Sophie's Cuban Cuisine: A Taste of Cuba in Midtown East NYC

Sophie's Cuban Cuisine - Midtown East Introduce

In the bustling heart of Midtown East, where office workers, locals, and tourists are constantly on the move, finding a meal that is both fast and genuinely flavorful can be a challenge. That's where Sophie's Cuban Cuisine comes in. This beloved spot has been serving up authentic Cuban flavors to New Yorkers for almost three decades. It's not a fancy sit-down restaurant, but rather a no-frills, cafeteria-style gem that prioritizes great food and efficient service. It’s a popular lunch spot where you can grab a plate of your favorite protein with a selection of classic sides, or a hefty, hot-pressed sandwich that will keep you full until dinner. Sophie's is more than just a sandwich shop; it's a taste of home-cooked Cuban comfort food in the middle of Manhattan, a place that is proudly women-owned and welcoming to all. This article will provide a detailed look into what makes Sophie's Cuban Cuisine a standout in the Midtown food scene.

Sophie's Cuban Cuisine has built a reputation on its straightforward and satisfying approach to food. The atmosphere is casual and designed for efficiency, making it the perfect place for a quick bite. As one reviewer noted, it’s "good food that is fast (as opposed to fast food)." The menu offers a wide variety of hearty and flavorful main dishes, with a choice of protein and three sides, a combination that has made it a favorite for the takeout lunch crowd. While some dishes may vary in quality, the overall consensus is that the food "hits the spot." Their commitment to serving fresh, Latin flavors has made them a go-to for many New Yorkers looking for a taste of the Caribbean. The restaurant is also noted for being family-friendly, LGBTQ+ friendly, and a transgender safe space, creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone who walks through its doors.

The food at Sophie's is a true representation of classic Cuban fare. The entrees and sandwiches are prepared with authentic recipes, and their signature sauces, particularly the famous **Green Sauce**, have gained a cult following. The menu is expansive, offering everything from savory empanadas to rich beef stew and slow-roasted pork. This wide range of options means there is something for everyone, whether you’re a meat lover, a vegetarian, or just looking for a quick and satisfying meal. The focus on providing generous portions at a decent price, with plenty of sides to choose from, is a key part of Sophie's appeal. It’s a place that understands the need for a filling and delicious meal in a city that never slows down.

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Location and Accessibility

Sophie's Cuban Cuisine is located at 369 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10017, placing it in a prime spot in the heart of Midtown East. The location is incredibly convenient for anyone working in the area or visiting nearby landmarks like Grand Central Terminal. The restaurant is easily accessible by various subway lines and bus routes, making it an easy-to-reach destination for a quick and delicious meal. For those who choose to drive, paid street parking is available in the vicinity, though it can be challenging to find a spot during peak hours, as is common in Midtown.

The restaurant is designed to be accessible to all patrons. It features a wheelchair-accessible entrance, restroom, and seating, ensuring a comfortable experience for individuals with mobility needs. The casual atmosphere is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, and the availability of amenities like Wi-Fi and a gender-neutral restroom further adds to its modern and inclusive appeal. Whether you're a local on your lunch break or a tourist passing through, Sophie's provides a welcoming and convenient spot to enjoy a taste of authentic Cuban cuisine.

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Services Offered

Dine-in: Sophie's offers a casual dine-in experience. You can grab your food from the cafeteria-style counter and find a seat to enjoy your meal. The simple seating allows for a quick and efficient dining experience, perfect for a lunch break or a casual dinner.
Takeout and Delivery: A significant part of Sophie’s appeal is its robust takeout and delivery service. They offer both regular and **no-contact delivery**, bringing their delicious food directly to your home or office. This is a lifesaver for busy New Yorkers who want a satisfying meal without the hassle of cooking or waiting in line.
Curbside Pickup: For a convenient and fast pickup, Sophie’s provides a curbside service. You can place your order ahead of time and pick it up without having to get out of your car, which is an excellent option for those with limited time.
Catering: Sophie's is a go-to for catering in the area. They offer a variety of catering packages, from small to large, as well as a la carte and buffet-style options. Their catering platters for empanadas, sandwiches, and desserts are perfect for office parties, events, or family gatherings, and they even offer their signature sauces in squeeze bottles for larger orders.

