Havana Grill Reviews

Came on Saturday night, not too crowded inside as people were able to dine outside. The Mojitos never disappoint. A pitcher goes a long way for 4 people! Had the homemade chips with guacamole, pico de gallo and morita salsa (a nice heat that doesn't linger too long)! We had our usual empanadas (trio of cheese, chicken and beef) which are very good. The Jalea de Mariscos is by far our favorite (saffron possibly infused cream sauce with seafood). The Roasted Pulled Pork is another favorite and this time we tried the Carne con Tequila (tender skirt steak) with Latin fries (delicious garlicky flavor)! Our waiters were so attentive and the owner is always there to greet you with a smile. We brought some guests who like many people were leary of the food, but I think discovered Cuban food was a wonderful blend of flavors and spices!

The food is delicious. We got a ceviche mixto and its so good, loved their banana chips. For dinner my mom order Ropa Vieja and I ordered meat with tequila sauce. Everything was amazing and so were the mojitos. Definitely coming back again.

Looking for a place to eat and walked past Havana Grill decided to give it a try. Drinks: House Margarita was very strong, but that was okay with me. However if you like them sweet do not order the house. Dinner: Excellent - husband got jalapeño pork chop and I got strip streak rice and beans (can’t remember what the name was) both very good, so good we decided to come back during our stay. Chip and guacamole were good. Half order was plenty for the two of us. Service: Water glass was always filled. Food came quickly. Waitress was very busy as they were full and did an okay job. No complaints from us! Total paid: $63.00 and worth every dollar!

Good Cuban food served by friendly staff in North of the River neighborhood. Lively and fun atmosphere.

OK Cuban food. I would have expected better in Chicago. Th3 service was very inattentive too. The mojitos were the best thing offered.

Ate here with our friends a couple of months ago so i took my family back for the holidays. The chimichangas are my favorite! Everything we ordered was good and the prices are great for the area! Good portion sizes and flavor. The service was fantastic both times- friendly and never left our drinks empty. Definitely recommend.

Great food, excellent staff, great mojitos. Might be a little expensive, but not out of line with other places in the area. Have returned several times and plan to go back. Guava mojitos are the best!

Do not miss this gem while in Chicago. It was hands-down the best meal we had on our 3-day visit. We had the Tostaditos de Platanos and Crab Cakes from the appetizer menu and both were amazing. I had the mango Mojito and wow. So delicious. And then we shared a chicken Jibarito. We will for sure go back our next time in Chicago.

We ate here early September 2022. The food and service was OK, nothing special though. We paid by credit card using chip and pin. When the bill hit our credit card it had gone from$ 45.71 (authorized) to $54.85 (unauthorized).We rang them and they said the person who deals with payments isn't in but would pass on our details and call us back. Nothing ever happened!

The staff really works hard to provide a great experience. Menu offers a fusion of latin cuisine. I really liked the vibe. I sampled a couple of classic dishes. The steak cubano and plantains were very flavorful. The highlight of options we sampled was the cuban rice & beans... Spectacular! The roasted pork on the other hand was a bit disappointing and surprisingly sweet. The fried yucca common to many of the entrees were dry and woody. Cocktail scene is good here. Lots of latin patrons which is a nod to how authentic this restaurant is I'd recommend this restaurant to others for sure but given there are a 1000 other options close by we're apt to try another latin option to compare

My friend and I decided to come here during a day trip to Chicago and were not disappointed. The mojitos were terrific and the guacamole that came with the chips was phenomenal. The morita salsa and Pico de gallo came with the chips and were great as well. I ordered a cup of tortilla soup that was very good as well. We didn't get any entrées, but I can say with confidence that they would be very tasty too, based on pure extrapolation.

On our first foray into the travel world in over two years, my husband and I and our good friend were ready to go and try new experiences in food and entertainment. I was really excited about Havana Grill and really wanted to love it... It took several minutes for the hostess to tear herself away from the two young men with whom she was conversing and when she finally did acknowledge us, it was a chore. The inside of the restaurant is dark, the outside area is generic so we sat by an open window/doorway with constant traffic. Several workers passed and looked but it was a while before we got menus, water, etc. The basics are good ---guac, salsa, plantains---but pricey for things you usually get free. The Cuban dishes were underwhelming to say the least. The Ropa Vieja was plain and somewhat chewy and the boys' plantain-crusted halibut was described as "standard". The pitcher of original mojitos for $36 was disappointing in comparison to mojitos at some other places---no bite! It wasn't a terrible experience but we probably won't choose to go there again. I really wanted to love it...I just didn't.

Cute places in the City Center area. It's located near lots of Spanish styled resturants and bars. Lunch prices are $8-11. Dinner is slightly higher.

We were in Chicago and decided to try something new to eat. We walked by Havana about 4:00PM and saw the outdoor patio comlletly full. We decided to go in and check out the menu. It looked good. We each ordered Margaritas and Black Bean soup. The margaritas were excellent as well as our soup. Next was guacamole and chips Very fresh with a variety of sauces. We then split a steak sandwich. This was tender and very flavorful. Our server was very attentive. We will be back.

This restaurant is amazing , try the skirt steak with tequila sauce . Lovely ambience , I could imagine Hemingway sitting in the corner , understated stylish decor . Friendly welcoming staff . Very reasonably priced . We had a delicious meal and a lovely evening . Entrees all around $17 . Good portion of wine by the glass

I did not have a reservation and just walked in. Even though crowded they were very friendly and found a seat for me immediately. The server was very attentive and gave me some good recommendations. The food came out fast and it was delicious. Try the guava mojito , it's different. I saw some families with kids and it's a good family friendly restaurant.

First of all, we've been here a few times, and it's never been loud or crowded. The decor makes you feel like you're really in Havana, Cuba. You'd never realize you're in Chicago, IL when you're in this restaurant. The dishes here are authentic, packed full of spice and flavor, and, again, makes me feel like I'm Cuba. They have a fairly large menu, so it's hard to pin down favorite dishes. Their Cubanos are a good place to start, with moist meat and buttery, grilled bread. There are multiple combinations of beans, meat, rice, citrus, and spice. Everything I've had here is delicious, true to the culture, and reasonably priced. They have tequila flights, mojito flights, and rum flights. Also mojitos and margaritas. Everything I had was perfectly blended and fresh if it was a cocktail, and it was well served with tons of options if it was a flight. For example, the mojito flights could be served in original, berry, guava, mango, coconut, or peach. They came with multiple flavors of rum, and fresh mint, limes, and sugar. Tequila flights came in blanco, reposado, anejo, and mixed flights. Service is attentive and helpful. I've come here several times and will come here again and again.

Have eaten here numerous times. Very good classic Cuban food in a homey atmosphere. Good for solo or groups.

The atmosphere here is excellent, you have Salsa playing when you come in, and the lighting lends itself to a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere. We had tostones which my friends had not tasted before (fried green plantains). The creamy garlic dip with them was excellent. Everyone enjoyed their meal, and Service was excellent. We did not have to wait a long time and our food was out to us soon. They also have an excellent list of mixed drinks to complete your meal. Definitely stop by for some fine Caribbean cuisine.

Very pleasant staff. Took time to explain the dishes and seasonings. Food was delicious and atmosphere was pleasant. Candlelight on the tables was a very nice touch.

