Discovering the Essence of Cubanu Restaurant & Lounge
Located in the heart of Rahway, New Jersey, at 1467 Main St, Cubanu Restaurant & Lounge serves as a vibrant destination for those seeking an authentic escape into the flavors and spirit of the Caribbean. This establishment has become a cornerstone of the local dining scene, offering a unique blend of traditional recipes and a contemporary atmosphere that invites guests to slow down and savor the moment. Whether you are a long-time resident of Rahway or a visitor passing through the area, the restaurant provides a welcoming environment where the warmth of island hospitality meets the bustling energy of a modern lounge.
The philosophy behind Cubanu is rooted in the belief that dining should be a sensory experience that brings people together. From the moment you step through the doors, the carefully curated decor and the rhythmic undertones of the music set the stage for a memorable evening. The kitchen focuses on honoring time-tested culinary techniques, ensuring that every dish reflects the depth and complexity of its heritage. By prioritizing high-quality ingredients and a commitment to consistency, the restaurant has cultivated a reputation for excellence that resonates with food enthusiasts who appreciate genuine, soulful cooking.
Beyond the plate, the lounge aspect of the venue adds a layer of versatility to the experience. It is a space designed for connection—a place where friends can gather for conversation, colleagues can unwind after a long day, and families can celebrate special milestones in a relaxed, sophisticated setting. The staff takes pride in their attentive service, aiming to make every guest feel like a regular from their very first visit. This dedication to the human element of hospitality is what truly distinguishes Cubanu in a competitive culinary landscape.
What Makes Cubanu Stand Out
Authentic Culinary Heritage: The menu is a thoughtful tribute to traditional Caribbean flavors, emphasizing bold spices, fresh produce, and slow-cooked preparations that capture the essence of the region.
Atmospheric Versatility: The space seamlessly transitions from a comfortable dining room perfect for intimate meals to a lively lounge area, making it an ideal choice for a wide variety of social occasions.
Community-Centric Location: Situated conveniently on Main Street in Rahway, the restaurant serves as a central hub for the neighborhood, contributing to the local culture and providing a reliable gathering spot for the community.
Commitment to Hospitality: The team prioritizes a guest-first approach, ensuring that the service is as memorable as the meal, fostering an environment where comfort and quality are always at the forefront.
The culinary journey at Cubanu is one that encourages exploration. Guests are invited to step outside of their usual dining habits and embrace the rich, diverse profiles that define Caribbean-inspired cuisine. Whether you are looking for a hearty meal that feels like home or a vibrant setting to enjoy a night out, the restaurant offers a balanced experience that caters to a wide range of preferences. The focus remains on creating a space where the quality of the food and the quality of the company are held in equal regard.
As the evening progresses, the energy of the lounge often shifts, reflecting the dynamic nature of Rahway’s nightlife. It is this ability to adapt to the needs of its patrons that keeps the restaurant relevant and beloved. By maintaining a clear vision and a steady hand in the kitchen, Cubanu continues to be a destination that rewards curiosity and satisfies the palate. We invite you to visit us at 1467 Main St and experience firsthand the unique charm that has made us a staple of the local community.
