Smokies Cuban Cafe
3526 Pkwy,Ste 5, Pigeon Forge, TN, 37863
Smokies Cuban Cafe Menu
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Address :
3526 Pkwy,Ste 5
Pigeon Forge, TN, 37863 - Phone (865) 365-1700
- Website https://smokiescubancafe.com/
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :10:00 am - 8:00pm
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Brunch
Parking : Private Lot
Bike Parking : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : No
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : No
Outdoor Seating : No
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : No
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : Yes
WE SERVE THE FOLLOWING STATES
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RT 7.
We were a party of 13 coming back from a long hike -- saw reviews on Yelp! and decided to give this place a shot. It's a small joint and they were a bit overwhelmed to see a large group. Each dish we ordered was fresh and tasted great. The staff was real casual and friendly. Don't miss this hidden gem!
(5)David T.
Okay, this is awesome stuff. No pics because I ate it too fast. Sorry. But on with the review. First, the waiter Tony was very patient and informative as this was our first experience. Then, we ordered the Seasoned ground beef with black beans, rice and fried plantain, to split between my wife and I. On the side we had a beef empanada. That was enough for the both of us. We then split a Cuban coffee. OMG!!! The Flan for dessert was great stuff. My daughter and son-in-law were there, as well. My daughter had the same as us. My son-in-law had the Cuban Club. My wife and I went back the next day to take some stuff back to the cabin for every one. When I walked in, Tony recognized me right off. I got 3 beef empanadas and a ham croquet & a beef one. This was the first time we tried the croquets and they were so awesome. While I was waiting, of course I had coffee. Everyone back at the cabin just loved every thing and wanted more. Just our time in the area ran out. Wish we had one in our area.
(4)Andre' M.
I ran in quickly after a hot day at Dollywood and got a Cuban sandwich made to go. It was very good. I look forward to going back and trying some more of the menu.
(4)Diana D.
We were so happy to find Cuban food on our vacation and even more happy that the food tasted amazing!! We ordered a Cuban sandwich, cafe con leche (lattes but better), guava and cheese pastry, beef empanada, and tostones (fried plantains), iron beer soda and our son had a breakfast sandwich that was just as good. The service was excellent too! We will definitely be back!! P.S. In our opinion the guava and cheese pastry here surpassed the fried apple pies from Apple Barn. :)
(5)Mariola H.
Being Puerto Rican and having similar foods to Cubans, I wanted to try this place out while on vacation in Pigeon Forge. I ordered the bistec empanisado (breaded steak) with yellow fried plantains (amarillos), white rice and beans. I also ordered an empanada de guayaba. That food hit so close to home, I loved it. It was all amazing! And it helps that the service was also superb. I'd definitely go back to try some more of their options.
(5)Jeff L.
Just stopped in my wife had the shredded beef and black beans. I had the steak sandwich . Everything is good and fresh. The service is great and I will be back. After much travel I have determined smokies is the best Cuban food in the eastern U. S.
(5)Bbq S.
I can't really give less than five ! This a family business through and through ! A lot of love goes into each bite ! We had the beef , beef and cheese , also pepperoni empanadas ! My son had a Cuban sandwich with plantains ! The place only has enough seating for about 25 people ! Device was good and the price for lunch was under $30 ! Great change of pace for tourist thing !
(5)Jacqui M.
Stopped by here for dinner last night. Had a Cuban, a specialty Cuban and a chicken sandwich. Sandwiches were really good. Normally I don't like Cuban sandwiches, but theirs were awesome. The only thing keeping me from five stars is that the service was a little touch and go even though it wasn't busy. Also, we had ordered two sides of the fried plantains, and they came out SUPER burnt. We had to ask to have another order since the ones we had were not edible - the server even said "yeah, they seem a little dark..." and then instead of offering to get new ones, we had to ask. We are here for a few more days and will probably go back for another round of Cuban sandwiches, but probably just to go instead of dining in.
(4)Carlos B.
I wanted to get something at 4 o'clock to hold me over till supper at 7. I was tired of the traffic & tourist traps and wanted something that wasn't from a chain restaurant. I noticed the great Yelp reviews this place got and I thought I'd give it a try. We had two beef empanadas $2.50 each. They were homemade and crispy on the outside with juicy ground beef on the inside. Try the special vinegar garlic onion hot sauce on the table. A beer would have been nice but this place is very small and its not allowed to serve beer because of their size.
(4)Andrew P.
