Seemor
CabanaA-Worth Trying
107-10 70th Rd, Forest Hills, NY 11375
· Cuban restaurant, Latin American restaurant
· 4.4/5 Google (2163 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Lively Cuban-Latin spot with generous portions, strong cocktails, and crowd-pleasers like churrasco, paella, and ropa vieja; expect moderate-to-high prices for Queens and occasional service inconsistencies.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
Cabana delivers reliable neighborhood dining through strong food quality anchored by classic Cuban and Caribbean dishes executed with care, paired with attentive, friendly service that enhances the festive atmosphere. Consistent execution and genuine multi-year customer loyalty reinforce its standing as a respected local favorite, though occasional execution lapses and premium pricing prevent it from reaching grade A territory. The warm, lively setting completes a solid special-occasion experience competitive with the area's better neighborhood restaurants.
Restaurant Summary
Cabana hums with a neighborhood buzz, a room that feels warm and lively without crossing into chaotic. Servers are praised as friendly and attentive, and the cocktail game—especially mojitos and sangria—anchors the festive mood. One diner summed it up: "Plates were massive and the vibe made the night." The cooking leans classic Cuban and broader Caribbean comfort—ropa vieja, arroz con pollo, paella—executed in a polished, produce-forward way rather than trendy fusion. Expect big flavors, bigger portions, and the occasional miss (a chewy steak or dry rice) amid mostly satisfying plates. Pricing reflects a neighborhood special-occasion feel more than bargain dining. Families will find it workable: kids tend to like yellow rice, black beans, sweet plantains, and simple grilled proteins. The menu offers straightforward, kid-friendly choices and plenty of shareable sides, though there is no dedicated kids menu noted. Portions are large enough to split, which helps with both appetite and budget.
At a Glance
- Big, flavorful portions with neighborhood-favorite classics
- Lively atmosphere with strong mojitos and sangria
- Prices run high for Queens, especially steak and seafood add-ons
- Occasional overcooked steak or dry paella rice reported
- Parking is difficult on weekends near the restaurant row
What Sets It Apart
- generous_portions_travel_well
- signature_mojitos_sangria
- classic_cuban_mainstays
What People Love
- Feeling welcomed by upbeat staff
- House mojitos and generous sangria pitchers
- Sizzling arroz con pollo and tender ropa vieja
- Neighborhood energy in the heart of Forest Hills
- Leftovers that taste just as good next day
Points of Concern
- Pricing can surprise first-timers (mains mid-$20s to low-$40s; lobster supplement +$18)
- Inconsistencies: a few reports of chewy churrasco or dry paella rice
- Peak times can feel rushed or slow depending on the section
- Parking nearby is tough on evenings and weekends
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$48-$68 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Start with empanadas ($25 for three) or baccalaitos ($18)
- Vegetarians: Coco Cabana Vegetales ($22) and house salad ($16) offer satisfying options
- Plantain sides (maduros $9, tostones $9) are reliable crowd-pleasers
Perfect For
- Casual date night with cocktails
- Group birthday dinners with shareable plates
- Local family meals where portions matter
- Seafood and steak cravings with Latin flavors
Location Insights
Area: Bustling Forest Hills dining corridor attracting locals and date nights; lively evening foot traffic.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit commercial block with steady pedestrians.
Nearby: Near Austin Street shopping, bars, cinemas; strong neighborhood draw and weekend crowds.
Forest HillsForest Hills is a well-established residential neighborhood with a suburban feel, known for its tree-lined streets, historic homes, and a bustling commercial strip along Austin Street. The dining scene is varied, featuring casual eateries, family-friendly restaurants, and some upscale options, attracting locals who appreciate a quieter, community-oriented atmosphere with convenient access to Manhattan.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:30–23:00
Tuesday11:30–23:00
Wednesday11:30–23:00
Thursday11:30–23:00
Friday11:30–23:00
Saturday11:30–23:00
Sunday11:30–23:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
View full analysis on Seemor →