Cafe Central

4.5 ( 888 reviews )
Checking... 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM See Hours
$10–20
1437 W Chicago Ave #1, Chicago, IL 60642, United States
+1 312-243-6776
Cafe Central, a charming Puerto Rican restaurant located at 1437 W Chicago Ave, has captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike. The reviews reflect an overwhelming appreciation for its authentic offerings and warm ambiance. Patrons rave about the iconic Jibarito, a flavorful sandwich served on green plantains, which has become a local favorite. Guests like LaRissa Connett recommend pairing it with the yellow rice and pigeon peas, topped off with a guava cream cheese empanada for dessert. Irina Ciubotaru praises the attentive service and the fabulous flan, while Gabrielle likens the experience to a cozy embrace, highlighting the friendly staff's eagerness to assist diners in navigating the menu. Henry Miller, a longtime customer, emphasizes the restaurant's commitment to freshness and variety with regularly rotating specials. The decor, reminiscent of classic Puerto Rican culture, adds an inviting charm that enhances the dining experience. Rosalinda Arias sums it up perfectly—Cafe Central offers delicious, authentic food served with impressive speed and a welcoming smile. If you're searching for genuine Puerto Rican flavors in a friendly atmosphere, Cafe Central is undoubtedly a must-visit gem in Chicago.

Amenities and More

  • Accessibility
    • Has wheelchair-accessible seating
    • No wheelchair-accessible entrance
  • Service options
    • Offers takeaway
    • Serves dine-in
    • No delivery
  • Highlights
    • Has fast service
    • Serves great coffee
  • Popular for
    • Popular for breakfast
    • Popular for lunch
    • Popular for dinner
    • Good for solo dining
  • Offerings
    • Serves coffee
    • Serves comfort food
    • Serves food
    • Quick bite
    • Serves small plates
    • Serves vegan dishes
    • Serves vegetarian dishes
  • Dining options
    • Serves breakfast
    • Serves lunch
    • Serves dinner
    • Has catering
    • Has counter service
    • Serves dessert
    • Has seating
  • Amenities
    • Has toilet
  • Atmosphere
    • Casual
    • Cosy
    • Historic
    • Trendy
  • Crowd
    • Family friendly
    • Good for groups
    • LGBTQ+ friendly
    • Popular with tourists
    • Transgender safe space
  • Planning
    • Doesn't accept reservations
  • Payments
    • Accepts credit cards
    • Accepts debit cards
    • Accepts NFC mobile payments
    • Credit cards
  • Children
    • Good for kids
    • Has changing table(s)
    • High chairs available
  • Parking
    • Free of charge street parking
    • Paid street parking
    • Plenty of parking

Reviews For Cafe Central

LaRissa Connett
May 31,2025
A must-visit place to grab a Chicago Jibarito. While you’re at it, get a side of yellow rice with pigeon peas and the guava cream cheese empanada for a sweet treat
Irina Ciubotaru
May 7,2025
Delicious food and very attentive staff. Mari was fantastic! My new favourite for Jibaritos and flan. Very good prices as well.
Gabrielle
Apr 8,2025
Soooooo glad I stopped by Cafe Central for lunch today The service is incredible! Everyone is super friendly and helpful if you have any questions about the menu. Eating here feels like a big, warm hug. Really looking forward to trying other things on the menu
Henry Miller
Mar 22,2025
This family-owned gem serves delicious, authentic Puerto Rican food, with fresh dishes prepared daily and a rotating selection of specials and soups. I’ve been coming here for the past eight years, and it’s truly one of the best hidden treasures in the city. Sandra always provides outstanding service, making every visit feel special. The decor has a classic, old-school feel, with cozy booths and tables that add to the restaurant’s charm and authenticity. If you're looking for real Puerto Rican flavor and a welcoming atmosphere, I highly recommend this spot!
ROSALINDA ARIAS
Mar 19,2025
The food is so so good you’ll want to come back for more! HIGHLY RECOMMEND you visit this amazing authentic puerto-rican food! Fast service and friendly service.
Cecilia Labariega
Mar 14,2025
I'm not the most familiar with Puerto Rican Food but my significant other is Puerto Rican so she guided me on what to get. The parcha was delicious and my mixta plate with Guisado de res was so flavorful. I'm not a fan of Acapuria but to each their own. I ordered an Asoupa - it needed a bit more salt. I liked that I got to pick the protein and that it came with tostones. I loved that the waitress offered to give me something spicy. It definitely made my meal perfect. I will be going back to try the jibarito.
Amanda Marshall
Feb 14,2025
The chicken soup took me back to my Puerto Rican childhood! Tostones were perfect. Everything was delicious. Amazing cafe con leche. I will totally be back. Very authentic for the Puerto Rican flavors I grew up on. Staff was very friendly and attentive. Highly recommend!! 10/10
Amanda
Feb 10,2025
This is a really good place to have authentic Puerto Rican food. I go here all the time with some ladies from my job and the food is always so good. For my birthday they made it exceptionally special. I was offered a glass of wine and the owner even came out with a small tembleque with a candle and everyone sang Happy Birthday! They really made me feel special.

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