Sophie's Cuban Cuisine - Murray Hill: A Taste of Havana in NYC

Sophie's Cuban Cuisine - Murray Hill Introduce

When the craving for authentic Cuban flavors hits, New Yorkers in the Murray Hill area know exactly where to go. Sophie's Cuban Cuisine is a true local treasure, bringing the rich, vibrant tastes of Havana right to the streets of Manhattan. More than just a sandwich shop, Sophie's is a full-fledged Cuban restaurant and caterer that has earned a dedicated following for its hearty, homemade dishes and welcoming atmosphere. This isn't your average lunch spot; it's a place where every meal feels like a warm, comforting embrace, whether you're grabbing a classic Cubano sandwich or a full platter of slow-roasted mojo pork with all the trimmings.

Sophie's Cuban Cuisine is built on a foundation of traditional recipes and a commitment to quality. The menu is a delightful journey through Cuban staples, starting with their famous homemade appetizers. The Empanadas are a must-try, available in a variety of savory fillings like chicken and beef, as well as sweet-and-savory options like guava and cheese. For a substantial appetizer, the Stuffed Mashed Potato with Chicken is a delicious choice that a customer even compared to "home away from home" food. The restaurant also offers an impressive range of entrees, each served with a choice of three sides, allowing you to customize your meal. From the classic Baked Chicken to the tender Shredded Beef Stew and the flavorful Fried Pork Chops, every dish is prepared with care and attention to detail.

Beyond the main courses, Sophie’s is renowned for its signature sandwiches. The "El Cubano" is the star of the show, a perfectly pressed sandwich loaded with slow-roasted mojo pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and a special mojo sauce. Other popular sandwich choices include the Mojo Pork with a Twist and the Spicy Grilled Chicken. The experience is further enhanced by their selection of refreshing tropical fruit juices and classic Cuban coffee, like the "Cafe Con Leche" that a happy customer’s father "loved." With friendly staff and a casual atmosphere, Sophie's Cuban Cuisine is more than just a place to eat; it's a genuine taste of Cuba that has become a staple in the New York City food scene.

Location and Accessibility

Located at 593 1st Ave, New York, NY 10016, Sophie's Cuban Cuisine is perfectly situated for anyone in the Murray Hill and surrounding neighborhoods. The location is convenient for grabbing a quick bite during a workday or for picking up a catered meal. The restaurant's position on 1st Avenue makes it easily accessible from various parts of the city. For those on foot, it's a straightforward walk from many local offices and residential buildings.

The restaurant is also committed to accessibility for all patrons. It features a wheelchair-accessible entrance, making it a welcoming and convenient spot for individuals with mobility needs. The establishment is also known for being LGBTQ+ friendly and good for kids, making it a comfortable and inclusive dining option for a diverse crowd. Whether you're a local or just passing through the area, the prime location and accommodating features make Sophie's a great choice.

Services Offered

Dine-in: Enjoy a relaxed and comfortable meal in their casual dining area.
Takeout & Delivery: Perfect for a quick and convenient meal, Sophie's offers traditional takeout, curbside pickup, and no-contact delivery.
Catering: As a full-service caterer, Sophie's provides a variety of catering options, including individual boxed meals, party platters, and buffet-style a la carte packages, ideal for any event, big or small.
Payment Options: The restaurant makes it easy to pay for your meal, accepting both debit cards and NFC mobile payments.

Features and Highlights

Women-Owned Business: Sophie's Cuban Cuisine is proudly identified as a women-owned business, adding to its unique and community-oriented appeal.
Authentic Cuban Flavor: The menu is packed with genuine Cuban dishes, from the beloved 'El Cubano' sandwich to hearty entrees and traditional homemade appetizers like Empanadas and Stuffed Mashed Potatoes.
Diverse Menu: Beyond the famous sandwiches, the restaurant offers an extensive menu including entrees with three sides, as well as a variety of sides, salads, and desserts. There are also great options for vegetarians.
Catering Expertise: For those hosting events, Sophie's provides comprehensive catering services, from small packages to large-scale buffet options and party platters, all designed to bring a taste of Cuba to any gathering.
Cuban Coffee: Don't miss out on their classic Cuban coffee selections, including Cafe Con Leche and Espresso, which are the perfect way to start or end your meal.

