- Stopped in for lunch on a stormy Saturday right at opening time; we parked in the lot, which appears to be valet-only, though valet service hadn't started yet when we arrived - The restaurant is spacious with plenty of well-spaced seating; has a clean, comfortable atmosphere with warm lighting throughout; we especially loved being seated by the La Bodeguita del Medio wall art--it brought back so many great memories from our trip to Cuba! - Service was excellent: everyone was welcoming, friendly, and attentive throughout our meal, making us feel well taken care of from start to finish - The food was outstanding: portions are very generous; everything was fresh and flavorful--the meats were tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned, and the Caribbean Punch was strong, fruity, and incredibly refreshing - We'll definitely be back for dinner, as we can only imagine how lively and energetic the atmosphere is in the evening read more

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THE FOOD ---------------- + El Rumberito - Delicious sampler had a combination of different tapas - Ham Croquette, Corn Tamale, Beef Empanada, Corn Fritters, Crispy Pork Bites and a Beef Stuffed Potato Topped With Pickle Red Onions. Definitely a good way to try everything. + Poquito de Todo - The sampler of entrees here! Literally, a little bit of everything - roasted pork, shredded beef, steamed cassava with mojo, sliced avocado, one fried egg & fried sweet plantains - and it was alllll delicious. + Lechon Asado - The lechon was excellent! Some dry pieces here and there, but most of it was juicy and had oil slathered on it. There was a large piece of delicious, crispy skin on top and it came with 1 side. + Sandwich Cubano and Fries - Solid Cuban sammie. Bread was extra crispy and the sammie was well put together. THE SERVICE ------------------- + PHENOMENAL service! ++++ All of the busboys were on the tee with their timing of clearing plates. ++++ Our waiter was friendly, courteous and very professional. He remembered every request we had. ++++ Food arrived quickly and fresh. THE SURROUNDINGS ------------------------------- + Big restaurant with plenty of tables and seats. + Simply, but nicely decorated inside. + Private parking lot outside and it's valet, however, if you arrive at opening, you can park in the lot before the valet arrives. There are street parking spots available too. + Restaurant is located right off of NJ-21. RANDOM OBSERVATIONS -------------------------------------- = Arrived right at opening on a rainy, summer Saturday morning at 11:30 AM and, of course, we were the first customers inside. We stayed till about 1 PM and there were about only 6-7 tables occupied during our time there, however pretty sure evenings are a wholeeee different story (and much livelier). read more

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A group of us came here on a Sunday for lunch for my mother-in-law's birthday. Drinks were fabulous. The spinach empanada app was great. Skirt steak was great !service was top-notch. We were able to park right in front of the restaurant with kids and it was very kid friendly because it was loud. we really enjoyed ourselves. I would definitely come back. read more

Rumba Cubana - Patrona puebla - Cuban Near Me - Clifton, New Jersey

I honestly need way more than just five stars ... Made a reservation for 5pm . Showed up at 4:25 , waited about 5 minutes and they accommodated us right the way . ( place was packed and busy ) . Service is definitely a 10 out of 10 from the minute with walk in the door . Beautiful decor , friendly and welcoming hostess . We were seated and right the way a gentleman named Mathias came to serve us , what an amazing personality , friendly , knowledgeable of the menu , efficient.. I can just keep on going . We were also helped by a lady named Jenny whom I found out later is the manager of the place . She even got me a special hook/stand to hang my pocketbook instead of leaving on the floor . The food was ordered and served within 30 minutes , to cooked to perfection. We had the Chuleta / pina . Pork chops with pineapple and caramelized onions , pollo rumbero - chicken with prosciutto and cheese in a white sauce , and boiled yucca . Food was spectacular, complements to the chef , table was always clean and service was beyond outstanding from beginning to end . Team work , great atmosphere, great food . Can't ask for anything better !!! Oh, and the was a drink called el guayabero , made from guava poured and rum that is to die for ... If you're in the area I would definitely recommend this amazing experience . Thank you Mathias , Jenny and the rumba Cubana staff for making it a great night .. read more