Authentic and highly unexpected. When you go to the mountains, you would never think that you would find a Cuban restaurant, let alone a good one. I wouldn't consider this place a full blown restaurant because they could definitely use some type of extension, but it's a good spot for a quick eat. The Cuban sandwich was done right, and the French fries were different. Best way I could describe it is a mixture between a curly fry and potato wedge. Had the beef and cheese empanada and although it was good, i think the waitress overcharged me for it. There was sign on their board for specials and it said $2.50 for empanadas and she charged me $3.50. Noticed that they have Cuban coffee on their menu and other authentic Cuban food items. Definitely recommend for a Spanish food junkie.
(4)A Barby B.
Delicious food and great people. Highly recommended. Cuban food at its best. The beef croquettes were home made and so were the ham ones . Our family loved it.
(5)Karly Rae A.
We were in town for a short vacation, so we were only eating out at places we REALLY wanted to try. After reading the reviews, we HAD to try this place. We did a carry out order as we had our exhausted 7 yr old w/ us. FANTASTIC! The people were friendly, the order was easy to make and pay for, and we waited outside. Totally worth the stop! We both had the Cuban Sandwich and Fried Plantains and the plantains are THE BEST I've ever had! The Cuban was on fresh pressed Cuban bread, the pork was delicious- great portions too! We will be back next time for more! YUM!
(5)C. M. F.
Very good tasting Cuban food outside of Miami. Small "Mami y Papi" run establishment which provides a welcome change from run of the mill food establishments. All dishes are prepared fresh. Try the papa rellena (aka stuffed potatoes) they are to die for. Look forward to a return visit.
(4)Chris B.
This place is amazing. There's no flashing sign, or diner with a show, and it's kind of a small place, but don't pass by it! I'm a big fan of Mexican food but this was the first time I've had Cuban food. I got the sautéed shredded beef and it was kind of like a beef barbecue, although it had it's own flavor and wasn't like the typical southern barbecue we all are familiar with. It came with rice and black beans. I got a side of fried plantains which were as fried plantains always are, delicious. I also ordered some flan which was good and Cuban coffee which was basically a shot of espresso with sugar. I enjoyed this place. I'd for sure be a regular if I lived here.
(5)Anecia R.
Great food and the service is amazing. The people are so kind. I haven't had this good of a Cuban in a long time. I'd definitely recommend this restaurant to anyone who enjoys a nice mom and pops restaurant and good company! A+
(5)Sarah L.
Service excellent! The gentleman at the counter is very friendly and welcoming! The food is very flavourful and the pork was very tender. I even liked the rice...it wasn't uncle ben's instant! Highly recommend!!
(5)Ann F.
I had never tried Cuban food before this, and it is delightfully different! The shredded fried beef was delicious, and we especially enjoyed the long pieces of toasted bread used for our steak and Cuban sandwiches. The Cuban sodas were yummy and the fried yuca and plantains provided a great contrast between savory and sweet for the vegan in the party. The restaurant is small, not fancy, but clean, and the waitstaff is super-friendly and efficient. You'll pay around $50 for 4 people. Try it out!
(5)Anita W.
Tiny little place with only a few tables, so this place is better for carry out. Very good food, though.
(4)Adam C.
It doesn't get any more authentic than this place. Seems to be the whole family running the place and putting out some solid Cuban food. We had the huge empanada with beef,very good and lighter than expected. Ham croquette, not a huge fan but it was pretty good. Coffee con letche was best coffee we had the entire trip. Cuban sandwich was good as well, bread was softer than most places which was a nice surprise but still a bit crisp from the press. Could have used a side with the cuban, like yuca fries. Plantains and ropa vieja were good as expected. Nothing bad to say about the place,staff was super friendly and very quick. If you are craving Cuban or just a change of pace from bbq burgers and steakhouse give them a try.
(4)Pat H.
We decided to buck the Labor Day traffic and get our Cuban fix. The Picadillo, served with rice, black beans and your choice of plantains, tostones, or yuca, was delicious. The roast pork sandwich was very tasty, as was the beef empanada. Unfortunately they were out of flan, so we'll have get that next time. This is our favorite Cuban place!
(4)Amanda H.
When we heard the Smoky Mountain Cheesecake Cafe was closed, we were devastated. There was no way a place on Parkway offered the same caliber Cuban. Boy, were we happy to find that we were wrong! This place is awesome! Very helpful and friendly staff and amazing Cuban sandwiches. Definitely get the Yuca (not to be confused with Yucca..totally different plant) fries. They come with a deliciously creamy cilantro dipping sauce. Great find!
(5)Kate B.
