Kuba Kuba in Richmond

1601 Park Ave, Richmond, VA 23220, United States

★★★★★
(2560 reviews)
Categories: Cuban restaurant Restaurant

About

Cozy, vibrant cafe serving casual Cuban fare with wine, beer & brunch. Socially distanced indoor and covered outdoor seating. A family and neighborhood favorite.

Website
kubakuba.info
Address
1601 Park Ave, Richmond, VA 23220, United States
Plus Code
HG2R+G9 Richmond, Virginia, USA
Time Zone
America/New_York

Business Hours

Sunday
9 AM–8 PM
Monday
9 AM–9:30 PM
Tuesday
Closed
Wednesday
Closed
Thursday
9 AM–9:30 PM
Friday
9 AM–10 PM
Saturday
9 AM–10 PM

Services

Service options
Outdoor seating Takeaway Dine-in Delivery
Highlights
Fast service Great coffee Great dessert
Popular for
Breakfast Lunch Dinner Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible entrance Wheelchair-accessible seating Wheelchair-accessible toilet Wheelchair-accessible car park
Offerings
Alcohol Beer Coffee Comfort food Happy-hour drinks Healthy options Quick bite Small plates Vegetarian options Wine
Dining options
Breakfast Brunch Lunch Dinner Dessert Seating
Amenities
Bar on site Toilets Wi-Fi Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual Cosy Trendy
Crowd
Family friendly Groups LGBTQ+ friendly Tourists Transgender safe space University students
Planning
Usually a wait Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards Debit cards Credit cards
Children
Good for kids High chairs Kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking

Photos

Reviews

4.5
★★★★★
2560 reviews

Most Mentioned

chorizo (23) risotto (21) limeade (16) huevos rancheros (16) cornbread (15) asparagus (10) habanero (10) ricotta (8) condensed milk (6) pesto (5)
5 stars
1832
4 stars
406
3 stars
142
2 stars
60
1 stars
120
★★★
December 15, 2024

This place came highly recommended by a local. The vibe inside has a lot of culture and color! Very excited to see cafe con leche sweetened with condensed milk on the menu and definitely got started with that gem! The two ladies behind the bar-top and serving were warm and attentive. It was shortly after 10 when a man named Ben or he may go by Benny walked in and asked the kitchen to make him breakfast. He then sat at the bar top and ate. Ben walked around as if he owned the place. Mind you today Dec 15th was Chef Manny's (the actual owner) birthday and Chef Manny has the warmest aura about him, lugging groceries in on his birthday and checking in on the kitchen staff. At first I thought Ben was also somewhat warm, he went to give Chef a big hug and helped him bring in groceries. As soon as the Chef left to undoubtedly go enjoy his birthday, Ben became a completely different person. Ben acted from that point forward as if the patrons were annoying him, anything he was asked for and people thanked him for, he never followed up with a your welcome or even a slight smile, instead he presented outwardly with a look of disgust to even be asked for anything. We were actually very irritated by the end of our meal with the way he treated the customers, especially us when we were waiting on boxes and to go cups for our left over food and drinks. It’s a shame that our experience at this place was flipped by the attitude of this fake excuse for a man. If I were Chef, the first thing I would do - is tell him to pack sand to avoid interrupting the warm vibe (when Ben was nonexistent) and the welcoming staff this place holds. Back to the food bc that’s important to note: the Spanish omelet was great and the huevos Kuba was good (rice and meat was a bit cold but the flavor of the dish was good). We hope to return on Ben’s day off and will likely call ahead of time to ensure a great experience since the rest of the place should not suffer rating wise due to his arrogance.

★★
November 30, 2024

I was very pleased with the food, the waiter was awfully rude since we stepped in, he’s a tall, skinny caucasian dude, he treated us like he was in a rush, not welcoming, he asked if our party were all there and we say yes cuz we were, as we were entering we read the signs of only visa payments so my cousin run to his car to bring another card and because of that maybe he got all frustrated at us, from then he was just rushed and rude, and we didn’t even wanted to spend more money in desserts. Such a shame! We walked out of there and saw the owner smiling and thanking us for coming, I really wanted to go tell him in that moment but my family of 6 we just wanted to go home. 😔

★★★★★
November 19, 2024

Our food was outstanding! My daughter and I really enjoyed it. We had a nice server but she was not very attentive and we felt a bit rushed. But all in all it was a nice experience.

★★★★★
November 18, 2024

Cozy little corner restaurant. We went on a Saturday evening and our party of five was seated after a very reasonable wait. Staff was very friendly. Service was excellent and the food was amazing.

★★★★★
August 4, 2024

I am visiting my brothers in law for the weekend and we had a chance to try this spot. The food was really good, service was good too. They were not that busy. I would recommend you to try it and I hope you have a good experience like I did.

★★★★★
July 21, 2024

We got the kubanaso, yucca fries and pork lunch special. It was all tasty, but the pork was a bit dry. I highly recommend the yucca fries, which are topped with fresh garlic, parsley and lemon...really out of this world! Service was good, and the place was super cozy with cool eclectic decor.

★★
June 29, 2024

The service was not great at best it was okay, server never check on us and how are you going to call the restaurant Kuba Kuba when you have no Latina people cooking or even any traditional food. They did have any white rice or plantains, it was at best a mix of uncooked plantains. The rice con pollo is all veggies and wet with two big chicken breast not mix in the rice like traditional Cuban food. Server did not know how to explain menu items.