Contact Information

Address: 593 1st Ave, New York, NY 10016

Phone: (212) 260-8884

What is Worth Choosing?

Sophie's Cuban Cuisine in Murray Hill is more than just a place to get a great sandwich; it's a destination for authentic, high-quality Cuban comfort food. The key to its success lies in its homemade approach. Everything from the appetizers to the entrees is prepared with a level of care that feels both personal and traditional. The Empanadas, in particular, are a fan favorite, praised for their flavorful and juicy fillings. The affordability of the menu also makes it a standout, offering a satisfying and delicious meal without breaking the bank.

The restaurant’s commitment to providing a versatile menu ensures there’s something for everyone. Whether you're craving a quick, meaty sandwich like the El Cubano or a more filling meal with a protein and three sides, Sophie's delivers. The inclusion of vegetarian options and a kids' menu also makes it a flexible choice for groups with varying preferences. As one customer noted, the food is "always on point" and the staff is "great," creating a consistently positive experience. The fact that it's located directly across from NYU makes it incredibly convenient, earning its title as a "home away from home" for many patrons.

Ultimately, what makes Sophie's Cuban Cuisine truly worth choosing is the combination of its delicious food, friendly service, and community-focused business practices. It’s a place where you can feel good about your meal, knowing that you're supporting a women-owned establishment that's dedicated to bringing a little piece of Cuban heritage to the heart of New York City. For anyone in the area, it’s a must-visit spot that promises a flavorful and satisfying dining experience every time.

Sophie's Cuban Cuisine - Murray Hill Food & drink

Homemade Appetizers
Kick off your meal with our delicious selection of homemade appetizers! Our app's menu features savory Empanadas, and bite-sized Mini Empanadas, perfect for sharing, For a heartier option, try our Mashed Potatoes, Stuffed with seasoned chicken.
Chicken Empanada $3.79
Our delicious homemade empanada is filled with tender, seasoned chicken and fried to golden perfection.
Beef Empanada $3.79
Our mouth-watering homemade empanada is filled with seasoned ground beef and fried to crispy perfection.
Cheese Empanada $3.79
Our savory homemade empanada is filled with a blend of Oaxaca and queso fresco cheeses and fried to crispy perfection.
Guava and Cheese Empanada $3.79
Our sweet and savory homemade empanada is filled with cream cheese and sweet guava, fried to crispy perfection.
Spinach and Cheese Empanada $3.79
Our vegetarian-friendly homemade empanada is filled with a blend of spinach and ricotta cheese, fried to crispy perfection.
Empanada Special - Choose 3 $10.49
Enjoy a delicious variety of our signature empanadas with our Empanada Specials. Choose any three empanadas of your choice and save.
Empanada Special - Choose 6 $19.29
Enjoy a delicious variety of our signature empanadas with our Empanada Special. Choose any six empanadas of your choice and save.
Empanada Special - Grab a Dozen $35.99
Sophie's Empanada Box is the perfect option for catering events, family gatherings, or any occasion. Enjoy a dozen These delicious empanadas are made with our signature dough and fried to golden perfection. The Empanada Box is the perfect way to f...
Mini Chicken Empanada $1.49
Our Mini Empanadas aren't just cute. They are also jam-packed with flavor!
Mini Beef Empanada $1.49
Our Mini Empanadas aren't just cute. They are also jam-packed with flavor!
Mini Cheese Empanada $1.49
Our Mini Empanadas aren't just cute. They are also jam-packed with flavor!
Mini Guava and Cheese Empanada $1.49
Our Mini Empanadas aren't just cute. They are also jam-packed with flavor!
Mini Spinach and Cheese Empanada $1.49
Our Mini Empanadas aren't just cute. They are also jam-packed with flavor!
Stuffed Mashed Potato with Chicken $4.29
Sink your teeth into our hearty and satisfying Papa Rellena, a crispy fried potato shell stuffed with flavorful shredded chicken seasoned to perfection. One bite, and you'll be hooked.
Spicy Stuffed Mashed Potato with Chicken $4.29
Sink your teeth into our hearty, satisfying, and spicy Papa Rellena, a crispy fried potato shell stuffed with flavorful shredded chicken, seasoned to perfection. One bite and you'll be hooked!
Deli Style Potato Chips $1.99