I found this place through Yelp, and boy am I glad! I sat at the counter and the staff were very friendly while I ate. I ordered the cuban sandwich and yuca fries. I had no clue what a yuca fry was. Well, it's pure heaven. I will never be happy with standard french fries again. The cuban sandwich was AWESOME. I highly recommend this place!
(5)Samantha O.
Sooooooo good! I eaten a lot of Cuban food in my life and this place is authentic as it gets. It's family owned and ran. I love that I saw the food being prepared when I walked in so I know it's fresh! I had the media noche (midnight sandwich) I had this many times and this is the first Cuban place outside of Florida that actually made it right! My husband has the steak sandwich and it was oh so good! We also indulged in fried plantains and we took several empanadas to go. All that food only cost us $33. It was the best money we spent on food during our trip to Gatlinburg/pigeon forge. We liked it so much we will be returning tomorrow morning on our way out of town. Go here you won't be disappointed!
(5)Bfish F.
My mouth is watering just thinking about how good the food is. So authentic, so delicious, great service, good prices.... if you are looking for one of the best meals ever, this is the place. Don't leave without trying a croquette. Seriously, this is a MUST TRY while in the area. You would missing out if you didn't go here.
(5)Linda A.
This is a tiny place, with only 5 tables so try to go at an off time. The staff was very nice. I was hoping to find something a little different than the southern fried cuisine prevalent in Pigeon Forge. This was something different, though not lighter. My boyfriend had the Cuban sandwich and it was so good. A nice balance of flavors on a crispy baguette. I ordered a ham and cheese empanada and was a little dismayed to see it was sitting in a pool of grease when delivered. But I didn't let that stop me. I held it so that any remaining grease ran out the bottom and ate it from the top. It was so good. Sweet ham with just enough touch of cheese. It was crispy and didn't taste greasy, despite the puddle on my plate. Smokies is worth a stop.
(4)Amanda O.
The best restaurant in Pigeon Forge, in my opinion. I was emotional eating his food. Order anything but don't forget the plantains and the cafe con leche after dinner. We went back the next morning for breakfast it was so good.
(5)Bill D.
Coming from Tampa,FL we've eaten a lot of Cuban food . We were happy to find this restaurant and found the food to be excellent and the owners very nice . We would highly recommend this place to anyone ! The Ropa Vieja and Milanesa steak were both awesome .
(5)Robert J.
Good Cuban food in Pigeon Forge? So weird, but I'll take it! Cubanos, tostones, cafe con leche, and plantains - really, really great.
(4)Sarah V.
We stopped by this place on our way out of Gatlinburg. I had chicken with black beans, rice, and fried plantains. The fried plantains were AMAZING and I would eat them all day if I could. The chicken had a nice flavor and it worked very well with the beans and rice. It took a while to get our food, I think because the guy who took our order was also the only cook, and he was swamped. I didn't even mind the wait, despite being super hungry, because the food when it arrived was so tasty. I also had to get up and get our own refills because we were left alone for so long while waiting on our food. So it's kind of a self-service, mom-and-pop place. Super good food, though.
(4)Samantha R.
The vaca frita was amazing. ...my kids didn't make one sound the entire time, they were too busy eating everything. ...I have eaten a lot of Cuban food and this is by far one of the best ever
(5)Darren W.
Try the Cuban sandwich or the pork sandwich. But be warned, you will be addicted to them after you do. The beef empanadas are awesome as well. Great food and great people. What more can you ask for?
(5)Melodie S.
We enjoyed it very much. I grew up in Tampa and love Cuban food. I've had tons ... Restaurants and cooked it. These guys are the real deal!
(5)Michael M.
I found this little place by chance. Well if by chance you mean I searched yelp for some good food in area. For some reason while in the smoky's I decided I felt like Cuban food. This is a small diner. Only a few tables but some really good food. I had the roast pork platter with black beans and rice. Oh and plantains. Yum. For a second I thought I was in South Florida enjoying one of my favorite Cuban places. The roast pork platter is not on the menu but I asked and the cashier said they could put one together. I would say that is helpful. My guest who had never eaten Cuban food had the Cuban sand which. Which she devoured. So I would say that this place is a hit. If you get tired of the chain restaurants that are littering the pigeon forge area or have had one more biscuit than you can handle, or just want some really good food be it Cuban or other wise I would highly recommend this place.
(4)Matt S.
Well, besides the French fries we were kind of disappointed with this place. Not the friendliest of places. We try to visit local non touristy places when visiting on vacation. Our sandwiches were dry and bland, I've had better Cuban sandwiches elsewhere. Hopefully just a bad day for the cook but I'd look else where to find food on the busy Pigeon Forge strip.
