Iconic Nolita spot with legendary grilled corn, solid Cuban-Mex crossover plates, quick service, and tight seating; good value for Soho with recurring service-attitude and happy hour policy complaints.
Café Habana delivers solid A-grade performance anchored by exceptional food quality, particularly its legendary grilled corn and generous portions that justify the Nolita price point. Service inconsistency—ranging from snappy to brusque—and tight indoor seating prevent higher standing, though the appealing corner location with outdoor people-watching and warm, bustling energy make it a worthwhile neighborhood destination for casual dining.
A Nolita staple where the room feels warm and bustling and the famous grilled corn steals the show. Diners rave that it is "worth a detour for the corn alone," with quick turnarounds and friendly energy, though space runs tight and bar seating helps. Service swings between snappy and brusque depending on the shift. Cooking leans Cuban-Mexican comfort: pressed burritos, tacos, rice and beans, and a proudly local take on the Cubano. The culinary approach is elevated street-food rather than chef theatrics. Expect bold flavors, generous portions, and a few authenticity quibbles about the Cubano swerve with chipotle mayo. Value is solid for Soho, especially for quick meals and casual hangouts. Families do fine here if they are okay with tight quarters. Kids can share fries, rice and beans, chicken or pork tacos, and the signature corn; there is also a vegan plantain taco for flexible diets. No clear dessert menu; outdoor tables give more room for strollers.
Area vibe: Trendy Nolita block with foot traffic, boutiques, and casual eateries; draws locals and visitors.
Safety: Busy, well-trafficked and generally safe; dim interiors mentioned but no area safety issues.
What's nearby: Shops, bars, Little Italy and Soho nearby; strong evening and weekend pedestrian flow.
Don't miss the famous grilled corn and the Cubano, plus a few tacos to round out the meal.
Plan for casual clothes, possible added 20% service, and generally generous portions with the Cubano being the one occasional gripe.
A warm, retro, high-energy spot with strong people-watching appeal and variable service.