Chicago, are you kidding me? Almost five stars for THE WORST "Cuban" food I've ever had. A little background, I grew up in Tampa, the city that invented the Cuban sandwich, I've lived in Miami, and tried about every Cuban restaurant in between. Living in Los Angeles I thought I've also had my fair share of bad "Cuban" food too, and this one takes the cake. For starters the service was TERRIBLE, regardless of how bad the food was I probably wouldn't rate this place if it didn't have such god awful service. When I showed up we were one of the only tables outside, while we waited there were 3 servers working just the outside and not one of them came to take our order. I went inside and thought we were supposed to order at the window since no one was outside, a woman (who I assume was the owner) told us to take a table and someone who serve us. We went back outside and waited even longer. Again I went inside and this time the women I spoke with sent someone out. It took a long time but we finally received our order, by this time the entire outside was filling up with people. The iced coffee they brought me came with one of those to-go straw lids, but the server didn't bring a straw, when he came back he said "I'll get you a straw," he never returned. I had to ask different servers for a straw 3 times! The sandwich that came out wasn't a Cuban, idk what kind of bread they used but the whole thing tasted like a Wawa sandwich but with old dry meat that was hard to chew. The "jamon croquettes" were the smallest I've ever seen, and cost like $6 for 3. I've never seen such a small portion for so much, for what's essentially supposed to be a cheap street food. We got another sandwich which was supposed to be like a pb&j with maduros. But there was like one maduros the size of a nickel, the whole thing just tasted like peanut butter on bread, what a rip off! The bottom of the "cafe con leche" was just like syrup and sugar not mixed in and wayyy to much, the coffee was so light the whole thing tasted like sugar water. The cortado we ordered wasn't very good either. The only thing that was good was the Iron Beer, a Cuban softdrink, but those come in a can shipped from Miami. This place is ridiculous, idk how it can have so many reviews and they're all so high, especially with such bad customer service. I will say the place had no latino patrons in site, maybe Chicagoans just don't know what Cuban food tastes like? Wild to me this place has such good reviews when they can't even make a decent cafe con leche or Cuban sandwich. read more

Really great cubans at a super reasonable price and it's super close to Michigan Ave! Who knew? We've never been to cuba but the cubans are definitely pretty authentic. The meat is super juicy and tender. The service model here is a combination of table service and self service. We ended up ordering at the counter and a server brought our food out to us. Apparently the waiter also brings you a bill but we never got ours so we ended up going back to the counter to pay. Not sure how it normally works. They have a beautiful patio which is perfect on a nice day! read more

Yum, definitely a fan. Came here with a co-worker during lunchtime. When we got there around 12:20pm, we managed to order just before the lunch rush. Wow, it gets extremely busy! I was craving shrimp, so I went with the borracho sandwich. Made it a combo with chips and a drink. We waited quite awhile for our food to be ready, so I was a little annoyed (from hunger). But once I did get my sandwich, I was not disappointed!!! The slaw was so crunchy and the vinaigrette was perfect. Very light and refreshing on a hot, humid day in Chicago. The bread got a bit soggy from my walk back to the office, so that was the only downside. Shrimp was cooked to perfection - not overly cooked (like rubbery) but also not undercooked (like too soft). Loved it. Definitely the best sandwich I've had in Chicago. I like the decor, but it gets a bit chaotic with all the customers! But they're pros - they handle the lunch rush without a sweat. read more

Horrible service!!! Ordered online ready to pickup it said. Came in and they didn't have my order, no problem. They said 5 minutes........30 minutes later they give me my order and still messed it up. I ask for a refund and they said no get it online through the website. Horrible service absolutely horrendous. read more

If u are Cuban real Cuban from Havana like I'm we really know that this restoran is like Taco Bell made it from Americans ‍ Not long ago I came there and I order ropa Viena My wife order a Cuban sandwich When that thing arrived to my table I asked my wife ( WT is this ) I can't really describe coz looks like food really Frijoles negros was from can with some season ‍ Never ever come back and never will read more