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Features and Highlights

Famous Cuban Sandwiches: While Sophie's offers a wide range of dishes, their sandwiches are a major highlight. The **El Cubano**, a classic Cuban with slow-roasted mojo pork, ham, and Swiss cheese, is a customer favorite. Other sandwich options, like the **Mojo Pork with a Twist** (with sweet plantains) and the **Sophie's Spicy Chicken Sandwich**, are also incredibly popular.
Incredible Signature Sauces: Sophie's is well-known for its delicious sauces, particularly the **Green Sauce**. Customers often praise it as a must-try, with one reviewer even claiming their mom "drinks it from the container!" It's a flavorful addition to almost any dish and is available for purchase in larger quantities.
Wide Variety of Sides and Entrees: The cafeteria-style service allows for a great deal of customization. You can choose from a variety of proteins, from **Slow Roasted Mojo Pork** to **Shredded Beef Stew**, and pair it with three sides. The sides themselves are a highlight, including **Sweet Plantains**, **Moro Rice**, and **Yuca with Garlic**.
Vegetarian Options: Sophie's caters to a diverse crowd, including vegetarians. The **Vegetarian Platter** is a hearty and flavorful option, and the menu also includes various salads and sides that are meat-free, making it a great choice for a group with different dietary needs.

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Contact Information

Address: 369 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10017, USA
Phone: (212) 922-3576

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What is Worth Choosing?

With an extensive menu, deciding what to order at Sophie's can be an enjoyable challenge. For a classic and hearty meal, you can’t go wrong with the **Slow Roasted Mojo Pork**. This dish is a fan favorite, praised for its juicy and tender perfection. Pair it with the staple sides of **Yellow Rice** and **Black Beans** for a traditional Cuban plate. The **Fried Plantains** are also a must-have side, as they are a perfect complement to the savory meat.

If you're in the mood for a sandwich, the **El Cubano** is the clear choice. It’s a classic for a reason and has been praised as one of the best in the city. For those looking for a different twist, the **Mojo Pork with a Twist Sandwich** is a great alternative, as it adds sweet plantains and their famous green sauce to the mix, creating an incredible blend of flavors and textures. The **Sophie's Spicy Chicken Sandwich** is also a cult classic for those who want a little heat with their meal.

Beyond the main dishes, the appetizers and desserts are worth a special mention. The **Empanadas** are incredibly popular, with options from classic **Chicken** and **Beef** to the unique **Guava and Cheese**. Grabbing a dozen for a group is a perfect idea. For a sweet ending to your meal, the **Tres Leches** and **Flan** are excellent choices, with the flan being described as delicious and not too soft. And no matter what you order, make sure to get some of their famous **Green Sauce** on the side; it's the perfect finishing touch to any dish. Sophie's Cuban Cuisine delivers a consistently good, filling, and flavorful meal that is a perfect representation of authentic Cuban food in the heart of New York City.

