Sometimes you don't need a fancy reservation... you just need a tiny spot, loud kitchen, and food that hits like a heavyweight champ. Walked into Margon Restaurant in Midtown and instantly felt like I found one of NYC's secret cheat codes. Small space, big flavors, zero nonsense. The kind of place where you're elbow-to-elbow with strangers but everyone's united by one thing... serious hunger. Ordered the Cuban sandwich -- pressed, crispy, loaded with roast pork, glazed ham, Swiss, pickles, and mustard. One bite in and I stopped talking... which never happens. This thing didn't just deliver... it showed up early and over-prepared. Then came La Bandera Dominicana Braised beef swimming in savory gravy, yellow rice piled like a mountain, black beans doing their thing, and sweet maduros sitting on top like the victory flag. Simple. Comforting. Dangerous... because now I want it every week. Place gets busy, gets loud, gets chaotic... but it moves like a well-oiled machine. Years of experience and zero attitude. Just good people making great food. In a neighborhood full of tourist traps, this hole-in-the-wall is throwing haymakers. Sometimes the best escape in NYC isn't a rooftop... It's a Cuban sandwich and a plastic tray. And honestly... I'd pick that every time. #nycfood #hiddennyc #midtowneats read more

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2.5 Decided to try for a quick bite since in the area. Place can be maintained better, narrow so kind of tight with tables on one side; and on the other side are the front counter and food ready in warming stations. Checked out the menu. Noted different prices on their website, on the paper menu and later noticed different ones posted on the walls. Oh well, we were already there. At first, one of the ladies behind the counter was getting confused about sides with the combos. Finally got that cleared up but found out they ran out of maduros so got one piece of chicken chunk as replacement. The chicken chunks were ok in flavor, but not crispy at all and didn't look great. Combo with 5 small pieces at $17 is not worth it. Went there for the Cuban sandwich which was an ok sandwich, tasty. Both rice we tried are on the dry side, beans at least ok with them. read more

Came to Margon for lunch and enjoyed one of their Cuban Sandwiches. The eatery is always busy with customers, but it's a controlled chaos. Staff members are friendly, quick to serve, and I chuckled at how they scream orders across the entire ordering line. The Cuban Sandwich had an enjoyable crunchy bread, the sliced meats were well seasoned and the sauces/pickles made this selection palatable. read more

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Margon has always been a reliable and consistent breakfast and lunch spot in a sea of corporate midtown (and frankly mid) eateries. The daily Cuban-Dominican lunch combos and sandwiches are large enough to split, and if you don't want to share then I know you're napping at your desk by 2pm. Food is hot, the specials rotate, the sandwich is the best Cuban I've had (that extra slice of fried salami, muah!) I know this place will forever do VERY well. Love you, Margon. read more

Margon - Cubano - Cuban Near Me - New York, New York

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In business for more than 50 years, this Hispanic small cafe is the real deal. I decided to walk here to check it out on a cool breezy 10F winter morning. My destination was clear and I was not going to miss it. The Manhattan streets were mostly empty as other people had the good sense to stay indoors. I popped in and got a pure, black Cuban coffee. It's their own blend and it was nice and warm, with a perfect Crema. My strict diet prevented me from ordering food but I enjoyed the coffee very much and was energized for the walking journey ahead! Life is good with a friendly local Hispanic restaurant in the heart of midtown manhattan. read more

Margon - Cuban coffee. Their own blend! - Cuban Near Me - New York, New York

It has been about 35 years since I had last visited, and it was just as I remembered. I had worked in the neighborhood back then. I decided this time to try the Cuban sandwich. I was happy to find that it comes with a choice of salad or soup. The soup of the day sounded good. It was seafood. You order up front and the food is brought to your table. It tasted home made with mussels, fish and shrimps. The broth was satisfying. I thought it was worth the price and the Cuban sandwich was a bonus. Ham, roast pork, pickles on nice bread. A great no frills cafeteria vibe place for a memorable hearty lunch. I should come back but not wait 34 years. read more

