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Cibao Restaurant
Master Critic Review
Cibao Restaurant
8.0
Cibao is a long-running counter-service spot serving Dominican and Puerto Rican home cooking that many locals shorthand as classic Spanish Caribbean food. Plates of stewed meats, rice, beans, and plantains come fast and affordable, making it a go-to for everyday comfort rather than drawn-out dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Cuban sandwich, Ropa vieja with rice and beans, Pernil with maduros
Scores:
Value: 8.7
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: No-frills Dominican and Puerto Rican plates that define neighborhood comfort food.
Who should go: Locals craving filling, affordable Spanish-Caribbean classics.
When to visit: Lunch and early dinner when steam tables are fullest.
What to order: Cuban sandwich, pernil, ropa vieja with rice and beans.
Insider tip: Ask which stews are freshest that day and build your plate around them.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; generally manageable on side streets but can be tight during peak LES dining hours.
Dress code: Completely casual — come as you are; no need to dress up.
Noise level: Low to moderate — mostly counter service with steady takeout flow, but conversations are easy.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes during peak hours, mostly for ordering rather than seating.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; food moves quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Some options — rice, beans, plantains, and a few vegetable sides.
Vegan options: Limited — can build a plate with rice, beans, and plantains, but most mains are meat-based.
Gluten-free options: Several naturally gluten-free items like stews, rice, and plantains, but no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you’re going for a quick, super-casual bite. The vibe is more utility-focused than atmospheric.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s counter service with fast turnover, so seating is typically available without planning.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — simple plates, mild flavors, and fast service make it easy for families, though there’s no dedicated kids menu or amenities.
Best For
Better for: Fast, inexpensive Spanish-Caribbean comfort food with consistent portions and long-standing neighborhood reliability.
Skip if: You want a leisurely sit-down meal, cocktails, or a more polished Spanish dining experience.