When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
El Floridita Restaurant
Why El Floridita Restaurant is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
El Floridita Restaurant, established in 1987 in the heart of Hollywood, Los Angeles, is an iconic venue inspired by the famed Cuban bodeguita in La Habana, once frequented by Ernest Hemingway. This restaurant offers an immersive experience into Cuban culture through its authentic Caribbean cuisine and vibrant atmosphere. With spacious, well-appointed interiors, El Floridita is not just a place to eat but a cultural hub that brings a slice of Havana's spirit to Southern California. The menu boasts generous portions of classic dishes such as the Bistec Empanizado, arroz con pollo, black beans and white rice, and perfectly crispy plantains. Beyond the food, El Floridita transforms into a lively supper club on select nights with salsa dancing and live music that energize the space, making it a great destination for groups of friends who want both an excellent meal and a dynamic social environment. Their attentive service and the warm ambiance make it a go-to spot for locals and visitors interested in Cuban flavors and culture. Whether you arrive for a hearty meal during the day or to dance and enjoy authentic music at night, El Floridita promises a memorable outing enriched with cultural authenticity and festive spirit.
Here's what people think of El Floridita Restaurant
As of recent, El Floridita Restaurant holds a 4.3-star rating based on 690 reviews.
Customer reviews of El Floridita often highlight the authenticity of the Cuban dining experience and the generous portions of their dishes. Positive feedback frequently praises the quality and flavor of staples such as the Bistec Empanizado, black beans with rice, plantains, and the arroz con pollo. Many guests appreciate the lively atmosphere, especially during salsa nights when the restaurant doubles as a vibrant Latin dance club, enhancing the cultural experience. The attentive and friendly service is also commonly mentioned as a strength, alongside the reasonable pricing relative to portion sizes and food quality. However, some negative comments mention the restaurant's exterior as nondescript, which may not immediately convey the exciting interior experience. Certain customers note the wait times for food—particularly for popular dishes—can be longer, but this is often attributed to the freshness and preparation involved. A few also mention that some menu items could have more variety or that the cost might be on the higher side for some visitors. Overall, the majority of reviews conclude that El Floridita successfully combines authentic Cuban cuisine with a festive, welcoming environment, making it a worthwhile destination for both dining and socializing in Los Angeles.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Genesis Mejia Guzman
I had a very good time at this location. The food was amazing. And also the live band was exceptional. This had us dancing all night and enjoying a memorable moment. The best experience that we received and customer service was from Armando he made us feel welcome yet also was part of the festivities.
La Bamba
This place is beautiful and the people was friendly. First time l went on a Sunday and had live band music. Incredible sound and vocal was surreal. I felt the soul from everyone beat. Thank you for the wonderful experience and unlock memory cord. I will return once more.
Maha Afra
I have been hearing about this place forever but never been there due to distance. Finally went there Monday. I did not eat. I don’t drink alcohol. This place is awesome! How can you beat an incredible live Latin band on a Monday night? It is cozy, old school, and worth the drive! Live music is everything! It’s a privilege.
Chelsea Fountain
One of a kind! We came on a Monday night to visit from the east coast and loved it. They have a set menu with house specials, we got to taste free cocktails and dinner came with a free salsa lesson followed by live music. The food was delicious and we had excellent service, highly recommend! Plus, they have parking on site.
Hector Diaz
We were seated right away. The food was good. We waited a bit to get our food, but I'm not going to knock this place too much in that. I liked this place and would go again if I find myself in the area.
How to reach El Floridita Restaurant
None
Website: None
Why El Floridita Restaurant may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at El Floridita Restaurant with your friends?
If you’re seeking the perfect spot to gather with friends or family, El Floridita Restaurant in Los Angeles stands out as a top-tier choice. Its vibrant atmosphere, blending authentic Cuban culture with a lively social scene, makes it ideal for group meetups. What sets El Floridita apart is its unique combination of hearty, delicious Cuban cuisine paired with live salsa music and dancing on select nights, creating an immersive experience beyond just dining. This restaurant transforms from a comfortable dining space into a vibrant supper club, encouraging camaraderie, laughter, and celebration. Whether you want to savor the classic Cuban dishes — like the tender Bistec Empanizado or arroz con pollo — or enjoy a refreshing mojito while listening to live bands, El Floridita caters to diverse tastes and moods.
The venue is spacious and well-appointed inside, accommodating both intimate dinners and larger gatherings comfortably. Its welcoming staff adds to the warmth of the experience, helping guests feel like part of a larger community. The festive ambiance invites you not just to eat but to connect — whether that means chatting over cocktails, sharing a plate of paella Valenciana, or dancing salsa until late in the evening. For groups seeking both delicious food and memorable moments, El Floridita offers the ideal Cuban-infused experience that’s perfect for reunions, celebrations, or casual nights out with friends.
What activities can groups enjoy at El Floridita, and what makes it perfect for meetups?