★★★★★
June 16, 2024

OMG!! 🤯 The Sloppy Jose is outrageous!!! 😍 One of the best sandwiches I've ever ordered! 😋 This is not my first visit and previously, everything was just as good! Service is outstanding 👏 and I don't think I will find something I won't like. Tastes like someone's Grandma is in the kitchen. 😳 You can taste the Love ❤️! 🥰😛 If you are hungry in Richmond, check ✔️ out Kuba Kuba for one of the best meals around. 😉 Just tried the Bar-B-Cuban; 😳🤯 My new favorite sandwich 🥪 😋 Almost better than the Sloppy Jose!!!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2024

Kuba Kuba is known for its homestyle Cuban dishes loaded with flavor. Theres not a bad dish on the extensive menu. Today, we dropped in for lunch. Kuba Kuba is located in the Fan and has been around since 1998. If youve never been, its quite a treat. Consistently good food made with fresh ingredients. Today, we had the morning quesadilla, avocado salad, California huevos rancheros, and the kubanaso. We argued over who ordered the best dish! Service is excellent. We love the atmosphere. Its always a delight.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2024

Wow...so good food...Has the caribbean flavor. The attention excelent..

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 15, 2024

I cannot recommend this space enough. Kuba Kuba has been a favorite for years, and their quality has never dipped. I wish to be buried in their arroz con picadillo.

★★★★★
December 15, 2024

Simply the best.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 8, 2024

We got takeout, which was fast and easy. I got my favorite kubanaso sandwich, which is a Cuban with chorizo. So good! Its a big sandwich, so I enjoyed the second half for lunch today. My husband got the roast pork dinner, which was also yummy and two big meals. The limeade is wonderful. I love this place!

December 8, 2024

Added their own gratuity

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 8, 2024

The Barbquban is my go to sandwich and its one of my favorite sandwiches at any restaurant. The platanos are incredible, and the hot sauce is some of the best made anywhere. Its also incredibly charming.

★★★★★
Local Guide
November 22, 2024

A great spot for Cuban food, the pork was delicious, and a great atmosphere both inside the restaurant and outdoor seating.

★★★★
November 22, 2024

Authentic experience, though if your originally from Miami, food misses the authentic Cuban spices. Coffee is on point and staff are incredible!

★★★★
November 22, 2024

Great Cuban sandwich

★★★★★
Local Guide
November 22, 2024

In the top rank of meals we ve eaten. The food freshness and flavoring is outstanding. I highly recommend it.

★★★★★
Local Guide
November 22, 2024

Its a Richmond Staple for a reason

★★★★★
Local Guide
November 22, 2024

Very good food. I enjoyed it. Thanks.

★★★★★
Local Guide
November 22, 2024

Kubanaso and Empanadas on the patio!

★★★★★
Local Guide
November 22, 2024

Delicious food and generous portions

★★★★★
November 22, 2024

Lived in Richmond for years. I knew this place existed but never tried it. Delicious food, wonderful service. Definitely going back.

★★★★★
Local Guide
November 22, 2024

Old street corner dinner vibe - divey and nostalgic. The food was incredible!

★★★★★
November 22, 2024

The lunch roast pork plate was delicious, add their hot sauce!

★★★★★
Local Guide
November 22, 2024

Amazing Cuban restaurant. Small location but you cant beat the food.

★★★★★
Local Guide
October 22, 2024

Such a wonderful place. So much to see. Foods is really good. And service is awesome.

October 22, 2024

At first we were very hopeful based on the menu options and delightful aroma of freshly baked Cuban bread . The only person waiting on tables appeared to be overwhelmed by a very large group of people. At first we were sympathetic because he was clearly trying to accommodate everyone. However, after sitting at our table for 30 minutes he never came back to our table or even made eye contact with us. I noticed another couple waiting for their check and a container for leftovers for several minutes. After he finally brought them to go boxes (they were next to us) he completely ignored us. At this point he could have taken our order for food or at the very least brought us a cup Of coffee.. but nothing. Instead, he walked over to the large party and asked if they wanted dessert?? Seriously?!! Horrible service.. at least acknowledge us because we understood he was by himself but it was apparent he was not interested in our business.. Would not go back ..

★★★★★
October 22, 2024

THE BEST paella I have ever had. Pork dishes are excellent also. Had better Cuban food than Miami. Mango carrrot habanero sauce would go with any food you can imagine. It helps that the staff is friendly.

Local Guide
October 22, 2024

How does this place pass health inspections? Bucket collecting water from the ac. Floor and walls are filthy. I had the El Italiano and it was just ok. Plantains were more like chips. Music was way too somber. No liquor on site? Not a good dinner experience.

★★★★★
Local Guide
October 22, 2024

Huevos California. Soooo good. Every time.

★★★★★
Local Guide
October 22, 2024

Cool restaurant with neighborhood feel. Food was outstanding

★★★★★
Local Guide
October 22, 2024

Iconic Richmond restaurant. It is usually crowded so time your visit or be prepared to wait. My go-to dish is the vegetable paella, but it is hard to make the wrong choice. Vegetarians and carnivores will be happy. If you are feeling particularly decadent, order the tres leches cake for dessert. Or for dinner.

★★★★★
October 22, 2024

Such a cute little place. It has a great vibe and the food is excellent. Located in a quaint part of Richmond.

★★★★★
Local Guide
October 22, 2024

Great food in a fun place! Service was great too!

Local Guide
October 22, 2024

This place is not authentic in the slightest, the food was terrible and the service was even worse. If you dont want to have a deplorable experience and lose money, I strongly recommend everyone not to eat here. This place is not authentic in the least, the food was terrible and the service was worse. If you dont want to have a deplorable experience and lose money, I strongly recommend everyone not to eat here.

★★★★★
Local Guide
October 22, 2024

great food but im From NYC and never herd of non split payments to dine out! Especially When you hanging with friends !

