When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Havana Central Times Square
Why Havana Central Times Square is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Havana Central Times Square offers an inviting and lively atmosphere reminiscent of 1950s Cuba, making it a remarkable spot to meet up with friends and enjoy an authentic Cuban culinary experience. Located in the heart of Manhattan at 151 W. 46th St., this restaurant captures the spirit of Havana's golden era through its vibrant décor and festive ambiance, transporting guests on a mini vacation while dining. The venue features an energetic tropical setting complete with live Latin music that adds rhythm and excitement to the dining experience. Visitors can savor traditional Cuban dishes such as vaca frita, ropa vieja, arroz con pollo, and Cuban sandwiches, complemented by one of the best mojitos and sangrias in New York, which are crafted to highlight Cuban flavor profiles. Happy hour specials are offered on weekdays, enhancing the social vibe for gatherings. Additionally, Havana Central accommodates private celebrations with versatile event spaces suitable for birthdays, anniversaries, and weddings, providing customized menus and bar packages. Whether stopping by for a casual meal, celebrating a special occasion, or ordering catering services, the restaurant’s combination of authentic cuisine, spirited atmosphere, and convenient Times Square location makes it a great place to meet up with friends and enjoy a true taste of Cuban culture.
Here's what people think of Havana Central Times Square
As of recent, Havana Central Times Square holds a 4.4-star rating based on 6572 reviews.
Havana Central Times Square has received mixed but generally positive feedback from its large number of reviewers. Many users praise the restaurant for its vibrant atmosphere and authentic Cuban vibe, including the live Latin music that energizes the space and adds to the fun social environment. The décor and overall ambiance are noted as a highlight, creating an immersive dining experience that transports guests to Cuba's 1950s heyday. Several reviewers commend the quality of the food, describing it as flavorful and true to Cuban tradition, with standout mentions for dishes like the ropa vieja and Cuban sandwiches. The drink menu, especially the mojitos and sangrias, also garners positive attention for their taste and presentation. In terms of service, opinions vary with some guests experiencing attentive and friendly staff, while others find the service disorganized or slow. Negative reviews often focus on inconsistencies in food quality, citing that some dishes seem pre-cooked or bland, and mention noise levels that can detract from more intimate conversations. Value perceptions also differ among patrons, with most considering the pricing reasonable given the location and entertainment, though some express concerns about upcharges or inconsistent portion sizes. In conclusion, Havana Central is well-regarded for its atmosphere and authentic cultural offerings, making it a popular pick for lively group outings despite some mixed feedback regarding food consistency and service quality.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Celeste Reed
A group of 10 and the service was wonderful. The live band was fantastic! The air-conditioning wasn't that great and there wasn't enough guacamole for the amount of chips that are given. Beside that, I'd recommend this restaurant and I will be back!
Edna Prophater
We came across this place 2 years ago when we were here for Christmas. LOVED the food. My husband and I talked about the corn for 2 years! We have tried finding somewhere better closer to home and have had no such luck. Everything we have had has been amazing. We cant brag enough in this place. We returned this year and made it a point to come back. Not just once but twice! This place is amazing and we look forward to visiting when we are in the city again! 🫶🫶
Johanna Kirenia
Orlando was absolutely fantastic! He’s super funny and provided great recommendations. The service he offered was outstanding! He really deserves a raise and a promotion—his personality is just wonderful. He knows the menu inside and out and is really knowledgeable about the drinks too. He’s seriously the best bartender / server ever, and I think he should definitely be rewarded for all he does! Hospitality still exist. ❤️
Kari Ergmann
This restaurant was WONDERFUL! I took my dad here for his birthday and his celebration was nothing short of magical. I discovered this restaurant through a promotional deal with the Broadway Musical “Buena Vista Social Club” and let me tell you, having a meal here before seeing the show was wonderful. The atmosphere and staff was phenomenal. HUGE SHOUTOUT to Luz (our wonderful server!) She made us feel so welcomed and truly one of the best servers I have ever had in a restaurant. I will definitely be coming back here again and again. The food was so delicious and the deserts were great! I loved the Flan and the churros!
Sylvia Gonzalez
The food was good. It was authentic and flavorful. The theme was authentic to the culture. What wasn't so great? The tables were REALLY close to one another. The space was overcrowded. The service was ok. The waiters were very busy so we did not get much frequent attention. The food is good but reservations are a MUST. Portions are good too.
How to reach Havana Central Times Square
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Why Havana Central Times Square may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Havana Central Times Square with your friends?
When looking for the perfect spot to gather with friends, Havana Central Times Square stands out as a vibrant and unforgettable choice in the heart of New York City. This Cuban-themed restaurant offers a unique atmosphere that transports you to the colorful streets of 1950s Havana without ever leaving Times Square. The lively ambiance — fueled by authentic Cuban music and spirited decor — creates an ideal backdrop for socializing and celebrating. Whether you're looking to enjoy tasty Caribbean flavors or dance the night away to live music, Havana Central invites you to unwind and enjoy a vibrant meetup where the energy is contagious. Its central location makes it easy for groups coming from different parts of the city to convene, while the warm and inviting setup encourages relaxed, extended gatherings. With a strong community feeling and festive environment, it’s no surprise that so many choose Havana Central to rally their friends for memorable evenings, making it more than just a meal but a true social occasion.
What activities can you enjoy at Havana Central Times Square that make it ideal for group meetups?
