Lively Cuban-leaning spot near Waterloo with fun cocktails, solid slow-cooked standards, and frequent service delays; good value on happy hour, mixed value on steaks.
Cubana delivers solid neighborhood dining with strong slow-cooked Cuban staples and appealing location near Waterloo with street-level charm, but quality variation on sides and drinks alongside uneven service during busy shifts keeps it from reaching higher territory. The lively pre-theatre scene and happy-hour value make it worth visiting, though expect occasional friction on execution.
Steps from Waterloo, Cubana buzzes with lively music and color, drawing pre-theatre crowds, locals, and visitors for mojitos and tapas. Guests describe servers by name when it clicks—"our server kept checking in and made it easy"—but others recount slow drinks and delayed bills, especially at busy times. Expect a fun scene that can tilt rowdy late, with the terrace and graffiti-tunnel vibe adding street charm. The cooking leans elevated traditional Cuban: slow-cooked pork, ropa vieja, and pollo criollo win the most praise, while pricey grills divide opinion. Tapas are approachable with plantain and yuca sides, and cocktails are central to the experience—happy hour can be the best value. Think comforting stews and bright salsas rather than culinary theatrics; you are here for flavor, rhythm, and good times. Families are reasonably well served thanks to a kids meal with chicken bites or vegan falafel, fruit smoothies, and mild sides like plantain and rice. Space can feel tight, so earlier seatings are calmer. If your child is selective, stick to the kids menu and simple sides and avoid the pricier steaks, which draw mixed feedback.
Area vibe: Central, lively and practical for commuters and visitors around Waterloo with a casual nightlife vibe.
Safety: Generally safe, well-trafficked transport hub zone; busy evenings with bar crowds.
What's nearby: Near Waterloo station, Leake Street graffiti tunnel, theaters and South Bank attractions; mix of office workers and tourists.