Amidst all of the chain and upscale restaurants in downtown Chicago, we decided upon this small, quaint Cuban place based on all of the positive reviews and we were so glad we did. The food is amazing, intense flavors, great presentation and generous portions. My wife had the chicken casserole and I had the carne asada. The pablano sauce with her chicken was fantastic, so flavorful as was my steak and black bean sauce, smoky and delicious. We eat enough pizza, Italian, steaks and asian so this was such a treat to find authentic and delicious Cuban food. I also recommend a coconut mojito. Overall, Havana Grill is outstanding and I would HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!

Great food and prices will go again Love is place, everyone should go to Havana Grill, wait staff was outstanding

We’ve eaten here a few times over the years and it is always authentic and delicious. I’ve had their tacos previously, very tasty, and their Cuban, which had a crisp bun, salty ham (in a good way), gooey cheese, and tangy mustard. Loved the Cuban. And the golden fries! They have a variety of sandwiches, beef/steak dishes, pork dishes, seafood, and more. The star here are the drinks—amazing mojitos, caipirinhas, and margaritas, as well as a few other cocktails. The restaurant is decorated in dark toned wood and earthy colors. There is a beautiful set of glass doors that open onto the sidewalk and outdoor dining areas. Service is laid back, yet super kind and attentive. Perfect vibe.

The bartender was quite confident he could make a proper caipirinha... and boy he was not kidding. One of the best ever. Very friensly staff, nice atmosphere. If I come back to chicago, I will definitely go back there again

The Cuban plates were so delicious and great portions. The cocktails were very tasty. The service was impeccable. Menu selections had everything for anyone including gluten free and vegetarian. A must try!

The atmosphere at this place is so lovely. I was recommended the coconut mojito and the Havana roasted pulled pork by the waitress and both were amazing! The food was especially great- the flavours were stunning. I came here alone and all staff made me feel very welcome- I would definitely recommend this lovely little place!

Love this place from the mojitos to the Cuban pork. Nice guys behind the bar as well. Good quality and nice presentation for a small Restuarant.

After reviewing the menu for a very long time (on our part) we decided on the Plantain-crusted Halibut served in a jalapeno cream sauce,roasted seasonal vegetables. We were able to substitute the sweet potato for the jalapeño mashed potatoes. The jalapeno in both the cream sauce and in the mashed potatoes were mild in heat but added full wonderful flavor. Delicious dinner with friendly staff. Reasonable prices.

Made reservations today for lunch @12:30 today online. Arrived at the restaurant 12:15 only to be told the were opening @2:00. Very disappointed I decided to wait until 2:00 and come back (really wanted those Mojitos flights) and they still weren’t open. Call and was told Manager changed hours and forgot to update for reservations. I do understand that we are in a pandemic and that is why I decided to wait and come back, but to stir not have it together the second time bad management.

Although this restaurant has been in business for a long time, this was our first visit. Great dinner. House mojito is excellent...margaritas are good, too. Terrific bar menu of Latin drinks... many available both individually or by the pitcher (weeknight discounted pitchers...a different one each weekday). Appetizers were very good...both assorted empanadas and seafood Ceviche (served with both tortilla and plantain chips) were great. For entrees, the jalea de mariscos was a real treat ...assorted seafood plus tilapia in a coconut cream sauce (not too rich and very flavorful). Menu includes a variety of beef, pork and chicken dishes. Upbeat Latin music in the background provided an overall fun vibe to dinner. This is a fairly loud place so if you’re looking for a romantic intimate outing, it’s not your best option. Wonderful service. This was our first time but definitely not the last.

Charming little restaurant. The food is authentic and delicious - just like my papa used to make. Service is great. Wish I had discovered years ago.

We were looking for a interesting place to eat on a recent weekend getaway to Chicago and stumbled upon this gem. We were fortunate enough to be seated outside on a beautiful night, so that added to the ambiance of the evening. The menu is unique and reasonably priced by Chicago standards ($15-$25). I had the Jalen de Mariseos (seafood in a coconut cream sauce with rice) and it was to die for! My husband had the Havana Roasted Pulled Pork which he raved about as well. We both enjoyed caipirinhas - very yummy! I would definitely eat here again; despite our usual rule of eating only at new places when we visit the city. There were so many other things on the menu that I wanted to try! Later in the night when we were walking back to our hotel we passed by here and there was a band playing and the place was packed. Not sure how often they have live music, but this would be a great place to hang out at on a Saturday night!

Restaurant is well located and really easy to find. Atmosphere is inviting and warm, and the food is tasty. Try the pulled pork dish. It’s salty, sweet, and delicious!

Dined at Havana with a friend tonight for dinner. Have wanted to try this place for a long time and it was worth the wait. The service was friendly but respective. they did not rush us into ordering, always a welcome approach. We started off with the guacamole and chips, and then I had the Pollo a la Cubana and my friend had the Cuban Roasted Pork, both were delicious and flavorful. Portions are generous. We also liked the interior of the restaurant, with it's white walls and decorative trim. I will definitely be back.

Hispanic, Latin, planet earth person ... if you are in Chicago and want some flavor in your food, hey maybe even in your evening, you have to come here. Awesome food, wonderful background music, very nice people. Highly recommended!!!!

We spent the weekend in Chicago with our kids. We were looking for a new restaurant to try and wanted some really flavorful foods. This Cuban place hit the spot. We made a reservation on open table which was super convenient especially with three kids. The staff was extremely friendly the menu had lots of options and was extremely creative. I would personally recommend the pulled pork which was uniquely designed on top of a bed of jalapeño infused mashed potatoes and a great sauce to go with it. For a lighter meal the Cuban sandwich was extremely good along with traditional tostones or plantain chips. I would recommend this restaurant for families, couples on a date or just with a group of friends.

We all enjoyed every dish we had. From soup to salad to sandwich to seafood it was all wonderful! The servers were excellent and very friendly. I would highly recommend!

For as long as I've dined there, Havana has been a fantastic restaurant. After being away for years, I returned and was greeted by excellent tortilla soup, carne asada and jalapeno caipirinhas. In a neighborhood surrounded by steakhouses, pass on the cow and head to Havana.

OK, the Mojitos are legit. Can’t say I’ve had many that were better. I tried the Salmon with Mango BBQ and jalapeño potatoes and this was amazing. I am not sure it was “true” Cuban food, but it was excellent and just the right amount of spice. I feel this a a little of a Cuban/Mexican fusion but it was very good, and I will go back again. Good location to the Miracle Mile. Staff was very servicing.

A large group from work ate dinner here on evening. The service was top notch, but the food was just OK for taste. And the portion sizes were quite small, especially considering the price tag.

Don’t believe the recent negative reviews. We went to Havana on a Friday night, the place was packed, and the service was EXCELLENT as always. Food was delicious, highly recommend the platanos maduros. We eat at Havana every time we visit Chicago, best restaurant in town. Mojitos are tremendous!!

Tried it by chance on our first evening in Chicago, we stayed there 3 nights out of 7 :-) it's located in a fun and party neighborhood, Latin American/Caribbean. Efficient and kind staff, nice menu card especially meat/vegetables and excellent drinks (top mojito)! Well done!!!

Wanting something off the beaten path, we ran across Havana. With a friendly greeting, we were quickly seated. Lots of great authentic drinks and dishes to try. We were not disappointed. I will be back.