(2)Martin O.
Was excited to see this place but not impressed, service was slow and the food wasn't that great, also be careful if you are on a budget because the price on the menu is not what you pay, they have the menu price then they have a price up on the wall.. Was a little pissed gave my wife $20 to pay whilst i went to the car, had her come out and say she needed another $4 .. So $24 for two burgers and two cokes.
(2)Carah D.
Best Cuban place I've ever been too! The sandwiches are AMAZING! And the fries are soooooo good! Not to mention the service is amazing family owned restaurant from Cuba!
(5)Steve K.
Relieved to find this very non-touristy place. Had a Cuban sandwich and a pulled pork dish, both nicely done. The dessert pastries are also delicious. Very small place.
(4)Jennifer K.
Wasn't sure what I'd find to eat here, but it was delicious! Got the pork chunks with beans, rice and plantains. The meat just fell apart and everything was sooo good. Highly recommend! My husband had the cuban sandwich and said it was good as well.
(4)Andria Y.
Awesome Cuban sandwich. Awesome Cuban rice and black beans. Awesome plantain! Good prices. Authentic. family owned. Fresh ingredients. You need to try!!
(5)Tracy P.
A must stop for us now in Pigeon Forge! The sandwiches are truly addictive especially the croquette sandwich. Service was friendly and attentive with a welcoming family feel. Although they are open for dinner, the small diner atmosphere lends itself more to lunch.
(5)Judy P.
Found this on Yelp and had to try it. I had the croquette sandwich and my husband had the pork chunks. He tried the yucca with garlic sauce in place of plantains. The sauce was delicious and the yucca very crispy. Enjoyed it so much we went back the next night for beef and cheese empanadas and midnight sandwich. Both delicious. The midnight sandwich they don't always have, as they have to get the bread from Miami. The place is small, diner like, with friendly people.
(5)Sarah A.
Everything was just delicious. And the service was extra wonderful too! Take a break from the chains... This is a much better experience!
(5)B S.
We were told there would not be any food after serving a party of 8 waiting. While trying to discuss sandwich options we were inturupted so they could help even more Cuban national customers that showed up after us.
(1)Ric S.
My wife indulged me for lunch on our anniversary May 29. She had the pork chunks w/ black beans & rice (Moors & Christians) and ripe plantains. I had the Cuban sandwich with a side of plantains. All was excellent. Small typical cafe. Very friendly service and comfortable prices.
(4)David B.
Excellent and truly authentic. The Cuban sandwich, beef empanadas, and the shredded beef (Ropa Vieja) were all excellent. The owner was very nice and I'll definitely be back to try breakfast and Cuban coffee.
(5)Millicent R.
As a Tampa native, I was very impressed with the food! The portions were huge, and the pork was melt in your mouth moist. My husband had the ropa vieja and it was so flavorful. Don't forget to add some toasted Cuban bread to the meal.
(5)Luis G.
I'm a big cheapo -- to be honest, i was expecting mcdonald value meal prices. Well, when the food showed up, i was blown away! Real cuban Food made fresh -- no more overpriced bbq or chain food when i visit gatlinburg! Worth every penny --- huge servings! Great taste!
(5)William P.
The cuban and pork sandwiches are excellent. It helps to call in your order ahead of time. It took them around 20 minutes to get our 2 sandwiches ready. The place is really small with only about 5 or 6 tables and very cramped. We always get our food to go.
(4)Mark S.
This is more of a high three rating, not a middle of the road three. It is worth a trip if you are in the tourist trap. Ambiance: as mentioned by some "hole in the wall" would be accurate. 4 tables and a large coking area. Clean in the front, a little discombobulated in the back. Service: super friendly people that obviously love what they do. Food can be a little slow coming out, but they only have one guy cooking so I can give them some slack. Food: had the following: Yucca with garlic sauce. A bit mushy, appeared frozen. Sauce is not so apparent, served with a bit of raw onion. Stuffed potato: breaded mash potato stuffed with spiced ground beef. Was pretty good, just don't know if it was made in house. Cuban sandwich: generous portions of ham and pulled pork make this sandwich very good. Pulled pork sandwich: probably the best item we had, a large portion delicately flavored pulled pork falls out the sides of this pressed sandwich. I am not going to say that this place is the best ever, but it is solid and would probably become a family staple if I lived anywhere near this town.
(3)ted j.