★★★★
Local Guide
October 22, 2024

Kuba Kuba is a staple in Richmond. Those who know it love it, and know the rules. Be prepared to wait to eat in this tiny restaurant. What the servers lack in small talk the more than make up in efficiency. Know what you want to order in advance and youll get what you want. Hem and haw, and youre not likely to get the same attention as another table. The restaurant is small, theyre working to turn those tables over so the servers and the restaurant can make their money. Follow the rules and youll get a great meal. Only one complaint, sometimes you leave smelling like Kuba Kuba since the kitchen is up front.

★★★★★
Local Guide
October 22, 2024

This is a gem of a fine in Richmond. Food was great and the service was great. Well visit again next time Im in Richmond

★★★
Local Guide
September 22, 2024

The food was pretty dry with not enough flavor. The portions were big and the price was very reasonable. Service was iffy, even on a day where it didnt seem too busy.

★★★★★
Local Guide
September 22, 2024

Great food, huge portions! One entree serves two easily. Highly recommended!

★★★★★
September 22, 2024

Simply Outstanding Food came highly recommended and did not disappoint.

★★★★★
September 22, 2024

Great innovative menu. We had one of the many Spanish frittatas and pesto tomatoe cheese sandwiche ( house made pesto). Cool indoor atmosphere, small outside area with umbrellas. Service was superb. Highly recommended. Vegetarian options: Egg and cheese dishes. Not much for vegans other than salad. Parking: Plenty of street parking , one hour limit.

★★★★★
Local Guide
September 22, 2024

Loved the food and the atmosphere, amazing service as well!

September 22, 2024

came on saturday 9/14 food was great, server was a little eh, he was rude to the tables around us but im a bartender so i get it, it was busy and we all get flustered at times. we ate, had dessert and espresso, spent around $60ish dollars. well i checked my bank statement yesterday and saw I had a $63 charge (cleared on monday) but also a $47 charge (cleared on tuesday) didnt freak out just called the restaurant and the server we had answered the phone, he said oh you probably just got charged twice but there is no manger on duty and someone will give me call back in a few day, A FEW DAYS? hello? i work in customer service and that should be handled immediately... in my opinion i waited until today and called back, same guy answered, no manager on duty hes off on wednesdays .... its getting a little hard to believe that you havent had a single manager on duty for two days. i expressed to him that should be a priority to fix and not just handing off a note to your manger that will probably get lost in the midst of a rush. he said sorry theres nothing else i can do, ill give you the owners number but theyll probably just refer you to the same manager i started doing some math and was thinking maybe the $47 charge was the original charge and it just updated to $63 when they added the tip, did some more math and i wouldnt have tipped well over 20% for the service we got. it wasnt bad just wasnt great. plus there wouldnt be two separate charges if it updated with a tip. now im starting to believe that someone changed the tip amount on the receipt to $47 and theyre now refusing to fix it. i had no choice but to contact my bank and file a dispute. definitely disappointed, this spot was a richmond staple but i will not be returning. unless im paying in cash.

★★★★★
Local Guide
September 22, 2024

The Cuban flavors are all there with a modern twist. This is real good Cuban food. All the food are well presented and the customer service was friendly. Only wish outside had a fan. Beyond that, if you are passing by, this is great food at a great value.

★★★★★
Local Guide
September 22, 2024

Excellent Cuban diner! Had the best huevos rancheros Ive ever had! Their Cuban toast was soo good! Their coffee (Cafe Con leche) was very smooth and had a distinctive taste that I really loved as well.

★★★
Local Guide
August 22, 2024

The empanadas were ok, good seasoning on the meat and crispy dough. Shredded beef and addition of a sauce would be a game changer. The Ropa Vieja was on point. The rice was simple but fravorful and buttery. The Paella Valenciana had a Cuban twist with the glandules. I would not miss the asparagus. The clams and mussels were grainy quite a bit of sand. Overall ok but too much going on with the vegetable mixture. A good and unique freshly squeezed lemonade.

★★★★★
Local Guide
August 22, 2024

Great food, atmosphere, and service!!! Every time I am in the area, I stop by for a cuban sandwich.

★★
August 22, 2024

$22 for some overcooked, tough chicken and bland rice? Not worth it at all

★★★★★
Local Guide
August 22, 2024

This was my first time eating Cuban food, and it was delicious! The service was great and they were very friendly.

★★★★★
August 22, 2024

We had the best time and the food was muy buena

★★★★★
Local Guide
August 22, 2024

Excellent authentic Cuban food. They were out of plantains but its okay. Delicious

★★★★★
Local Guide
August 22, 2024

Always love going here. Everything is always great.

★★★★
Local Guide
August 22, 2024

DON T SIT OUTSIDE. This place was great other than the flys outside. They ruined the meal. There are a lot of them and they bite. Service and food was great but the fans on the table to keep them away are not cutting it.

August 22, 2024

Cuban from Miami here. I appreciate the attempt but its a no from me in terms of authentic food. On a side note: Obviously the nachos are a fusion dish, but add more plantain chips to them! Its five or six chips to an entire plate. The ratio is insane.

★★★★★
Local Guide
August 22, 2024

I felt like I was sitting in San Juan!

★★★★★
Local Guide
August 22, 2024

Great great cuban restaurant

★★★★★
Local Guide
August 22, 2024

Good atmosphere, great service. Very good food.

★★★★★
Local Guide
August 22, 2024

Highly recommend the ropa vieja - even the lunch portion was a lot of food for the price! Truly an RVA gem! Parking: Free 1 hour street parking out front!

★★★★★
July 22, 2024

Great little brunch spot. The food was very tastfull. I would definitely go back again.