Sophie's Cuban Cuisine - Midtown East Menu

Homemade Appetizers
Kick off your meal with our delicious selection of homemade appetizers! Our app's menu features savory Empanadas, and bite-sized Mini Empanadas, perfect for sharing, For a heartier option, try our Mashed Potatoes, Stuffed with seasoned chicken.
Chicken Empanada $3.79
Our delicious homemade empanada is filled with tender, seasoned chicken and fried to golden perfection.
Beef Empanada $3.79
Our mouth-watering homemade empanada is filled with seasoned ground beef and fried to crispy perfection.
Cheese Empanada $3.79
Our savory homemade empanada is filled with a blend of Oaxaca and queso fresco cheeses and fried to crispy perfection.
Guava and Cheese Empanada $3.79
Our sweet and savory homemade empanada is filled with cream cheese and sweet guava, fried to crispy perfection.
Spinach and Cheese Empanada $3.79
Our vegetarian-friendly homemade empanada is filled with a blend of spinach and ricotta cheese, fried to crispy perfection.
Empanada Special - Choose 3 $10.49
Enjoy a delicious variety of our signature empanadas with our Empanada Specials. Choose any three empanadas of your choice and save.
Empanada Special - Choose 6 $19.29
Enjoy a delicious variety of our signature empanadas with our Empanada Special. Choose any six empanadas of your choice and save.
Empanada Special - Grab a Dozen $35.99
Sophie's Empanada Box is the perfect option for catering events, family gatherings, or any occasion. Enjoy a dozen These delicious empanadas are made with our signature dough and fried to golden perfection. The Empanada Box is the perfect way to f...
Mini Chicken Empanada $1.49
Our Mini Empanadas aren't just cute. They are also jam-packed with flavor!
Mini Beef Empanada $1.49
Our Mini Empanadas aren't just cute. They are also jam-packed with flavor!
Mini Cheese Empanada $1.49
Our Mini Empanadas aren't just cute. They are also jam-packed with flavor!
Mini Guava and Cheese Empanada $1.49
Our Mini Empanadas aren't just cute. They are also jam-packed with flavor!
Mini Spinach and Cheese Empanada $1.49
Our Mini Empanadas aren't just cute. They are also jam-packed with flavor!
Stuffed Mashed Potato with Chicken $4.29
Sink your teeth into our hearty and satisfying Papa Rellena, a crispy fried potato shell stuffed with flavorful shredded chicken seasoned to perfection. One bite, and you'll be hooked.
Spicy Stuffed Mashed Potato with Chicken $4.29
Sink your teeth into our hearty, satisfying, and spicy Papa Rellena, a crispy fried potato shell stuffed with flavorful shredded chicken, seasoned to perfection. One bite and you'll be hooked!
Deli Style Potato Chips $1.99

Small Entrees
Sm Veggie Platter $11.99
Sm Baked Chicken $11.99
A delicious leg and thigh seasoned to perfection.
Sm Grilled Chicken $13.99
NYC's favorite protein packed option seasoned just right.
Sm Spicy Grilled Chicken $13.99
Turn it up a notch with our famous grilled chicken smothered with jalepenos, green and red bell peppers, onions, and juicy tomaotes sauteed in a yummy vinegar based sauce.
Sm Breaded Chicken $13.99
Deep fried, breaded to perfection in 100% pure bread crumbs from our own fresh baked cuban bread.
Sm Chicken Fricasse $13.99
Sm Shredded Beef Stew $13.99
Havanna is calling out to you in the form of a savory bowl of our "Ropa Vieja." A classic dish prepared with bell peppers, onions, and shredded beef in a zest tomato sauce.
Sm Steak and Onions $14.99
Sm Roast Pork $13.99
Sm Fried Pork Chops $13.99
1/2 inch, center cut pork chops marinated for 12 hours, deep fried to perfection
Small Pork Chops in Red Sauce $13.99
Sm Salmon Special $15.99
Our salmon is always filleted fresh and seasoned with salt, pepper, white wine, olive oil, and basted with a peruvian dried red pepper base.
Sm Shrimp with Garlic Sauce $15.99
Sm Oxtails Stew $16.99
Slow cooked to perfection, our tender oxtails almost fall off the bone in this sofrito based stew that is sure to please.
Small Roasted Turkey $13.99