Small Entrees
Sm Veggie Platter $11.99
Sm Baked Chicken $11.99
A delicious leg and thigh seasoned to perfection.
Sm Grilled Chicken $13.99
NYC's favorite protein packed option seasoned just right.
Sm Spicy Grilled Chicken $13.99
Turn it up a notch with our famous grilled chicken smothered with jalepenos, green and red bell peppers, onions, and juicy tomaotes sauteed in a yummy vinegar based sauce.
Sm Breaded Chicken $13.99
Deep fried, breaded to perfection in 100% pure bread crumbs from our own fresh baked cuban bread.
Sm Chicken Fricasse $13.99
Sm Shredded Beef Stew $13.99
Havanna is calling out to you in the form of a savory bowl of our "Ropa Vieja." A classic dish prepared with bell peppers, onions, and shredded beef in a zest tomato sauce.
Sm Steak and Onions $14.99
Sm Roast Pork $13.99
Sm Fried Pork Chops $13.99
1/2 inch, center cut pork chops marinated for 12 hours, deep fried to perfection
Small Pork Chops in Red Sauce $13.99
Sm Salmon Special $15.99
Our salmon is always filleted fresh and seasoned with salt, pepper, white wine, olive oil, and basted with a peruvian dried red pepper base.
Sm Shrimp with Garlic Sauce $15.99
Sm Oxtails Stew $16.99
Slow cooked to perfection, our tender oxtails almost fall off the bone in this sofrito based stew that is sure to please.
Small Roasted Turkey $13.99

Entrees
Our Entrees Menu features a variety of hearty and flavorful main dishes that are perfect for a filling meal. Your protein comes with any three sides or salads.
Vegetarian Platter (Includes Medley) $12.99
Our delicious vegetarian-friendly platter includes a medley of fresh zucchini, squash, red and green peppers, broccoli, and cauliflower, grilled to perfection. Served with three sides or salads, it's the perfect way to enjoy a healthy and satisfyi...
Baked Chicken $13.99
Our juicy and flavorful baked chicken leg and thigh is the perfect choice for those looking for a classic and satisfying meal.
Grilled Chicken Breast $15.99
Our tender and juicy chicken breast is marinated in a blend of herbs and spices, then grilled to perfection. It's a delicious and healthy choice for any meal.
Spicy Grilled Chicken $15.99
Our juicy and tender grilled chicken breast is perfectly seasoned and served with sautéed bell peppers, onions, and jalapenos. This dish packs a spicy punch.
Breaded Chicken Breast $15.99
Indulge in our crispy and flavorful breaded chicken breast, made with tender chicken breast breaded and seasoned to perfection. This classic dish is a real crowd-pleaser.
Slow Roasted Mojo Pork $15.99
Our Slow Roasted Mojo Pork is a traditional Cuban dish, marinated in a blend of citrus juices, garlic, and spices, then slow-roasted to juicy, tender perfection. It's a flavorful and satisfying option for any meal.
Fried Pork Chops $15.99
Quarter-inch center-cut pork chops seasoned with our signature blend of spices and fried to perfection.
Shredded Beef Stew $16.99
Our Shredded Beef Stew, or Ropa Vieja, is a classic Cuban dish made with tender, slow-cooked shredded beef in a flavorful tomato-based sauce with onions, bell peppers, and spices.
Salmon $17.99
Our fresh salmon fillet is lightly seasoned with herbs and spices and baked to perfection, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish.

