I should begin by saying I’ve been to Santiago and Havana, Cuba. Despite the failings of communism, the Cubans have some fine restaurants. I went to Carmines searching for good Cuban food. I didn’t find it. I’m not panning all the food at Carmines. I’m just going to steer you away from some dishes. First the Cuban Chicken Noodle Soup. A salty, thin broth laced with tough chunks of chewy chicken and chopped ziti. I couldn’t finish a bowl. Second, the “famous” deviled crab cakes. Dry, chewy stick in the throat crab deep fried in batter. Again, I couldn’t finish a “mini.” Finally the “Spanish salad.” Nothing Spanish about it. I saw other tables with pulled pork, fried onion rings, and fried shrimp (possibly) and wished I’d ordered those instead. They looked good. I’ve only eaten there once. Our service was good. The tables next to the windows were great for people-watching. Just don’t go looking for good Cuban food.
I loved loved loved the Jumbo Devil Crab! It definitely took the show.We started with drinks, whiskey is my go to. We had the Old Fashioned which was very strong but it is a high proof of whiskey.Of course I had the Jumbo Devil Crab for my appetizer and enjoyed every bit of it.I tried the Crab Enchilado aka Crab Pasta and the meat sauce was very thick. It was good but the texture of the meat sauce was too heavy.Overall I enjoy the experience I would return but would not order the Crab Enchilado.
Visited last week while in town. It’s been several years since I was last there. The food was close to amazing. The flavors were all there. The Spanish bean soup is DELICIOUS and perfect. The Spanish salad could have been more crisp but the flavors were perfect. The Cuban bread is THE BEST perfectly warmed and comforting. I remember this place as a Cuban restaurant but it seems to be half Cuban and half Italian from its menu options. Carmines has absolutely nailed the Cuban side of the menu. So. Good. The service was lacking. The servers were pleasant but not polished or professional. I was disappointed to see the ceiling tiles painted over. It definitely takes away from the charm and ambience this great restaurant once had. The restaurant needs a good wash down, including the menus, tables, chairs, walls, windows and ledges. It’s looking dirty in the brightness of the day. Crisp white linen table coverings would go a long way as would a couple of pretty glasses and a bright stainless steel pitcher of water on the table delivered by a smiling, clean service professional.
A relative and I recently dined here one evening while I was in town visiting. The pluses. The food was good. We had the plantain chips to start. They were fresh and hot with a wonderful dipping sauce. I picked the pork chop and she picked a pasta and soup. Both were great. Our server was polite and quick to offer suggestions. Only dislike was my relative is in an electric scooter. The double door only had one side open. she couldn't clear this. I was looking for assistance to open the second door. The hostess just looked. Thankfully a waitress came by and help. Same when leaving, no help on just opening the second door so she could leave. Another customer came to help. Left a bad taste with me with this.
A spur of the moment stop in for dinner. Got right in with no wait. Server Josh was running around helping everyone and was very good. Ordered the grilled sausage appetizer, it had a lemon and olive oil tipping which was good, the sausage was average. For dinner, I ordered the baked ziti. It was baked really well, cheese was good. The sauce was again average had a decent sweet taste to it.
The food was very good! Everything was flavorful. The server was friendly. I wish they had outside seatings so that we can enjoy the food in a nice weather.
A little pricey for lunch but after seeing the portion it was well worth it. Best grouper sandwich so far I have eaten in Ybor.
Famous Cuban is forgettable. It was more like an Italian deli sub. They are not even trying to plate items. Crab app came out in appealing. LASGNA was ok, looked like from a diner. Drinks were good.
This is my favorite place to go for Cuban sandwiches and deviled crabs. I love the atmosphere and my family has been coming here for years.
Location is great but not sure about the food and drink. The server should maintain her hygiene. Residue in the glass of my beer. Wouldn't recommend for food.