Omarcito’s Latin Cafe — Restaurant in Jefferson Township

Guy Fieri definitely didn't go wrong coming here. We have been trying to come here a few times now but it is just a bit of a hike from River North with traffic and all. But it was worth the time. We are no strangers to Puerto Rican food, and trust me when I say nothing tastes better outside of Puerto Rico, but at Omarcito, this is probably the closest you can get. Compare to the other Puerto Rican and Cuban joints in the area, the cost is definitely higher, and Omar doesn't take plastic. Cash, vemo, zelle only, so it is a bit inconvenient but the quality of the food is there. The kitchen is basically a small shipping container in the center courtyard between the hair salon and a gym, so you can get your Puerto Rican fix after a hair cut and a work out. There is a DJ every Sunday, it was loud in there, maybe a bit too loud but you can't hear it from the streets. There is a small indoor dinning room in the courtyard as well, where you can see the signature DDD plaque. The Ropa Vieja that I had was very flavorful and tender, I love the brininess and acidity coming from the olives, and the Lechon Jabarito was the perfect sandwich, the meat had the perfect fat and lean ratio, and it is grilled to add some crisp to it, perfect. We had the Guava Cheesecake and Cafe con Leche at the end, the cake was one of the best that I had, even counting the ones that I had in Miami and Puerto Rico. You can really taste the Guava. Summer time would be great here, with all of that outdoor seating. Omar has a big personality, make sure you stop by and get to know him...

I’ll start with the vibes at Omarcitos: from the moment you’re in line, you can feel the excitement from everyone around you, eager to enjoy these amazing meals. Whether you swing by after work during the week or wait hours on the weekend for the full experience, the food never disappoints.

As a Puerto Rican, I can say that while Omarcitos’ Latin culture isn’t exactly the same as mine, the flavors still made me feel like version of home that I’d be happy to visit weekly. I’m on a mission to try every single item on the menu, and so far, not once have I been disappointed.

The steak jibarito was cooked to perfection, and pairing it with Omar’s signature hot sauce and garlic sauce turned it into the highlight of my Friday. I’ve also tried the catfish jibarito, ropa vieja jibarito, and pulled pork jibarito—and my only complaint is that I can’t eat them slowly enough. They disappear from my plate instantly, while the portions are perfectly satisfying.

On top of the food, Omar’s personality shines. He has a way of making you feel like family, even if you’ve only met him once. If you want the best experience, show up early. His food is so good that items can sell out before closing, and trust me—you don’t want to miss out. Omar does an incredible job bringing comfort, joy, and smiles through every dish and every interaction.

Thank you Omar for creating a space that I feel so blessed to share with...

Have you ever walked into a friend's home and been received like you are at home? Well, that's the way that Omar from Omarcito's Latin Cafe welcomes you. He says hi and says your name if you've already come by!

But I digress... you wanna know about the good. But to understand the food, you must understand the love that radiates from this man when he makes the food. You can tell by the food alone that he enjoys making food for his customers.

Okay... let's get to the food! We got 5 empanadas of Omar's picking... cause we love being surprised by the chef! Of the empanadas that we ate, the hubby had the lechon and I had the steak. Neither of these items was lacking in flavor or even meat! We have had empanadas before from other places where was more air than filling, but these were not disappointing at all. Crunchy, flaky, and oh-so-delicious!

Our daughter got the Timba sandwich, which is a sandwich with cream cheese and guava. I couldn't get a picture of it because as soon as she got her hands on it, it was almost gone! She killed it!!

The three of us shared the pan con mantequilla (bread with bread) that is pressed so flatly and so flavorful!

Our drinks were the Cafe con Leche... made perfectly and something that I seriously cannot wait to have again!

If you are looking to support a small business, come down to Logan Square and support Omarcito's. You won't be...