El Floridita stands out as a multifaceted venue where your group can enjoy a variety of activities beyond just dining. It’s a Cuban supper club known for bringing people together to revel in live entertainment and flavorful food. On evenings featuring live salsa music — typically Fridays and Saturdays — the restaurant turns into a cultural hub where guests can dance, watch professional dancers, or simply enjoy the upbeat rhythms. This lively entertainment fosters a social, festive atmosphere that’s especially great for groups looking to have fun and stay energized throughout the evening.
For groups interested in more laid-back experiences, the restaurant offers an excellent bar with a wide choice of drinks, including house-made mojitos and other Cuban cocktails. Ordering a round of drinks or sharing appetizers like empanadas or lobster croquetas encourages mingling and shared enjoyment. There’s also the option of communal dining, with large portions and shareable dishes such as their paella Valenciana, fried whole fish, or combo meals that come with soup and sides, all of which enhance the sense of connection among group members.
Beyond entertainment and food, El Floridita’s consistent attentive and friendly service ensures that groups feel well cared for, making organizing meetups less stressful. The restaurant also offers valet parking, an added convenience for groups arriving together by car. With reasonable prices for generous portions and a romantic yet casual setting, it’s an accessible venue for diverse gatherings — from casual family dinners to milestone celebrations or even salsa dance nights where you can bring your friends or family to enjoy the music and dance floor flair.
What kind of food experience should groups expect at El Floridita?
El Floridita’s menu reflects the best of Cuban culinary traditions, serving dishes that are both hearty and authentic. Groups can expect generous portions that suit shared meals or family-style dining, encouraging communal eating and interaction. Popular dishes include the Bistec Empanizado, a heavily breaded and perfectly fried steak that is juicy and tender — a favorite among regular guests. The restaurant also serves classic Cuban staples such as arroz con pollo, which comes alongside black beans and fried plantains for a full Cuban taste experience.
Seafood is another highlight, with options like enchilado de pescado (fish stew) and the famed lobster croquetas, perfect for sharing. The menu also offers paella Valenciana, a rich, Spanish-inspired dish loaded with chicken, pork, sausage, clams, lobster, shrimp, whitefish, and crab legs, making it a luxurious centerpiece for any group meal. For those seeking a good value, combo meals offer a complete dining experience with soup, an entrée, and two sides at an affordable price.
Dessert lovers will find Cuban sweets such as tres leches cake and flan to round out the meal in true Latin fashion. Whether your group is craving traditional comfort food, seafood, or meat-centric dishes, El Floridita’s diverse menu ensures everyone finds something delightful. The vibrant flavors paired with generous servings create a satisfying meal that’s conducive to sharing stories and laughter around the table.
How does El Floridita’s atmosphere enhance the group dining experience?
The atmosphere at El Floridita perfectly complements its cuisine and entertainment offerings, creating a space where groups feel energized and welcomed. Inside, the restaurant is roomy and tastefully decorated to evoke the spirit of Havana’s famous supper clubs, mixing casual charm with a touch of elegance. This setting encourages guests to relax, socialize, and immerse themselves in the Cuban cultural vibe.
On salsa music nights, the energy rises with live bands playing lively rhythms that invite dancing and celebration. The music is not just background noise but a central part of the experience, turning the restaurant into a social hotspot that draws a diverse crowd, from locals to Cuban community members and casual visitors alike. Watching or joining the salsa dancers adds an interactive dimension to the evening, perfect for break-out activities after enjoying a great meal.
Even on non-salsa nights, the friendly environment and attentive staff contribute to a memorable night out. The casual dress code means everyone can feel comfortable, whether dressing up slightly for a celebratory dinner or casually catching up over drinks. Valet parking and reservation options make it convenient for groups to plan ahead without logistical headaches. Altogether, El Floridita fosters a warm, energetic, and culturally rich ambiance that enhances the joy of gathering with friends.
What practical features and amenities make El Floridita ideal for group meetups?
El Floridita has thoughtfully adopted features that support a smooth and enjoyable group dining experience. Valet parking is available, which is a significant convenience for groups arriving together, especially during busy weekend nights. The staff is known for being friendly, attentive, and experienced in handling larger groups, ensuring that everyone’s needs are met efficiently without the frustrations often associated with group orders.
Reservations are recommended, especially on evenings featuring live music, to secure ample space for your party. The restaurant’s layout supports both smaller and larger groups with roomy tables and booths, making it easy for everyone to interact without feeling cramped. Another plus is the absence of a cover charge on nights without live entertainment, while on salsa nights, dinner guests get to enjoy the show without extra fees.
The casual dress code allows flexibility in planning, so groups don’t need to worry about strict attire policies. Whether celebrating a special occasion, hosting a casual meetup, or looking for a place where every age group can enjoy themselves, El Floridita’s well-rounded approach to service and comfort ensures an accessible and welcoming environment for all.
In summary, El Floridita Restaurant in Los Angeles offers an unbeatable combination of authentic Cuban cuisine, vibrant live salsa entertainment, spacious and inviting atmosphere, and practical amenities. Its ability to cater to diverse group needs — from casual dinners to lively dance nights — makes it a premier destination for meeting up with friends or family. Whether you want to indulge in flavorful dishes, toast with classic mojitos, or dance the night away, El Floridita creates memorable shared experiences that keep guests coming back for more.