Entrees
Our Entrees Menu features a variety of hearty and flavorful main dishes that are perfect for a filling meal. Your protein comes with any three sides or salads.
Vegetarian Platter (Includes Medley) $12.99
Our delicious vegetarian-friendly platter includes a medley of fresh zucchini, squash, red and green peppers, broccoli, and cauliflower, grilled to perfection. Served with three sides or salads, it's the perfect way to enjoy a healthy and satisfyi...
Baked Chicken $13.99
Our juicy and flavorful baked chicken leg and thigh is the perfect choice for those looking for a classic and satisfying meal.
Grilled Chicken Breast $15.99
Our tender and juicy chicken breast is marinated in a blend of herbs and spices, then grilled to perfection. It's a delicious and healthy choice for any meal.
Spicy Grilled Chicken $15.99
Our juicy and tender grilled chicken breast is perfectly seasoned and served with sautéed bell peppers, onions, and jalapenos. This dish packs a spicy punch.
Breaded Chicken Breast $15.99
Indulge in our crispy and flavorful breaded chicken breast, made with tender chicken breast breaded and seasoned to perfection. This classic dish is a real crowd-pleaser.
Slow Roasted Mojo Pork $15.99
Our Slow Roasted Mojo Pork is a traditional Cuban dish, marinated in a blend of citrus juices, garlic, and spices, then slow-roasted to juicy, tender perfection. It's a flavorful and satisfying option for any meal.
Fried Pork Chops $15.99
Quarter-inch center-cut pork chops seasoned with our signature blend of spices and fried to perfection.
Shredded Beef Stew $16.99
Our Shredded Beef Stew, or Ropa Vieja, is a classic Cuban dish made with tender, slow-cooked shredded beef in a flavorful tomato-based sauce with onions, bell peppers, and spices.
Salmon $17.99
Our fresh salmon fillet is lightly seasoned with herbs and spices and baked to perfection, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish.

Meat Only
Baked Chicken Only $8.00
Grilled Chicken Only $9.00
Spicy Grilled Chicken Only $9.00
Breaded Chicken Only $9.00
Roasted Turkey Only $9.00
Roast Pork Only $9.00
Fried Pork Chops Only $9.00
Shrimp In Garlic Sauce Only $10.00
Salmon Only $10.00
Shredded Beef Only $9.00
Picadillo $8.00
Ox Tails Only $13.49
Chicken Fricasse $8.00
Steak and Onions $9.00

Sophie's Favorites
Oxtails Stew $18.99
Our tender and juicy oxtails are slow-cooked with a flavorful blend of herbs and spices, creating a rich and delicious stew. Available Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays only.

Sandwiches
El Cubano - The Cuban $11.99
Our classic Cuban features slow-roasted mojo pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, mayo, mustard, and mojo sauce served on crispy Cuban bread.
Slow Roasted Mojo Pork Sandwich $11.99
Tender, juicy pork cooked in our signature mojo sauce, served with mayo and marinated onions, on toasted Cuban bread.
Mojo Pork with a Twist Sandwich $12.99
Slow-roasted mojo pork, marinated onions, and mayo, topped with 3 fried sweet plantains drizzled in our signature green sauce served on crispy Cuban bread.
Sophie's Spicy Chicken Sandwich $8.99
Our take on this cult classic features a Juicy, crispy breaded chicken breast marinated in a spicy habanero seasoning topped with mayo and tangy pickle chips and our signature green sauce, served on a freshly baked brioche bun.
Grilled Chicken Breast Sandwich $11.99
Zesty-grilled chicken breast, mayo, lettuce, tomato, and potato stick chips, served on crispy Cuban bread.
Baked Chicken Sandwich $11.99
A tender baked chicken leg and thigh pulled off the bone, mayo, and marinated onions served on crispy Cuban bread.
Breaded Chicken Sandwich $11.99
Breaded chicken breast fried up to perfection, mayo, and marinated onions served on crispy Cuban bread.
Tostada $3.50
Toasted Cuban bread with butter.