★★★★★
July 22, 2024

Ok tell me how they make any profit with soooo much food for the price. I was shocked honestly the best and appreciate a good big plate for leftover cause I can eat I feel like its very similar to typical Hispanic/ Spanish/ Mexican food and didnt feel like the dish I got (pulled pork) was anything Cuban special... No special sauce or anything so I guess that is probably just what it is, was expecting something new but very similar to Mexican food

★★★
Local Guide
July 22, 2024

It s ok

★★★★★
Local Guide
July 22, 2024

Loved the Latin American flavor and the vibe. Great staff and food! Kid-friendliness: Brought the grandkids a small plastic cup without being asked. Each child golfed down their food. One grilled cheese and one cheese quesadilla Food : 5/5 |

★★★★★
July 22, 2024

Great plantains.

★★★★★
Local Guide
July 22, 2024

Great food w plenty huge portions and friendly service even when theyre busy

★★★★★
Local Guide
July 22, 2024

Cozy place with great food. Portions are huge.

★★★★★
Local Guide
July 22, 2024

Lots of food for your money. Great coffee too. Vegetarian options: Vegetable options Kid-friendliness: Lots of items for kids, food is fast

★★★★★
Local Guide
July 22, 2024

Food was delicious. Staff was friendly. I wish the draft beer was a little colder.

★★★★★
Local Guide
July 22, 2024

Always delicious and a great experience!

★★★★★
July 22, 2024

This place has great food for great prices. The sandwiches are always good, especially the Cu Bánh Mí. Topped with their signature hot sauce and a side of fried plantains, theres no better sandwich in Richmond. I also dont usually get dessert at restaurants, but I always make sure to splurge for a slice of Tres Leche. Its just that good

★★★★★
July 22, 2024

Pleasant and Proficient!

★★★★★
Local Guide
July 22, 2024

Great place for a snack.

★★★★★
Local Guide
July 22, 2024

As always... FANTASTIC. The service is friendly and quick and the food is delicious!

★★★★★
Local Guide
June 22, 2024

Love the pulled pork and they have really solid prices

★★★★★
Local Guide
June 22, 2024

Came here with my family. Everyone had an option on the menu. The café con leche was just what we needed on a rainy afternoon. Family members who had the Cuban Sandwich loved it. I had the ropa vieja dinner plate and loved it, too. Enough food to take home some leftovers. Unfortunately, I came here a week before moving out of town. Wish I had found this place earlier.

★★★★★
Local Guide
June 22, 2024

Food was delicious and portions were massive!

★★
June 22, 2024

I was disappointed when I came here. What was supposed to be a kids grilled cheese was about 2 times a regular person s head. The service was nice enough, but we had to wait about 45 minutes for our food to come out. Very poor cleaning. The walls were scraped, there were crumbs everywhere when we walked in. The quesadilla came out burnt. They have a very long wait when you try to come in. I asked for freshly squeezed lemonade, but they put sprite in it. The chairs were destroyed.

★★
Local Guide
June 22, 2024

The tables were sticky, with no air conditioning, and a bit of snobby service, but the food was authentic Cuban. The location was in a cool Richmond neighborhood setting, but the restaurants trash smell kept blowing by the front door with every breeze, kinda made the food smell and experience a bit less than it could have been.

★★★★★
June 22, 2024

This place was so good that I came back the next day to get a few items to go! Lunch was a fantastic classic Cuban sandwich with plátanos, and we ordered the limeade and an iced cafe con leche. Both drinks were so delicious that we came back the next day before heading out of town to get them to go Food

★★★
Local Guide
June 22, 2024

I liked the service and atmosphere, but I am just not a fan of this type of food. It is a popular restaurant so I think it might just be my taste buds.

★★★★
Local Guide
June 22, 2024

We ordered the Cu Banh Mi and the Turkey Press with Limeades and key lime pie for dessert. The sandwiches and plantains were perfect, I just wish there were more plantains in the side order. The key lime pie was good altho less limey than you might imagine. Our friends ordered the tres leches cake that seemed to be the superior choice between the two. Overall great time and will be back!

★★★★★
Local Guide
June 22, 2024

Check prices because they are not what is on line

★★★★
Local Guide
June 22, 2024

Food was delicious. Our server was a bit rude, he probably had a bad day. But we will definitely be back to try again.

★★★★★
Local Guide
June 22, 2024

Feels like I m on a vacation when I walk through the door! The service is always great the food was awesome too. Thanks Bob for a great experience

★★★★★
Local Guide
June 22, 2024

The food is really good! Average size plates. Small inside but comfortable. Overall a great local restaurant, never had a bad meal.

Local Guide
June 22, 2024

Food is decent, but the service is awful. Highly recommend you skip this place for the staff alone. Better Cuban places in the local area. Will never come again.

★★★★★
Local Guide
June 22, 2024

Always good food here. And great service. Tres leches is amust.

★★★★★
Local Guide
June 22, 2024

I love this place. Food is always on point. Service is great no matter how busy. The cafe con Leche is so freaking good! Will forever be one of my go tos!

★★★★★
Local Guide
June 22, 2024

I love this place. The roasted pork is my wifes favorite, I love the paella valencia. This is one of those places we drive into town specifically to come here and wonder why havent we been coming kore often! Food

★★★★★
Local Guide
June 22, 2024

This was a pleasant find! Cubano, arroz con camarones, and cafe con leche were so good. On top of that, server was nice and attentive. Would go again when were in town. Kid-friendliness: Kids menu was very limited to grilled cheese, quesadilla, turkey+swiss or ham+swiss sandwiches.

★★★★★
Local Guide
June 22, 2024

Great food, friendly staff. Small, quaint neighborhood location.

