopping by for a quick bite or sitting down for a full Cuban meal, Elena’s Cuban Cafe offers something for everyone. Their menu is a rich tapestry of traditional Cuban flavors—from crispy croquettes and hearty sandwiches to perfectly grilled meats and comforting sides. Each dish is crafted with care and rooted in authenticity, making it easy to understand why this local favorite has earned such loyal fans.
If you’re unsure what to order, let this guide lead the way. No matter what you choose, you’ll walk away satisfied and full, and maybe even planning your next visit before the last bite.
Frequently Asked Questions About Elena’s Cuban Cafe
Can I schedule a delivery in advance at Elena’s Cuban Cafe?
Yes, you can schedule deliveries ahead of time using the Sauce platform. This feature lets you plan lunch or dinner in advance without needing to order last-minute.
What type of restaurant is Elena’s Cuban Cafe?
Elena’s Cuban Cafe is a casual eatery focused on authentic Cuban comfort food. They offer dine-in, pickup, drive-through, and delivery options to suit different preferences.
What are the delivery hours of Elena’s Cuban Cafe?
Delivery is available Monday through Friday from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM. The cafe remains closed on Saturdays and Sundays.
Can I track my delivery order online?
Yes, the Sauce online delivery system provides a live order tracker so you can monitor your order from preparation through delivery.
How do I pay for my order at Elena’s Cuban Cafe?
Payment is processed securely online through Sauce using credit or debit cards. This allows for a smooth checkout for both pickup and delivery orders.
How can I find the menu and prices online?
The full menu, including prices, is available on their Sauce ordering site—just select pickup or delivery to view it.
What are the most popular menu items at Elena’s Cuban Cafe?
Top picks include the Cuban Sandwich (10″), Breaded Shrimp & Fries, and the Roasted Pork Sandwich — favorites among local diners.
Is there a reorder feature for past orders?
Yes, Sauce’s reorder functionality allows you to quickly repeat previous orders with ease. It’s a convenient way to get your go-to dishes again.
Are daily specials listed on the site?
Yes, the menu highlights daily specials such as Picadillo on Monday, Chicken Fricassée on Wednesday, Cod Fish on Friday, and more.
Does ordering directly through Sauce help the local community?
Yes, ordering directly via Sauce means no middleman fees — more of your payment goes straight to Elena’s Cuban Cafe.