Meat Only
Baked Chicken Only $8.00
Grilled Chicken Only $9.00
Spicy Grilled Chicken Only $9.00
Breaded Chicken Only $9.00
Roasted Turkey Only $9.00
Roast Pork Only $9.00
Fried Pork Chops Only $9.00
Shrimp In Garlic Sauce Only $10.00
Salmon Only $10.00
Shredded Beef Only $9.00
Picadillo $8.00
Ox Tails Only $13.49
Chicken Fricasse $8.00
Steak and Onions $9.00

Sophie's Favorites
Oxtails Stew $18.99
Our tender and juicy oxtails are slow-cooked with a flavorful blend of herbs and spices, creating a rich and delicious stew. Available Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays only.

Sandwiches
El Cubano - The Cuban $11.99
Our classic Cuban features slow-roasted mojo pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, mayo, mustard, and mojo sauce served on crispy Cuban bread.
Slow Roasted Mojo Pork Sandwich $11.99
Tender, juicy pork cooked in our signature mojo sauce, served with mayo and marinated onions, on toasted Cuban bread.
Mojo Pork with a Twist Sandwich $12.99
Slow-roasted mojo pork, marinated onions, and mayo, topped with 3 fried sweet plantains drizzled in our signature green sauce served on crispy Cuban bread.
Sophie's Spicy Chicken Sandwich $8.99
Our take on this cult classic features a Juicy, crispy breaded chicken breast marinated in a spicy habanero seasoning topped with mayo and tangy pickle chips and our signature green sauce, served on a freshly baked brioche bun.
Grilled Chicken Breast Sandwich $11.99
Zesty-grilled chicken breast, mayo, lettuce, tomato, and potato stick chips, served on crispy Cuban bread.
Baked Chicken Sandwich $11.99
A tender baked chicken leg and thigh pulled off the bone, mayo, and marinated onions served on crispy Cuban bread.
Breaded Chicken Sandwich $11.99
Breaded chicken breast fried up to perfection, mayo, and marinated onions served on crispy Cuban bread.
Tostada $3.50
Toasted Cuban bread with butter.

Sides and Salads
Complement your meal or enjoy a lightweight alternative with our fresh and flavorful sides and salads.
Yellow Rice $5.49
Fluffy and savory, our yellow rice is seasoned with the perfect blend of spices to complement any dish.
White Rice $5.49
Simple and satisfying, our white rice is a staple for any Latin American meal.
Moro Rice $6.49
A flavorful blend of rice and red beans, our moro rice is a classic Caribbean side that will transport your taste buds to the islands.
Black Beans $5.99
Our black beans are slow-cooked with a blend of herbs and spices, creating a rich, hearty side that goes well with anything.
Rice and Beans $6.49
Sweet Plantains $5.49
Indulge in the sweetness of our ripe, caramelized plantains—the perfect complement to any savory dish.
Green Plantains $5.49
Crispy and savory, our green plantains are fried to perfection. Get them with Mojo sauce and do the dip!
Yuca with Garlic $6.49
This classic Cuban side dish features boiled yuca root topped with a flavorful garlic sauce and a garnish of pickled red onions.
Vegetable Medley $6.49
French Fries $5.49
Yuca Fries $5.49
Small Rice $2.50
Avocado $4.99
Our fresh, ripe avocado adds a creamy and nutritious touch to your meal.
Green Salad
A light and refreshing mix of crisp lettuce, and sliced cherry tomatoes. Add our house-made Italian dressing made daily.
White Bean and Avocado
Creamy avocado, protein-packed white beans, finely diced red onion, and fresh lime juice come together in this delicious and filling salad.
Chickpea Salad
Our chickpea and parsley salad is a fresh, zesty salad perfect for a hot summer day.
Beets and String Bean Vinaigrette
A colorful and flavorful salad featuring tender roasted beets, crisp string beans, and a tangy vinaigrette dressing, served chilled.
8 oz Cup of Marinated Onions $1.25
These tangy and mildly spicy pickled onions add a flavorful kick to any dish.
Container For Sale