★★★★
June 22, 2024

Cool place. Laid back vibe. Street parking. Outside seating available. Got the risotto cakes appetizer & Cuban sandwich. The risotto cake appetizer was better to me than the Cuban sandwich. There were 3 balls of deep fried rice. They were delicious & the salsa with it really made the dish. The Cubans were ok I guess but nothing special. A bit dry & lacked TLC. Using butter to grill them first and maybe a tad on the outside also could have helped them a lot to not be so dry. Perhaps they needed more condiments. I only ate half & plan to take it home to doctor it up with more cheese and butter on outside like a grilled cheese. Think it would be better that way. Anyway, It came with plantains but they were cut like quarters and extremely dry . Very dry. I m accustomed to plantains being sweet and soft and juicy and cut larger (Love them from the Jamaican food truck under Mayo bridge). I ordered the The tres Leches cake for desert . It was delicious. Overall service was ok.

May 22, 2024

I believe the food should the be the main focus of any restaurant. This food is bland and I will not recommend anyone to come here to eat based on what I experienced today. I ordered the roasted pork and the meat was stringy, not seasoned, and not as tender as roast pork is supposed to be. The black beans taste like they from out of a can, into a pot to heat up and then served, and the yellow rice was not seasoned. I feel dumb because I just paid $31 including tip for a meal that I couldve carelessly made at home for a fraction of the price. This was my first experience here and I am completely confused how they are still open but other places with better food shut down so frequently. The service was ok but I don t require much.

★★★★★
Local Guide
May 22, 2024

The atmosphere is cozy, comfortable, and from an older time with a sense of personal history that is often lost with many restaurants today. The people are friendly and inviting. They were present without hovering. The real gem of the experience, however, was the food. Everything was excellent. The plantains were more like chips and less like the desert item I am used to with African influenced restaurants. The Paella Mariscos was well balanced in flavor, the rice was soft and delicate, the mussels and clams were soft, not rubbery, and sweet. The Salmon and Coconut risotto cakes was wonderful, possibly the best of the meal, the salsa gave it the spark but the Coconut risotto cakes were creamy and an excellent flavor. Thank you all so much for the scrumptious meal!

May 22, 2024

If you are wanting authentic CUBAN food, DO NOT COME HERE ! the only thing they had remotely similar is their cuban drinks materva, jupiña, malta etc! It was dirty the tables were sticky,the floors looked questionable, we even saw one of the workers step on a table to get something and the table was not cleaned off after it ! I would not recommend this place to NO ONE. The plantains were not TOSTONES they were more Sweet and made in to tostones form they were cold and you could taste how old it was, They served cornbread with their arroz con ropa vieja, the corn bread was hard grainy and cold, and ive never heard of a cuban plate being served with cornbread, i could understand if it was trying to be like cuban fusion with something else but it was just BAD. Idk how people come to this place. If I could give 0 stars i absolutely would.

★★★★★
Local Guide
May 22, 2024

This place is amazing! I wish I was Cuban

★★★★★
Local Guide
May 22, 2024

Solid.

May 22, 2024

Had lunch with my family at Kuba Kuba, 1st time visiting. Sort of feels like the kind of place that built up success in the 1999-2010 time period and has just been coasting on that ever since. Like many others have said, service was pretty rough. Its what prompted me to come here and take the time to write this review here AND on yelp. Not just that we sat ignored for 10 minutes with empty plates on our table and needing our check, but also that our waitress was just not hospitable. In fact she flat out gave us a snarky attitude a few times. We asked for mayo bc my moms sandwich was dry, and before that my mom asked for a straw. These are called guest requests, and in the restaurant business as a server, they are your #1 priority above anything else in that moment. I guess our server just didnt give AF. So Ill return that attitude to this business and I wont ever spend money there. And... any time Kuba Kuba might come up in conversation, Ill strongly voice my opinion strongly that they are a relic of the past and a ghost of what they used to be. Please close your business so a better one can take your location.

★★★★★
May 22, 2024

Amazing food!!! Cuban sandwiches, pork, beans and rice were on point, but the desserts were the stars of the show!!! Tres leches cake, key lime pie, and bread pudding (it was like a super delicous flan)! Good coffee. Trust me, eat here, you will not regret it!!!

★★
May 22, 2024

Food was cold and Cuban sandwich was very dry and bread was over pressed. Wine is terrible.

★★★★★
Local Guide
May 22, 2024

Great food had the crab cakes impinatas were tasty great service

★★★★★
Local Guide
May 22, 2024

Lovely atmosphere and great food. They were short staffed so service was slow but other than that the service was great!

★★★★★
Local Guide
May 22, 2024

Delicious good and good options. Saw some great looking dishes coming out but Im a sucker for a good Cuban sandwich and was not disappointed!

★★★★★
May 22, 2024

Wonderful service and delicious food

★★★★★
May 22, 2024

loveeeee

Local Guide
April 22, 2024

So, I just moved from south florida where the population is 80% cuban and I myself am half cuban. This place doesnt necessarily claim to be authentic, and unfortunately for me, it isnt authentic. -What it does well: the atmosphere is spot on Cuban. Felt like I was in little havana. The service is great too. Also, they make a super authentic cafe con leche. -What it doesnt do well: it overcomplicates an extremely uncomplicated type of food- cuban food. There is cornbread served as a side (cubans do not eat cornbread). There is yellow rice served with black beans and picadillo, when it should be white rice. Plantains are served as a side for sandwiches when cubans eat fries with their sandwiches. And the worst offense is the lack of pastries, and croquetas. As well as calling empanadas empanadillas. Lets not mention having burritos, and quesadillas on the menu (there are plenty of mexican places around town, we do not need to have those items on a cuban menu). Besides the menu trying too hard, the quality of the food was poor. Picadillo was watery and flavorless. Toast was not cuban. Black beans were flavorless and lechon was dry. Richmonders can handle authentic flavors. This was a poorly executed, watered down version of cuban food. It almost felt like a tourist trap =/ extremely disappointing. The menu desperately needs to go back to basics and give Richmonders what they deserve - an authentic cuban menu that delivers.

