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(312) 243-3303
1440 W Chicago Ave
Chicago,
IL
60622
41.8967
-87.6649
Neighborhoods: West Side, Goose Island
Hours:
Mon-Thu 11am-10pm
Fri-Sat 11am-11pm
Sun 12pm-10pm
Price:
$
Parking:
Street; Metered
Habana Libre
Last updated 8.24.09
What People Are Saying About Habana Libre
The Editor
Valerie Moloney
Citysearch
The Scene – Mango-colored walls, vintage posters and gorgeous handpainted tiles with scenes of churches and palm trees conjure Cuba at this warm storefront in West Town. A row of linen-topped tables divides the single-room space, with a mirrored nook on the left and vinyl booths to the right. Rumba beats punch up the mood for a neighorhood mix of hipsters, families and couples on dates. Service is slow, but friendly. – – The Food – The classics are knockouts--in all their garlicky, fried goodness. Flaky golden brown empanadas are best stuffed with beef, despite pork…
12/15/08
Most Authentic Cuban Food, just like mami makes, affordable
by lovefood100 at Citysearch
Habana Libre brought tears to my eyes! Being Cuban; but never having learned how to cook Cuban food. The food here couldn't be more authentic. It tasted exactly the way my parents would have prepared it. The atmosphere is simple; much like you might find in Miami. You come here to indulge in the wonderful cuisine. The food is cooked when ordered, couldn't be fresher! I have been back several times, even dining by myself. Brought my American friend (her first experience eating Cuban food) and she loved it too. I plan on ordering for Christmans eve dinner. Only wished I lived closer! YOU MUST VISIT! Any entre you chose you will love; ask the staff for their favorite. Cuban sandwiches out of this world. During the week no extended wait time!
- Pros: great food
- Cons: parking
12/02/08
Excellent, authentic Cuban food
by hastalavictoriasiempre at Citysearch
I grew up in Tampa, FL so I feel justified in claiming to know a thing or two about Cuban food. That said, Habana Libre was excellent and authentic.
The dining room has a comfortable vibe, a touch tacky (in a good way). The tostones (fried green plantains.... mmmmm yummy), yuca frita, croquetes, arroz con frijoles negros, and palomilla steak are particularly tasty. The service was really good, the staff is friendly and helpful... the prices were good.... what's not to like?!
- Pros: good food, good service, good prices.
- Cons: Getting to the west loop can be a pain, depending on where you're coming from
05/20/07
Thank You Habana Libre
by ange83 at Citysearch
I live in the west loop and had seen a blurb about Habana Libre in Chicago magazine--having been itching for a cuban sandwich since my last trip to Florida, I had to try them out. The wait was LONG, but worth it! Next time I'll call ahead for take out--the restaurant was cute and is BYOB, it'd be great for a group and the price is right.
- Pros: Cuban Sandwich, BYOB
- Cons: Sloooooooooooooow
The Details on Habana Libre
Know Before You Go:
The arroz con pollo--a signature chicken with rice dish--takes 45 minutes to an hour of cooking time and is large enough for four people. Order it to savor as a leftover the next day.
Parking:
Metered slots are available on Chicago Avenue.
B.Y.O.B.:
The restaurant is B.Y.O.B., so don't forget to snag a bottle or some brews before dining here. There is no corkage fee.
Category:
Payment Methods:
Visa, MasterCard
Restaurant Special Features:
Local Favorite, Family-Friendly Dining, B.Y.O.B., Quiet, Hidden Find, Lunch Spot, Cheap Eats
General Info:
Open 7 Days