We went here for a snack and coffee after an afternoon at the MCA, to be able to find a quiet, quaint isolated spot off the heavily beaten path of Michigan avenue was a godsend. The cappuccino was rich and just right, lasted for a long while and didn't get cold. The entry is strange since you feel like you are entering someone's condo foyer (which I believe it is) but the entrance also doubles as an outdoor patio and the restaurant is up to the side. The inside has a deep moody section that seems hidden away and mysterious. read more

I got the guava bbq sandwich and it was such a perfect portion size and tasted amazing. I was on vacation in Chicago at the time and I wish I could have this sandwich all the time! read more

The service was fantastic, first off. Ordered a Juevo con Bistec, no bread. All I can say is yum!! The cafe con leche had just enough of the espresso kick without being too overwhelming. Cute little place....if you go to 360 Chicago, recommend you escape the crowds and come here only .1 miles away. read more

Cafecito - Juevo con Bistec - Cuban Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I. Lobe this place it's Cuban soda flavor is so unique takes really much like an apple candy so flavorful , great and well cooked shrimp that is super buttery and Delicious and just had amazing flavor same with the prefect blend on the Cuban sandwich with a little but perfect amount of spice and a flavor bomb in your mouth and same with the back bean soup , jalapeño hummus and bread and your coffee was amazing as well also your costume service and atmosphere of restaurant feels inviting and cozy and just love this place and I love this place good luck and hope it stays in business for long since it is an amazing restaurant and experience for any one visiting chicago for the 1st and 100% recommend trying this restaurant out if you are planning to visit chicago any time soon . read more

This was the perfect place to stop alone for a quick and delicious cuban sandwich! Great prices too! It was around $11 for a chips, drink, and sandwich combo. They also have a great selection of desserts. I would love to bring my friends here next time to try it out. (the waitress I had was also super friendly and recommended the chivito sandwich to me). read more

Cafecito - Chivito Pressed Sandwich - Cuban Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

What a hidden gem in the shadow of the John Hancock Building! A truly delicious assortment of Cuban sandwiches, salads, soups and dishes are offered on their plentiful menu. Their food is not only delicious, but surprisingly inexpensive- especially by Chicago restaurant standards! Don't pass up a chance to eat in their beautiful little dining area or to pick up a carry out from this delectable little restaurant. read more

Cafecito - Small place. Good food. - Cuban Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

This place is great! My sister and I stopped by for some Cuban food after our visit to the museum of contemporary art. The service was quick and kind. I don't remember what my sandwich was called but it had shrimp, roasted peppers and a delicious sauce. They have a cafe area for a quick pick up or a seating area for drinks and dinner. We sat in the dining area and enjoyed the food and vibes. read more

Cafecito - Sandwich w/ shrimp - Cuban Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I never share a review but I feel the need to comment on my experience at Cafecito. I ordered takeout from here. We placed the order and received a confirmation. After 20 minutes we were notified that their system never received the order. We were understand and they took down the order and said it would be ready in 20 minutes. We were bummed because it cut into our time at the Art Institute but again we were gracious because it was clear they were overwhelmed. 20 minutes later and still no food. Finally after waiting for 85 minutes we FINALLY were handed our food, but the order was wrong and my drink was cold. Don't bother with this place and instead stop by one of the food trucks near Millennium Park. They provide better food and better service. read more

This is the second Cafecito was able to visit. The other location in Congress is more like a cafe. This location is cafe mixed with a bar/lounge feel. Love the fact that is has a bar in the back and drink specials are $3-$5 from 4pm to 7pm. The food is still amazing and worth every penny! Highly recommended!!! read more

Cafecito - Cafecito Sign - Cuban Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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I wanted to like this place but they were making it hard for me I was excited to try it because I love Cuban food, and from what the locals tell me it's authentic Cuban. I loved some of my food and some of it was mediocre but I was feeling the cafe vibe with the Cuban music playing just loud enough to enjoy it without being too loud. I think the biggest negative of Cafecito is the service. The staff didn't seem too enthused to have us there. When we walked in it was a sign that said to seat yourself. The waiter bought over water immediately then ghosted on us. Several staff walked past us for at least 20 minutes before they asked us to order. Our waiter seemed impatient with us and clearly had better things to do than entertain our questions about the menu. Oh well‍ we ordered anyway. I got the Maduro omelette, it was just ok until I asked for extra creole sauce, after I added it on top it was very good. My husband loved the Cuban coffee but the pancakes were just ok. The bread that came with our meals didn't look like much but was surprisingly very good. I would come back to get a sandwich to go just to try that bread again. read more

