FOOD & DRINK: REVIEW CUBANA

For over 20 years now, Cubana has been at the top of the tapas game in Sheffield – and for good reason, too. From the moment you step inside the Leopold Square venue, the vibrant setting and warm hospitality transports you into the heart of Havana (or as close as you’re realistically going to get in South Yorkshire).

Exposed visited for a business lunch last month, considering the well-established venue a safe bet for both quality and atmosphere. Thankfully, we felt justified on both counts as we sank into the ambience and browsed their set tapas menu (two dishes for £11.95 or £5 off any set menu until 6pm, Mon-Fri).

One of the standout dishes I couldn’t get enough of was the ‘Pollo y Chorizo.’ The succulent chicken breast pieces and Spanish chorizo sausage were expertly cooked in a creamy tomato and paprika sauce. The sauce had a rich and velvety texture, complementing the tender chicken and adding a hint of smokiness from the chorizo. The dish was elevated by the addition of sliced red peppers, providing a burst of freshness and a colorful touch.

Another highlight was the renowned ‘Albóndigas’, Cubana’s famous meatballs made with fresh minced beef and coriander, served in a tantalizing tomato sauce. The meatballs were incredibly tender and flavourful, with a perfect balance of herbs and spices.

For seafood lovers, the ‘Gambas Pil Pil’ is an absolute must-try. The pan-fried tiger prawns were perfectly cooked and delicately flavoured with garlic and a touch of chili adding a delightful kick to the dish. Every bite was a burst of succulence and the prawns melted in my mouth.

The ‘Pincho de Pollo’ was another favourite. The grilled chicken breast pieces were marinated with garlic, cumin and paprika and served skewered, resulting in a medley of aromatic flavours and not too heavy on the stomach. The perfect lunchtime treat!

Finally, the ‘Chorizo y Huevo CON Patatas’ provided a comforting and indulgent experience. The crispy potatoes sautéed with chorizo were a perfect match for the free-range egg on top, with the richness of the egg beautifully complementing the smoky chorizo and the crispy potatoes adding a satisfying crunch.

20 years strong and showing no sign of slowing down, Cubana continues to reign supreme when it comes to authentic tapas in an unbeatable setting.