Let's be honest, this place isn't fine dining, it's a somewhat hole in the wall, however on my most recent trip to the smokies this was easily my best meal. The food is Cuban and fairly authentic and it tasted wonderful. Definitely try the tostones and empanadas. The guy running the place was great, he isn't speak English well but he wanted you to have a great meal. I stopped by the next morning for breakfast and Cuban coffee. Highly recommended.
(5)Lori W.
It's easy to drive by this place. It's a little hole in the wall in an unassuming strip mall off the main road. The place does not look like much but the food was good. We tried the ham croquetas and papa rellena to start and they were both good. I had the vaca frita with black beans and rice and plantains and it was so good. Cafe con leche and flan for dessert. Looks wise this place is not much but the food was good and the owner was friendly and nice.
(4)Alfred M.
Everything we tried was excellent. we had the meat empanadas, the Vaca Frita, Cuban sandwich and Ropa vieja. For dessert we tried the guava and cheese empanada. The pastelitos were all gone. Apparently they are so good, they run out earlier in the day.
(5)Eric M.
Great food. Super nice people. Very small but not too busy. Can't wait to come back.
(5)D E.
Having relocated from South Florida, we've sampled plenty of Cuban restaurants. This is great food with friendly service and super affordable prices! Our favorites are the plantains, yuca fries (crispy perfection), empanadas, and cuban sandwiches.
(5)Ann M.
Saw the Cuban food sign and made my husband do a uturn! Authentic home style Cuban food! Delicious! I've spent a lot of time in Puerto Rico, so I know good Cuban food and this did not disappoint! Hoping to go back before our Gatlinburg vacation is over!
(5)Angela T.
Smokies Cuban Café After doing some poking around online before leaving for our vacation in the Smokey Mountains, I stumbled upon Smokies Cuban Café. It caught my interest because it did not seem like the typical restaurant in the area which serves chicken fried steak, fried chicken, biscuits with apple butter. Located on the main road in Pigeon Forge, Smokies occupies a tiny space in an older retail strip. It's not much in terms of ambiance. The entrance is through a normal heavy glass retail style door, then a screen door. I noticed about 6 four top tables, pictures of the menu items are displayed on one wall, a small table holding coupons for local attractions, a tray of hot sauces next to a soda dispenser and the open kitchen was behind a long counter. At the end of the counter inside the kitchen I observed a petite older woman sitting at a small table sipping a shot of coffee and reading a paper. It reminded me of a small family owned restaurant in Cuba - so maybe the ambiance was spot on. It was authentic. I love black beans and Cuban sandwiches. So, that's what I ordered - Cuban sandwich with a cup of black beans. My daughter, Isabelle, also ordered the Cuban sandwich. Inside the toasted soft bun coated with mustard was layers of thinly sliced ham, pork, pickles and the cheese was slightly oozing out the sides. Isabelle and I should have split the sandwich because it was a foot long. Jerry ordered the red beans - the special. These were the best I've ever tasted - fantastic hearty meaty flavor with just the right amount of seasoning. I actually had about 5-6 bites because it was that good. I should have ordered some to go they would have gone great with the leftover Cuban sandwich. Available along with hot sauces, are bottles of home made hot peppers in vinegar. I put some of this on the sandwich and in my beans. It's not crazy hot. I'm going to try to recreate this. I have already suggested Smokies to others visiting the area. The food is reasonably priced, simple, honest and authentic. I will definitely return next time I'm in the area. Check out my other reviews at whiteriverkitchen.com
(4)Nur-e N.
This place is absolutely delicious! What a terrific surprise to find among all the touristy chain restaurants. Authentic home style Cuban food, wonderful owners, and a legit Cuban grandma in the kitchen cooking up your Vaca Frita and plantains. We tried the Vaca Frita, yuca al mojo, empanadas, and Cuban coffee. All of it was terrific. NOTE: the directions on yelp are to the wrong location. Google the restaurant and you'll be glad you did!!
(5)Sandra A.
Smokies Cuban Cafe is a real Cuban restaurant with authentic food! You can't believe how good their food is! After living in Miami, FL for so many years, it was a happy find for us! The owners are amazing and so nice! We have so many favorites that I wouldn't have enough space to comment on all of them. The steak sandwiches are big and so are their chicken sandwich he's. You can't go wrong with the steak entree as it is awesome! The tostones are a must try as well as their plantains and yuca. We love the people and their food!
(5)Ben B.