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They have been consistently delivering flavorful and authentically Cuban and Argentinian pressed sandwiches and desserts (dulce de leche, alfajores). A welcome change and good value when the cook has the day off. read more

Great spot for a quick lunch! I tried the Cubano and the Choripan, both were really tasty, though the portion size is a little small. If you are really hungry, I would recommend getting a side as well. read more

Nice neighborhood spot! The food is always good. I've tried several different sandwiches and everyone has been yummy :) My fav is the borracho (shrimp) one. The ambiance is laid back and chill, there's lots of seating both inside and outside. I've also gotten the guava milkshake - the flavor was pretty good but the texture was off. It wasn't well blended and there were still a lot of ice chips. I would stick to the sandwiches/entrees. My main complaints are with the service. It can be REALLY slow during rush times. Also, when I ordered the milkshake and the cashier couldn't tell me what flavors were available (doesn't say on the menu) and after she asked the manager for the flavors she still couldn't tell me what was in them. read more

100% on board now, guys! I doubt my last review had anything to do with it, but the service has improved tremendously over the last couple months. The staff are much nicer and it's just an overall more pleasant experience. Thank you thank you thank you! As I said before, Cafecito has AMAZING food and coffee. If you want the ultimate breakfast experience, get the huevos con chorizo sandwich with mozzarella and a cafe con leche. You will not be disappointed! I've only been for lunch a couple of times but my coworkers looove their sandwiches. I can now confidently recommend this place with a solid five stars! I love Cafecito! read more

I came here for lunch and had the Cubano sandwich. The meat was extremely dry, very little mustard and not enough pickles. For this place to be Cuban, you would expect for the Cubano sandwich to be great. The waiter also didn't check on us while we had our food, they just brought it and came back for the check. Overall this place is a hit or miss. read more

We stopped in for a quick breakfast (not all locations serve breakfast so double check before you go). The breakfast sandwich was tasty and quick, the service, was slower but friendly. The entire meal with drinks for two was under 20.00. We are going to return to try the rest of the menu. read more

Delicious Cuban sandwiches! I tried the Guava-Q which was packed with roasted pork, slaw, and a tasty guava BBQ sauce. The side of pasta salad I ordered was tasty and generously sizes. For under $10, you can have a feast here. read more

I've been here a couple times late at night during my break. I have to say at first I was impressed by the sandwiches, however the second time I went the meat really was a let down for me (I'll talk about it in a sec). The location is actually inside of a apartment building taking up a small area to the side of the entrance. The staff are pretty friendly and the times I went there really wasn't many people there, so service was quick. Onto the food: Chicken Chimichurri Sandwich 3/5: This was the first sandwich I tasted, and I have to say the bread is definitely the star. I was in love with how it was soft and crisp at the same time, really bringing the sandwich together. The sauce was pretty decent and it came with tomato, which added some freshness. However the chicken really did not taste that great, it had the texture of the processed frozen chicken you get at low quality sandwich shops. However regardless of that I thought the sandwich was pretty decent especially for only $6.49. Chivito Sandwich 2.5/5: So this was the sandwich that I got the second time, and what really made me not care to come back. It's a loaded sandwich (egg,ham,bacon, and steak) with veggies and citrus mayo. Once again the bread was perfect, however the meats were all just low quality. I'm not a fan of ham so that's just kinda my preference. However, I ended up taking out the steak also, because it was just chewy and didn't add anything to the sandwich. I hate to waste food, however if I'm not enjoying a part what's the point of eating it. The sandwich was alright when I took out the meat, but it seems to be a recurring issue with me. Mexican Wedding Cookie(I think?) 3.5/5: My girlfriend is a fan of cookies covered in powdered sugar, so I got this. It's pretty small but it's a nice dessert. Overall I think the food and direction of the restaurant is pretty good, however the meats are a major disappointment for me. I know it's harder to make everything fresh, however the store would be a solid 4 or maybe even 5 stars if they focused on having better quality meats. Also perhaps I just ordered the wrong things, however I don't think I will be back soon to try anything else. read more

Cafecito is a great place to grab a Cuban bite to eat in Chicago. Went here with a couple of friends for dinner and we didn't have to wait at all. Their Chivito is delicious, filling, and very affordable. I also had the key lime pie and a Cuba libre, both of which were pretty good. I've been here a couple of times and have never left disappointed in the food. I definitely plan on coming back! read more

Cafecito - Cuban Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Recently had dinner here: steak chimichurri with rice, beans and plantains. Delicious! Service improved.

