Havana Cafe opened on Buckner Road in East Dallas two months ago to an enthusiastic group of diners who have apparently been longing for decent Cuban food in Dallas. According to LDD's post, one weekend evening offered standing-room only in a space that doesn't have a lot of standing room.
The aqua blue walls frame a tiny dining room with bright red retro chairs seating at most 40 patrons -- it's tight.
If you go, order the ropa vieja, a thick mixture of shredded flank steak swimming in criollo sauce. A hefty portion of the beefy stew will only set you back $11 with rice, black beans that are consistently a little bland, and soft, sweet plantains.
I like it even better heaped onto Cuban bread with lettuce and tomato and served as a sandwich. The saucy meat works perfectly between two slices of pressed, crisp bread, and is loads better than the Cuban sandwich on the menu. For now, my favorite Cuban sandwich is still served at International Bakery Cuban Dulceria