Tucked into a little strip of shops near the end of the main drag in Pigeon Forge, this place is easy to miss. I showed up about 20 minutes after they closed (Yelp said 9PM, I was there @8:20) but they still let me in and fixed me a sandwich. This is clearly a family run place: three generations were busy cooking, cleaning, and waiting on customers. They were very nice and made me feel right at home without that feeling of resentment that you sometimes get when you go to a restaurant too close to closing time, much less after they were already closed. I ordered a Cuban Sandwich, black beans, and a coke. The coke was flat - they had run out of ice for the coke machine, so the waitress brought me a glass of water (didn't charge me for the coke). The black beans were homemade, but a bit plain. The sandwich was quite good and plenty big. It was made on proper bread, had both pork and ham, and a good mustard. In the end, I was all I could do to finish the sandwich. Next time I will try the empanadas and fried pork and leave room for desert. Definitely on my list for a good quick meal and a pleasant surprise at the end of a long line of chain food dinner theater buffet hell that is Pigeon Forge! Just make sure you are there before 8PM. I gave it 4 stars - 3 for the food and an extra for the family that owns it and works hard there.
(4)Kimberly S.
Great little family owned place. The only thing that kept me from giving them a higher rating is that there were no meat free options (other than fried sides) or healthier options.
(4)Steph E.
Fantastic black beans and rice. Cafe con Leche the BEST--want to come here for my morning coffee everyday!
(5)H R.
Wow! What a meal. This is a wonderful little restaurant that serves100% authentic Cuban food. The food here is spectacular. It is not a tourist trap. Just good Cuban food made to order. If you live in town and have not been here, you have truly missed out. This is the definition of local, mom and pop storefronts. Do not let the location deter you. The fried pork dish and pulled pork were perfect. My kids loved the Cuban sandwich. We will be back for sure.
(5)Curtis F.
Excellent! We had sauteed shredded beef and steak sandwich, black beans, rice, plantains. Tasty and compliment each other very well.
(5)Larry H.
Stop there every time I stay in pigeon forge (4+times a year) tell them to surprise me always good looking forward to stoping in march
(5)Kyle H.
All I can say about his place is WOW! This was my first experience with Cuban food and it was awesome. The service was great and he helped us with our decision to order. It doesn't look like much but I highly recommend it to anybody that is looking for something off the beaten path. This is definitely not a commercialized business.
(4)Carlos B.
This place serves REAL Cuban food. Can't express how good the food was. A small piece of Miami smack in the middle of the Smoky Mountains.
(5)Paul B.
Legit Cuban! Some people reviewed this place and said it was more expensive than a Cuban sandwich shop in Miami. Well no kidding, what did you expect. I lived in Tampa for a year, and this is a better sandwich than Any I had there. There bread is shipped daily and the smoked pork is done perfectly. This is an unassuming hole in the wall, but absolutely delicious. A small family owned joint and the owners are very friendly and attentive. Cuban sandwich is great! This was the most satisfying meal I had in pigeon forge.
(5)Saura M.
Wow, wow, wow. This place is incredible. We were lucky enough to have found it because of the high rating on yelp. We were in Pigeon Forge for 4 days and we ended up eating here twice because we loved it so much. The empanadas, Cuban sandwich, and fried plantains were all so delicious. And we absolutely loved the sweet family that runs it. It had such a warm and welcoming atmosphere and they were so friendly. They helped to make our vacation even more memorable. I can only hope to return again in the future.
(5)Amanda C.
Delicious! Tired of all the chain restaurants in Pigeon Forge and want great ethnic cuisine? Go here! The Cuban was just as wonderful as my favorite Cuban place in Key West. We ordered the sautéed shredded beef and grilled chicken (both came with rice, black beans, and fried plantains) and two empanadas (one beef, one cheese and guava) which was more than enough for two with leftovers for lunch for one the next day. Good prices. We ordered to go and it was quick. We will be ordering from here again and the best part is they deliver so if you aren't out you can have the scrumptious food come to you!!! Don't go for the ambience, unless you are looking for an authentic Cuban family restaurant with very few small tables and a Cuban grandmother cooking in the back. Super friendly wait staff (thinking a family member) who was very patient and helpful in deciding what we wanted to order. Two thumbs up and five stars from both my companion and I!
(5)Kaneeta K.
Delicious food. Great service. Friendly staff. It's a small little place but perfect if you need a break from tourism central.
(5)PhiPh L.