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Tasty, friendly, and really hope to return! I had shrimp mofongo (so so, so good!), and sweet plantains. My husband had mariscada which he loved. His meal included black beans and rice which I tasted (best black beans and rice I've had at a Cuban restaurant everrrr). I also had 2 drinks (mango margarita and their gin drink, called "Sol de Verano", both were good - the mango margarita was best imo). My husband had the "Negroni Tiene Tumbao" which he enjoyed a lot too). While there was some raised noise level in the restaurant it wasn't unpleasant and we could still talk comfortably during our meal. Our meal, with 3 drinks was about $100. Well worth it. read more

Very cool place inside Very festive a little loud but not to bad Food was delicious and very fresh Staff was very attentive Our waiter was great to start but kind of disappeared in the middle Over all a great spot read more

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Good dinner spot - honestly can't go wrong with coming here. Service is always friendly, they have limited parking but I believe it can be valet depending on the day. I liked how their guac had chunks of mangos & they used plantain chips. We got their version of yuca fries - wasn't too much of a fan since the fries were really thick. read more

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Nice spot! I will say the service is on point and the food is very good and fairly priced. The ambiance is nice and versatile - whether you want a family night or date night Rumba works! I've ordered a number of items off their menu and I can't say I've had anything that wasn't flavorful! One thing I will say is that if the locals of the culture come here then they are doing something right so I do recommend Rumba Cumbaba to everyone! read more

Rumba Cubana - Arroz Campesino - Cuban Near Me - Clifton, New Jersey

Came here with my daughter yesterday after a day of shopping. We had an absolutely fantastic meal. I truly enjoyed the fish, which was prepared with garlic and white wine. I had the most amazing salad with avocado as well. We often go to the Jersey City location, but this place was great and service was excellent. We didn't stay for dessert or coffee because we were already over full. My daughter wanted taking half her meal home with her. So glad we stopped in. read more

Rumba Cubana - Ham croquetas - Cuban Near Me - Clifton, New Jersey

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Disgraceful! I was sick on Mother's Day 2026 so we decided to call Rumba Cubana in Clifton and placed an order for a pick up. We went home, ate and saved the left overs. The next day we heated up the left overs for lunch. As I was eating, I saw something strange on my plate. I wasn't sure what is was. I placed it on a napkin and my husband dissected it with 2 toothpicks. I couldn't believe there was a strand of a thick steel scrubbing pad in my beans. We took pictures of it and then tossed the food in the trash. We immediately called Rumba and spoke with Jenny, the manager. She apologized, texted me, and requested pictures of the food. I sent her the pictures via text and to my disbelief, I never heard from her again. It has been 11 days and she completely disregarded me and my family. What a disgrace! She did not even have the decency to offer a refund or anything. My husband and I have been loyal patrons of Rumba since 2019. We have celebrated numerous birthdays, holidays, and anniversaries in their establishments. We definitely do not feel like valued customers after this experience. Thank God that my six year old daughter, my husband, nor I did not ingest this piece of steel scrubbing pad. Having done so could have lead to serious/fatal consequences. The fact that Jenny did not take this issue seriously is disheartening. Finding a steel strand in your food is a major health hazard not to be ignored. It's a shame! We feel extremely disappointed and will not be returning. I certainly do NOT recommend Rumba in Clifton. read more

Rumba Cubana - Cuban Near Me - Clifton, New Jersey

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The food was terrific, as was the service. The restaurant itself was very friendly and spacious. I got the bistec salteado, and it was cooked perfectly. Definitely recommend. read more

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The mogongo is not the best. It's hard, dry and no garlic. Ropa vieja is okay I love you

Solid food. Never disappoints! They are always consistent whether you dine in or take food to go. We love their lunch specials, fair prices and great portions. The service is always fast and the staff is always kind. read more

Rumba Cubana - Cuban Near Me - Clifton, New Jersey

We went in a Friday night just before 6:00 and were lucky enough to get a table, by the time we left the dining room was almost full. Parking - valet of street Service - all the staff were friendly, accommodating and available if we needed anything. They had these cute little racks that they bring to your table for your purse or Jacket/ I've never seen one before. Drinks ~ very good. I had the blanco tequila drink with grapefruit and my husband had the Cuban equivalent of a Long Island iced tea. Dinner ~ the chicken Mofongo and Roos vieja were a good size portion and very good. They were able to accommodate my husband's shrimp allergy and served his ropa vieja with rice and beans because the mofongo is fried in the same oil as shellfish so he couldn't have that. We saved room to share the flan for dessert- very creamy! This was our first time and it satisfied our craving for Cuban food. read more