★★★★
April 22, 2024

Food was terrific- corn chowder, roast pork, etc were delicious. The wait for our food was very long (significantly longer than for tables around us) and the servers were too busy.

★★★★
Local Guide
April 22, 2024

Food was fair and nice atmosphere

★★★★★
April 22, 2024

Was absolutely delicious!!

★★★★★
Local Guide
April 22, 2024

My go-to place for the most rich and flavorful coffee in town. Vegan options are great too.

★★★★★
Local Guide
April 22, 2024

It s possible you re not cool enough for this place; certainly am not, but am also too old to care, which is fortunate because the food is great. They also kindly leave a water bowl outside for small children to hydrate themselves in case of a wait. Very thoughtful!

★★★★★
Local Guide
April 22, 2024

My favorite Cuban restaurant this side of Miami! Amazing food in an unassuming luncheonette style space. The Cuban sandwich and ropa vieja are spectacular as are the black bean soup and the Kubbq sandwich. Dont miss the Tres Leches!

★★★★★
April 22, 2024

The food was terrific. My husband had the pork roast and I had the pork loin. Very flavorful and tender! The empanadillas were fantastic. The people were very nice and knowledgeable about the different items on the menu. Fast service! You could tell they really cared! We want to go back and try one of everything.

★★★★
Local Guide
April 22, 2024

Food - consistently good-to-outstanding. Service very good. Fan parking. There are reasons why theres often a wait. Casual and interesting.

★★★
Local Guide
April 22, 2024

Quaint spot, with great sandwiches. Sadly the service was relatively slow but would still highly recommend!

★★★★★
Local Guide
April 22, 2024

Ropa Vieja was on point.

★★★★★
Local Guide
April 22, 2024

Awesome food and great experience.

★★★★★
Local Guide
April 22, 2024

This place is fun! Music playing in the background, bright colors, huge unique menu with specials on the chalkboard. Youll forget youre in Richmond. It was super busy when we arrived about 6 on a Saturday night. The waitress asked us to hang out at the bar until a table was available. She served us drinks and we had amazing appetizers. The staff have a great flow of working together and the place has a nice vibe. Be patient if its busy. Its worth the wait

★★★★
Local Guide
April 22, 2024

Good old star Cuban restaurant it gives you that rustic South American atmosphere popular spot for hanging out the series is quite a bit slow if you hit the busy hour

★★★
Local Guide
April 22, 2024

Really cool college town vibe. Most of the staff was very friendly. I only stopped in for a Cuban sandwich to go because I have a place close to my home and I wanted to compare. It was pretty dry and bland compared to what Im used to. The plantains didnt have a great flavor either. I actually threw away half my plate, which isnt exactly a ringing endorsement. Im sure that there are some great items on the menu. It was packed and everyone looked happy. I wont be back, but Im not writing this place off by any means.

★★★★★
Local Guide
April 22, 2024

This place is awesome the food is super great the staff is amazing and they serve a lot of food if you ever come to Virginia this is the hot spot I give it a

★★★★★
Local Guide
April 22, 2024

Omg Im from Miami and was craving some good cuban food and place did not fail at all omg its amazingly good. The food is sooooo delicious and not to mention the service incredible. Surprise to find this here in Virginia

★★★★
Local Guide
March 22, 2024

Absolutely great cuban food

★★★★★
Local Guide
March 22, 2024

Quintessential hole in the wall restaurant that serves fantastic food! Every item on the menu is artfully prepared and brilliantly presented. Portions are huge. Save room for dessert because the Tres Leches cake is the best dessert in the USA that does not have chocolate. The bread pudding is as if the best flan you ever tasted merged with bread pudding. Love the electric vibrant atmosphere! Staff is very kind.

★★★
Local Guide
March 22, 2024

Great food, poor service. Took forever to get a soda, then it was the wrong soda. Also, they wont split checks. Who doesnt split checks anymore?

★★★★★
Local Guide
March 22, 2024

Ive never been to Havana but Kuba Kuba gives a feeling of what it might be like. I had the pork dinner with yellow rice and beans. The hot sauce on the table made it come alive! An Expresso and cake made for a terrific dining experience. The service was great, the restaurant was clean, I look forward to my next visit.

★★★★
March 22, 2024

Having had my Cuban food experiences in Florida, it s really hard to match that. The restaurant is not that big, so we had a small wait. The staff was friendly and our orders were taken in a timely manner. Our party of 4 started with the Homemade risotto cakes with coconut & pineapple, dusted with rice flour & deep-fried. Served over black bean & corn salsa. (which we had never heard of but they were awesome), fried yucca with a great dipping sauce, and empanadas (beef and spinach and feta) which were pretty good. Two of us then had shredded roast pork with black beans and yellow rice which was very good with huge portions. The plantains that came with it were fried and dry versus what I m used to in Florida that are pan-seared and almost caramelized and sweet and so much better. Two of our party had the special of rock fish with black beans and rice and an amazing sauce. We took home the Keylime tart and the Tres leches cake and a couple café con Leche which were amazing. We d definitely return! I forgot to get pictures of the appetizers or dessert. All 3 ladies went home with enough food for 2 more meals.

★★★★★
Local Guide
March 22, 2024

Great coffee. Amazing empanadas.

★★★★★
Local Guide
March 22, 2024

Amazing food!! Friendly staff and fun decor!!

★★★★★
Local Guide
March 22, 2024

Great Cuban food and the people there are nice!

★★★★★
Local Guide
February 22, 2024

Birthday lunch for our sister. Awesome in every way. We were all happy!

★★★★★
Local Guide
February 22, 2024

What a cute spot! The menu had a lot of fun options, like the Cu Báhn Mi. Service was great, even for a busy lunch rush. Kid-friendliness: They were very accommodating for the toddler in our group.