We were looking for something different from chain restaurants and American food. We're glad we stopped here because the food's not commercialized. If you're like me and love potato everything, try a stuffed potato. A little expensive at $3.50 a ball, but we loved them enough to get five balls to go. I got the palomilla steak and he got the fried pork chunks. The beans and plantains were delicious. My steak was well done, which I think is customary here in this area. It was good, but I normally like my steak between rare and med rare but I wasn't given a choice. The pork was very tender. I also enjoyed the beef empanadas. It was nice and crispy on the outside and juicy inside. I gave this place five stars being relative to the area as I have been spoiled by food in chicago. There, I would have given this place three stars. Compared to mellow mushroom and flapjacks, this place definitely ranks much higher up on my scale.
(5)Patty F.
Awesome! Cuban sandwich is the best ever. Beef empanada and stuffed potato are also delicious. You will not be disappointed with the food.
(5)Yeila V.
Great place, great food! Excellent service. We tried rice, beans, yuca al mojo, plantains, fried pork and palomillo steak. All good! And guava and cheese empanadas. The price is good!
(5)T B.
OK for something different. Good food, great service. Very small Mom and Pop place. First night we went, they had closed early, and the second night, we had to wait outside for a table to open up (only has 3 tables). Prices are a bit high.
(3)Marie T.
Stopped here for lunch and it was great. Pork sandwich was big enough to split. Also had the empanadas and fried plantains. Service excellent. I was surprised at the prices as they are different on the wall and on the menus that are used as place mats. Well worth getting something different in a quiet family place.
(4)Rithu J.
I have been to one Cuban place before this and I found the sandwich very greasy. But that was not the case here. Following the highlight reviews on Yelp, I did order the Cuban sandwich. Mmm-mm...I loved it!! The sandwich was a delight and is pretty huge of a size! But I was so hungry and was loving my sandwich, that I finished the entire meal with the black beans in probably 15-20 minutes! The black beans were good too! When I got there for lunch, it was crowded, with not much seating. So I just did a takeaway. Do visit here for a really good Cuban! Was a sure hit! And it's a big meal for great value!
(4)A. C.
Came out to Tennessee to visit a college friend of mine and headed to the Great Smokey Mountains. In looking for a place to eat that wasn't a chain restaurant, I employed YELP to see what was available. When I came across Smokies Cuban Cafe and the reviews it received I figured it was worth a shot. Let me tell you, the food is as authentic as you can get it. I know, I have been to Miami and feasted on Cuban food from places well known for their cuisine. My buddy was apprehensive by the looks of the place, but when he sat down and ate the breaded bifsteak along with the fried plantains, rice and beans, he was hooked. I had the rope vieja, which was delicious. For dessert I had one of their home made empanadas (guava and cheese) and my buddy had the flan, which, by the way, was home made and better than any flan served in a Mexican restaurant. Need I say more? Go, try it for yourself. You won't be disappointed.
(4)Ross J.
What a find! So much better than the big feed troughs in the area. I love their palomilla steak. They make you feel like family.
(5)Mario W.
Best Food in Pigeon Forge! Had the fried pork and steak. Everything had great flavor . This will be a regular stop for us while visiting the smokies. Tip , there is limited seating ( about 5 tables). You may want to grab carry out.
(5)Julia B.
Amazing pulled pork with black beans, and rice. Love the plantains. Yummy cafe con leche. Delicious pastry with coconut and cheese.. super friendly. What a great find. Will definitely go back next time in pigeon forge.
(5)Tiffany M.
Have to say this was another pleasant surprise amidst the tourist trap cookie cutter restaurants that litter pigeon forge. They had empanadas, granted not the best I ever had but good. Plantains and good beans and rice. The fried pork bits were juicy, and they had some imported drinks there as well which was nice. I'd recommend it to anyone wants so good food, which seems to be a rarity along the parkway.
(5)Javier A.
Looking for delicious home cooked food? Tired of all the same old "Americana" in Pigeon Forge? Check out Cuban in the Smokies! The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming. Grab a chair and order, all the food is great, I had the Steak Sandwich. Grab dessert and finish the meal the Cuban way with a cafecito! Expect to wait when it's busy and yes the prices are higher than Miami because you are NOT in Miami! Enjoy the food!
(5)Lisa W.
This restaurant took me by surprise while driving into gatlinburg, I didn't expect to see a little Cuban cafe in Tn. I love Cuban food and we were in the mood for some lunch so we pulled in. It's just a little moms and pops type of place. The food is extremely authentic. Wevhad the Cuban sandwich a beef epinada, plantains, and black beans and rice. The epinada was probably one of the best I have ever had. The flavor of the beef was delicious. Every thing we ate was very yummy.
(5)Ernesto P.