My husband and I were staying at the Kenzie Hotel (recommend) and wanted to walk somewhere close by for a new experience for dinner. We were not disappointed! Havana Grill was everything we were hoping it would be. We did not have reservations for around 7:30 on a Saturday night (not recommended). We were seated within 15 minutes. Simply great ambience, great service and great food. Also good mojitos! It was our first experience with Cuban food, but having familiarity with Mexican food and suggestions by our server, we ordered and received a couple of delicious Cuban dishes. We will return.

My wife and I came back to Havana Grill this weekend to see if our first outstanding experience from a couple of years ago could be duplicated...well, we were not disappointed! We made reservations the day of, and showed up 15 min early, but were seated almost immediately in a cozy booth. Nice! A very helpful, attentive waiter took care of us and made excellent recommendations. My wife ordered a pitcher of Mojitos, since the pitcher was on sale and was the same price as two drinks...the waiter brought me a glass, "just in case" and I did have one as well! Wonderful drinks, which only complemented the food. We ordered the Alambres (grilled shrimp skewers) for an appetizer, at the recommendation of our waiter (I wish I could remember his name)...again, a spot on recommendation. My wife ordered the Rollitos Manchegos, which she raved about, and I ordered the Havana Roasted Pulled Pork. Oh man...what a great choice! Pulled pork on top of jalepeno mashed potatoes with roasted cream corn and black bean salsa...Yummm! Overall, a great experience!

Visiting Chicago - tried Havana now for 3rd time - and once again outstanding food & service. Jammin' scene - really busy - you know you're at a Chicago hot spot. 1st time eating outside on patio - can now say both inside and outside are great. Don't miss the sangrias - both red & white are wonderful.

This place is a spot we have stopped at a couple times and will go back, The Cubano is really good, and I order it most times I am here. The service is very good, and it always seems pretty busy.

We dropped in, and were glad they able to accommodate us. We started with delicious mojitos followed by a terrific salad with avocado and mango — they split the salad into two plates for us. Then I had the plentiful paella which had shellfish, octopus, squid, fish, chicken. My companion had the creamy lemon chicken. All was excellent. And we appreciated Olga’s gracious hospitality. We’ll make a point of returning should we find ourselves in Chicago again.

Went on a Thursday night after work. We had excellent service from the servers and the bar. The spicy margarita was top-notch. The appetizers were wonderful(but I think the chips we had with our guac were leaning toward stale). The Cuban sandwich was the best.

The space is kind of small but Havana has a great bar and delicious food. Had ropa vieja and Cuban steak and both were amazing. Packed with people and great Latin music

The first thing I noticed upon arriving to Havana was the great ambiance and atmosphere they had created. Celia Cruz was playing in the background, and it really felt like I was being transported back home to South Florida. I was greeted immediately and the waiters offered some great service. While service is key, I believe value is also important. The entrees were overpriced for the items in question. I ordered "Pollo a la plancha" which is essentially flat (pressed), grilled, chicken breast. It came with a side of rice and black beans. I also ordered a half order of tostones, as these are a favorite dish of mine. Both were lackluster, and the tostones tasted as if they had been frozen. The mojo sauce was missing much of its main ingredient (garlic), and the rice used for the rice and black beans tasted identical to Uncle Ben's boiled rice bags, which is a disappointment. Rice and beans is a Cuban staple, and the rice had zero flavor and tasted like quick-boil rice, instead of delicious and sticky Valencia rice or something similar, which is more often than not what is served with black beans. Overall, my experience was positive. But I will likely not return, as the food did not have the Cuban flare the menu and atmosphere promised.

I love Havana Grill! The food is delicious and the mojitos are amazing. They have Cuban plates, they also have appetizers, salads, soups, special plates and vegetarian options. My favorite appetizers are the empanada with the chimichangas coming in a close second. Favorite Cuban plate is ropa vieja. Delicious! The Cuban sandwich is the best outside of Miami. The bartender Arturo is great and always attentive! The owner is always around and the staff is very friendly. I love the atmosphere and on Friday and Saturday nights after 10pm they have live music and are open until 2am. They are closed on Sundays.

I would go out of my way to enjoy Havana Grill on my next trip to Chicago. The food was incredible. It was actually a second-place option for dinner, but had I known how good the food would be, it would've saved me some time and steps.. I sat at the bar and received great service and phenomenal service from Ernesto. He made great drinks, but also had that personal touch that made you feel welcomed and at home. The hostess, Giuliana, made some spot-on recommendations for food, but also great conversation. After listening to her favorites and assessments, I ended up with the halibut. It was out of this world good! Crusted in plantains, it was still steaming before I ate the last piece. It was simply one of those "bookmark" dishes. And for the serving size, and Chicago in general, the price was more than reasonable. I got to meet Chiago who brought my food out to me at the bar. His personality matched the whole place, and made it feel like such a warm, welcoming place you'd want to come back to many times. Everything about Havana Grill was top-notch, therefore I want to come back to explore more of the menu. Come for the food, but enjoy the people is what I can say about this place. It's a hidden gem in River North and you will absolutely enjoy it!

Lunch today at Havana Grill was tremendous. First time for lunch after dining in the evening several times. Platanos, Cuban sandwich, and fries -- delicious!!

We thoroughly enjoyed our meal at the Havana Grill. We found it doing a Google search and walked from our hotel across the river. It doesn't look like much from the outside but the food is delicious and the service was outstanding. We shared several appetizers and an entree. The empanadas were tremendous! Highly recommended! Our server pointed out the drink special was a $20 pitcher of margaritas which turned out to be a great deal. We would go back again if we are staying in the same area and recommend it to friends who want a delicious, casual meal.

Wonderful Cuban dining..a superb waiter and a dinner beyond compare...truly worthy of a special visit

Went here with my son and 6 of his college aged friends (all over 21). Great place for dinner. They serve pitchers of mojitos and margaritas, lots of choices for appetizers and dinner. Reservations are needed. We had chips with guacomole, fried plantain, Chimichangas, fish tacos, steak - all good, enchiladas were just okay

Walking around I got attracted by this nice Cuban place. Food is tasty and service is really fast. Nice atmosphere too, good place if you want to have something casual and good food.

Went to dinner at Havana with a group of friends. We had two folks who are vegetarian and they had no problem finding delicious dinner choices. I had the Cuban steak which was cooked perfectly and was completely delicious. I also had a jalapeño margarita that was outstanding. The tables are a little small. There were four of us packed into a booth and it was pretty tight and had little elbow room. The ambiance of the restaurant was great. I’d definitely go back. Check it out if you are craving some tasty Cuban food.

Tasty Cuban dinner in a small, quaint place with friendly service. Easy walk from hotels along the Chicago River.Drinks were spot-on. Highly recommend.

We were thinking of eating at Frontera, but there was a two hour wait---it was Thursday at 5:30. Across the street was Havana. I had passed by previously on a walk and thought the menu looked good. So we called them up and they could seat us right away--6 of us! The food was outstanding and the pitcher of Mojitos was strong and refreshing. We started with Tostones and Ceviche which were both very good. Some of the entrees we tried were Cuban Roasted Pork, Pollo Coco Limon, and Honey Pork Chops which were all excellent! And a side of Yuca con Mojo was devoured by all in about 2 minutes. The service was friendly, efficient, and easy going. Definitely would recommend this restaurant to anyone wanting Cuban food in a fun atmosphere!