★★★★★
Local Guide
February 22, 2024

Good food, ambience

★★
February 22, 2024

Previously this was one of my favorite places. But the last 2 times Ive gone Im not satisfied. I like the Cubanazo and I noticed that they reduced the size of the sandwich, it is smaller, more expensive and it costs almost 14 dollars and I understand that everything goes up but they should not have changed the quality. They almost dont put meat in it anymore, smaller cut chorizos in a few words are no longer worth it! And it was my favorite place for 17 years. I waited 30 minutes to get a table and 40 for the food to be brought. Say they cant cope, they should hire more cooks.

★★★★★
Local Guide
February 22, 2024

Great coffee with milk

★★★★★
February 22, 2024

Is always excellent

★★★★★
Local Guide
February 22, 2024

The food is phenomenal! It is home, comfort, flavor. Ive been going here ever since I was little. Always a win! Food

★★★★★
Local Guide
February 22, 2024

Authentic cuban food, delish

★★
Local Guide
February 22, 2024

The food was not what I expected. I ordered a veggie sandwich and the plantain was hard and not cooked properly and the flavor was not cuban food. The waitress seemed somewhat rude not friendly was more like I dont want to be here but I have to work kind of attitude. Maybe another day who knows but based on my experience I give it a 5 bet 1 to 10.

★★★★★
Local Guide
February 22, 2024

It s a restaurant that has a very lively energy while also being family friendly. Pictured is the lunch roast pork and Cuban sandwich.

★★★★★
Local Guide
February 22, 2024

Love this place! Great food, nice atmosphere, friendly people!

★★★★★
February 22, 2024

Fun atmosphere, great menu, excellent service!

★★★★★
February 22, 2024

One of the best restaurants in Richmond. Love it every time I come here

February 22, 2024

We live in Forrest Hill and have the good fortune of being near Little Nickel and Galley...both of which are fantastic! We have also met Manny on several occasions, and I certainly dont think how we were treated is indicative of his vision of customer service. We were excited to try another one of Mannys establishments but we didnt even get to the meal, the service was so appalling. We were treated with an absolute blasé attitude. We ordered a bottle of champagne and after 20 minutes our server drops the bottle on the table with two plastic cups of ice??? And the orange juice was served in a plastic, childs sipping cup. No glassware...LOL. #awkward!!! How about putting the champagne in an ice bucket? How about pouring the champagne in the glass? How about asking if it is to our liking? All we got was a know what you want? When my partner went inside to ask for two glasses, the waitress looked at her, without response, then turned her back. After ten minutes of being completely ignored...we left. As we were leaving the waiter comes out and asks what the problem is... After explaining the issue, I stated I would leave an appropriate review based on our experience. His answer...knock yourself out. No apology. No concern. No empathy. The sad thing is that Ben will spend his next thirty years slopping through life without truly caring or making a contribution to humanity. You guessed it.... We wont be back. The wonderful thing about Richmond is that there are so many wonderful culinary options, Kuba Kuba will soon be a faded and distant memory.

Local Guide
January 22, 2024

My Cuban husband wanted us to come here for family dinner. We stood for 15 minutes at the entrance, and there was no Hello, good evening, be right with you, give us a moment, no acknowledgment whatsoever. Even so, we still patiently waited until 2 women came in right behind us and got immediately greeted and told they would be sat momentarily. Mind you, this place is small. We were the only 2 parties standing at the door. Me, my husband, my 2 children, and the 2 women. There was no way they got confused. I wish we could have eaten here, but its not what they wanted. My Cuban husband wanted to have dinner here with the family. We were waiting at the entrance for 15 minutes and at no time did they say good night, hello, wait a minute, anything. Even so, we wait patiently for the time they serve and offer us a table. Just when two women came in and immediately attended to them and told them well sit you down in a moment. It is important to note that the restaurant is small. It was just my husband, my two children, me and the 2 women. Theres no way they could have been confused. I would have liked to have dinner here but apparently it wasnt what they wanted.

★★
Local Guide
January 22, 2024

I have been to this restaurant more than 4 times, and today is the first time I was going to bring my family to eat, and it was the worst experience in terms of the treatment we were given. To begin with, we entered the place and it was full, well we didnt wait, after 10 minutes waiting and without anyone even welcoming us, other people came in (Americans) and quickly the waiter (Latino) asked them how many they were, but yet he doesnt even look at us. Let me tell you, I am Cuban (American) I serve in the US ARMY and I have never felt so disappointed in a Latin restaurant. Its a shame that this has passed, because I have come before and enjoyed the food and wanted my family to enjoy it too. Ive come here over four times and today was the first time that I had my family with me and this was the worst experience ever. We came in and it was full so we just waited. About 10 minutes waiting and nobody came to greet us. Other people, American, came in and the waiter quickly greeted them, asked them how many they were eating and told them to give him a moment. However, he didnt even look at us. I am Cuban and I serve in the US Army, and I have never been so disappointed in a latino restaurant. Its a shame that this happened because I have been here before and I really enjoyed the food and wanted my family to enjoy it as well.

★★★★
Local Guide
January 22, 2024

Went for lunch with friends and our kiddos. Small space but food was delicious! The portions for lunch plates were huge.