Beverages
Canned Soda $1.99
Sodas Latinas $3.29
Bottled Water
Snapple $2.69
Tropical Fruit Juices $4.29
Tropical Batidos $6.49
A delicious variety of refreshing tropical shakes and juices.
Red Bull $3.00
Cup of Ice $0.75

Sophie's Cafe
Cafe Con Leche $3.50
Cafe Americano $3.50
Espresso
Cortadito $2.75
Iced Coffee $4.50

Desserts
Tres Leches $6.49
Flan $4.99
Rice Pudding $4.99
Cheesecake $4.99
Bread Pudding $6.49

Sophie's Signature Sauces
Green Sauce $0.50
Dressing $0.50
Garlic Sauce $0.50
8oz Green Sauce $6.99

Combo Deals
Combo #1 $9.99
Any 2 empanadas, rice and beans, or maduros, plus any canned soda or bottled water
Combo #2 $12.99
Any sandwich, one bag of chips plus any canned soda or bottled water
Combo #3 $14.99
Any sandwich, french fries, or yuca fries plus any canned soda or bottled water

Individual Boxed Meals
Empanada Box
Deluxe Meal Entree
Each box includes your choice of protein, yellow rice, and sweet plantains. $14.99/Person. Minimum 10 Boxes.
Sandwich Box

Catering Packages
Small Package $250.00
Buffet style catering option which includes one protein + any 4 sides or salads. Serves 10.
Medium Package $500.00
Buffet style catering option which includes choice of 2 proteins + any 4 sides or salads. Serves 20.
Large Package $725.00
Buffet style catering option which includes 3 proteins + any 4 sides or salads. Serves 30.

Al La Carte
Buffet style catering option that include your choice of any protein or veggie option. Serves 10-20.
Vegetable Medley (A la Carte)
Baked Chicken (A la Carte)
A delicious leg and thigh seasoned to perfection.
Grilled Chicken (Al La Carte)
Spicy Grilled Chicken (A la Carte)
Turn it up a notch with our famous grilled chicken smothered with jalepenos, green and red bell peppers, onions, and juicy tomaotes sauteed in a yummy vinegar based sauce.
Breaded Chicken (A la Carte)
Shredded Beef Stew (A la Carte)
Pernil (A la Carte)
Shrimp With Garlic Sauce (A la Carte)
Fresh garlic, salt, pepper, peruvian red pepper, white wine, and tomato sauce marry in this classic Cuban dish.
Baked Salmon (A la Carte)
Our salmon is always filleted fresh and seasoned with salt, pepper, white wine, olive oil, and basted with a peruvian dried red pepper base.

Platters
Looking for snacks or desserts for your event? We have the platter for you!
Party Sized Empanadas $75.00
Party Sized Potatoes $75.00
Sandwich Platter $125.00
Sandwich Platter- Feeds 10
Flan Platter $80.00
Tres Leches Platter $125.00
Fruit Salad Platter

Catering Salads
Catering style salad options. Serves 10-20.
Green Salad (Catering)
White Bean & Avocado (Catering)
Chickpea Salad (Catering)
Beets & String Bean Vinnegrette (Catering)

Catering Sides
Catering style side options. Serves 10-20.
Yellow Rice (Catering)
White Rice (Catering)
Moro Rice (Catering)
Beans (Catering)
Sweet Plantains (Catering)
Green Plantains (Catering)
Yuca with Garlic (Catering)
Steamed Vegetables (Catering)
Avocado (Catering)

Signature Sauces & Extras
Need extras? We got you covered!
Green Sauce Squeeze Bottle $24.00
BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND! These 12 oz classic squeeze bottles are convenient, easy to use, and re-usable!
Mojito Sauce Squeeze Bottle $20.00
Salad Dressing Squeeze Bottle $20.00
1 set of Wire Rack, Tray & Chafing Fuel $15.00