Welcome to the neighborhood! I live in the neighborhood and a cheap sandwich place is definitely a welcome addition. I especially like the Guava Q with pork. I have not really tried any of the sides/salads. The Churro was just ok, but the desserts are good. read more

had lunch at cafecito today on my trip to chicago and i really enjoyed it!! as a cuban-american who's lived my whole life in miami, i was excited to see pretty damn authentic food here. the cafe con leche is great and i was really excited for the vegan vaca frita and it did not disappoint. my cousin got the cuban sandwich and also loved it. the food is very well priced for the large portions. absolutely recommend :-)) read more

Nice hidden gem downtown. If you like Cuban and enjoy a good mojito I definitely recommend this place. Service was very good, drinks were great and food was also great and great value! We had a corn/bean salad, yucca fritas (healthier alternative to regular French fries), a Cuban and a civito (probably mis-spelled the sandwich but it was awesome). The food was prompt, very good and exceeded expectations on all fronts! Nothing extraordinary inside but great food and drinks at a reasonable price for cuban in downtown Chicago; it's not Havana 1957, but very good for our area. read more

I was looking forward to trying this place while in Chicago but the service was not great. We were sitting there for 20 min and not once offered water or drinks, two other parties sat down around 15 min after we did and were immediately offered waters and drinks. read more

This place is awesome! If you life good food, a cute ambience and don't want to pay a lot I definitely suggest Cafecito. I came here with my parents while on a trip to Chicago and we ordered the cubano (yum!), ceviche, ropa vieja, exotic salad and eggplant salad. The only negatives on the food is that the ceviche was kinda small and the eggplants were drowned in vinegar so they weren't possible to eat. Otherwise the food was DELICIOUS and we spent about $45 on lunch for three. Definitely would come back. read more

Food was ok, service was terrible. Avoid if you don't want to be ignored in a restaurant much too small to be ignored in.

Great hidden spot for Cuban food and a surprisingly large menu with great service. #Cuban Sandwich

Ordered a palomilla platter, el toro sandwich, caldo de gallego soup and a caprese salad to go. I sat at the bar and had a couple of Cuba libre's while I waited for my order. The bartender was friendly and made a great Cuba libre. Once back at my hotel the good was still warm and everything tasted delicious. Besides the caprese salad but I guess that's what I get for ordering that at a Cuban place. So I won't to hold it against them. I would definitely return and recommend Cafecito. read more

I went to Cafecito for a second time and decided to try something new. I'm so glad I did, because the jerk chicken sandwich was excellent! I'm glad I went back, and I hope to try more of their menu items in the future. read more

GREAT coffee!! Baristas we're so kind and super speedy! We made it a point to come here every morning on our trip!

Bad service, asked if we could get split checks and the server was rude and said "literally it's only one table".

Came and visited cafecito while in chicago for the weekend and i loved it! I had the iced cafe con leche and it was perfect! If i were to ever visit chicago again, Cafecito would be the first place i visit after getting off my flight! read more

The Cuban food here, and Cuban coffee is legit. The food is very delicious and authentic - LOVED IT. I will definitely come back next time I'm in Chicago. read more

Cafecito - Cuban Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I rarely leave reviews... but this place is a must. Absolutely delicious food and coffee. If you love Cuban/Latino food, do yourself a favor and stop by. read more

Came here for lunch with my parents; I ordered the steak chimichurri sandwich and they ordered a salad and sandwich. The sandwiches are good; for 6/7 dollars you get two half sandwiches which can leave you very satisfied. The salad is also decently portioned and tastes delicious. We also ordered the café con leche, which I liked since it was a bit on the sweetest side and I'm not a huge coffee drinker. Waiter was friendly and quick to bring out our food. Definitely stop by if you're in the area looking for a quick bite! read more