Cubana Restaurant Waterloo image

Cubana Restaurant Waterloo

Restaurant Cafe Bar Live music venue Cuban restaurant

Smoothies, cocktails and Cuban dishes in a cafe with an outdoor street food counter and live music. People often mention good, service, great, drinks, cocktails, delicious, happy, atmosphere, experience, recommend,


Address

48 Lower Marsh, London SE1 7AB, United Kingdom

Website

www.cubana.co.uk

Contact

+44 7474 968275

Price rating

$$ $$

Rating on Google Maps

4.40 (6.3K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Thursday: 12 PM to 1 AM
  • Friday: 12 PM to 3 AM
  • Saturday: 12 PM to 3 AM
  • Sunday: 12 to 11 PM
  • Monday: 12 to 11 PM
  • Tuesday: 12 to 11 PM
  • Wednesday: 12 PM to 1 AM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: good (26) service (17) great (14) drinks (11) cocktails (11) delicious (11) happy (10) atmosphere (10) experience (10) recommend (10)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Hugh P. 1 year ago on Google
    So the two for one cocktail during happy hour, might not have been the strongest but apart that everything else is great. It was also incredibly busy but that's probably because the food is tasty and you get a good size of portion. When we went there was a DJ playing but the music wasn't so loud that you couldn't talk to the people you were with.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 N G. 6 months ago on Google • 826 reviews
    We were here a few years ago and remember it being better than our visit this weekend. Popped in for a drink before a play at the Old Vic. Table service is so slow. You have all these staff standing around chatting to each other and strolling around, not keeping an eye on customers' tables. You finally order and then you wait and wait and wait. While we were there, a couple asked us if we knew where we could get drugs and another couple walked.off and stole the glasses. The establishment can't be blamed for either of these but as I said, things seemed to be a bit different when we were there before.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Y M. 2 years ago on Google
    Good food and pretty fast service. Initially took a bit of time to get the attention of the waitress but when the food did come I was very happy. Good price good flavour. Will come back again
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Piotr C. 1 year ago on Google
    Amazing place😁👌 We have landed in this restaurant after long walk from Southbank, really hungry and I told myself" I need proper meat". Best of all choices. Great flavors, nice drinks, friendly atmosphere and stuff members. Not that expensive, we have paid around £25 per person. Huge portions and strong drinks, what do You need more.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Emilian C. 2 years ago on Google
    Fantastic place, really love the atmosphere that they're creating, with the little tropical parasols, the paintings on the wall, the music. But then we get to the food, and that's just great. Really tasty, has the "Ropa Vieja" plate and tried also the sandwich, absolutely amazing. And then the cocktails, oh my Lord one tastier than the other, they were so good that you'd seriously be able to continue drinking without feeling anything, because of you're into fruity cocktails, you're in for a treat. The big downside was the waiting times for the food and drinks. Now, while I can understand it for the food (it was quite busy in that moment), I do not understand why it took a solid 20minutes or more for our second round of drinks, ordered when it was visibly less busy, to arrive. Apparently the ladies bathroom could do with some more cleaning, too. Either way, still great experience overall and we'll come again without a doubt
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Nirali P. 6 months ago on Google • 95 reviews
    Delicious food. We ordered two mains; okra curry and prawn curry. Both had distinct flavours and were tasty. The drinks (juices) were fresh and bursting with flavour. The dessert me and my friend shared was also nice end to the meal
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Darren G. 5 months ago on Google • 58 reviews
    First time here sat outside in covered area ordered sangria , steak and falafel. First the sangria ok definitely not as good as what I have in Valencia when I go there. Anyway food falafel was delicious you had a salsa with them which I thought was strange usually hummus. The steak was tasty could of been a bit hotter may have sat for a bit. The cherry tomatoes weren’t cooked just cold . The odd thing that got me was once finished I paid cash not card came to £44 gave the guy £60 he turns round and puts it in his back pocket odd! . So I sat there waiting for my change I had to get another waitress I find out where my change was eventually get it and I leave . Would I go again no! do i recommend it the atmosphere is good with Cuban music and other dishes do look nice . But pay with card.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 PD S. 6 months ago on Google • 36 reviews
    We stumbled across this place on Google Maps and having seen all the good reviews, we were most keen to try it. Thankfully, we were not disappointed! This was our first time trying Cuban food - they have many vegetarian options, and the taste of the curries was truly incredible, the plantain mouth-watering. For dessert, we had the chocolate orange mousse, which was delicious! Friendly staff, good music & good vibes! Will definitely come again!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Michael O. 6 months ago on Google • 28 reviews
    Great little Cuban restaurant a short walk from Waterloo station. We booked beforehand but only by an hour to make sure we could get a seat. We were seen soon after being seated and food came very quickly. Between us we tried the pork, chicken and beef (pictured) dishes and all left full and happy! Plus it was cocktail 2 for 1 happy hour when we visited as an added bonus.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Amy Z. 1 year ago on Google
    The food is delicious, but there is still a lot of room for improvement in restaurant management. There are continuous mistakes in providing catering, but the service of several young people is very good. Keep going!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Pitchada J. 1 year ago on Google
    First time trying out Cuban cuisine, I am hooked. The food is so delicious and if you go during the happy hours. Drinks would be buy 1 get 1 free. Must visit when you are in the area.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 S h. 7 months ago on Google
    Right next to the Old Vic and Waterloo Station. Cuban food and drinks. We got a Cuban sandwich and tapas. To drink we had 241 cocktail jugs of frozen daiquiris. Very busy and lively atmosphere. Recommend.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ryan P. 7 months ago on Google
    Dropped by this bar to just get a few cocktails before a play. Fantastic drinks with amazing atmosphere. Would recommend to come here between 5pm and 7pm for their 2-for-1 cocktails. We ordered their 2-for-1 (1) frozen lime daiquiri and (2) mojito passion. Was served by Krishy and Brian - both provided really great service. Totally recommend to come to this place for cocktails.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Catarina N. 2 years ago on Google
    It is nicely located in a quiet road very close to Waterloo. Staff is very friendly. Portions are a very good size. It’s not a fancy/chic setting, but if you are looking for a more street food kind of vibe, this place is very suitable. Everything done with the plantain is delicious.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Richard B. 1 month ago on Google • 66 reviews New
    Popped here for a quick bite before a show at Southbank. We sat outside under the awning. Nice cosy vibe with the flame heaters, but they could do a better job of keeping the ground dry when it rains. Cocktails were good and great value during 2 4 1 happy hour! The food was nice and good portions, although the service was a little slow.