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Margon is hands down a must visit for authentic dominican food. nestled just a few blocks away from times square, this friendly mom and pop shop delivers on the flavors of home. the team makes you feel like family with the owners knowing their customers by name. this legit feels like your walking into your favorite aunt's house with the sights, sounds and smells of home. the food is absolutely delicious and the price can't be beat. whether you're a local that's been coming for years or a person dropping in from out of town trying them for the first time, you'll feel loved on while you're here. read more

Margon - Stewed Roast Chicken - Cuban Near Me - New York, New York

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A Cuban sandwich like this makes you want to petition Yelp for the ability to have a sixth star. The sandwich is 'last meal' quality. You'll be a better human being for having had this sandwich. I used to work on the block in the 1540 Broadway building in the mid/late 90s. Margon was in the lunch rotation before Yelp was a thing. It's taken way too long to get back here but I'm glad I did. Service on the Cuban sandwich might take a minute if it's busy. I was here on a relatively quiet Saturday mid-afternoon. It took less than 10 minutes to get a piping hot Cuban sandwich (no mayo). Ambiance is wonderful. When there, you feel the staff is genuinely happy you've dropped by. read more

Margon - Cuban Near Me - New York, New York

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The year is 1957. Fulgencio Batista is still ruling Cuba; Fidel Castro was two years removed from removing Batista from power. This is a time when the United States and Cuba had diplomatic relations, even though the restaurant opened in 1970; then opened by the present day owners seventeen years later. This is a restaurant that reflects all the love and history of Cuban cuisine, with a little bit of Dominican cuisine. I managed to stop by here after work and am very pleased that I did because not only did they manage to serve me some of the best Hispanic food in one of the smaller boroughs, but manage to do it in an area bustling with tourists, busy bodies, and everybody else in between. I would fall into the latter category. Some people say, "Blink and you will miss it." but I do not see how that is possible. The signage is pretty large; despite the restaurant being pretty small. It only has a handful of tables, a bar with stools, and that pretty much makes up the entire restaurant. No frills, no gimmicks, just old fashioned cuisine served up by two amazing people who love what they do and hope you walk out happier than when you walked in. Making the most of this journey, I got the Pernil and their famed Cuban sandwich, which may seem like a lot, until I started eating, then I knew I made the right choices all along. The Pernil is perfect. The perfect marinade, the perfect amount of succulent juiciness. The rice and beans it is served with are absolutely outstanding. It is also served with two plantains which balance out the saltiness of the dish, but everything is served and plated expertly well that I was able to overlook the two plantains, which by the way are also perfectly cooked. This alone would have been fine, but I had to try a Cuban because that is their big draw. Like the Pernil, the Cuban is outstanding. Now some folks may find it sacrilegious because they add salami to a Cuban, and some mayonnaise, but I like to think of it more like an Tampa Cuban rather than a Miami Cuban, plus it adds a little bit of Dominican flair to the sandwich. This is how you can add to a sandwich without doing too much, or sticking to original. This is not a criticism, rather a welcome addition to the rather banal and cliche that some restaurants aim for. It is still an authentic Cuban sandwich. Everything about it tastes right, from the first bite to the last. Before I left, Lupe, one of the owners (and an absolute doll), frowned at me as I was ready to pay. "You don't want any flan?" I shrugged, and then caved. "Okay, give it to me." She replied back, "You won't be sorry. It is one of the best." She then plates me up a nice sized piece for me to try. I proceed to take a bite. She was not kidding. The flan is outstanding in texture, in flavor, in richness and in sweetness. Everything about it is perfect. It hits all the right notes in all the right parts of the human tongue. Even the portion size she gave me was perfect, as too much would put me in a diabetic shock, and too little would have me questioning why she would offer it to me in the first place. I was not disappointed. Once I was done with the flan, I paid my fare and walked out. Not before suggesting that they have a fan in me, and that I will most definitely be coming back. Hard working folks behind the counter, an excellent product in a busy neighborhood, and the prices are simply unbeatable for this cuisine. I wish them all the luck in the world and many more years of continued success. Something that could not be said for Batista, but who says you have to be a dictator to eat here? read more

