Press "Enter" to skip to content

Havana Central Times Square: Why It’s NYC’s Best Cuban Dining Spot

Introduction to Havana Central Times Square

In the middle of the vibrant Times Square district lies a hidden gem of Latin flavor. Havana Central Times Square brings the warmth and taste of Cuba to New York City. From lively music to classic cuisine, it is a complete cultural experience.

Whether you are exploring the city or planning a night out, Havana Central NYC offers a perfect escape. The restaurant combines rich flavors, friendly service, and joyful energy. It is a favorite for tourists and locals alike.

Experience the Vibrant Havana Central Times Square Dining Atmosphere

Step into Havana Central NYC and feel the rhythm of Cuba. The colorful décor, vintage photos, and tropical plants recreate the charm of Old Havana. Latin beats fill the air as live music plays several nights a week.

There is a mix of high energy and relaxation. Guests enjoy candlelit tables, cheerful staff, and a family-friendly vibe. Whether you visit for lunch, happy hour, or a romantic dinner, the mood is always festive.

Best Times to Visit:

  • Weekends for live music and dancing
  • Weekdays for quieter lunches
  • Evenings for cocktails and dinner with ambiance

Havana Central Times Square Menu With Prices

Soups, Salads & Sandwiches

Soup & Salads

ItemPriceDescription
Asopao De Pollo$9.50A classic hearty Cuban chicken soup with white rice, yuca & garden vegetables.
Ensalada De La Casa$7.95Mixed greens, tomatoes, red onion & Cuban croutons, tossed in a balsamic vinaigrette.
Ensalada De Aguacate$8.95Avocado over mixed greens, tomatoes, Spanish olives & red onion, tossed in a balsamic vinaigrette.
Ensalada De Pollo A La Parrilla$17.95Grilled chicken breast over mixed greens, avocado, tomatoes, red onion, black beans & corn, tossed in citrus coconut vinaigrette.
Ensalada De Salmón En Salsa De Mango$23.50Grilled salmon with sweet mango glaze & salsa over mixed greens, tomatoes, Spanish olives & red onion, tossed in balsamic vinaigrette.

Sandwiches

ItemPriceDescription
The Frita Burger$18.95A thick handmade patty of ground beef & spicy chorizo, grilled & smothered with a 3-cheese blend. Topped with lettuce, pickles, tomato-mayo sauce & fried potato sticks.
Sándwich Cubano Clásico$14.95Slow-roasted pork, smoked ham, Swiss cheese, pickles & mustard, pressed on Cuban bread.
Sándwich De Pollo Extraordinario$15.95Grilled chicken breast, Swiss cheese, roasted red peppers, lettuce, tomato & savory mayo.

Gluten Sensitive Options

Appetizers

ItemPriceDescription
Mazorca Estilo Havana (Havana Street Corn)$7.95Zesty corn-on-the-cob dusted with Latin cheeses & Cuban spices.

Soup & Salads

(Same as above, with adjustments for gluten sensitivity.)

Classic Cuban Entrees

ItemPriceDescription
Arroz Con Pollo$18.95Pulled chicken thigh tossed in yellow saffron rice with peas, onions & pimentos.
Pernil Asado$19.95Slow-roasted pork topped with pickled onions & lime.
Salmón Glaseado En Salsa De Mango$24.95Grilled Atlantic salmon with mango glaze & mango salsita.
Ropa Vieja$25.95Braised shredded beef with peppers & onions.
Churrasco A La Parrilla$29.95Center-cut skirt steak, grilled to order. Served with mango salsita & chimichurri (no fried onions).
Arroz Con Camarones$20.95Shrimp in saffron rice with peas, onions & pimentos.
Pimientos Rellenos$16.95Bell peppers stuffed with rice, chickpeas, seasonal vegetables & melted manchego cheese. Served with garlic kale (no tostones).

Sides

ItemPrice
Kale Al Ajillo (Garlic Kale)$6.50
Rice$3.00
Broccoli Al Ajillo (Garlic Broccoli)$6.50
Black Beans$3.00

Dessert

ItemPriceDescription
Flan$8.00Classic vanilla bean custard with caramel topping.

