Devoted masses line the sidewalk outside this south-of-the-border standout north of Little Italy. This tiny chrome luncheonette's popularity is no surprise, given its festive atmosphere and extensive menu of affordable Cuban and central Mexican fare. Dive right into one of the city's best mojitos or a frozen guava margarita, and be sure to order the locally famed grilled corn prepared Mexican-style (with chili powder, lime and cheese). The menu offers everything from steak and eggs and huevos rancheros at breakfast to lunch and dinner favorites such as Baja fish tacos with battered catfish, skirt steak with rice and beans, and steamed mussels in a white wine, leek and coconut sauce. Next door, the to-go counter is a go-to option for those wanting to avoid the lines or the general temptation of a good time. The aggressively green sister location, Habana Outpost in Brooklyn, claims to be the first solar-powered restaurant in New York. This eco-eatery is something of a sustainable-living-themed amusement park, with movie nights, educational programs, and (on weekends) a market for local vendors and artists.
Full bar. Serving breakfast, lunch, dinner and late-night daily. Sat–Sun brunch 9 am–4:30 pm.
Zagat 2010: 23 food rating (very good to excellent)
Time Out New York: Critics' Pick
"Much of the food here is hearty and enjoyable, certainly not fussy or pretentious. ... Its design is sleek and minimalist but true to the look of the old luncheonette."
—The New York Times
"The cramped quarters ... may scare away patrons desiring cushy seating and quiet conversation. But the perfectly seasoned roasted pork, grilled steaks and sautéed chicken makes this café a delicious dining destination."
—New York magazine
" ... addictive grilled corn: golden ears doused in fresh mayo, char-grilled, and generously sprinkled with chili powder and grated cotija cheese."
—Time Out New York