Ultimately, Cubanu Restaurant & Lounge is more than just a place to eat; it is a testament to the power of food to bridge cultures and create lasting memories. We look forward to welcoming you to our table, where the traditions of the past are celebrated with a modern touch, and where every guest is treated as part of our extended family. Join us soon to discover the flavors, the rhythm, and the spirit that define our corner of New Jersey.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Kerbside pickup
Delivery
On-site services
Takeaway
Dine-in
Highlights
Fast service
Great beer selection
Great cocktails
Great coffee
Great dessert
Serves local specialty
Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining
Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Coffee
Comfort food
Happy-hour drinks
Happy-hour food
Healthy options
Late-night food
Quick bite
Small plates
Spirits
Vegetarian options
Wine
Dining options
Brunch
Lunch
Dinner
Catering
Dessert
Seating
Table service
Amenities
Bar on site
Toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cozy
Romantic
Trendy
Crowd
Family friendly
Groups
Tourists
Planning
Dinner reservations recommended
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
On-site parking
Paid parking lot
Paid street parking
Plenty of parking
Menus
Lunch Menu
Cubano CubanoUSD 15.95
Ropa ViejaUSD 18.95
Lechon AsadoUSD 17.95
Pargo FritoUSD 30.00
Lunch Menu - Tapas
Chorizo EncebolladoUSD 11.00
Camaron Al AjilloUSD 16.00
Coconut ShrimpUSD 15.00
Fried CalamariUSD 15.00
PicaditaUSD 19.00
MariquitasUSD 7.00
EmpanadasUSD 9.00
CroquetasUSD 6.00
BacalaitosUSD 10.00
Papas RellenasUSD 8.00
Chicken SoupUSD 14.00
Lunch Menu - Sides
TostonesUSD 6.00
MadurosUSD 6.00
Yuca con MojoUSD 6.00
Yuca FriesUSD 6.00
CongriUSD 6.00
Arroz BlancoUSD 6.00
Frijoles NegroUSD 6.00
Tapas
Chorizo EncebolladoUSD 14.00
CroquetasUSD 10.00
Fried CalamariUSD 15.00
Coconut ShrimpUSD 15.00
Camaron Al AjilloUSD 15.00
PicaditaUSD 19.00
MariquitasUSD 7.00
EmpanadasUSD 9.00
BacalaitosUSD 15.00
Papas RellenaUSD 10.00
Chicken SoupUSD 14.00
Cubano CubanUSD 16.00
Entrées - Pork/Puerco
Lechon AsadoUSD 23.00
Chuletas EmpanadasUSD 22.00
Masitas de PuercoUSD 23.00
Chuleta Mambo KingsUSD 30.00
Entrées - Beef/Carnes
Ropa ViejaUSD 25.00
Bistec de PalomillaUSD 25.00
Mar y TierraUSD 42.00
"Little Victor’s"USD 27.00
Churrasco El Gordo VictorUSD 42.00
Entrées - Chicken/Pollo
Pollo PicanteUSD 23.00
Pollo Al AjilloUSD 22.00
El BabaluUSD 30.00
Entrées - Seafood/Mariscos
Garlic SalmonUSD 30.00
Enchilado de CamarónUSD 22.00
Pargo FritoUSD 30.00
Paella El MaleconUSD 29.00
Sides
TostonesUSD 6.00
MadurosUSD 6.00
Yuca con MojoUSD 6.00
Yuca FriesUSD 6.00
Desserts
FlanUSD 10.00
Arroz con LecheUSD 10.00
Kids Menu
Chicken FingersUSD 10.00
Mozzarella SticksUSD 10.00
Photos
Reviews Cubanu Restaurant & Lounge
Crismarlyn Jimenez
17-06-2026
The food and drinks were great! But the server was by himself, focusing on fixing an expresso machine and did not bring food for a while. The kitchen staff had to come out and bring it to the table. The restaurant has been beautifully renovated which was nice. More
Aileen Grenon Dempsey
10-06-2026
The atmosphere is chill and a great place to share a meal with a friend while listening to the lively music being played. The owner goes above and beyond to make sure his patrons feel taken care of and comfortable. Definitely a place to … More
Jessica B
08-06-2026
I’ve loved Cubanu, my go to Cuban restaurant for years. My favorite being lechón asado, rice and beans. However, I picked that plate up for dinner last night and was extremely disappointed. The rice serving was so small! A lot smaller than … More
Holly Protopapas
04-06-2026
Stopped by recently on a friday night, Service was great and the food was even better! I took them up on their drink recommendation and it was delicious. I will definitely be going back soon
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Nina X33
02-06-2026
Highly disappointed, I was very much overcharged it said 375 or so on The check (if I would have saw this I would have questioned them but my boyfriend was the one dealing with it, then on my bank charge it was 270 something but on the … More
Josh Dutko
11-05-2026
I always love coming to CubaNu, I've been many many times and the food is always amazing! I am obsessed with their wings, Ropa Vieja, skirt steak, there's so much to pick from, and it's always delicious. Friendly staff. A must try spot, perfect for date night or family outings and special occasions More
Lisa Napolitano
10-05-2026
If you’re looking for more than just a meal—if you want an experience—this Cuban restaurant and bar delivers pure energy from the moment you step inside. It’s the kind of place where dinner turns into dancing and strangers quickly feel like friends.
The food is packed with bold, authentic flavors. The ropa vieja is tender and richly seasoned, and the tostones are golden and addictive. Their Cuban sandwich is pressed just right—crispy on the outside, melty and savory on the inside. Pair it with a classic mojito or a strong cafecito, and you’re already winning.
