BWW Reviews: VICTOR'S CAFE in New York City, an Exquisite Cuban Restaurant

Victor's Café is a beloved Cuban restaurant that has been serving delicious gourmet cuisine in New York City since 1963. Family owned and operated, this charming spot is ideal when you are in the midtown area. It is the perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of Times Square where you can relax over drinks and nightly entertainment in their Cuba Lounge or enjoy a wonderful lunch, brunch or dinner. Victor's three dining rooms are beautifully appointed, elegant, yet comfortable, accented with warm lighting, colorful Cuban art and sky-lit ceilings.

Victor's staff makes you feel welcome the minute you step through the door and you will be delighted by their excellent service that is attentive and knowledgeable. We stopped by for dinner on a Wednesday night and enjoyed a meal that was a feast for the palate and a feast for the eyes.

Popular appetizers include Ceviche de Pargo ($16) Snapper in a citrus marinade with red onion, mango and avocado or you can start your meal with one of their wonderful, fresh salads, Enselada de Palmitos y Mandarina ($14), Greens, cranberry, almonds with a champagne vinaigrette.

We had Victor's "A Taste of Cuba" ($49 per person) which includes 3 tapas, three entrée selections and a trio of their most popular and tempting desserts. This is an ideal way to experience Victor's culinary flair as you can try a variety of dishes including their delicious ham croquettes, Croquetas Corral, and one of their house specialties, Ropa Vieja, slow braised and pulled skirt steak in garlic, tomato, onion and pepper sauce.

Victor's creative entree selections include Salmon Carnaval ($25) Atlantic salmon, charred pineapple salsa,and Cuban polenta, Pollo Manigua ($23) Cuban adobo roasted chicken breast, roasted boniato, watercress and mojo and their Pargo en Camisa de Plantano ($36) Snapper fillet, green plaintain crust, fufu, and sofrito.

Lechon Asado ($27), Cuban style roast suckling pig, yucca, and garlic mojo is a favorite traditional entree. And, for Paella lovers, Victor's has dishes that are sure to please; Paella de Mariscos and Paella de Vegetales. Entrees with the exception of rice dishes are served with Victor's famous black beans and white rice.

A common misconception about Cuban food is that it is hot and spicy. In fact, gourmet Cuban dishes incorporate delicate flavors and well blended seasonings to accent fresh seafood, meats and vegetables and Victor's does it just right. Their menu features "The Evolution of Cuban Cuisine" a progressive concept that highlights thier taste sensations with savory and thoughtful preparations while being completely faithful to the flavors that make Cuban foods so very appetizing. Your selections are sautéed, grilled and pan fried with the finest olive oil.

With a superb beverage selection, drinks are easily paired with your meal. We enjoyed their Red and White Sangria ($12 glass) and also suggest Champagne Sangria ($14 glass) which is just right for brunch. Their 50th Anniversary Signature Mojito ($15) is not to be missed with Atlantico Rum Private Cask, fresh lime, sugar cane and simple syrup. Tropical Light Cocktails ($12) are very appealing drinks that include their Cielito Lido with Voli Lyte Vodka, muddled blueberries, mint leaves and blue agave or their Vitico with Voli with Espresso Vanilla Vodka, an espresso shot and blue agave. Victor's also has an generous selection of fine wines. Servers are more than happy to suggest drinks that complement your menu choices.

Victor's Café is an exquisite Cuban restaurant that presents a vibrant and delightful menu to please all culinary tastes. There is a genuine charm to this spot that will make you want to return again and again. Victor's can accommodate both small and large parties and has the experience and expertise to host all types of events from intimate family gatherings and after theater parties to large celebrations. Holiday menus are offered and available upon request. Open for lunch, dinner and brunch, reservations are suggested.

Victor's Café, 236 W.52nd Street (just off Broadway), New York, NY 10019 For reservations, call (212) 586-7714 or visit www.victorscafe.com.

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