  • 4/5 Anelis G. 2 months ago on Google • 38 reviews New
    Really good food. I am not sure how close the menu is to real authentic Cuban food as this was the first time I tried, but I really enjoyed it. Everything was leaning towards a sweet taste, which I liked. The service was a little sloppy as we had to wait really long to catch the eye of a staff. The food did come out quickly.

  • 5/5 Regina 3 months ago on Google • 23 reviews New
    Quick serving, the food was a tad bit dry but otherwise I was happy with the service. Love their Happy Hour Cocktail 2 for 1 option!

  • 5/5 Nick B. 5 months ago on Google • 23 reviews
    Beautiful food, excellent cozy venue. Service was a little lacking as our table was only visited a couple times. Only knocking pne star off though because they were pretty slammed.

  • 5/5 Ana M. 3 weeks ago on Google • 16 reviews New
    Alex was a great! Our experience at cubana made our night, he knew the right food to recommend and was so sharp with service, definitely my Thursday eve outing from now on

  • 5/5 Mauricio M. 3 weeks ago on Google • 9 reviews New
    If you’re looking for genuine Cuban food, look no more 👀. Cubana has, on my opinion, one the best Cuban food outside Cuba. Visiting London, I thought of dropping by with a group of friends, hoping they will like my homeland food. It was absolutely delicious, like the food your grandma will prepare for you. Yes at the level. Well served and properly cooked. Service was great, and believe me they were busy. I strongly advise to book a table before going there, otherwise you risk to queue outside. I will definitely come back every time I can. Price wise it’s excellent value for money. Around £25 per person. Not bad for London. I highly recommend going there if you wish to have something different than usual food. Well done Chicos…

  • 5/5 dawn a. 1 year ago on Google
    Visited on a Tuesday just before 19:00 - cocktails 2 for 1!!! Atmosphere is lively, friendly and children are made to feel welcome ( as were a couple of dogs with their owners) Food is good....simple, tasty , and authentic...for those that have been to Cuba you will just wish the menu was bigger!! Meat is high quality free range/grass fed, salads fresh and cocktails are delicious. The restaurant was busy but they fitted our party of 4 in and we enjoyed live music, good food and service We look forward to our next visit

  • 5/5 S H. 4 months ago on Google
    We had the most amazing time at this restaurant ! The food is amazing and the service is incredible !!!!!! The drinks are bomb !!! Mateus was our server and he was so kind and funny ! Can’t wait to come back again ! Thank you for the service

  • 5/5 Queralt A. 4 months ago on Google
    Everything fantastic! Abundant and very delicious food, good atmosphere, very fast and good price. Excellent service, Mateus was very kind and friendly!

  • 4/5 Christian M. 8 months ago on Google
    A perfect place for a sunny afternoon/evening. I have never been to Cuba but the frozen cocktails, the food and the DJ delivered such a unique atmosphere! Booking is recommended, we didn’t, someone sat at a table by mistake but they found us some standing room. Food was great, the snackier the better eg the smaller the plate the better the experience. Would recommend on a sunny day to get the most out of the experience!

