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Welcome To HAVANA 86 - Authentic Cuban Flavor
At HAVANA 86 - Authentic Cuban Flavor, we bring the vibrant essence of Cuba to Tampa. Our story is rooted in family traditions, using fresh ingredients to craft beloved dishes like vaca frita, ropa vieja, and classic Cuban sandwiches that will transport you straight to Havana. From the moment you step in, the lively atmosphere is enhanced by the rhythms of salsa music, creating a warm, inviting space for all. Whether you opt for our generous takeout or enjoy dining in, each flavorful bite celebrates authentic Cuban culinary art. Join us at 3434 W Columbus Dr and experience the heart of Cuba on your plate.
About
HAVANA 86 - Authentic Cuban Flavor
Discover HAVANA 86 - Authentic Cuban Flavor
Welcome to HAVANA 86, a vibrant Cuban eatery located at 3434 W Columbus Dr, Tampa, FL. Here, you'll find a celebration of authentic Cuban flavors that will transport you straight to the heart of Havana. As a food reviewer for Foodjoyy, I’m excited to introduce you to this culinary gem where the flavors are as rich as the culture they represent.
At HAVANA 86, the menu boasts a delightful array of Cuban dishes that cater to all palates, including many vegetarian options. From the moment you step in, the inviting atmosphere, complete with salsa music, sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. The restaurant offers both delivery and takeout, making it a perfect choice whether you’re dining in or enjoying a meal at home.
Menu Highlights
- Ropa Vieja: A classic, this shredded beef dish is simmered to perfection, ensuring a tender and flavorful experience.
- Vaca Frita: Grilled marinated beef with a crispy finish—you can taste the authenticity in every bite, just as mentioned by satisfied customers.
- Cuban Sandwich: This staple is crafted with layers of succulent pork and savory flavors, earning rave reviews for being “spot on.”
- Tostones: Crispy plantains served with a garlicky dipping sauce that leaves you craving more.
- Desserts: Be sure to explore traditional sweets that perfectly complement your meal.
Customer feedback echoes my excitement. Carmen G. describes the food as "authentic and delicious," comparing it to meals made by loved ones. Likewise, Laura T.'s review highlights how each dish was a flavor explosion, proving that HAVANA 86 delivers both in taste and freshness.
For a casual yet vibrant place to enjoy a meal with friends or family, HAVANA 86 stands out. With ample parking and a welcoming environment, it’s suitable for any occasion—from a lunch break to a late-night craving, since they’re open until midnight!
Overall, HAVANA 86 offers an exquisite homage to Cuban cuisine that resonates with patrons. It is a place where you can not only enjoy delicious food but also immerse yourself in a cultural experience. Make your way to HAVANA 86 and indulge in a feast that will not only fill your stomach but also warm your heart. Whether you're a Tampa local or passing through, this is one culinary stop you don’t want to miss!
For more information or to place an order, call: (813) 444-2005
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“ The Cuban food was authentic and delicious! I had 3 other persons with me eating different Cuban foods like black beans ropa vieja, vaca frita maduros, tostones, all delicious and tasted like mom made it!!!! ”
“ Delicious food and great service! We had a variety of appetizers and the roast pork and a Cuban sandwich. The croquettes were the best I've had. Empanadas needed more filling in them, but the flavor was great. Roast pork was fork tender. Cuban sandwich was spot on. Definitely worth a stop on your way too or from the Tampa airport. ”
“ Just moved to Tampa and stumbled upon Havana 86... what a gem! We ordered delivery and were blown away by how fresh and flavorful everything was. We had the vaca frita, bistec a la milanesa, moros, tostones, and boniato frito, and wow, every bite was a flavor explosion. The tostones with that garlicky sauce? Chef's kiss! My partner has been on a mission to find authentic vaca frita, and this place delivered big time--literally. The only thing I could add is for the price on DoorDash a little more rice would've been nice lol If the food is this good delivered, I can only imagine how amazing it is in person. Can't wait to order again (or stop by)! ”
“ This place is a gem! Found it on Yelp! If you are looking for fabulous authentic Cuban food this is the place for you!! We had a tall male server who was very helpful and nice. The female servers who brought our food were not as friendly. I had the Ox Tail with black beans and rice and the two others had Cubana Sandwiches! Both were sooo good!! Big portion sizes. Everyone too good home. You have the choice of table or booth seating. There is a small bar area. Definitely will be going back when I'm back in town! ”
“ The food was delicious, hot, visually appealing and plentiful ( I took some home for lunch the next day). The service was good and the music (salsa) enjoyable. It was a bit loud due to many customers speaking loudly (as I and most Latino's do unconsciously). Prices were great, however please check your receipts, as I had to have mine adjusted twice as they had added two items that I didn't order or consume. All in all a good place to eat! Going back next week to celebrate my daughter's and our wedding anniversary. The fact that it's open till midnight is also a plus. It's just a great casual family friendly Restaurant! ”
“ I touched down in Tampa last night and the first thing I did was order Spanish food through Uber Eats. The food was delicious and well balanced! Classic Cuban food. The yuca was garlicky, soft, and plentiful. The rice was a little dry but the flavors were fantastic and classic. Lastly, the vaca frita was just what I needed. It was juicy, not too fatty, but as someone mentioned, it could've been a little crispier. Not complaining though because the flavor was on point!! This dish was the perfect size for me to have as dinner and lunch the next day. I'd love to try other menu options here. ”
“ The food here is so delicious! We had the Beef Guisado and pork asado, both were so good. The place has quick service and everything is very affordable. Definitely worth a try! ”
“ It was great! We all got what we wanted and were extremely satisfied. The croquettes, soooo delicious, came in 4, gone in 2 seconds. It was my friends first cuban food and they loved it. Each got our own sandwiches, delicious! Also had cafe con leche, amazing. The restaurant itself looked old and the music was obnoxious. Per usual, anywhere in south florida, spanish is almost a must to communicate properly... so know some or make them understand your english. Overall, good experience! ”
“ While in the vicinity the wife and I tried a fairly new Cuban restaurant I saw on social media. They have a nice selection of authentic foods, sandwiches and Cuban pizza. Bring and extra serving of patience because these girls are in no hurry whatsoever to tend to the customer, unless they know you. They will wander around aimlessly for a while for no apparent reason. We ordered sandwiches and a chorizo pizza. The pizza was small with a very thick crust, a mediocre cheese and the chorizo was very bland. Not recommended. The sandwiches on the other hand were very flavorful. Loved the flavors on my Steak sandwich, the perfect combination of ingredients. The palomilla however was very tough and chewy. My wifes Lechon sandwich was perfect. A fairly non-descirpt ambiance. You can sit at a table or cozy up to the counter for your meal. The service is faster at the counter. I would not make a special trip to this place but I would stop in again if I am in the area as it is better than La Teresita ”
