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Made in Havana
Master Critic Review
Made in Havana
8.4
Vibes:
Comfort Food Classics
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Family Friendly Favorites
Quick Bites Champions
Made in Havana is a compact Melrose spot focused on pressed Cuban sandwiches, empanadas, and rice bowls built around slow-cooked pork and garlicky mojo. It’s where locals go when they want a crunchy, salty, mustardy Cuban on real pan de agua rather than a generic deli interpretation.
Must-Try Dishes:
Classic Cuban sandwich, Medianoche pressed sandwich, Lechon bowl with rice and plantains
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Proper Cuban sandwiches with crackly bread and deeply seasoned pork.
Who should go: Fans of pressed, saucy, meat-heavy sandwiches.
When to visit: Lunch and early dinner for freshest bread and roast meats.
What to order: Classic Cuban, Medianoche, lechon rice bowl.
Insider tip: Add extra pickles and mustard if you like sharper contrast.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along Melrose is the primary option; spots turn over fairly quickly during the day but become tighter after 6pm. No dedicated lot.
Dress code: Casual—come as you are. Most diners are in everyday streetwear or work clothes.
Noise level: Moderate. You can comfortably chat, but the press grill and takeout flow add steady background noise.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes during peak early-evening hours, especially for larger takeout orders.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; expect quick counter service and fast turnaround.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited—typically 1–2 sandwiches or bowls can be made vegetarian by swapping fillings, plus cheese-forward options if available.
Vegan options: Very limited—Cuban classics are pork-heavy, but you may find occasional plant-based sides. Not ideal for strict vegans.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free bread for sandwiches, but rice bowls can be customized gluten-free. No separate prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date appreciates casual, counter-style spots. It’s more about great Cuban flavor than ambiance, so not ideal for a romantic setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—this is a counter-service setup with quick turnover. Seating is limited but generally opens up fast.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes. Laid-back, fast service, and familiar flavors (empanadas, rice bowls) make it easy for families. Limited high-chair availability, so toddlers may be easier in strollers.
Best For
Better for: Pressed Cuban sandwiches with proper pan de agua, garlicky mojo pork, and crisp textures that outshine generic delis or fusion sandwich shops.
Skip if: You want a vegan-friendly menu, a full-service dining atmosphere, or quieter seating—look elsewhere for those needs.