Sides and Salads
Complement your meal or enjoy a lightweight alternative with our fresh and flavorful sides and salads.
Yellow Rice $5.49
Fluffy and savory, our yellow rice is seasoned with the perfect blend of spices to complement any dish.
White Rice $5.49
Simple and satisfying, our white rice is a staple for any Latin American meal.
Moro Rice $6.49
A flavorful blend of rice and red beans, our moro rice is a classic Caribbean side that will transport your taste buds to the islands.
Black Beans $5.99
Our black beans are slow-cooked with a blend of herbs and spices, creating a rich, hearty side that goes well with anything.
Rice and Beans $6.49
Sweet Plantains $5.49
Indulge in the sweetness of our ripe, caramelized plantains—the perfect complement to any savory dish.
Green Plantains $5.49
Crispy and savory, our green plantains are fried to perfection. Get them with Mojo sauce and do the dip!
Yuca with Garlic $6.49
This classic Cuban side dish features boiled yuca root topped with a flavorful garlic sauce and a garnish of pickled red onions.
Vegetable Medley $6.49
French Fries $5.49
Yuca Fries $5.49
Small Rice $2.50
Avocado $4.99
Our fresh, ripe avocado adds a creamy and nutritious touch to your meal.
Green Salad
A light and refreshing mix of crisp lettuce, and sliced cherry tomatoes. Add our house-made Italian dressing made daily.
White Bean and Avocado
Creamy avocado, protein-packed white beans, finely diced red onion, and fresh lime juice come together in this delicious and filling salad.
Chickpea Salad
Our chickpea and parsley salad is a fresh, zesty salad perfect for a hot summer day.
Beets and String Bean Vinaigrette
A colorful and flavorful salad featuring tender roasted beets, crisp string beans, and a tangy vinaigrette dressing, served chilled.
8 oz Cup of Marinated Onions $1.25
These tangy and mildly spicy pickled onions add a flavorful kick to any dish.
Container For Sale

Beverages
Canned Soda $1.99
Sodas Latinas $3.29
Bottled Water
Snapple $2.69
Tropical Fruit Juices $4.29
Tropical Batidos $6.49
A delicious variety of refreshing tropical shakes and juices.
Red Bull $3.00
Cup of Ice $0.75

Sophie's Cafe
Cafe Con Leche $3.50
Cafe Americano $3.50
Espresso
Cortadito $2.75
Iced Coffee $4.50

Desserts
Tres Leches $6.49
Flan $4.99
Rice Pudding $4.99
Cheesecake $4.99
Bread Pudding $6.49

Sophie's Signature Sauces
Green Sauce $0.50
Dressing $0.50
Garlic Sauce $0.50
8oz Green Sauce $6.99

Combo Deals
Combo #1 $9.99
Any 2 empanadas, rice and beans, or maduros, plus any canned soda or bottled water
Combo #2 $12.99
Any sandwich, one bag of chips plus any canned soda or bottled water
Combo #3 $14.99
Any sandwich, french fries, or yuca fries plus any canned soda or bottled water

Individual Boxed Meals
Empanada Box
Deluxe Meal Entree
Each box includes your choice of protein, yellow rice, and sweet plantains. $14.99/Person. Minimum 10 Boxes.
Sandwich Box

Catering Packages
Small Package $250.00
Buffet style catering option which includes one protein + any 4 sides or salads. Serves 10.
Medium Package $500.00
Buffet style catering option which includes choice of 2 proteins + any 4 sides or salads. Serves 20.
Large Package $725.00
Buffet style catering option which includes 3 proteins + any 4 sides or salads. Serves 30.

Al La Carte
Buffet style catering option that include your choice of any protein or veggie option. Serves 10-20.
Vegetable Medley (A la Carte)
Grilled Chicken (Al La Carte)
Spicy Grilled Chicken (A la Carte)
Turn it up a notch with our famous grilled chicken smothered with jalepenos, green and red bell peppers, onions, and juicy tomaotes sauteed in a yummy vinegar based sauce.
Baked Chicken (A la Carte)
A delicious leg and thigh seasoned to perfection.
Breaded Chicken (A la Carte)
Shredded Beef Stew (A la Carte)
Pernil (A la Carte)
Shrimp With Garlic Sauce (A la Carte)
Fresh garlic, salt, pepper, peruvian red pepper, white wine, and tomato sauce marry in this classic Cuban dish.
Baked Salmon (A la Carte)
Our salmon is always filleted fresh and seasoned with salt, pepper, white wine, olive oil, and basted with a peruvian dried red pepper base.