Chicago has so many good restaurants these days -- it has grown so much from the old meat and potatoes only fare we used to get. A surprising find for me was Havana Grill, not far from my hotel. I have never been to Cuba, but have visited Little Havana in Miami with friends many times so feel I do know something about Cuban cuisine and the authenticity of food that claims to be Cuban food. Havana Grill did a great job. I started out with banana chips (tostaditos de platano) which were served with nice chopped vegetables Caribbean style and a black been dip. The serving was plentiful and the platano chips were great with the two accompaniments. Next, I had barbecued baby back ribs Cuban style -- they were first marinated in either orange or lemon juice, then slow cooked, and coated with a guava barbecue sauce. Very tasty!! Mashed yucca came with the ribs, and it was a nice change from the potatoes which normally come with BBQ ribs. The restaurant was very clean, including the wash rooms, the service attentive, and the noise level was well controlled (unlike many places where you cannot hear yourself think!). I'll be back.

My wife's mojito was very minty and seemed to have a decent amount of alcohol. The tortilla soup had a little kick and was very tasty. The crusted halibut was good and I liked my paella even if I would not find any chicken and just a couple of bits of chorizo but there was a lot of calamari. We split a flan for dessert. On a Friday, the place was empty at 5 but rapidly filled up with the noise level building accordingly. There seemed to be a lot of table moving to accommodate larger groups. Service was pleasant and attentive enough and the cost was reasonable. We'd go back.

We were walking in the area looking for a place to have some drinks and stopped in Havana. Drinks were good and nicely priced. Also enjoyed some live music (although not Cuban, sorry to say). Did enjoy and do recommend.

We ordered takeout from Havana Grill tonight and it was probably our best takeout in 2+ months of quarantine. They currently have a special menu that is smaller than their normal menu but still sizable. I got the chicken chimichangas, which came with fresh salsa and this amazing green cream sauce on the side. My boyfriend got the grilled salmon, which came with jalapeño mashed potatoes. We split a side of rice with black beans, which came with some grilled plantain on top. It was a great meal and we can’t wait to go back again, especially once we can take advantage of their awesome drink specials!

The drinks were really good, but I was unfortunate with the order of the steak sandwich. The meat was so chewy it was impossible to finish. My company was happy with their order, so guess I just had bad luck. Friendly service and great patio for a sunny day!

Delicious food, great ambiance. Service was excellent. I went there for the vegetarian options. Bathrooms a bit tiny, but clean.

Best Mojito I have ever had in my life!!! Clean bar, friendly staff, great drinks and great music!!!

Fantastic experience. It was the first time I felt more at home and relaxed than anywhere else in the city. The food was even better than many meals I have eaten in Cuba. The portions were huge, but still full of flavour. The staff was welcoming and actually did not seemed stressed out like many establishments I visited i Chicago.

The Mohito, the Margarita and the Pork Chops were all excellent. I enjoyed the small venue. The service was very good as well.

Quick trip to the city for Cuban cuisine!! Skinny pomegranate Margarita, tasty empanadas, pulled pork and plantains. Unique desserts like guava cheesecake and coconut flan. Yummm

We enjoyed our meal at Havana prior to a play. The ambiance is kind of cool and the wait staff attentive but not overbearing. Really enjoyed the variety of Cuban food - the wait staff recommended several dishes and they were all good. Mojitos were awesome.

We dined outside and were fortunate to have the perfect weather! The shrimp Alhambre appetizer was a star. The black bean soup amazing. Great empeñadas. Had the Cuban sandwich which was fantastic. Cocktails were divine. Definitely would return.

The best Cuban I've ever had. You have to go here for great food, drinks, service and amazing live music when it's playing.

Warm and inviting on a cold Saturday in River North. Delicious and filling portobello quesadilla. Attentive service, great value,

Havana may not look impressive from the outside (had I not learned about it via a web review, we probably would not have chosen it), but it is well worth a visit. The ropa vieja (literally, old clothes, but don't let the title dissuade you from trying it) is the typical Caribbean shredded meat, rice, beans, and plantains. (The same foods, arranged slightly differently on the plate, is also the national dish in Venezuela, called pabellon criollo there.) It was delicious. We also had Havana Roasted Pulled Pork, served with black beans & rice mixed together (called "congri"), plantains, and fried yucca. Service was excellent. I'm told they are famous for their mojitos, and I saw several patron groups with pitchers of mojitos. Located in the River North area of Chicago (just north of the Chicago River), it is in a vibrant restaurant/night life area. The restaurant is smallish, so I suggest making a reservation. Noise level is energetic.

My sister and I were in Chicago a couple of days. Havana Grill was just one block from our hotel, so we decided to try the place out. All of the outdoor seating was full, but there were several tables available inside. It is a beautiful little place on the inside. We sat at a booth. We ordered the chimichangas. They were delicious, and the sauce they came with made them even better. For the entrée, I ordered the Cuban Roasted Pork, and my sister ordered the Ropa Vieja. The Cuban Roasted Pork was just delicious. Everything was just cooked perfectly. My sister really enjoyed her Ropa Vieja. I let her try my crispy Yucca. My sister liked it. I enjoyed that the gentleman who delivered the food to the table came back and asked how we like it.

We had set out to eat at another restaurant originally, but the wait was insane. We decided to walk around and find another spot to eat dinner. Havana had caught my attention, we read over the menu outside and said heck yes! Let’s try it out!! Best decision EVER!! The food was AMAZING, the cocktails were GREAT, the atmosphere was mood setting with Cuban music playing, and service was a plus as well!! It’s a smaller restaurant/bar, it was a busy Saturday night, but we did not have to wait long to be seated. Just long enough to order a drink at the bar and that was it. My husband and I CANNOT wait to go back!

Went on a Friday for the $20 mojito pitchers which are very well made. For food we had the Cuban roast pork, steak tequila, empanada trio and the chips with fresh guacamole, all were excellent. The restaurant gets very busy on weekends so I would suggest reservations.

I saw this restaurant on television decided the next time I'm downtown will have to visit and I am so glad I did!! For starters I decided on the Empanada Trio, very yummy. My waiter Ernesto helped me decide between the Ropa Vieja (will have to come back for) and Carne Con Tequila this dish was delicious just a tad bit salty but that did not stop me from finishing it. For drinks I ordered the Mojito flight classic, peach and mango very good also. On my next visit my husband will definitely have to come he's hooked on Cuban sandwiches since he had one for the first time this year when we went to Miami.

This is my second time at Havana and it did not disappoint ! The empanadas and chimichanga appetizers were excellent ! I can't wait to return again in the future.

Havana was a wonderful restaurant! The food tasted great but the margaritas are to die for!!!! Our waiter was very attentive. Very cozy place that I would defiantly visit again!

I would ask manager next time to control the salt/seasoning on the Ropa Vieja. Empanadas were over fried. Otherwise rice and beans and maduros were great.

I lived in Florida for several decades, so I've had the opportunity to try many, many different Cuban restaurants over the years. This gem of a restaurant is in downtown Chicago and it compares to any of the restaurants we've ever experienced in Florida!