Margon is a Midtown staple and I've been coming for years. Not as often in recent years since I changed jobs but still as often as I can. This mom and pop shop is easily missed from the outside but once you step in, you realize quickly why they're so good. Right in the front is a guy making Cubans. If you want a good Cubano sandwich, this is one of the best in the city. All he does is make Cubans all day. If you want a hot plate, you'll have to go deep to the back and line up. The food here is "point and scoop" so even if you don't know what you want, you'll be able to visually choose. I went with the ox tail yesterday with rice and beans. The sauce was so flavorful and the ox tail, so tender. This place is good and you can tell from the constant flow of people. The only unfortunate thing about this place is that your clothes will smell like it. Oh well, worth it. read more

Margon - Cuban Near Me - New York, New York

Stepped out of our hotel and next door to Margon for a quick breakfast bite. The staff were so friendly while serving us and simultaneously preparing for their lunch rush. We had seen people standing in line for their lunch service earlier in the week. Next time! Since anytime is a good time for a good Cuban Sandwich, I ordered the Cuban sandwich and coffee. I joked with the kind woman behind the counter that being from South Florida I was a harsh critic of Cuban sandwiches. She confidently served me a delicious sandwich which I ate completely! Tip: they add the salami slice on it! The sauce on the table was excellent too. I considered asking to buy the bottle. My mom had a bacon egg and cheese croissant that was massive. Overall, with tip we, happily, paid $32 for 2 massive sandwiches and a piping hot coffee. The day before we paid $80 at a neighboring hotel for french toast, avocado toast and a coffee. (SMH) We will be back. read more

Margon - Table sauce. I could drink it. - Cuban Near Me - New York, New York

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Talked to a patron who's been coming here for many years. We happened to go on the day they didn't have the oxtail but the sandwich was everything. So was the friendly staff. Definitely worth checking out if you are in the Times Square area. read more

Margon - Cuban sandwich with gravy - Cuban Near Me - New York, New York

Amazing customer service and the food was excellent!!! Would love to go back soon ! Really enjoyed the Cuban sandwich and the plantains!

Fire and flavorful Cuban food by Times Square. It's unassuming and no frills but it more than compensates with friendly staff and great food. I had the best Cuban sandwich here. Fluffy bread, great distribution of pickles, and succulent pork. The oxtail is something to write home about, and goes great with rice and beans and plantains. Overall really satiating and delicious value. read more

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This is a small little hole in the wall basement type restaurant that you cannot miss. They offer a nice variety of Cuban cuisine. Sometimes it is extremely busy at lunch time but worth the weight. It only has about 12 tables. You order at the counter When it's busy or they will take your order if it's slow. Give it a try. read more

Cuban coffee? No. Cuban sandwich? Worse." The day before Good Friday, my fiancé and I walked into Margon expecting the classic Midtown Cuban comfort we'd heard and read reviews about. Instead, we found a nearly bare restaurant--barely any food on display, barely any customers. The female server was polite, almost chatty, but her small talk wasn't hospitality; it was a distraction. My fiancé clearly stated three times that she did not want eggs with her order. The eggs arrived anyway. When my fiancé quietly complained to me, the server acted deaf. But the moment my fiancé asked if they had Cuban coffee? Suddenly, perfect hearing. (Spoiler: the coffee we got wasn't Cuban--we were lied to. Worst coffee ever and we are coffee drinkers). I ordered a Cuban sandwich, mostly to-go because I spent my meal helping my fiancé pick around the eggs she never wanted. At the time, it seemed passable even though the plaintains tased like vinegar. Then we got home. That sandwich was an insult: thick, clumsy pickle slices, stale bread, a sharp vinegar punch, salami standing in for ham, and old, dried-up pork. The worst Cuban we have had in Manhattan and Florida. Again even the coffee disappointed. To add insult to injury, I still left a tip. Margon might have a legacy, but on this visit, the only thing authentic was our regret. Never again!!!! Banned from our list!!! read more