  • 5/5 Danny C. 1 year ago on Google
    My partner and I ate here recently, really enjoyed our experience! Food was great, atmosphere was really good and we were lucky enough to stumble in on happy hour which made the whole experience even better! We did have to sit outside, but there was shelter and a heater which meant there was no issue!

  • 5/5 Szymon S. 1 year ago on Google
    Great place to eat and hang out with friends. The vibe here is great, cocktails are served very quick and the food is delicious. You need to make a reservation during the weekend, but worth it!

  • 2/5 Paul C. 1 year ago on Google
    Great looking place, ordered a couple of meals. When it arrived they just brought one meal when i stated we ordered two they checked with chef who told them he didnt have ingredients to make a second. So we ended up sharing the one. We left hungry and went to another place to get a proper meal.

  • 5/5 Annie H. 1 year ago on Google
    Good food, good drinks, good music and good vibe overall. My server Emily was excellent! Super helpful and a total plus that I could speak to her in Spanish! Felt like a home away from home ❤️🇨🇴

  • 3/5 through Stomach to H. 1 year ago on Google
    I m giving 3 🌟 here me out why... Definitely for starter. We took hummus, guacamole and bean paste, extremely good😋 Cocktails enjoyable, specially with happy hour when you get one for free 😏 And la musica! Fantastica! Unluckily 2 stars I m taking away for the rest of the food which was dry, bad flavour balance, and a bit overpriced... it's my opinion of course. Staff friendly... enough 😉 Generally speaking I recommend 🙂

  • 4/5 M K. 1 year ago on Google
    Very nice for dates or brunch with friends. Best thing is the amazing food - good portions, delicious and authentic! Also had nice background music, not too loud which is important. One thing they can improve is indoor atmosphere to feel more cosy, such as, make indoors more bright, have comfy chairs and warmer temperature. Will be back soon to explore more of menu!

  • 5/5 Carly D. 1 year ago on Google
    I've been here twice now and have been blown away by the food. This mixed grill and sides took us right back to Cuba! The meat was tender, the sides and salad were flavoursome and the cocktail was just what I needed! Love love love and I love Cuba!

  • 4/5 James E. 2 years ago on Google
    Popped in here for a couple of drinks with my lovely nieces. Happy Hour / 2-4-1 on selected cocktails every day from 5-7pm according to the signage, so what's not to like? Pretty decent Long Island Iced Teas to be fair. Worth a visit.

  • 5/5 Beckie B. 2 years ago on Google
    This is the best place for a quick drink near Waterloo station. Great selection of cocktails and happy hour deal is excellent value for money. The staff are always friendly and service is good. There are plenty of outside tables both under cover and in the sun. I haven’t eaten here for a while but remember the food also being excellent.

  • 5/5 manu1703 2 years ago on Google
    It’s an amazing place to eat and drink! Kevin and Lucas are incredible chefs and the food was delicious. I would recommend to try the mixed tapas sharing plate to experience Latin food. Beatriz served us and she was really attentive and friendly. We had an amazing experience, will recommend! 10/10

  • 5/5 Tim D. 2 years ago on Google
    Well worth a visit for a social with tasty food with a standard cocktail. great rendezvous place. Friendly staff and great atmosphere. will be returning soon!

  • 5/5 María García de T. 2 years ago on Google
    Always great, foot is tasty, good quality and service is good. Better to book a table. Happy hour is worthy 2x1 in drinks. Return every time, great experience!

  • 1/5 Speedy J. 5 months ago on Google • 2 reviews
    Food presentation and service below average. Ordered sharing Tapas Ropa vieja, steak, yucca chips, pina colada would not recommend , take your money elsewhere. Manager staff not concerned in customer service or experience. Dirty plates. Very slow service food came cold Not authentic. Salad came out of a cheap bag wilted not fresh.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍


Call +44 7474 968275 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Pets
    • ✓️ Dogs allowed
  • Parking
    • ✓️ Difficult to find a space
  • Payments
    • ✓️ Debit cards
    • ✓️ Credit cards
    • ✓️ NFC mobile payments
  • Offerings
    • ✓️ Beer
    • ✓️ Wine
    • ✓️ Coffee
    • ✓️ Alcohol
    • ✓️ Cocktails
    • ✓️ Hard liquor
    • ✓️ Small plates
    • ✓️ Vegan options
    • ✓️ Organic dishes
    • ✓️ Happy hour food
    • ✓️ Late-night food
    • ✓️ Happy hour drinks
    • ✓️ Free water refills
    • ✓️ Vegetarian options
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible seating
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible restroom
    • ✗ Wheelchair accessible parking lot
  • Dining options
    • ✓️ Lunch
    • ✓️ Brunch
    • ✓️ Dinner
    • ✓️ Dessert
    • ✓️ Seating
    • ✓️ Catering
  • Service options
    • ✓️ Dine-in
    • ✓️ Takeout
    • ✓️ Delivery
    • ✓️ Curbside pickup
    • ✓️ Outdoor seating
    • ✓️ No-contact delivery

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