Restaurant is very authentic with nice atmosphere in and out. Bartender and owner were very nice as were the support staff. Food was great - Cuban sandwich and aouo. However, it took forever to get waited on and even longer to order. Had to ask for a napkin after my meal came and that took 10 minutes. I also had to ask for my check twice and waited 20 minutes for that as well.

I've been here for countless lunches while at work, but never for dinner. The food here is so good, the portions are generous, and you would pay twice the cost to get this quality and ambiance anywhere else in the Loop. The Steak Cubano is my personal favorite, but you can also get the cheaper lunch specials and walk away just as happy with your meal. So fantastic.

We ordered the Empanada Trio appetizer, Ropa Vieja, Cuban Roast Pork and margaritas. I loved loved loved Cuban food we lived in Miami, and while this food was good, the flavor wasn't quite there. I'd go back if in the area, but wouldn't go out of my way.

Relaxed atmosphere with good Cuban food. Service is friendly and attentive without being pushy. Menu consists mainly of the traditional Cuban dishes.

Brought beer that was not cold, asked for a colder beer, they brought another just as warm. I am from Puerto Rico so am very well-versed with food from the Caribbean, and also Cuban, and the pernil was tough

Best cocktails from our 51st State of Cuba! What a vibrant yet inspired cocktail bar& restaurant nestled amongst the giant monster restaurants in the area. While awaiting for the best man of my first of three weddings, I was seeking to brace myself for the onslaught of hard sales techniques to ply another fortune from me by my sketchy friend. He uses all the techniques of Mr Strauss of the Pick-up Artist- negs, etc. As they say, with friends like le these, who needs enemies. Being sold down the river is this acquaintance’s operating plan so if can exploit you then all the better. Oh come on-add hearty back-slap- get over it ... is the Mea Culpa of this future resident of the GreyBar Hotel. Bar is full of ladies in animated conversation and the diners are getting louder as the pitchers of monitors and margaritas are flowing. This is an amazing spot, albeit simple interiors, to have a great cocktail and a good meal.

Fresh mojitos. Good service. Good atmosphere. Great location in the river north area of Chicago. Cannot wait to go back and have another happy hour. We will be back.

Delicious! Great Caribbean menu, heavy on Cuban, but includes other latin foods such as tostones, enchiladas, guacamole, paella, etc. I had the Tacos de Pescado (fish tacos). Three small, doubled corn tortillas with tilapia, slaw and a nice mayo based sauce. My companion had the Ensalada Fresca con Calamari. Warm calamari over arugula with roasted corn and red peppers tossed in vinaigrette. She loved it. On a previous visit I had the Cuban sandwich, which was also excellent. Wait staff was very accomodating. Prices are quite reasonable for downtown Chicago. A gem not to be missed!

We grabbed a few drinks here on a Saturday night. When we arrived the place was very benign - it was possible to hold a conversation. However, by midnight the place transformed into a club atmosphere with Pitbull blaring and a light show.

I was quit surprised to see this restaurant rated so high after our experience. The best thing we ate was the "Chips and Salsa Trio." We tried the Empanadas and found them to be "flavorless" and tiny! While the food is very undesirable and I would not return for a meal, I would recommend this place only to enjoy the electric crowd and have drinks. Overall, this place is not worth the trip if you want good Cuban food!

We stumbled upon Havana restaurant on a busy, beautiful Sunday evening after checking out other busy and much more expensive restaurants. The Cuban food and drinks were authentic, delicious, served hot, with nice portions. The prices were very reasonable, and the service was good. Would definitely return to try more items from their extensive menu.

I really like this restaurant. It is small, vibrant, serves great drinks, and offers a variety of Latin foods. They make a potent caipirinha, sip and enjoy. We had the Alambres for appetisers skewered shrimp, peppers, and onions on pineapple rice with a coconut chipotle glaze. Delicious! For entrees we selected the Rollitos Manchego and the Carne Asada. The Carne Asada was grilled to perfection, smothered in red chili sauce and served over red beans and rice. The steak nearly covered the plate, my kind of meal! The Rollitos incorporated spinach and of course Manchego cheese served with a poblano chili cream sauce and a mountain of mashed yucca. Havana is a great choice amoung a bevy of competing venues. Give them a try, I think you'll like it.

Nice restaurant with a variety of dishes and prices. Good selection of cocktails. Service was very good. The restaurant is a little loud. We enjoyed a pork dish of pulled pork on top of mashed potatoes and surrounded by sweet corn. It was so good. Very reasonably priced.

My wife loves seafood and I like everything else. I also wanted a place with a good cocktail. Havana Grill didnt disappoint. My wife had the Jalea De Mariscos and she loved it, reminded her food form Thailand where she's from. I had the Ropa Vieja which was very tasty. The mojitos hit the spot, best I had during my Chicago visit. Will definitely make a return trip next time I'm in Chicago.

We visited Havana Grill during an anniversary weekend trip to the city. The place small and quaint but the ambiance was fun. Mojitos were wonderful! Especially the coconut. The food was delicious and the service was very attentive.

We had a fabulous night! We started with a Mojito flight. The mango were the best in my opinion, but all were delicious. My date ordered a Jibarito (a Chicago original) and I had a salad. Everything was delicious. They even came around with samples of a sweet and spicy mango Tajin drink that was incredible. I will definitely be returning!

After reading all the great reviews, I had high hopes for this Cuban themed restaurant. I'm Cuban (growing up on Cuban food from NJ to FL), so after specifically having ordered several of the 'Cuban plates' (which comprised less than 25% of the Latin/Mexican menu), I realised that the dishes were mediocre, not authentic, and took almost an hour to arrive. The Cuban sandwich was the only exception...it was very good, though rather thin/small for the price. But there was a dealbreaker which would keep us from enjoying any food...the noise levels...which reached 80 db on our iPhone apps...were unbearable. I could not hear the waiter, nor conversation at our own table! As I started to get a headache from the noise, I couldn't wait to leave. (I can just imagine the hearing damage caused to the staff!) ...I hope management can find a way to add sound proofing to the room acoustics, otherwise we would never return.

Following TripAdvisor reviews I stopped by and it was a good choice. Food was good and tasty, service was slow but friendly.

Recently had the pleasure of dining at Havana!! We didn't have a reservation and it was early on a Saturday evening - we were pleasantly surprised to be seated right away. Fantastic recommendations were made by our server. Everything was on point from appetizers to drinks and entrees. Thanks for a fantastic evening - we will be back!

There is a large selection of cocktails with rum or tequila. The food menu was fairly extensive too. We had a variety of meat and shrimp dishes and all had terrific sauces. Our server was attentive without being on top of us too much. We certainly would return.

So happy we passed by and made a reservation. The guava martini was delicious. The empanadas were fantastic and the chimichurri sauce was delicious. I had the vaca frita. The steak was a bit greasy but tasted great with the onions. Their platanos maduras were the best I’ve ever had and I grow up eating them!!! The Cuban rice was also absolutely delicious. My friend had the pork and it was very good. I used to live in Chicago and frequently visit. This is my first time here but certainly won’t be the last.

Best Cuban food I have had so far. It has a fancy touch to it. The employees are amazing and are always making sure that you are ok will definitely come again.

OMG BEST CUBAN FOOD! I live in Florida so this is saying a lot. Best Cuban food I have ever tasted and great street vibe.

