Café Habana

- 17 Prince St, New York, NY 10012

In a city where restaurants come and go with the seasons, Café Habana stands as a timeless institution. Located on Prince Street, this beloved spot has been a staple in the Soho and Nolita neighborhoods for decades, holding onto the authentic spirit of old New York. It is a rare place that has successfully resisted gentrification, maintaining its huge flavor and quintessential ambiance. Part Cuban restaurant, part Mexican restaurant, it offers a vibrant menu that has captivated locals since the late 1990s. The moment you step inside, you are transported to a cozy, retro diner with a lively atmosphere and a soundtrack that keeps the energy high, making it a favorite for college students, tourists, and longtime patrons alike.

The menu at Café Habana is a perfect fusion of Cuban and Mexican classics, but there are two items that have reached legendary status: the grilled corn and the Cuban sandwich. The "world famous corn" on the cob, covered with mayonnaise, cotija cheese, and chili powder, is a must-try. It's so beloved that it was featured on Food Network's "Best Thing I Ever Ate," and a reviewer notes that ordering it is "just how it is" at this establishment. The Cuban sandwich has also been voted "best in NYC," and a customer from South Florida, where Cuban sandwiches are a staple, even declared it "one of the BEST Cuban sandwiches ever." This kind of praise from a connoisseur speaks volumes about the quality and authenticity of the food. The menu also offers a range of other delectable dishes, from the sweet and savory Plantain Tacos and Roasted Citrus Pork to hearty platters like the Caribbean Style Citrus Marinated Roast Pork and Grilled Marinated Skirt Steak.

Café Habana’s food is complemented by a great selection of drinks. The bar onsite serves a variety of beverages, including beer, wine, and hard liquor. The "great cocktails" are a highlight, with the Frozen Margarita being a popular choice for a refreshing accompaniment to the spicy and flavorful food. For coffee lovers, the restaurant also offers "great coffee," including classics like Café Con Leche and Espresso, perfect for starting your day or getting a late-night pick-me-up. The restaurant is known for its "fast service" and a casual, friendly atmosphere that makes every visitor feel welcome, regardless of how crowded it gets. While there is "usually a wait," patrons agree that the experience is well worth it, a testament to the food and ambiance.

The popularity of Café Habana is a result of its unwavering commitment to quality and its refusal to change with the times. The tiny spot with a huge flavor has a loyal following that has been coming back for decades. The cozy, trendy, and casual vibe makes it an ideal spot for any occasion, whether it's a solo dining experience, a lunch with friends, or a lively dinner. The restaurant's offerings span the entire day, with popular breakfast and brunch options like Huevos Rancheros and Chilaquiles Verdes con pollo, ensuring that it is a go-to spot from morning to night. The ability to grab a quick bite or sit down for a full meal makes it incredibly versatile, catering to the fast pace of New York life.

Café Habana isn't just a place to eat; it's a piece of New York history. The fact that it has been around for so long and continues to be so beloved is a powerful indicator of its authenticity and quality. It provides a taste of a bygone era while remaining relevant and exciting today. The combination of classic Cuban and Mexican flavors, an iconic atmosphere, and friendly service makes it a must-visit destination for anyone looking for an authentic and delicious meal in the city. For a true taste of New York's enduring culinary spirit, look no further than Café Habana.

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Café Habana is located at 17 Prince St, New York, NY 10012, USA. Situated at the crossroads of Nolita and Soho, the restaurant is in one of Manhattan's most dynamic and popular neighborhoods. Prince Street is a bustling thoroughfare known for its trendy boutiques and vibrant street life, making the restaurant's location both convenient and desirable. For those looking to dine in, the restaurant offers seating and table service. For those who prefer to eat on the go, there are options for takeout and delivery.

The neighborhood is easily accessible by various modes of transportation. For those who drive, both free street parking and paid street parking are available, though finding a spot can be difficult. The area is very walkable and is well-served by public transportation, with numerous subway lines and bus stops nearby, making it a great destination for locals and tourists alike. The presence of a rooftop seating area adds a unique dining option for those looking to enjoy their meal with a view.

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Services Offered

• Dine-in: Enjoy your meal inside the cozy, classic diner-style setting.
• Takeout: Conveniently pick up your order to enjoy at home or on the go.
• Delivery: Have your favorite Cuban and Mexican dishes delivered right to your door.
• Catering: The restaurant offers catering services, making it a great choice for parties and events.
• Table service: Full table service is provided for a comfortable dining experience.

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Features and Highlights

• World Famous Corn: The grilled corn is a legendary and must-try item, beloved by locals and visitors alike.
• Best Cuban Sandwich in NYC: The Cubano sandwich has been voted the best in the city, with a reputation for its perfect flavor and texture.
• Great Cocktails and Coffee: The bar offers a variety of great cocktails, including frozen margaritas, as well as high-quality coffee.
• Cozy and Authentic Atmosphere: The restaurant has maintained its classic 1970s-1980s New York feel, with a retro diner vibe that is both casual and trendy.
• Rooftop Seating: A unique highlight that provides an opportunity for a special dining experience.
• Vegetarian Options: The menu includes a variety of vegetarian options, such as the Plantain Taco and Avocado and Cheese Sandwich.

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Contact Information

Address: 17 Prince St, New York, NY 10012, USA

Phone: (212) 625-2001

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What is worth choosing

Choosing Café Habana is an excellent decision for anyone in New York looking for a truly authentic and flavorful dining experience. The most compelling reason to visit is its iconic status and reputation. This is not just a restaurant; it is a piece of New York City history that has successfully maintained its character and quality for decades. The legendary status of its grilled corn and Cuban sandwich is a powerful testament to the excellence of its food. You are not just eating a meal; you are partaking in a New York tradition that is celebrated by both locals and national food critics. The food here is a reliable and delicious choice that never disappoints.

Furthermore, the atmosphere is a significant reason to choose Café Habana. It offers a cozy, unpretentious, and vibrant environment that feels like a genuine escape from the polished, often sterile, trendy restaurants of today. The fact that it has "kept the spirit of NY Soho of 1970-1980s" is a major selling point for those who crave a sense of history and authenticity. The welcoming and friendly service, as highlighted by a review praising the staff, adds to this charm, making every customer feel valued. The restaurant's ability to be a casual, trendy spot for a solo diner or a lively location for a group makes it highly versatile.

Finally, the convenience and diversity of the menu make it a standout choice. With options for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner, as well as catering services, it can meet a variety of needs throughout the day. The inclusion of both Cuban and Mexican dishes, along with great cocktails and coffee, ensures that there is something for everyone. The availability of delivery and takeout services is a huge bonus in a city that values convenience. In short, Café Habana is a must-visit for its unique historical character, its genuinely delicious and famous food, and its warm, welcoming atmosphere that embodies the true spirit of old New York.

Café Habana

17 Prince St, New York, NY 10012, USA