Address: 2615 W North Ave
Neighborhood: West Town
Website: https://1492cubanfusion.com/
Our take: Colorful walls crammed with knick-knacks, a Cubano pressed just right, and ropa vieja that tastes like somebody’s grandmother approved it. Come for the pastelito in the morning, stay for the pork. Call ahead to confirm they’re still pouring your bottle.
Wine Pairing: Go Spanish: an Albariño or a dry Cava for the fried plantains and pork, and a Rioja Crianza or a Garnacha for the ropa vieja. A dry rosé is the all-purpose answer if the table is split.
Beer Pairing: A light lager is the island standard, and a Vienna lager or amber ale suits the roasted pork and the skirt steak.
Spirits Pairing: Rum is the obvious call: a Cuba libre with an aged Central American rum, or the makings of a daiquiri or mojito if you're feeling theatrical. Flor de Caña 12 is a dependable bottle.