But what truly sets this place apart is the atmosphere. As the night goes on, the lights dim, the DJ turns up the heat, and the dance floor fills with salsa, reggaeton, and Latin beats. The music is lively without being overwhelming, and it’s nearly impossible not to move when the rhythm kicks in. Whether you’re an experienced dancer or just stepping out of your comfort zone, the vibe is welcoming and electric.
The staff keeps the energy high—friendly, attentive, and clearly proud of the culture they’re sharing. It feels less like a restaurant and more like a celebration of Cuban spirit, food, and music all rolled into one.
If you’re in the mood for great food, strong drinks, and a night that doesn’t end at dessert, this Cuban hotspot is the place to be. Come hungry—and be ready to dance. 💃🏽🔥
Order type
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
USD 40–50
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Reservation
Reservations recommended
Recommendation for vegetarians
Somewhat recommend
Vegetarian offerings
Vegetarian menu or section
Parking options
Free street parking, Paid parking garage
Wheelchair accessibility
yes
Joe Zuela
08-05-2026
The classic mojito is one of the best around. My son and I had dinner here I got the ropa vieja and it was swell seasoned tender meat. Very delicious. My son got the Bistec De Palomilla. He said it was awesome. Appetizer we got the Picadita really great appetizer.
Price per person
USD 30–50
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Reservation
Varies by time/day
Noise level
Quiet, easy to talk
Group size
3-4 people
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Paid parking lot, Paid street parking
J9 Jones
02-05-2026
THIS MUST BE BAR FOOD where people just eat to soak up alcohol, ‘cause this ishhh is DISGUSTING!!! Fish tacos is flavorless mush with avocado in a shell cup nobody is expecting to get, and the bacalaoitos are salty, otherwise flavorless, … More
Jeanette Torres
23-03-2026
I visited Cubanu Restaurant for tapas and a drink and ordered the fish tacos. Unfortunately, the dish was very disappointing — the flavor and quality were not up to expectations. My drink was okay but nothing memorable. While I still left a … More
Sharon McDonald
22-03-2026
This is our first time visiting since the restaurant changed hands. It was a Friday night, we needed to unwind. We were only there for appetizers and drinks.
We sat at the bar. Comfortable chairs. Friendly, courteous bartenders. Sufficient lighting to see the menu and the varied available bottled spirits. Music level just right. We could hear each other speaking w/o shouting. By the way, great music. Got to watch some sports as well.
The food came promptly and was hot! I have a thing about food not being served at the temperature it is supposed to be at. Nice presentation. Smelled great. I was very impressed with the Fried Tostones w/Shrimp. It was delicious. Although the Beef Empanadas were good, $9 for two was a bit pricey.
The drinks, White Sangria and shots of Dos Artes Blanco hit the spot.
We will be back to try the entrees soon!
Food: 4
Service: 4
Atmosphere: 4
Scott Tsui
14-03-2026
Went here for lunch. Placed our order and then was told first they were out of tortillas. Then picked something else and was told they were out of avacados. Like half the menu has those items in it! How do you not have that. Ended up … More
Jose Bone
01-03-2026
It appears that the cooks are afraid to season the food. All of the items i had were lacking flavor. I was there with my 9 and 11 year old daughters and i was surprised to here them say what i was also tasting. NO FLAVOR More
Ana Pombo
26-02-2026
Cubanu Restaurant is such a quaint little gem! The food was absolutely great — every dish was flavorful and beautifully prepared. But honestly, the atmosphere was even better. The lounge vibe is phenomenal — warm, stylish, and full of … More
Robert Perrine
24-02-2026
The food and drinks are really good Cesar, very friendly and tentative to customers highly recommended More
Timothy A
12-11-2025
Place is under new ownership in 2026. Management seems to be making some updates. Went here for NYE and was worth it. Will be coming back soon! The churrasco, mojito, and rice pudding were really good. More
Issela Rivera
04-10-2025
My friends and I really enjoyed this Cuban spot! The vibe was fun and lively, and the food was full of flavor. For drinks I had a Moscow mule and it didn’t disappoint. The staff was friendly and provided great service. After hours, there was a DJ playing great music, which made the whole experience even better. Definitely a place I’d come back to.
Price per person
USD 40–50
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Wait time
No wait
MARIO RODRIGUEZ
10-09-2025
Stopped by for some Ropa Vieja and it did not disappoint—absolutely delicious, full of flavor, and cooked just right. I also tried two drinks, the Cuban Lady and Saldo Caribeño, and both were really good—refreshing and well balanced.