Margon 136 W. 46th St New York, NY 10036 Cuban Coffee Media Noche Roast Chicken Flan Banana Shake Located in Midtown Manhattan is a Cuban restaurant that may be a hole in the hole, but its plates are more than superior. Cuban Coffee: If you need a quick energy boost, this hot caffeinated drink will do the trick. In addition to having coffee and expresso, there is also steamed milk, sugar, and cinnamon. Media Noche: This is equivalent to having a Cuban Sandwich, just without the salami. The delicious sandwich was served on Cuban potato bread. Roast Chicken: The juicy, tender chicken falls right off the bone. This main course also included plantains, yellow rice, black beans, and pickled red onions. While I was skeptical about trying pickled onions, I learned very quickly how tasty this was. And don't be bashful with your helping of hot sauce; the more the merrier. Flan: The homemade dessert is a Spanish version to custard, but denser. You can never have enough caramel sauce. Banana Milkshake: I went bananas over the banana milkshake especially when there were tiny pieces of the chopped fruit in this refreshing tropical drink. As a bonus, I was given an extra serving that was leftover from the blender. If you come during the week, take advantage of their discounted prices offered on specific week days. It was a great experience dining in this locally owned casual style restaurant. #margon #margonrestaurant #CubanCuisine #midtown #cubancoffee #bananamilkshake #medianoche #roastchicken #flan #nycfoodie #localspot #foodstagram #eats #localbusiness #foodreview read more

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Ordered delivery and got the cuban sandwich special (it arrived extremely hot and on time) so it might be even better fresh. The cuban itself was very tasty, I liked that they grilled the ham, and the pork with mustard and pickles was exactly what you want from a cuban sandwich. The bread was good too, nice ratio of bread to meat and toppings, my only minor complaint was that it was a bit greasy which I did not enjoy (leaked through the bag greasy). Not sure if it would have been less greasy for dine in, perhaps because it has been sitting? The sandwich special comes with either rice and beans, plantains (maduros) or chicken soup. I opted for the soup which had a few noodles, three hunks of potato, a piece or two of carrot, celery and a piece of chicken on the bone. I would not necessarily order the soup again as I have had much better chicken soup elsewhere but this place isn't known for their soup so that is on me. The plantains were good albeit a bit too overcooked/too soft and I didn't get to try the rice and beans. The special is a good value though and I would get a cuban from here again. read more

This is a hole in the wall place. I ordered a Cuban Sandwich, and it was decent. They prefer that you pay in cash. read more

Margon - Cuban sandwich - Cuban Near Me - New York, New York

Chaotic and the food was barely edible. I got a chicken sandwich with a side of plantains. The bread on the sandwich was good. The chicken in the sandwich was dry and flavorless. The sandwich itself was also dry lacking sauce or spread. The plantains were sweet but cold. The best thing I had was the Diet Coke. Two other people in our group and not a single one of us even came close to finishing our meal. Awful. read more

I have been coming to margons for years. The food is always consistent in flavor and quality. Real home made spanish food. From the minute you walk in you have to pass the Cuban sandwich station. That smell alone will try and keep you from making your way to the entree section. Its soo good. If you get by the Cuban sandwiches you are greated with a wide variety of entrees. Chicken, fish, pork, oxtails, soups, etc. There is alot to choose from. The service is always great here. Its been the same people since I have been coming here. Its very much worth it to stop by for breakfast, Lunch or dinner. read more

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There's a lot of Cuban Sandwich options in New York. Some are good. Some are less good. But the Cuban Sandwich at Margon is phenomenal. Margon is a tiny little place that if you blink you'll miss when you're walking down the street. They've got a daily menu served cafeteria style -- but the OG, supreme-crème Cuban Sandwich is served up front. Ask the guy behind the sandwich press for a Cuban with extra mustard and pickles. Tip well. And you'll have the best Cuban this side of the Straits of Florida. read more

Delicious! I had such a delicious breakfast here. I had the mangy, fried cheese, eggs and sausage. It was so good, big portion, reasonable price and the coffee was just right- strong and sweet! Service was quick and very friendly. It was breakfast time but the music was high energy to get your day kicked off right. read more