Freaking Awesome!!! By far the best Cuban place I come accross outside of my mothers kitchen!!!
(5)Scott A.
It's not great Cuban food, but it's not some corny, hoe-down, chuck wagon theme restaurant nor a bad version of a chain restaurant that is so typical of Pigeon Forge (how does this town make even McDonalds' worse I will never know!). Decoration is apparently "hole in the wall" style, maybe consciously, but the people are very, very nice. And the food is good. And it feels like an oasis of humanity from the unrelenting horror that is the rest of the town's cuisine.
(4)Emily B.
We split the Masitas D Puerco (fried pork chunks) with red beans, rice and fried sweet plantains. It was just the right amount of food, and was fresh and delicious! Just as good as any Cuban food we've had! A must try!
(5)Luiz D.
This place is authentic and delicious Cuban food. Inexpensive, great portions, very nice people. Give them a try and you won't regret!
(5)Nick V.
Went here for a late lunch, we go looking for Cuban food, and learned of this place. The food is good, but not outstanding. Nice variety, has most of the Cuban staples. We enjoy breaded steak. The maduros (plantains)were prepared just right. The service needs some improvement, we were welcomed but were not checked on during the meal when there was only our party of two and another one of four. Would I go back, Yes. Nice to have Cuban food in the region.
(4)Brandon D.
My columbian wife loves some good cuban sandwich's and this place delivered and we will be returning for yummyness. THUMBS UP
(5)Matt K.
What a wonderful surprise! I was looking for someplace to get a coffee and edit a video. Surprisingly, it's hard to find free wi-fi at Pigeon Forge restaurants. I got word that there was an internet cafe in this little strip of businesses but it's closed. I lucked out, though -- this fantastic cuban cafe with free wi-fi was right next door! The owners are friendly, the food is great, and nothing gets the creative juices flowing like a cafecito (very sweet espresso coffee shot). I had the guava and cheese empanada to go with my coffee and later ordered some beef croquettes and will probably come back later for some ropa vieja (sauteed shredded beef with black beans, rice, and fried plantains). The food is authentic, the people are friendly, and the wi-fi is free. What's not to love?
(5)K F.
Awesome authentic cuban food. This place reminds me of the food I used to get in Miami. So very good. Great Prices and service.
(5)Michelle D.
Refreshing change from the blah chain restaurants!! Ethinic food for sure. My husband and I had the Shredded beef, plantains, black beans, rice and a mango shake. Yummy!!! Very good food. Server was not too into her job was only negative. Will def visit again when in the area.
(5)Anthony K.
Fantastic little Cuban food, and in of all places...Pigeon Forge! If you're up for some solid food with a great atmosphere, then look no further. Be sure to try some of their unique sodas...
(5)VIvian S.
Marinated steak sandwich on toasted Cuban bread was excellent, with crispy fries, and plantains were the best! If you haven't tried Smokies Cuban Cafe, you've missed a great meal.
(5)Jeff G.
Do yourself a favor and visit this place when you're in Pigeon Forge. The food is great, and the service friendly. You'll soon bore of the kitschy chain restaurants in town and will be looking for an alternative. I had the pork and my wife the shredded beef. Super delicious!
(5)Mike W.
Excellent, tasty Cuban food in a modest strip mall setting which has seating for perhaps 20. Head and shoulders above any other place we've tried in the Pigeon Forge area aside from Bistro 109. Not to be missed!
(5)Maureen A.
we were visiting from miami and were shocked to learn of the cuban cafe from talking to a local cuban guy. i mean...cuban food in pigeon forge??? i said now way, we are latins from miami and we just HAD to stop in and try something. we just needed a quick snack as we had other plans for dinner. i ordered my all time favorite Croquetta Preparada sandwich, it has ham,roasted pork, swiss cheese and fried ham croquettes in pressed cuban bread. they had mayo and ketchup listed in it but that is NOT the authentic cuban/miami way that we are used to here in south,FL so i said no to those 2 condiments. the roast pork on it was very flavorful, the sandwich was very good, not the best i have had being that we live in miami but very good for pigeon forge cuban food, not worth the $8.50!!! if it came with a side yes but just the sandwich NO! i can get it in miami for $3.50 to $6.95 with fries or plantains. my boyfriend got a cortadito (sweet strong coffee shot) it was good but a little too sweet, miami does it better of course! over-all we would try this place again. the actual space looks run down though, i would not dine in here. take out was fine or delivery if they offer it would be sufficient. priced too high as well. those are the reasons why i gave it 3 stars,
(3)