Cafe Central

1437 W Chicago Ave #1, Chicago - 60642
127 reviews
Puerto Rican
(312) 243-6776

Funky little Puerto Rican Cafe with an unassuming exterior, unpretentious interior and delicious food. Great feel for the neighborhood. Had the mofongo tripleta concoction and it was delicious; not enough people have had the glorious plantain creation that is mofongo; which soaks up any kind of gravy and complements every kind of protein

Man, they knocked it out of the ball park. We had their jibaritos, one steak and one lechón. Both were delicious and perfectly done. Meat was juicy and the ingredients were on point. The pique did not disappoint. Had a side of arroz con gandules and a papa rellena and both were super delicious. Will be coming back, because their service was also phenomenal.

I love their beef stew with rice and beans. The place is pretty clean. The employees there are nice.

I have been celebrating my birthday at CC since Charlie was the Owner! Even when coming home from Hawaii where I studied my Mom never ever skipped my bistec con tostones from my absolute favorite PR restaurant I absolutely love it!! The frituras are great, the music while dining in, the wait staff are all very sweet! I highly recommend CC for your next Puerto Rican meal lunch or dinner!! The only time I didn’t get my birthday meal from them was during Covid19 so for over 37 years I’ve been enjoying my birthday at Cafe Central!! ❤️?? I love you guys!!

First time here And I have taste almost all jibaritos in Chicago But the jibarito at cafe central is not a good jibarito and is The most expensive one The steak is like rubber everything slides away from each other the plantain is not cooked correctly and there’s too much liquid coming out of the sandwich I’m saying this so that they can perfect it hopefully I can go back when they make it better also the rice is not great

Best Puerto Rican food around! Been coming here for over 15 years and it's still delicious! Have been bringing family here too and they love it! They are always super friendly and welcoming! Would recommend everyone to go there!!!

Love the food here. The Jibarito is phenomenal. Make sure to get the rice with it. The service is great as well. We're always greeted with a smile. I can't say enough good things about this restaurant. Buen Provecho!!

It was a random walk in and with a pleasant welcome. The aromas were enticing I couldn't help but stay. It was also very clean.They don't serve alcohol, but it is BYOB. I enjoyed a Kola Champagne with my delicious Puerto Rican cuisine! I recommend a pop in on a rainy day!

Amazing, amazing and did I say AMAZING ??? went with the family and we shared the dishes. Among them was a jibarito, alcapurria, arroz w habichuelas, arroz con pollo, an empanada looking yummilicious thing. Whatever you get it won't disappoint ☺️

I come here all the time, consistent quality and always delicious. Some items need more time like the asopaos so if you’re doing takeout It’s better to call like 20 min ahead to place the order. The ladies are always friendly and welcoming.