Catering Beverages
Coke. $2.00
Diet Coke. $2.00
Coke Zero. $2.00
Sprite. $2.00
Ginger Ale. $2.00
Seltzer. $2.00
Fant Orange. $2.00
Fanta Grape. $2.00
Bottled Water. $2.00
Malta India $3.29
From Puerto Rico with love. Eveyones favorite malt beverage.
Postabon $3.29
Colombiana $3.29
Jarritos $3.29
Perrier $2.99
Cup of Ice $0.75
JARRITOS- MANGO $3.29
JARRITOS- GRAPEFRUIT $3.29
JARRITOS- MANDARINA $3.29
Sophie's Lemonande $4.00

Fruit Shakes
Passion Fruit $5.50
Mango $5.50
Guanabana $5.50
Papaya $5.50

Sophie's Cuban Cuisine - Murray Hill Details

From the business
Identifies as women-owned

Service options
Curbside pickup
No-contact delivery
Delivery
Takeout
Dine-in

Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance

Offerings
Coffee
Comfort food
Vegetarian options

Dining options
Lunch
Dinner
Catering

Crowd
LGBTQ+ friendly

Planning
Accepts reservations

Payments
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards

Children
Good for kids

Pets
Dogs allowed outside

Sophie's Cuban Cuisine - Murray Hill Photos

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Sophie's Cuban Cuisine - Murray Hill Location

Sophie's Cuban Cuisine - Murray Hill

New York New York County New York 1st Avenue

593 1st Ave, New York, NY 10016, USA

Sophie's Cuban Cuisine - Murray Hill Reviews

An average rating of ★4.1 from 466 user reviews.

empanadasgreen sauceyellow ricesweet plantainssidespork chopsbaked chickensalmongrilled chickendelivery

★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

This was my home away from home, while staying at NYU with my father. I would go to get his coffee for breakfast and would go back for lunch or dinner. Food was always on point, staff was great. Affordable and conveniently located across the street from NYU. Everything I tried was really good. White rice with black beans and baked chicken, beef stew, Cuban sandwiches, all types of empanadas. Pops loved the Cuban Coffee!!! Closed on Sundays
November 20 · Emmanuel Torres
I am a fan of empanadas and this place has not left me wrong. The chicken and meat have good flavor and are juicy. The workers at this location are friendly and always willing to help you with your order. The prices seem affordable to me depending on what you want to order.
February 14 · RunaCat Review
i got a bowl with the fried pork chop, plantains, veggies, and yellow rice. This was my first time coming here and I am definitely coming back!! The lady who helped me order was really nice and gave me this amazing selection. Excited to go again and try more of their menu!!
November 07 · Sophie Moore
I ordered the spicy chicken sandwich with fries and a beef empanada. The sandwich was great and the chicken was crispy and not soggy. Very flavorful. The fries were fresh and hot, and came with a lot. The empanada was okay, not the best I’ve had. I was overall really happy with my meal. Would recommend this location!
July 15 · Graziella
I eaten at many other Sophie’s around the city. Spanish food is one of my favorites, especially Cuban food. I visited this location back in early September. When I entered the restaurant, I was greeted by the staff. The restaurant wasn’t too busy so I didn’t have to wait a while to be serviced. I took my food to go however there were customers inside enjoying their meals. There is also an outdoor dining space. The food was really delicious packed with lots of flavor. I only wish this location served the roasted turkey like the one on Fulton Street. I think the Fulton Street location is the only one that serves roasted turkey all the other Sophie’s locations I’ve been to does not serve roasted turkey. I also think the restaurant would save money by asking if the customers want the green sauce instead of just throwing it in the bag. I personally don’t like it and threw it out. The restaurant accepts cash or card. It is accessible via public transportation. It is also located near NYU Hospital on First Ave.
October 31 · Brittany Holland