I was seeking someplace to eat in River North that was affordable and with menu items to my liking. I was willing to pay more, but was not happy with the menu choices I saw for the price at the various restaurants that had menus posted. Wandering, and getting hungry, I came upon Havana Grill by chance, and decided to give it a try. I was very impressed with the menu: I could hardly decide what to order with so many good choices at good prices. The meal was filling and tasty and the service was pleasant. The place is very cozy and there are options to eat outside if the weather is nice. It is a small place, but the night I went (Monday), there was no long wait for a table.. I prefer mild food, and Cuban food is not necessarily spicy, or at least doesn’t have to be. I recommend you give the Havana Grill a try if you want to enjoy interesting food at a fair price.

Just go for the ceviche mixto for a starter and then have the Halibut Almendrado - a nice piece of fish that is rolled in plantains and baked and served in a jalapeño cream sauce with roasted vegetables. You will go away happy and full. It couldn't hurt to wash that down with a couple of margaritas. They have a huge specialty drink menu!

Small restaurant with very pleasant Latin atmosphere. Clean. Fast and very friendly service. I had the guacamole then black bean soup followed by Chiles rellenos. Very flavorful. Mojitos were great. When I go back to Chicago next year I’ll definitely will stop there again.

My husband and I were looking for a low-key spot to have a couple drinks and be able to hear each other in the area. The bar at Havana didn’t appear to be too busy so we stopped in for a drink. We learned that their drinks menu was very reasonable so we both ordered a peach and mango mojito at $8 each- a steal for this area. Both drinks were excellent. We wanted the flavored mojitos but we could have opted for the pitcher of the house mojito for $20, their Friday special. For food, we split an order of the Tostones. I personally prefer the yellow plantains to the green ones since they are sweeter but these were still good. I especially enjoyed the garlic sauce they came with. Service was excellent here. The bar tender was quick with refills and the food came out quickly. I’m excited to return and see what their dinner menu is like.

We discovered this place while walking around Chicago. We arrived late on Saturday night and ordered cocktails and dinner. My husband ordered a Cubano sandwich and I ordered a steak marinaded in tequila. Flavors were Latin comfort food which is a treat for us! By 11PM the restaurant turned into a club. Tables were moved away to make room for dancing. It seemed to us that place has regulars as people greeted each other as they walked in. Great introduction to Cuban food if you can’t get to Florida! Highly recommended

Went with family to Havana Grill to celebrate my birthday. I am in from out of town and had read some reviews. Had really good reviews about the food and atmosphere. Also was interested in sitting outside and they have plenty of outside seating. It is located on Clark Street which has been turned into a full block of restaurants that have outside seating, continuing from COVID. They closed off the whole street and it is really cool. The atmosphere is wonderful and it was a beautiful day on Saturday. The food is amazing there! I did make a semi-reservation because I really don't take reservations but because there was 8 of us I requested to sit outside. When we arrived we only waited like 5 minutes. Service was excellent and the wait staff was very friendly and helpful. The menu is pretty extensive with original Cuban food. Ordered a flight of mojitos which includes three. Got the coconut, mango and original. They were all good but I especially love the coconut one in ordered a regular size as well. They have a great drink selection with lots of specialty/Cuban drinks. I had the pork meal and it was so good. The meat was very tender and flavorful. My cousin had the date and my son had the Cuban sandwich. Everybody was very pleased with their meals. The one thing I was really looking forward to was the coconut flan and I wish I could take a hundred of those back home with me to Phoenix! Their coffee is also very good. They have regular coffee and also Cuban. I plan on coming back to Havana Grill every time I'm in Chicago!

If you like Cuban food, this is a don't miss. Service was spot on, food was fantastic and the location is perfect. This was the first time I've eaten here, but I can guarantee the next time I'm in the River North area I'll be back. I had the Havana Pulled Port with Jalapeno Mashed Potato. If you're a foodie, you're going to love the presentation. If you just like to eat, you're going to love the flavors!

We stopped by here for a drink after dinner. Took a seat at the crowded bar. It is a small place and I would have loved to have had dinner here. The old establishment was well preserved and brought back fun memories of old Chicago restaurants that I visited as a child. The owner was very focused on Customer service and making sure everyone had what they needed. The female bartender, not so much, she was more about being seen that serving..but that happens. I would recommend this as a stop along your way.

"Ropa Vieja" may be Cuba's national dish, but it is among the flagship menu items at Havana Grill & Mojito Bar in Chicago's River North district. The texture of the beef was delicate to the touch. Rich depth of flavors included the juicy flank steak, bell peppers and onions among the layers of Latin spices. The rice & Cuban-style black beans provided a perfect complement while the maduros platanos garnished the dish with a well-balanced touch of savory sweetness. Havana Grill's "Tacos de Pescado," or Tilapia Fish Tacos, were another delicacy. The fresh, white flaky fish was delicately flash fried and served with fresh corn tortillas. The three tacos were served with their own lush accompaniments, including an aromatic Avocado-Cilantro cream sauce which took this amazing dish to the next level. On this night, I was celebrating the birthday of my beautiful friend & colleague. She ordered the "Guava Cheesecake." Adorned with candle and all, this slice of moist cheesecake was infused with fresh guava on a moist graham cracker crust. A thin layer of tasty, gelatinous guava frosted the top. The cream cheese and guava were the perfect dessert duet and certainly something to write home about, hence this review. In the end, Jessica took an additional slice home with her to privately relive the sweet moment. Arturo, our bartender & server, cut no corners in providing us well-tailored service for her special occasion, which included making us the perfect "Caipirinhas" using freshly sliced limes, sugar and genuine Cachaça from the Leblon region of Brazil. The General Manager, Noe Bautista, visited our table to hear about the enthusiasm we had obviously been wearing on our faces. Mr. Bautista encouraged us to capture the moment by taking the photos you see displayed of Jessica and me. I recommend Havana Grill for anyone looking to be among a lively crowd seeking classic, Pan-Latin cuisine while being open to Havana's whimsical blending of flavors and cross cultural preparations. For the love of food, wine & service...Antonio #HavanaChicago #HavanaNights #Chicago #RiverNorth #Cuban #RumBar #Mojitos #LiveMusic #RopaVieja #Maduros #Platanos #TacosDePescado #GuavaCheesecake #Arturo #Caipirinhas #Noe #Leblon #IgniteHospitalityChicago #SavoryIntelChicago #AntonioQ312 #IndustryLife312 #Foodie #GoogleReviews #LocalGuides #OnGoogleMaps #YelpChicago #Zomato #TripAdvisor

My wife and I recently visited Havana Grill for lunch. The restaurant is decorated to give you that Cuban feel. It was very comfortable and felt like you stepped into the tropics. We started off with some very refreshing cocktails. I had the Caipirinha, which was absolutely wonderful! My wife had a special cocktail with mango. She loved it. We both had cuban sandwiches. The sandwich was substantial in size and taste. The cheese used on the sandwich is fantastic. We also ordered fried plantains. They were sweet and tasty. I'm so happy to have found this place. I can't wait to go back!

Place: Not bad, small, old fashion, not a place to go to impress anyone Service: The person was not familiarized with the menu. Don’t show interest on provide details on the food. Food: Terrible, I ordered a Cuban sandwich “Helloooooo we are in a Cuban restaurant” the sandwich I get was ugly presented, I can make a better sandwich at home. Poor quality, not a Cuban style. This is not a place to go if you want to eat something Cuban.