Margon - Tres golpes y cafe - Cuban Near Me - New York, New York

From passing by you may not be drawn to Margon, but you absolutely should be. While it may not jump out at you or charm you from the looks of it - you take one bite of ANYTHING on the menu and you now get it. Their cuban sandwich is hands down one of my favorite dishes - its meaty, its cheesy and you can watch it being cooked right in front of. you. For lunch time, there is a line just waiting for the cubans alone, don't worry it moves fast. The staff have been there as long as i have been going - which is more than a decade. In addition, obsessed with the roasted chicken. Yes, yes, you may think its just chicken but its cooked to perfection and so flavorful! Location adjacent to Times Square area this charming little spot is not to be overlooked. read more

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Absolutely delicious! Love the fast pace energy and the vibes. Limited seating because its packed. You might have to share a table with strangers. Cafeteria style. I got the oxtail, Cuban sandwich, rice, beans and plantains. Absolutely delicious. I only got like 2-3 plantains which was kind of small for one serving. That oxtail was delicious. I wish there was more meat but the flavor was great. Tip: the line to order food is in the back. It's not at the counter when you walk in. It snakes and the back of the line is in the back of the restaurant. read more

Great go to spot for Cuban food. They had a variety of dish options and are quick to serve during the lunch rush. The staff was also very friendly. I got the chivo (goat) with white rice and black beans. This is the closest Cuban food I've had to my mom's homemade food- delish! read more

Margon - Cuban Near Me - New York, New York

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Pretty small inside & no AC! So it was pretty hot to eat indoors. It isn't the cleanest place but then again, we are in Times Square so it's to be expected. Portion size was okay - not too big. Food is okay / not great either. Don't think I'd recommend or come back, personally. Service was good though read more

Margon - Cuban Near Me - New York, New York

Okay- so far THE BEST Cubano sandwich I have had in NY. It was delicious! Medium hot perfection. I got it to go but decided to eat it right there- DELLLLICious!! You can tell some has been there for a long time and they treat customers very well. Not the classiest place, very old school. But man that food looks yummy. This place has obviously been there for decades , and they earn it! They are open during the day and close early. Parking is non extistant unless someone waits in a car and goes around the block a few times. 8 minute walk from Grand Central and perfect if youre going to a matinee on Broadway. This is my go to Cubano place for NYC . My Westchester place is the Cube Inn in Tarrytown- Will go back...Im out read more

Absolutely love this spot. It's my go to lunch spot whenever I go in to the office and I'm not exaggerating when I say I've eaten here every day for 2 weeks straight before. Cubano is excellent, as are the items in the buffet. I typically go for the oxtail if they've got it and the fried chicken chunks. The rotisserie chicken is a little dry to me, but still deeply flavorful. The line can get a little long if you hit at peak lunch time, but it moves fairly quickly. read more

I've found roasted chicken to be the best cure to seasonal depression, so I'm on a mission to try all the best in NYC. Another spot I heard passionately recommended by a few was Margon, a Cuban restaurant right next to Times Square. I initially wrote it off, as I've had some bad experiences with restaurants around times square, but the google reviews being 4.7 on 1265 reviews along with the unrelenting passion the recommendations came with made me check it out. Right when we walked in, I knew we were in good hands. It's a small, grungy hole in the wall with a huge amount of character. Some real Anthony Bourdain energy. I got a quarter chicken with 2 sides, which came out to $15. I really wanted a half chicken, but this quarter chicken was still a solid portion and they give you a FAT amount of rice, beans, and plantains. This chicken was unreal. Real S tier chicken they're not playing around in here. Fell off the bone, full of flavor, and was just so juicy. It came with this garlic sauce too that was just the cherry on top. Sides were bangin also. My only regret is not trying the Cubano sandwich also, as that's what literally everyone else was getting and it looked so good. If I lived in midtown, this would be my go-to spot. I'm going to put together a tier list of chicken spots one of these days, but I still got work to do. IG @jnov_ Tiktok @jnov__ read more