Definitely recommend stopping by if you’re in the area! More
Kellie Silva
30-08-2025
Girls night was amazing ! Came back to one of my favorite places in Rahway and was absolutely blown away ! If you are looking for a little taste of Cuba come here. The drinks are delicious and the food has you asking for seconds ! Friday and & Saturdays you’ll find yourself in a nightlife lounge with amazing music ! More
Jas S
27-08-2025
There is no better Cuban spot, this place is awesome. The staff is friendly, the bartender makes amazing drinks and the food is out of this world. My 3rd time here, and will keep coming back. Highly recommend!
Patricia J. Angel
19-08-2025
My family and I are such huge fans of this place. Every time we’ve come out, we have been treated like friends, like family. We’ve enjoyed dinner nights, dance, drinks, and private parties. Their amazing food does not disappoint! One if a kind experience. More
Eric Melendez
23-07-2025
My wife haven't been there in awhile..but when we did go, we had a great experience... but I was there recently. And the food was very bland no flavor..and the sangria was horrible... we had the tostones with the shrimp..and the tostones … More
Kimberly Mallamaci
22-07-2025
Great menu, nice and clean restaurant.. delicious specials.. the best Cuban food I have had in a long time.. price was very good as well. More
Maggie cavezza
12-07-2025
Went there tonight for dinner after not being there in quite some time. We were highly anticipating the normally delicious food well we got a big surprise 😳 !!!! From the moment we ordered our drinks a red sangria and a pina colors ( mix … More
Yadira M. Galloza
01-07-2025
Food was tasteless. Honestly, if I was the type of person that threw food away, I wouldn’t have even eaten it. They didn’t even ask me if I wanted any sides they just assumed them and brought me out a plate of a steak with a plain white rice. I would never go there again More
Amanda Marreiros
22-06-2025
I tried this place out almost 4 years ago and did not have a good experience at all. I recently found out that it’s under new ownership and the place they own is actually very good. I’m surprised that it wasn’t changed after the new owners came in. I have to admit, place was empty on a Sunday, while every other place on the street was packed to almost capacity. We took an old friend for early dinner and I was so upset we took them there. We were the only table occupied and service wasn’t what we expected. Drinks were great ! Food was not good at all. Even my one year old was shaking her head no when I was feeding her. Rice and bean were watery and the protein lacked flavoring. It took me 4 years to return and I will not be returning. Honestly, they are in a GREAT location and have sooooo much potential. It’s really about revamping that menu and they will do great. I hope this review only brings the new owners motivation to change some things up. I wish them the best and good luck.
Order type
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
USD 30–40
Seating type
Indoor dining area
Ricardo Saenz
19-06-2025
Absolutely amazingly, disappointing and I will not comeback experience, I have been at the Versailles and Prices still not even close to the ones at this place in “Rahway Nj”, restaurant is clean and good service, but food still is far from … More
Maria Mercado
16-06-2025
Had such a great experience at Cubanu in Rahway! The food was absolutely delicious—fresh and flavorful. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, making it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a meal.
What really stood out, though, was the owner, Juan. He’s not only attentive and professional but genuinely an outstanding person who makes you feel like family the moment you walk in. You can tell he truly cares about his customers and the experience he provides.
Highly recommend this place if you’re looking for amazing food and even better hospitality!
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Bella Wysocki
30-05-2025
Had an amazing experience hosting a party here last night, it was truly a 10/10! The DJ was fantastic, the food was delicious, and the drinks were excellent. I’ll definitely be coming back! More
Lyndzie Phillips
07-05-2025
This new Cuban restaurant is an absolute standout! From the moment you walk in, you’re welcomed with warmth, great vibes, and incredible food. The empanadas are out of this world—perfectly flaky, packed with flavor, and clearly made with love. And don’t even get me started on the salmon: cooked to perfection, fresh, and bursting with bold Cuban flavors. Every bite was unforgettable.
What truly makes this place special, though, is the people. Juan and Tommy go above and beyond to make you feel at home, and their passion for great food and hospitality shines through in everything they do.
If you’re craving authentic Cuban flavors, amazing service, and a place you’ll want to come back to again and again—come visit Juan and Tommy. You won’t regret it! 🇨🇺✨
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Reviews Cubanu Restaurant & Lounge