Appetizers

ItemPriceDescription
Cuban Appetizer Sampler$23.95Empanadas (2), chicharrones de pollo, masitas, maduros & tostones. Served with chimichurri.
Empanada Sampler$10.50Yuca pockets filled with choice of beef picadillo, 3-cheese (v), chicken sofrito, ropa vieja (+$1), or shrimp sofrito.
Caribbean Wings$12.50Jerk-spiced wings with blue cheese.
Calamares Fritos$15.50Fried calamari with sweet tomato sauce.
Masitas De Cerdo$9.95Deep-fried marinated pork with cebollitas, tostones & chimichurri.
Chicharrones De Pollo$13.50Fried chicken thigh pieces in garlic mojo & lime, served with guava-bbq & hot sauce.
Tortillas Y Guac Caseros$9.95Avocado with tomato, onion, cilantro & homemade tortilla chips.
Maiz Estilo Havana$7.00Corn-on-the-cob with Latin cheeses & spices.

Entrees & Sides

Classic Cuban Entrees

ItemPriceDescription
Ropa Vieja$25.95Braised shredded beef with peppers & onions.
Pernil Asado$19.95Slow-roasted pork with pickled onions.
Vaca Frita$27.95Crispy marinated steak with lime, peppers, garlic & onions. Served with cilantro rice & fried egg.
Pollo Al Ajillo$19.95Chicken sautéed with garlic, parsley, olive oil & white wine.
Arroz Con Pollo$18.95Chicken thighs in saffron rice with peas & onions. Served with sweet plantains & fried chicken.
Costillas Glaseadas Con Salsa De Guayaba$24.95Guava-glazed ribs with mango salsita.
Arroz Con Camarones$20.95Shrimp in saffron rice with peas & onions.
Churrasco A La Parrilla$29.95Grilled skirt steak with crispy onions, mango salsita & chimichurri.
Salmón Glaseado En Salsa De Mango$24.95Grilled salmon with mango glaze.
Camarones Al Ajillo$20.95Shrimp sautéed in garlic, parsley, olive oil & white wine.
Pimentos Rellenos$16.95Bell peppers stuffed with rice, chickpeas & vegetables, topped with manchego.
Mar Y Tierra$39.95Skirt steak & shrimp in garlic sauce.
Salmón Y Camarones$29.95Grilled salmon & shrimp in garlic sauce with tostones.
Costillas Y Alitas$23.954 Guava ribs & 4 Caribbean wings.
Trio De Amantes Del Cerdo$29.95Tower of masitas, pernil & guava ribs.
Tour Of Havana$29.95Pernil, ropa vieja & chicharrones de pollo.
Bandeja Vegetariana$19.95Stuffed pepper, street corn, garlic broccoli, maduros & tostones.

Sides

ItemPrice
Moro (Black Beans & Rice)$6.50
Maduros (Sweet Plantains)$6.50
Tostones (Fried Plantains)$6.50
Batata Fritas (Sweet Potato Fries)$6.50
Papas Fritas (French Fries)$6.50
Brócoli Al Ajillo (Garlic Broccoli)$6.50
Col Rizada Al Ajillo (Garlic Kale)$6.50
Yuca Majada (Mashed Yuca)$6.50

Dessert & Coffee

Desserts

ItemPriceDescription
Dulce De Leche Churro Bites$12.00Bite-sized churros filled with dulce de leche, served with dipping sauce.
Flan$8.00Vanilla bean custard with caramel.
Tres Leches Cake$12.00Sponge cake infused with three milks.
Churros$9.00Latin donut sticks with dulce de leche & chocolate sauces.
Affogato$9.00Vanilla ice cream with espresso shot.
Trio De Postres$22.00Flan, churros & tres leches.

Latin Coffees

ItemPrice
Café Con Leche$6.00
Cortadito$5.00
Café Cubano$5.00
Espresso (Single/Double)5.00/

5.00/7.00

Red Eye$6.00
Cappuccino$6.00
Café Mocha$7.00
Fresh Brewed Coffee$4.00
Classic Hot Chocolate$6.00

The Essence of Cuban Cuisine in the Heart of Times Square

Havana Central celebrates traditional Cuban dishes made with fresh ingredients and bold spices. The menu blends old family recipes with modern comfort.

Popular choices include:

  • Ropa Vieja: Shredded beef simmered in tomato sauce with peppers and onions
  • Lechon Asado: Marinated roast pork served with sweet plantains
  • Cuban Sandwich: Pressed bread filled with roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard
  • Vaca Frita: Crispy flank steak seasoned with garlic and lime

Side dishes like yuca fries, black beans, and rice complete the meal. Portions are generous and made for sharing.