Pretty big let-down. Came here on Friday after seeing several videos on instagram. Was excited to try it. Appeared to be authentic and staff was friendly. 3 small oxtails in the serving I was given. Felt like a ripoff. They tasted good but left a ton to be desired. I know everyone is navigating inflation but this was pretty ridiculous for $17. Especially when the cost of the rice and beans was probably 25 cents. Empanada felt skimpy also with the pocket of meat very small and most of the empanada being the fried crust. Unlikely I'll be back but if I do, I'll try the Cuban sandwich. read more

Flat out the best Cuban sandwich I have ever had. This place is a must, I go every visit to NYC! Family atmosphere, I truly love these beautiful humans. read more

Margon - They are like family - Cuban Near Me - New York, New York

Really great food at a reasonable price. This is a small place, so do something like a real New Yorker if you can't find a table and share a seat. Only open for lunch durning the week. Service is quick, so have an idea of what you want. Definitely worth checking out. read more

Margon - Cuban Near Me - New York, New York

I love this place. My order is the yellow rice, black beans, tostones, and chicken. I put some mojo on it and the garlic adds a nice bite to the richness. Service is amazing, the people at the counter are wonderful. Easy to have conversations and genuinely warm interactions. The ambiance is great, loud conversations, great music, lots of life in the restaurant. I definitely felt at home here. read more

Came in for lunch on a Friday and got seated with 6 of us. Fairly small dining space, more of a carry out place. Food 4/5: got the Cubano. Rice, beans and plantains on the side were amazing. The sandwich itself was ok, a little on the dry side. Chicken soup my friends got was not very popular. Service: 3/5: very friendly and helpful but very slow Ambiance 2/5: more of a carry out place, very casual sit down eatery, somewhat grimy Value 4/5: 15$ for the meal is a pretty good deal in nyc Overall 3.4: good value for ok food. Not a bad place if ur just picking up some lunch to go. read more

Margon - Cubano - Cuban Near Me - New York, New York

One of the best Cuban sandwiches I've had! Everything in the sandwich was so flavorful on its own. Esp the pork. I ordered a side of the oxtail gravy for dipping and it amplified the flavor even more. I've never had a Cuban sandwich with salami on it but it works! Delicious! Better than the ones I've had in Miami! read more

Margon - Cuban Sandwich - Cuban Near Me - New York, New York

Cubano size was good so top tier food. Service was friendly and quick and the ambiance is simple, just pull up a chair and find your spot. Great to have a place that's not a tourist trap read more

Margon - Cuban Sandwich - Cuban Near Me - New York, New York

I grabbed takeout from Margon for lunch and was pleasantly surprised by the value for the price--especially for a Cuban restaurant in the heart of Manhattan. The entrees come with two sides, and I went with the roast chicken, yellow rice, and black beans. The portion size was generous, featuring a large chicken leg with crispy skin. However, the chicken was a bit too oily for my taste. The rice was slightly bland and beans were solid and satisfying. Overall, I'd recommend this spot for its affordability option. They also have daily specials, and I'm already looking forward to coming back to try the oxtail and empanadas. A solid 3.5/5. read more

Went for their Thursday special and got oxtail with rice and beans and a side salad. Also added a side of fried chicken chunk. You might as well get the fried chicken chunk plate since it was the same price ($15 or so). The food came with a couple of green sauces (which really wasn't a green sauce, it was more like a garlic vinaigrette). The oxtail was delicious and loved the fried chicken chunk (so crispy and not as dried as I expected it to be). The sides, however, weren't impressive at all. The rice and beans were mushy and the side salad was iceberg lettuce with canned veggies (no dressing). Wouldn't be a bad place to get the oxtail from time to time. read more

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Short and sweet, let me just say, still to this day the best Cubano I've ever had! And finally the hubby got to try it after I've been yapping about it for years, and he said it's up there with his top We were lucky to come on a day when their special was oxtail, so of course the hubby did not hesitate to order that as well, cooked perfectly! Love the friendly community feel in here, oh how I've missed Margon! read more

Margon - Oxtail with rice and beans - Cuban Near Me - New York, New York