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Tina's Cuban Cuisine
Master Critic Review
Tina's Cuban Cuisine
8.3
Vibes:
Comfort Food Classics
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Business Lunch Power Players
Group Dining Gatherings
Tina’s anchors the workday lunch rush with steam-table Cuban staples—roast pork, baked chicken, yellow rice, and sweet plantains—served cafeteria-style. It’s loud, fast, and no-frills, but the portions and prices make it one of Midtown East’s most dependable hot-plate values.
Must-Try Dishes:
Cuban sandwich with roast pork and ham, Roast pork with yellow rice, beans, and sweet plantains, Baked chicken platter with green sauce
Scores:
Value: 8.7
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 6.4
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Old-school Cuban cafeteria where Midtown office workers pile plates high for under $20.
Who should go: Hearty appetites that care more about flavor than decor.
When to visit: Beat the rush by going before noon or after 2pm.
What to order: Cuban sandwich, roast pork with rice and beans, baked chicken with green sauce.
Insider tip: The daily specials board often has the best value—scan it before you order from the line.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is scarce during office hours; meter spots open up after 6pm. No valet or dedicated lot—public garages on 53rd and 2nd Ave are the most reliable.
Dress code: Come as you are—office casual, workout gear, or winter layers. Completely no-frills.
Noise level: High during lunch rush; expect cafeteria-style chatter. Easy for quick conversation, not ideal for long talks.
Weekend wait: Not applicable—primarily a weekday lunch operation; evenings are quiet with no real wait.
Weekday lunch: Peak 12–1:30pm can mean 5–10 minutes in line; before noon or after 2pm is typically walk-right-up.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Moderate—yellow rice, black beans, plantains, salads, and occasional veggie sides.
Vegan options: Limited—black beans, rice, and plantains are the safest staples; verify daily specials.
Gluten-free options: Informal but feasible—rice plates, roast pork, baked chicken, beans, and plantains avoid gluten, but no dedicated GF prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal. It’s loud, cafeteria-style, and focused on speed rather than ambiance. Great for a casual bite with someone you already know.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—there are no reservations. Seating is limited and turnover is fast; during peak lunch you may need to share a table or eat quickly.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who can manage a busy counter-service environment. No high chairs, kids’ menu, or stroller-friendly layout during peak hours.
Best For
Better for: Large portions, fast service, and wallet-friendly Cuban comfort plates—especially strong on roast meats and value-focused combo plates.
Skip if: You want a quiet meal, table service, cocktails, or a polished ambiance. Look elsewhere for leisurely dining or special-occasion settings.