Try the black beans soup, it was excellent. This is a very small restaurant so be sure you make reservations. The bar area is lovely, and the service is very attentive. I was hoping this would be more authentic Cuban food, but it was still good for what it was.

I love the food in Cuba, so took advantage of the opportunity to eat at Havana Grill in downtown Chicago. Very pleasant atmosphere for lunch, servers were very attentive and helpful with choices. We did drinks (a mojito with plenty of rum), appetizer (fried plantains, ceviche), sandwich (I had ropa vieja), and dessert. It was all very good. There are some "Americanized" things such as fries with sandwiches and some "not so Cuban" menu entries if that is what some want. We stuck with the Cuban entries and they were all tasty and enjoyed in a great atmosphere. We would return. Location is right in River North area and quite convenient. Was not real busy at noon--a wonderful and relaxing break for good foos in a busy day.

we went as a big group, so reserved the table ahead of time. Super friendly staff; very nice bar...but the best part was- food. each and every item we ordered (almost 10) was delicious. no complaints from this place.

We chose an outdoor table, this place tends to be busy at all times because of its great staff, food and drinks. We had the mojito tray some appetizers and I had seafood paella. The mojitos nice and strong. I’m not usually into coconut, but honestly there coconut mojito was the best! This place has its own vibe. Highly recommend if you visit downtown Chicago!

This restaurant has regular Cuban cuisine and vegan options. The grilled vegetables are very good. Great black beans which you can order with it without white rice. The white rice with black bean combo comes with several sweet plantains and makes a very nice meal.They also have good salads, guacamole, and tostones=fried green plantains. The service is very good, they are very friendly and accommodating.

Good spot for cuban food and beverages when you get tired of Chicago steakhouses and pizza. Wasn't busy during our visit but it's not big so might need a reservation some nights. The food is good, the mojitos are good, and service is fast. Prices are reasonable. Ask your server for recommendations-best way to try a restaurant on the first visit. What more could a person want?

Always great to find a great place for food. I had the pernil with rice & fried yuca and it was delicious. I see they offer week night specials. Will return for those.

Visited the Havana Grill restaurant in Durban st the Sun Coast Casino and was rather disappointed by the service. You are taken to your table and when the menus are brought there is even no hint of a welcome. The menus could as well be provided at the door or delivered by a robot

We came for dinner and drinks, my hubby ordered the coconut mojito and I did the sangria which were very well mixed and delicious. I ordered the jaleo de mariscos( seafood coconut stew ) and he had the Cuban roasted pork. I loved my dish, was just fantastic, reminded me of a Brazilian dish I used to have. Will be back!!

Our daughter goes here often and now I know why. The food was amazing, with vibrant flavors, a great menu and very good, friendly service. The chimichanga app is a great start, cut in pieces to share with poblano cream sauce. The pollo horned con plato was amazing - tender pieces of chicken in a wonderful sauce, wrapped in a plantain leaf. mashed sweet potatoes were delicious, and the plantains on the side were sweet and tasty. the Carne asade was delicious. The house mojitos were great (by the pitcher at a great price) filled with plenty of fresh limes and mint leaves. Everyone was super-friendly and we had a wonderful evening!

Enjoyed a wonderful dinner here! Great menu with many choices - the Cuban pulled pork was outstanding! I do have to say, it was very noisy. Not the place for a quiet dinner but we did enjoy the dinner!

Here visiting and stopped by for a quick lunch. Amazing food, very authentic. Not “Americanized”. Wish we weren’t just passing through, this place would be a regular for us!

This is a fabulous little restaurant with amazing food and a really great atmosphere. The rare steaks we ordered were absolutely delicious and cooked to perfection, accompanied by flavoursome Cuban sauces. The mojitos were first class too. This restaurant is definitely worth a visit, one of the tastiest meals we had on our trip to Chicago.

Atmosphere and drinks are on point. If you’re looking for a rum bar they have a great verity. Didn’t get a chance to try the food but it looked fantastic.

My wife and I have made it an annual tradition to travel by train from Omaha to Chicago for a long weekend every spring. We first discovered Havana Grille by accident due to it's proximity to our hotel three years ago, but quickly fell completely in love with the food, service, ambiance and mojitos, and eat there two of our three nights in Chicago every spring. Can't wait to see you next weekend, March 3-5, 2017!

We had a group of eight who all enjoyed our meal at the Havana Grill. The small restaurant took us to our table right on time. It's a bit noisy when busy, so this may not be the place for intimate or romantic conversations. The service was superb. The wine and beer list adequate, with nice and nicely-priced options. The food, with an obvious Cuban flare, was varied. The food was excellent. We tried the pulled pork, the Cuban sandwich, and a couple of others that were all delicious and well prepared. There were several desserts. The Key Lime pie was average, but the rum/coconut/flan was superb. Worth a visit.

The mojitos and food were to die for, prices were reasonable for downtown Chicago. Highly recommend !

Havana is a great restaurant with good food and service. The cuban sandwich is probably the best I've had and the mojitos are incredible...and can be made with less sugar if you ask nicely. I'd recommend a reservation if you're going at a popular time. I've been to Havana at some of the less popular times and, quite frankly, I still find it a bit loud...so go for the food, drink and service but not to have a quiet, relaxing meal.

My partner is Cuban, from Havana, and every time we see a Cuban restaurant he wants to try it. He enjoyed his meal thoroughly. From the mojito, to the appetizer, through the entree. The location was small and cozy. We dined outside and the breeze felt lovely. The people watching was fun too. Two Cuban thumbs up!

My husband and I typically go down to Chicago a few times a year for a weekend get away. We stumbled upon this place years ago, and now it is our favorite go to, for either drinks and appetizers, or dinner. The mojitos are wonderful - some of the best mojitos we've found! The food is excellent, and the service is great.

Yum, great atmosphere, everyone having a good time and enjoying good food and drinks! After a brisk walk to the restaurant we were all ready to eat. We started with some Platino Havanas, special rum with pineapple and lemon juice, very refreshing! We started with some Guac and fresh warm chips. Our sone felt the Guac was really good and I agreed it was just right and their homemade pico and salsa made us wanting more. Then we decided to have a bowel of plantains sprinkled with honey and brown sugar since I couldn’t wait for it to be with my meal. We had Tacos de pescado, very well done and tasty! I had to try their Cuban roasted pork and it didn’t disappoint as the Congri was great side with Yucca and more plantains. Both came in really big plates so be ready for a hearty meal!

Hadn't been here for about 5 years, so we decided to return for dinner. We weren't disappointed. Food was delicious as before.

We are always looking for good Latin Food when visiting a new area and we definitely found it with Havana! Love the décor, the music and the menu selection! Service was a little slow, but overall we would definitely recommend!!

Went to Havana for lunch while spending a couple days in Chicago River North area. It was a Friday and the place was full of local business people which says a lot. Calamari was fantastic and the Cuban sandwich was excellent. Prices were not bad either, for Chicago. Would go back again just to try other items on menu.

Fun restaurant, inexpensive, great food. I had the plantain-crusted halibut. It was delicious and the sides were tasty. It's a small place, so a bit crowded and noisy. Fun with a large group.