Havana Central offers a variety of activities that go beyond just dining, making it perfect for groups wanting more than a typical meal. First and foremost, the restaurant features live Latin music that serves as both background vibe and event highlight, energizing the space with authentic Cuban rhythms and often encouraging guests to dance or sing along. This musical element is a major draw for groups who want an immersive cultural experience paired with their food and drinks. Beyond music, the venue often hosts special events, including celebrations for birthdays where guests can get fun perks like free dessert and festive accessories to mark the occasion. The atmosphere itself is designed to encourage mingling and social interaction, with ample seating that accommodates large parties as well as cozy spots for more intimate conversations. For those who appreciate a good drink, the bar offers a range of handmade cocktails and Cuban-inspired beverages, perfect for toasting with friends during happy hour specials. Collectively, these options create a multi-sensory event space where groups can eat, drink, listen, dance, and celebrate together in one place.
How does Havana Central’s food and drink selection enhance a group experience?
Food and drinks at Havana Central are crafted to complement the festive environment and bring authentic Cuban flavors to your table. The menu features classic dishes such as ropa vieja (shredded beef), mojo pork, and flavorful rice and bean combinations that are hearty, shareable, and perfect for family-style dining. Sharing plates encourage interaction and the sampling of different dishes, allowing groups to bond over a diverse culinary experience. Moreover, the drink menu shines with tropical cocktails like mojitos, daiquiris, and Cuba libre that are both refreshing and thematic, adding to the joyous mood of a night out. Happy hour specials make it more affordable to try a variety of beverages, keeping the energy high while you socialize. While some reviewers note occasional inconsistency in food quality, many guests highlight the generally authentic and delicious flavors that give the dining experience a genuine Cuban touch. The combination of well-prepared food and delicious drinks is essential in creating that perfect balance of casual fun and culinary delight, which makes Havana Central a prime spot for group dining and celebrations.
Why is Havana Central Times Square’s atmosphere ideal for celebrations and social meetups?
The core of Havana Central’s appeal for group outings lies in its unique atmosphere blending lively music, vintage Cuban decor, and an energetic crowd. This creates a captivating setting that allows visitors to momentarily escape the hustle of New York City and immerse themselves in an inviting and festive environment. The interior design, featuring 1950s Cuban motifs and warm lighting, adds a nostalgic charm that is both comfortable and exciting. The space is designed to accommodate different types of gatherings — from casual hangouts and cocktail evenings to birthday parties and larger social events. The presence of live music most nights adds an interactive dimension and naturally encourages people to engage more freely, whether by dancing or joining in sing-alongs. This atmosphere is often complimented by friendly service that, when at its best, helps groups feel well cared for and relaxed. Together, the ambiance and entertainment elements make Havana Central an excellent venue not just for food and drink, but for creating shared memories with friends and loved ones.
What logistical features make Havana Central Times Square a practical choice for group meetups?
Convenience and accessibility are critical when organizing group events, and Havana Central Times Square scores highly in this respect. Located right in Times Square, the restaurant is easily reachable by subway, bus, car, or on foot from many parts of Manhattan, making it especially suitable for attendees coming from different neighborhoods. The restaurant offers online reservations, which is invaluable for groups looking to secure a guaranteed spot without the stress of waiting in busy Times Square. Seating arrangements cater to groups of various sizes, ensuring comfort and the ability to interact freely without feeling crowded or isolated. For those who want to extend the celebration beyond the restaurant, Havana Central also provides catering services to bring Cuban flavors to private events outside of the venue, demonstrating flexibility for groups with different needs. Additionally, the restaurant’s dedicated happy hours provide budget-friendly options that can encourage longer stays and more relaxed gatherings. All these practical features combine to make Havana Central not only a fun and festive place to meet up but also a well-planned and manageable choice for group outings.
How do customer ratings and reviews reflect the group experience at Havana Central Times Square?
Havana Central Times Square enjoys a strong reputation, as reflected in its solid 4.4-star rating from more than 6,500 reviews, indicating a high level of customer satisfaction especially for atmosphere, music, and the overall vibe. Many reviewers commend the restaurant’s lively ambiance and highlight the live music and Cuban cocktails as key reasons to visit with friends. The praise often centers on the fun, social nature of the venue which suits celebrations and group meetups perfectly. Some critiques focus on service inconsistencies and occasional food quality issues, which can affect the experience but do not overwhelm the overwhelmingly positive feedback. The crowd here is frequently described as energetic but friendly, contributing to an environment where guests feel comfortable enjoying themselves in a group setting. Birthday celebrations, in particular, receive special mentions for their festive treatment and memorable experiences. This wide range of feedback underscores that while the restaurant may not be perfect, it consistently delivers a vibrant environment that fulfills the expectations of those seeking a social Cuban dining experience.
What makes Havana Central Times Square stand out compared to other Times Square restaurants for groups?
Times Square is home to countless dining options, but Havana Central distinguishes itself by offering a distinct cultural experience combined with a party-friendly atmosphere that many competitors lack. Unlike many generic chain restaurants, it delivers an immersive Cuban theme complete with authentic music, decor, and food, allowing groups to enjoy something different and exciting. The live music element adds a layer of entertainment that transforms a meal into a celebration. Its affordability relative to some upscale nearby venues and frequent happy hour specials make it economically accessible to a broad range of guests. Furthermore, Havana Central’s long-standing presence in the city and reputation for being a go-to spot for birthdays and special occasions has made it a trusted choice for locals and tourists alike. The ability to soak up Cuban culture in a central Manhattan location makes this restaurant a unique and appealing meetup spot where friends and family can create shared memories in an upbeat and welcoming environment.
This comprehensive approach highlights why Havana Central Times Square is a prime destination for group meetups, offering a mix of authentic Cuban culture, lively activities, delicious food, and a practical, fun venue that caters to social gatherings of all kinds.