Platters
Looking for snacks or desserts for your event? We have the platter for you!
Party Sized Empanadas $75.00
Party Sized Potatoes $75.00
Sandwich Platter $125.00
Sandwich Platter- Feeds 10
Flan Platter $80.00
Tres Leches Platter $125.00
Fruit Salad Platter

Catering Salads
Catering style salad options. Serves 10-20.
Green Salad (Catering)
White Bean & Avocado (Catering)
Chickpea Salad (Catering)
Beets & String Bean Vinnegrette (Catering)

Catering Sides
Catering style side options. Serves 10-20.
Yellow Rice (Catering)
White Rice (Catering)
Moro Rice (Catering)
Beans (Catering)
Sweet Plantains (Catering)
Green Plantains (Catering)
Yuca with Garlic (Catering)
Steamed Vegetables (Catering)
Avocado (Catering)

Signature Sauces & Extras
Need extras? We got you covered!
Green Sauce Squeeze Bottle $24.00
BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND! These 12 oz classic squeeze bottles are convenient, easy to use, and re-usable!
Mojito Sauce Squeeze Bottle $20.00
Salad Dressing Squeeze Bottle $20.00
1 set of Wire Rack, Tray & Chafing Fuel $15.00

Catering Beverages
Coke. $2.00
Diet Coke. $2.00
Coke Zero. $2.00
Sprite. $2.00
Ginger Ale. $2.00
Fanta Orange. $2.00
Fanta Grape. $2.00
Seltzer. $2.00
Bottled Water. $2.00
Malta India $3.29
From Puerto Rico with love. Eveyones favorite malt beverage.
Postabon $3.29
Colombiana $3.29
Jarritos $3.29
Cup of Ice $0.75
Sophie's Lemonade $4.00

Fruit Shakes
Passion Fruit $5.50
Mango $5.50
Guanabana $5.50
Papaya $5.50

Sophie's Cuban Cuisine - Midtown East Details

From the business
Identifies as women-owned

Service options
Curbside pickup
No-contact delivery
Delivery
Takeout
Dine-in

Highlights
Great coffee

Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining

Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible restroom
Wheelchair accessible seating

Offerings
Coffee
Comfort food
Quick bite
Small plates
Vegetarian options

Dining options
Lunch
Dinner
Catering
Dessert

Amenities
Gender-neutral restroom
Restroom
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi

Atmosphere
Casual

Crowd
Family-friendly
Groups
LGBTQ+ friendly
Locals
Tourists
Transgender safespace

Planning
Accepts reservations

Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards

Children
Good for kids

Parking
Paid street parking
Parking

Sophie's Cuban Cuisine - Midtown East Photos

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Sophie's Cuban Cuisine - Midtown East Location

Sophie's Cuban Cuisine - Midtown East

New York New York County New York Lexington Avenue

369 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10017, USA

Sophie's Cuban Cuisine - Midtown East Reviews

An average rating of ★4.2 from 486 user reviews.

green sauceplantainsempanadasdeliverysidesyellow ricespicyavocadocashierplatters

★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

Came here for lunch. Food is normal and decent, nothing spectacular.Had some rice, black beans, plantains and roasted chicken.
August 08 · Gabriel
Popular with the takeout lunch crowd, Sophie’s serves Cuban food cafeteria-style. An order consists of your choice of protein and three sides. The baked salmon ($17.99 plus tax) had a sauce but the fish itself was a bit overdone and dry. The better option is the pernil (roast pork). The fried plantains and yellow rice were good. Make sure to try their green hot sauce.
September 06 · Augusto Paulino
Sophie’s is a go-to for me when ordering small meals AND catering for my teams! The food is always excellent, the service and delivery is always perfect, and the communication is awesome!!! I absolutely love their food, and if you haven’t had their green sauce, you NEED TO! It’s the best of the best! I order often…sometimes for 5 people, sometimes for 150 people, and it’s always amazing!
July 18 · Ashley O'Neil
Super yummy and cost friendly option in midtown! Can’t wait to try the cubano next!
August 26 · Melody Diaz
I got the pork chops entree with Moro, maduros and yuca for sides. It was satisfying serving size and tasted delicious. The green sauce adds that bit of spice which makes the whole meal delicious. I ordered for pickup and didn’t have to wait after I walked in and asked for my order.P.S. if you create an account for online ordering they give you a $10 credit for your birthday :)
August 07 · Mildred Del Rosario