I grew up in Miami, Florida, eating nothing but Cuban food- breakfast, lunch, and dinner. I don’t think the owner really knows Cuban food.
We ordered the yuca, ropa vieja, and albondigas. The yuca was okay, the dip was a little weird but not bad, just unexpected. I thought it would be more of a mojo criollo sauce. The ropa vieja was not ropa vieja. Seriously, what was up with the texture of the meat? It was totally off, almost like fake meat, and where was the sazon Goya flavor? It tasted like tomato puree with air-sealed plastic-bag shredded beef. The rice tasted like Uncle Ben’s or some kind of instant rice.
Also, Cubans don’t put pork chunks on rice or arroz moro, but okay. Honestly, I would love to teach the chef how to make flavorful shredded beef that would have people lining up outside the door. I wanna see this business succeed, if it tasted out of this world, which real Cuban food does, people would be waiting outside the door, at any price. We are desperate for some food diversity but I has to be great!
The albondigas were okay, the texture was also a bit off, but the taste wasn’t bad. What ruined it for me was the mesquite/BBQ flavor, which is completely wrong. This isn’t Tex-Mex, Cubans don’t use that seasoning.
And no flan? How can you not offer flan…the easiest and most delicious Cuban dessert? It’s not a Cuban restaurant without flan.
One more suggestion: have mint leaves and lemonade available as a mocktail option for those of us who don’t drink.
The price really doesn’t match what you get, especially when Pollo Tropical (a cheap Cuban fast-food chain) in Miami tastes so much better. But I get it, Hanover is expensive, and running a new food business is very hard
Although my review is critical, I genuinely hope the owner takes these comments seriously and makes some changes. You can do so much better, and people like me, who live here and want to support your restaurant, would come...
Read moreLast night, we visited Little Havana after reading rave reviews. I want to express my gratitude for bringing authentic Cuban cuisine to our community. The ambiance transported us back to our home, and every bite of food was a delightful experience. During our visit, I had the pleasure of meeting one of the owners. She was incredibly warm and friendly, and I learned that her mother is the talented cook behind the delicious dishes. I had the opportunity to chat with her, and she was the most genuine and down-to-earth person l've ever met. We savored a variety of main courses, including the mouthwatering ropa vieja, flavorful albóndigas, and tender masita. As appetizers, we indulged in crispy yuca frita, succulent shrimp cocktail, and delectable empanadas. To complement our meal, we ordered refreshing mojitos and a unique virgin mojito. Each dish was a symphony of flavors, leaving us craving more. One thing that stood out to me was the authenticity of the food. Unlike some fast-food Cuban restaurants that compromise on taste, Little Havana's dishes are made with fresh, unprocessed ingredients and free from artificial condiments like Goya. The hardworking owners, who are passionate about Cuban cuisine, ensure that every dish is prepared with love and care. I believe that Little Havana has the potential to be a huge success. With the limited options for diverse cultural cuisines in our area, this restaurant offers a unique and authentic dining experience that we can all enjoy. I hope to see Little Havana thrive and continue to bring the flavors of Cuba to...
Read moreIf you're looking for a lively and welcoming dining experience in Hanover, Little Havana is a must-visit. The moment you walk in, the vibrant atmosphere hits you — warm, cozy, and inviting, with a hint of Cuban flair. The staff is incredibly friendly and attentive, making you feel like you're a guest in their home rather than just a customer.
The food is a standout. Each dish is flavorful, with a perfect balance of spices and fresh ingredients. Whether you're in the mood for a classic Cuban sandwich, savory ropa vieja, or a lighter appetizer like the tostones, there’s something for everyone. You can tell that a lot of care goes into the preparation, and every bite is satisfying.
Don’t miss out on their cocktails — they’re expertly crafted, with a variety of tropical and rum-based drinks that complement the cuisine beautifully. Whether you’re sipping a mojito or something more adventurous, you’re in good hands here.
Overall, Little Havana offers a fantastic dining experience with a great atmosphere, excellent food, and top-notch drinks. It’s the perfect spot for a casual dinner or a special night out with friends or family....
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