The story
Crafted with passion, served with love
Where Havana's Golden Era Meets the Hudson
Son Cubano is built on a simple but vivid idea: that the glamour of 1950s Cuba — the music, the flavors, the elegance — never had to end. Situated on the Riverwalk in West New York, New Jersey, the restaurant looks directly across the Hudson River at the Manhattan skyline, a setting that makes the romance of the concept feel entirely earned. The open-air design, vintage décor, and live music create an atmosphere that guests consistently describe as unlike anything else in the metro area.
The name itself is a nod to son cubano, the syncretic genre of music and dance that emerged in eastern Cuba in the late 19th century, blending Spanish and African traditions before sweeping through Havana and across the world in the early 20th century. That spirit — joyful, layered, alive — runs through everything at the restaurant.
Modern Cuban Cuisine with Serious Craft
The kitchen leans into modern Cuban cuisine without abandoning its roots. The food showcase reveals a menu that moves confidently between tradition and technique: Ropa Vieja arrives as pulled short rib with roasted sweet peppers and red onion pearls over white rice; Pernil Pork Shank is paired with arroz moro, pineapple-avocado salsa, chimichurri, and maduros. Lighter options include a Spicy Ceviche Mixto with market fish, calamari, shrimp, and leche de tigre, and a Salmon a la Plancha with smoked carrot purée and black beluga lentil. The classic Cuban Sandwich — smoked ham, pernil, Swiss, pickles, mustard — holds its own alongside more composed plates like Tallarines con Langosta in a saffron tomato sauce with bechamel and pecorino romano.
The wine program earned Son Cubano a Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, placing the restaurant in Wine Spectator's global dining guide — a meaningful distinction for a Cuban restaurant that pairs its cuisine with a thoughtfully assembled cellar. Celebrated mojitos, both classic and flavored, round out a drinks list that guests have called one of the best in the area.
A Full Evening, Not Just a Meal
Son Cubano operates as much as an entertainment venue as a dining destination. Live music is a regular fixture, and the restaurant has hosted immersive dinner-and-show events — including a Broadway-caliber rendition of West Side Story with professional touring performers. Private spaces including the Vista Room, Havana Room, and The Patio make it a go-to for events and celebrations. Valet parking and a waterfront location just minutes from Manhattan complete the picture.
For anyone seeking Cuban food with genuine atmosphere and a view that stops conversation mid-sentence, Son Cubano delivers on all counts.
Recognition
Awards & accolades
Ambience
A glimpse inside
Location
Find us
40-4 Riverwalk Place, West New York, New JerseyNew York City, United States of America
2013992020
info@soncubanonj.com
Visit website
Facebook
Instagram
X