Local Guide
January 22, 2024

Please do not be fooled by the double Kuba in the name, theyre merely trying to convince you its something that its not. You know what I hate most about this experience? I deserved exactly what I got!! I was invited to lunch, and they chose Kuba Kuba, not I! Matter of fact I told them that I had eaten at the West End location and wasnt interested in eating fake ethnic food at any of their other locations. I dont know if calling food cuban thats not cuban is cultural misappropriation, but if there a definition for it, then it would be Kuba Kuba. I tried giving them the benefit of the doubt, but I should have gone with my gut. I hate when folks convince me to do something I know is going to be bad. I was angrier with myself than Kuba Kuba. When I walked into the establishment all the signs were there, but since I wasnt paying, I played on my phone and ignored my surroundings. My friend kept pointing out little blips here and there but, he chose the place, I was done. When we arrived, the place was jam packed, GOD only knows why?? My friend raved about this sandwich Elena Ruiz a Sliced turkey, cream cheese & preserves, with a side of unseasoned demi-ripe plantains. I have a pet peeve about plantains, they should be either prepared when ripe as sweet, or savory for the green plantain, but not in-between. Jeez Louise !! Also, most Cuban restaurants slice their own homemade turkey, not deli turkey Blecch! The sandwich tasted like an afterthought. I ordered the Guava Ginger Shrimp Sautéed shrimp in a guava-ginger BBQ (had I read the BBQ part, that would have been a nah) sauce served with black beans, yellow rice & grilled asparagus, sounds amazing right? (I know not really Cuban) I had tried their ropa vieja at the west end location, and the memory I had was No Bueno! so I settled. also, the waiter Rene highly recommended it. I always say If I have to add salt and pepper or anything to a meal in a restaurant, thats too much like cooking for myself. This dish was so bland and the flavor profile was just so off, that I couldnt finish my meal. We also had the Risotto Cakes Home-made risotto cakes with coconut & pineapple, dusted with rice flour & deep-fried, served over black bean & corn salsa. Had it not been for the Risotto Cakes I wouldve passed out; I was so hungry. I understand the place was really busy, I dont understand why, (I really think COVID affected a lot more peoples taste buds than we thought, lol) but I get it either way, however if youre going to ignore my pleas for an additional napkin then you should at least set your tables with a few napkins not just one. Not that it matters to me anymore since I wont be returning unless they hire an authentic Cuban Chef and give me a special invite to redeem themselves. I ended up eating a can of chef Boyardee spaghetti and meatballs when I got home. Even that was more authentic than Kuba Kubas version of Cuban food. Hey Miami, can we borrow one of your Chefs, Richmond is so behind. Anyway, I wont be gracing any of their locations with my presence, not even if it was the only place open and I was about to pass out of hunger. Dont take it from me.

★★★
Local Guide
January 22, 2024

The food was amazing but the service wasnt great

★★★★
Local Guide
January 22, 2024

Parking: Street parking in front of restaurant Recommended dishes

★★★★★
Local Guide
January 22, 2024

I ve eaten here several times over a decade and it s nice how consistent they have been with portions and taste. It may not be authentic but it does scratch an itch for some filling comfort food. Most of all, this is the only place where I crave their Tres Leche cake and I even bought several slices in lieu of a birthday cake. Their Cafe con Leche is the cherry on top, especially in the winter. It s very similar to Vietnamese coffee so I greatly enjoy it since it s more local.

★★★★★
Local Guide
January 22, 2024

Phenomenal !!!! Felt like I was back home in Brooklyn. Authentic Cuban food, portions are incredible, the hot sauce they have on the table has changed my life, and the service was wonderful. We will be back!

★★★★★
January 22, 2024

This is a hidden gem The Paella Vegetariana is to die for!! The Cuban sandwich is delicious- it s all great!! Food : 5/5

★★★★★
Local Guide
January 22, 2024

Excellent place to eat

★★★★★
Local Guide
January 22, 2024

Amazing food and service is the standard at this local favorite. I recommend.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Amazing authentic Cuban food in a super cool atmosphere. Cuban coffee was alao excellent.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

This place is spectacular! Incredible food, friendly service, and the portions are MASSIVE. The food is way fancier (ie seasoned, complex, etc) than in the parts of Cuba I ve been to, so I d rather eat here than on the island itself. Definitely one of the most unique and worthwhile places to visit in Richmond. The ambiance is also excellent - a former diner turned into a unique and eclectic place. In that regard, Kuba Kuba definitely carries the spirit of contemporary Havana. Vegetarian options: They are good. My sister is one.

★★★★★
December 22, 2023

Upon arriving to the restaurant, I was greeted as soon as I stepped into the door. We were able to sit at any open table. Now, con was they were out of the first two items that I wanted to try the Cod and crab cake. However, the bar.b.quban was my third runner up, and it was very satisfying. I am not typically a pork fan, but it is a Cuban restaurant, so I tried it. It was delicious, juicy, and flavorful. I also had the empadillas not disappointed. This was a nice little spot that made my day. If in Richmond I would return. I enjoyed it maybe you will too.

★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

I remembered when the food was good and tasty, unfortunately this time was not the case. I wanted to say that maybe because it was a Sunday evening and everyone wanted to go home but I will give them another chance in few weeks.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

One of our all-time favorites in Richmond! The food is always great, highly recommend!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Great atmosphere. Very quaint. We really enjoyed the original Cuban cuisine. Try the flan. Food

★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Everything at Kuba Kuba was delicious including the coffee. The server was very good. The decor is also interesting.

★★
December 22, 2023

I looked up the restaurant on the Internet looking for a Cuban restaurant in the area and found this hole in the wall restaurant in residential neighborhood. It took awhile to find a parking space, but that didnt bother me as much. I ordered a Ropa vieja which is shredded beef and a Cuban sandwich. Im Cuban raised in Miami and I have never eaten such a watered down version of this dish. The beef was bland. The dish is never served with yellow rice, its served with white and I dont understand the raw onion garnish on everything. The Cuban sandwich was ok. The pork in it was fine, but it was missing a bit more ham. The atmosphere and service in the place was good. I just dont think they serve authentic Cuban cuisine. Its not even like what my mother makes at home. I will not be returning or recommending it if you really want authentic Cuban food.