Tropicana Cuban Restaurant

With a lively dining room and a massive menu that can easily take weeks of daily visits to work through, the restaurant Tropicana in North Austin offers a pretty classic Cuban dining experience similar to what you’d find on any street corner in Miami.

The menu spans from bite-sized croquetas and two-bite-sized empanadas, to traditional oxtail stews and a whole, fried tilapia served with fries. You’ll also find lechon asado, masitas de puerco, ropa vieja, and more. In short, if it’s a Cuban dish and you can think of it, Tropicana probably serves it. Start with some breaded and fried fish croquettes, grab a side of caramelized maduros, then choose from over three dozen entrees and sandwiches.

And make sure to get a shot of Cuban espresso while you’re there to keep you awake through the inevitable food coma you’ll put yourself through. There’s also a full bar, where you can get pretty standard cocktails, including an almost obligatory mojito or daiquiri to round out the full experience. 

photo credit: Nicolai McCrary

photo credit: Nicolai McCrary

photo credit: Nicolai McCrary