Cuban Cocktails and Refreshing Drinks

The bar at Havana Central is known for its refreshing and bold Cuban cocktails. Each drink is crafted with care and tropical flair.

Top choices include:

  • Cuban Mojito: Mint, lime, sugar, and rum served over ice
  • Havana Central Margarita: A sweet and sour blend with a Latin twist
  • Classic Daiquiri: Rum, lime juice, and sugar, served chilled
  • Guava Rum Punch: A fruity delight that is both sweet and strong

Non-alcoholic drinks like fresh juices and tropical sodas are also available. The drink menu pairs well with spicy and savory dishes.

Special Events and Group Dining

Havana Central NYC is more than a restaurant. It is a destination for celebrations. The space is perfect for birthdays, corporate events, and group dinners.

Private dining rooms are available with flexible seating options. Custom menus and entertainment can be arranged. The staff helps create a fun and smooth experience.

Guests enjoy the lively setting, attentive service, and festive spirit. Events at Havana Central are always full of flavor and joy.

Quick Guide About Havana Central Times Square

CategoryDetails
Rating4.4 (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️) (6,325 reviews)
Price Range$30-40
CuisineCuban Restaurant
Location151 W 46th St, New York, NY 10036, United States
Map CodeQ258+88 New York, USA
Contact+1 212-398-7440
WebsiteFor Havana Central Times Square price and online orders, visit here.
Hours11:30 am–10 pm
FeaturesDine-in · Kerbside pickup · No-contact delivery · Live music · LGBTQ+ friendly
DescriptionBoisterous restaurant featuring Cuban fare, cocktails, and live music in a retro-Havana setting.

Planning Your Visit: Hours, Location, and Reservations

Address: 151 West 46th Street, New York, NY 10036
Phone: 212 398 7440
Website: www.havanacentral.com

Hours:

  • Monday to Thursday: 11 AM to 10 PM
  • Friday to Saturday: 11 AM to 11 PM
  • Sunday: 11 AM to 9 PM

The restaurant is easy to find, just steps away from major subways. It is a convenient stop for lunch, dinner, or a late-night treat.

Reservations are suggested, especially on weekends and show nights. Guests can book a table directly on the website or by phone.

Location on Map:

Havana Central Times Square Reviews

Overall Google Ratings: 4.4 / 5 (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️) Based on 6,325 reviews

i) Natasha Velazquez: (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️) (5/5) (04-09-2025)

I recently had lunch at Havana Central with my grandma, aunts, and cousins on a Sunday afternoon. We arrived a bit early for our reservation, but the staff welcomed us warmly. The hostess, servers, and manager were all incredibly attentive, kind, and patient — especially with our two elderly family members who had a hard time making up their minds.

The food and drinks were fantastic. To top it off, the manager told us about their rewards program, which gave us a free appetizer. It was a lovely experience from start to finish, and we definitely plan to come back for another family outing.

Food: 5/5
Service: 5/5
Atmosphere: 5/5

ii) Harvey Messing: (⭐️⭐️☆☆☆) (2/5) (04-02-2025)

Havana Central is a beautiful space, but unfortunately, my experience fell short. When I arrived, I waited several minutes at the host stand before anyone came to greet me. It felt understaffed for a busy restaurant.

Service continued to be slow — the waitress took quite a while to come to our table. When the food finally arrived, it was served alongside many other plates on a large tray, which likely delayed its arrival and affected the temperature. Both dishes I received were lukewarm at best.

The Ropa Vieja lacked flavor, and the black beans and plantains were equally bland. Our server did not return to check in on us, and overall, it felt like the staff was stretched thin. While the atmosphere was nice, the food and service did not meet expectations.

Food: 1/5
Service: 1/5
Atmosphere: 4/5

For more reviews and ratings, visit Google Reviews.

Conclusion: Why Havana Central Times Square Should Be Your Next Dining Destination

Havana Central Times Square is not just a restaurant. It is a celebration of Cuban culture in the heart of New York. Every visit feels like a small vacation, from the first bite to the last beat of the music.

With rich food, colorful drinks, warm hospitality, and exciting ambiance, it offers something for everyone. Families, couples, and groups all leave with smiles.

Book your authentic Cuban experience at Havana Central Times Square today.

Please also read articles about the NYC restaurants:

Ali Sada

I’m Sada, the founder of TripGuiderz.com. Since 2019, I’ve been crafting travel guides and blog posts to help readers plan smarter adventures. Let’s explore the world together!