Cubita Café is Nutley’s destination for bold, authentic Cuban flavors and the most talked-about empanadas in New Jersey. Born in a two-car garage and now home to a thriving café, expanding wholesale operation, and a fleet of branded food trucks, we bring handcrafted Cuban comfort food to communities across North Jersey. From fresh-made empanadas and rich Cuban coffee to breakfast favorites and full-service catering, we’re built on quality, culture, and consistency. Stop by our Nutley café or book our food trucks and catering for your next party, corporate event, or wedding. Proudly serving Nutley, Belleville, Bloomfield, Clifton, Montclair, and surrounding towns.
Cristhian Vasquez
Eating at Cubita Café was a wonderful experience. The food was good, and the service and atmosphere were great. The music selection was enjoyable, and the staff was very welcoming.
We ordered a Cuban sandwich with fries and a guava and cream cheese empanada. The Cuban sandwich was delicious, though it could have used a bit more mustard (personal preference). The fries were very salty but nicely crispy. The guava and cream cheese empanada was a delicious dessert with a well-balanced filling.
Overall, we really enjoyed the food and would definitely return.
… moreJulio Rodriguez
Run, don’t walk to Cubita Cafe in Nutley! The empanadas, flan, bowls, and bon-bon cafecito are all absolutely delicious – fresh, flavorful, and clearly made with care. But what truly sets this place apart is the hospitality. Chef Gus and the team go above and beyond to make you feel welcome.
If you’re looking for amazing food paired with a genuinely warm atmosphere, Cubita Cafe really has it going on. Highly recommend!
… moreDavid Rodriguez
Every time I’ve visited, the folks there have greeted me with a warm smile and wonderful service. This last visit, I asked to have something warmed back up, which they did happily. And then before leaving, they nicely brought me the other empanada I bought to bring home… I get home and realized they included a second FREE empanada! It’s a small gesture, but wanted to share so others know this is a wonderful small business that cares about its customers. Please consider paying them a visit next time you get a chance.
… moreStanley Moy
Cool little cafe staff was friendly and the food was good. I got a small coffee which was strong but not too bitter. The empanadas were good too. Got one with guava and cheese, the Cuban sandwich and the chimmichuri chicken. The only thing that was missing was the pickles. Empanadas were thick. The side sauces were great. One was filled with garlic which was amazing. Will definitely come back to try more of their menu.
… moreStephanie Kaur
Espresso Temp is up way too high, taste completely burnt, served scalding and full of grinds. They should rename this restaurant because it is not a proper cafe. 0 stars for coffee
… moreMia Josephina
Cubita Café is an absolute gem in Nutley! From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted with warmth, great vibes, and the aroma of something amazing cooking in the back. Their award-winning empanadas live up to the hype—my personal favorite is the Oxtail Mac (seriously, it’s life-changing, make your inner child smile ). Rich, flavorful, and perfectly crispy on the outside.
The Ropa Vieja is another standout—tender, savory, and packed with authentic Cuban flavor. You can tell everything is made with love and real attention to detail. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or sitting down for a full meal, Cubita Café delivers every time. Can’t recommend it enough!
… moreErnest
Hits the spot for some Cuban classics! Started with the Cafe con leche for a wake up. Nice and strong for sure definitely provided some power. We tried the chicken and beef empanadas. Perfectly crispy and while I enjoyed trying both, if I could go back I would have gotten two beefs. Not because the chicken was bad, but because the beef was that good. Really captures that Cuban beef flavor you think about. We got two sandwiches, the Cuban and the Bistec. First off they are really big; I was impressed with the amount of actual meat in each sandwich. The Cuban was fantastic! Nice crispy bread and a good mesh between the ham and pork. The Bistec was also great! What I liked here was the the meat was tender and ripped apart with each bite well. If you asked me to rank them, I’d go Cuban for the win (to be expected). Another nice touch was the owner being there and being a really nice guy. Clearly cares about the brand and the product. Parking situation is okay because there’s a lot in the back (metered, but credit card friendly). Price wise it isn’t cheap for sure, but worth the price. Will for sure go again! Overall I give Cubita Cafe a 4.6 out of 5, a must visit!
… moreIR
This location used to be better. The menu is overcrowded on the wall. Too busy in bright letters. Simple is better. You don’t know where to look. The many items hanging on the walls. Too busy. I used to love the simplicity. The front attendant didn’t speak Spanish.
I asked her for fresh empanadas she gave me whatever was there. I ordered 8 different ones. The temperature was warm.
I ordered the rice, black beans and ropa vieja and even though it was ok on taste it was not Cuban style. The Cuban spices were not there. It was good, if you are not Cuban you will not know the difference. I love this place but they are trying to do too much and it looses its charm . Please get a Cuban cook and someone in the front that is bilingual. The lady try to be nice but is not the same feeling. I spent closed to $ 90.00 . Between the empanadas, one meal, a Cuban,one Jupina and a cortado. Good luck.
… moreTim Samuel
Got a chance to meet the owner Gus. He is extremely friendly and his team prepares amazing food. The empanadas were delicious and the coffee was excellent. Will be back soon.
… moreVictoria M Castillo
Everything about this place is an experience. From the moment you walk in, to the people, to the atmosphere and the food! Where can you get empanadas that are stuffed to the brim and at a good price! i have to detain myself from eating/ going into this establishment every day because i will be broke and fat lol Thank you to all for all the hospitality you guys provide 🙂
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