Food is good; groups will be escorted to the basement level where long tables are set up. Delish chimichangas, good but not terrifically grilled salmon, tasty guacamole dip and chips, nice rum flan and another chocolate dessert. Disturbingly noisy, though, which is a definite deterrent to any sort of dinner conversation. Upstairs is a large, popular bar. A very popular Chicago eatery and bar.

This was our second time here- the food is spot on & they give large portions! Drinks are tasty also!

We make reservations and we arrived 45 minutes earlier. After we wait for approximately 45 minutes, the host telk us that the kitchen have issues that they only have drinks and appetizers. Instead of telling us as soon as we arrived. The host was very arrogant and disrespectful.

I was staying at The Westin Chicago River North for a 3 day business meeting and on my second night I was looking for a restaurant within close walking distance, not expensive and with good food and service. That's a bill that sounds a bit hard to fill, doesn't it? I exited the hotel onto the Clark Street side and began walking north. Within about a block I saw the Havana Grill across the street and being from Florida I was familiar with Cuban and Latin cuisine in general so I decided to give it a go. Entering the restaurant at around 7:30 pm on a Thursday, I was promptly greeted by a host who sat me immediately at a booth of my choice (only 3 were open) even though the restaurant looked to be about near capacity. It is not a very large space and the volume of noise was absolutely deafening. I can't recall ever being in a restaurant with that level of ear crushing noise, even sports bars I've been in were never as noisy as this restaurant. I was thinking that it was just as well that I was alone because I really don't think I could've conducted a normal dinner conversation with the extremely high level of noise. I started with a cup of black bean soup and a mojito to take the edge off. The soup was delicious and the mojito was okay but could have used a little more syrup and mint and less lime (there were 3 large lime quarters in the glass). For my main course I ordered the Rollitos Manchegos (chicken stuffed w/ spinach & manchego cheese) which I had not previously seen on a Cuban menu in Florida before. The presentation was very attractive with the breaded and stuffed chicken cut into smaller pieces surrounding a small pile of chopped yucca and floating on a pablano cream sauce. It was very delicious. The service was spot on even though the place was filled to capacity and then some. I would definitely visit Havana Grill in the future but maybe for lunch instead hoping that the noise level might be lower.

Small place located right downtown and a few blocks west from Michigan Ave. We had reservations and were seated right away. Food came quickly and was very good. Seafood paella is excellent as was my wife’s rollitos (spinach stuffed chicken). The sauce that was drizzled over the chicken was amazing. Get the guacamole and chips as well.

Stopped in for a late lunch and had the Cuban sandwich, which was delicious. Their drink special was a pitcher of mojito, and it was good but had a bit too much herbs in it. Nobody needs to get a big piece of mint stuck in their teeth. The chips and salsa were good too. Loved the sauces.

The mix of good food, drinks and the cuban moodd makes this place special! We are ribs and the steak (from the kitchen specials) and they were both so tasty, I definitely go back there for the food. Drinks range from sangria to mojito or anything a cuban bar would offer, so tasty and quite strong too. Service was extra, Hedi was caring with great suggestions and so attentive! On top, this restaurant is excellent value for money! Go and try it!

Had the roasted pork, it was fantastic. The pisco sour was great too. Reasonably priced for Chicago, would like to come back with a group of friends.

A group of my coworkers and I had dinner here on Friday night. I liked the old building and quaint atmosphere. We started out with pitchers of their house mojitos followed by several appetizers, ceviche, guacamole, and empanadas. All were good but the ceviche was AMAZING! Each one of our dinner entrees was well prepared and delicious. The service was very good. I will definitely return on my next visit to Chicago.

Cuban Roasted Pork- easily the best Cuban food I've ever had! Sat outside, good service. Can't wait to go back!

The marinated slow roasted pork shoulder (pernil) was so plentiful that I planned to take half home for the next day's lunch...but it was far too succulent, far too tender to resist just one more taste! I blame the flavorful sauce. The juxtaposition of the ever so slight crunch on the exterior & creamy interior of the sautéed plantains was glorious. The consistency of the black bean and rice congri was perfection - that impossible for me to achieve place between wet & dry. The yucca was a crispy delight. The cuban sandwich was bursting with flavor & perfectly toasty. Dipped in the salty pesto sauce? Heaven. The Xingu Brazilian black beer lives up to the "smooth as silk" tag line. All of this was recommended by our attentive waiter who also graciously shared his expertise in Latin food & pronunciation without a bit of condescension. We dined in a lush, ambiently lit outdoor area in spite of the chilly night. No panhandlers interrupted us and I felt safe although we were the only ones dining in front. This is the best Cuban food I have had since Ybor City.

the food is very good on this site and believe me, I know a lot about cuban food. I particularly recommend the "ropa vieja" ..the service is very good, good atmosphere and prices are in the normal level for chicago area... very good place

We went with a group of 9 and it was amazing! They had our table ready at the time of the reservation. Wait staff was great as was the food. A little pricey on drinks but those were also good! Dancing at 11:30.

I tried the chicken enchiladas for a carryout lunch. The lunch menu enchiladas comes with beans and rice. Really delicious. And really reasonable price. Looking to come back for dinner with the hubs, and a ladies night with friends.

Was planning to go to the Smith and ended up at Havana instead. I’m glad I did. Excellent food and drink, gracious staff, pleasant outdoor seating.

Had a great dinner experience here with our son. The atmosphere is very relaxing, despite the open room. We started with a pitcher of caipirinhas (which were outstanding - just the right combination of sweet, sour and cachaça) and tostones (which were so-so). Our entrees - rollitos manchegos, combo paella caribena, and plantain-crusted halbut - were excellent. Too full for dessert, we opted for one of the rum flights. Our server was extremely attentive - and a lot of fun. Would definitely recommend this place!

Discovered Havana one night while looking for a new neighborhood place to grab a bite. We are so glad we gave this place a try! Although smaller than many of the restaurants in the area, Havana has a great energy and vibe with attentive service, stiff drinks, and tasty dishes.

Good customer service, but the Vaca frita was burn, dry and without flavor and the salmon so so. Sorry, but never again.

Excellent service, nice drinks, and good food. Rich menu. Only area for improvement was the tostones.

Clearly the correct staff was not at the restaurant this evening we had a lot of problems with food quality and had to do several Corrections we then ordered a meal to be brought back to a family member. When we arrived back to our room with the food we opened it up and it was burnt and in poor quality. We do not recommend this restaurant and maybe we hit them on a bad night but the problem is we're here on vacation. We don't have many nights to keep going back to a restaurant that performs poorly.

So -- Don't be disappointed by the lack of curb appeal -- The food is spectacular - The service is very good - the selection is good And the Mojito will knock you off your feet We had: guava ribs - excellent Honey Jalepeno Pork Chop

My search for Cuban food in Chicago recently led me to Havana Grill. The restaurant looks really small from the street, but actually extends well into the block. I grabbed a seat at the bar and ordered a mojito, the empanada trio appetizer, and an entrée of pulled pork with jalapeno mashed potatoes. All of the flavors were amazing. The empanadas were paired with the best chimichurri sauce I have ever had and the entrée was heavy on the flavors and the portion was huge. This is absolutely the type of restaurant I will find my way back to... There were a lot of menu items that sounded great and to have had terrific service on my first visit seals the deal. If you are looking for a menu with plenty of flavor options to pack some punch, consider giving Havana Grill a try. Highly recommend it!