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3.75 Decided to stop in for some dinner and was seated right away. Started with the chicharroncitos de puerco and it was alright! The pieces that had the meat/fat were super tasty! Then we got the plate with everything which was good too! Great option to share. I personally loved the pork more and the rice! My fiancé loved the beef. Then we ended with the coco flan which was honestly the highlight of the entire meal! So so so tasty! read more

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Fantastic food and great staff. Very authentic and delicious. Enjoyed the ceviche, Cesar salad and the spicy margarita.

Rumba Cubana - Clifton, NJ Rumba Cubana in Clifton is always a vibe! The atmosphere is lively, festive, and full of energy--which I love. That said, the music can get a little loud for some, but for others (like me most days), it just adds to the fun and vibrant experience. Now let's talk food--consistently cooked to perfection! I have quite a few favorites I keep coming back for: the Ropa Vieja with extra onions and Maduros is a must, the Lanchita de Regla is packed with flavor and their empanadas are crispy, flavorful little bites of heaven. On a cozy day, nothing beats their chicken soup and their Cuban sandwich with extra cheese is just next-level. Honestly, you really can't go wrong with anything on the menu. Whether you're dining in with friends or grabbing takeout, Rumba delivers every single time. Highly recommend if you're looking for delicious Cuban food and a good time! read more

I'm no stranger to Rumba Cubana... I usually frequent the Guttenberg location, but I happened to be in the area and came to this one (Clifton). I wasn't surprised that the quality of food, service, and atmosphere were great! Glad to see there's consistency between different locations. My order... *Ropa Vieja (~$15) - A classic Cuban dish made with braised shredded beef, simmered with tomatoes, bell peppers, olives, and sherry wine. You can choose one side and I went with white rice and black beans. I inhaled the entire meal in a hot minute. IT WAS THAT GOOOOOOOOD. Tender beef, rich tomato sauce, perfectly cooked rice topped with salt + olive oil, meaty beans.... My tummy was happy. *Tostones Montaditos (~$10) - 6 fried & pressed green plantains topped with skirt steak with chimichurri. ORDER THIS if you love plantains. The tostones were crispy and paired well with the juicy steak. And the chimichurri sauce?! SO fresh! Probably one of the best I've tried. *Patron del Pueblo (~$13) - This was the cocktail of the month for October. It included patron silver, ancho reyes poblano, mango puree, lime juice, and ginger ale. It tasted more like passion fruit, which I absolutely love. It was on the sweeter side and it definitely could have had more alcohol. Tasty drink overall. There are so many things I have yet to try on the menu... I highly recommend Rumba Cubana if you want to satisfy your Cuban cravings. Delicious food, friendly service, and a lively atmosphere! read more

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This is so yummy, and I also love the atmosphere. Service is speedy and friendly. I will definitely come back read more

Rumba Cubana - Cuban bowl - Cuban Near Me - Clifton, New Jersey

Being Cuban and accustomed to eating home made Cuban food a couple of times a week, I will say that their food here is very good. I was with a party of 5 and we were all pleased with our meals. The restaurant is very authentic in its decoration. The staff is friendly and the service efficient. read more

This was my first time at the Clifton Rumba and it was a pleasant visit. The restaurant has a beautiful exterior decor and plenty of parking. Upon entering, you'll take in Cuban wall art, tropical decorations, dim, but comfortable lighting and a very attentive...and well dressed wait staff. I started with my favorite drink....the proverbial Mamey Shake. Once again, and in every Rumba Cubana, it was AMAZING. Our appetizer was El Rumberito (translates to the little rumba dancer. It included Ham Croquettes, Corn Tamale, Beef Empanada, Corn Fritters, Crispy Pork Bites and a Beef Stuffed Potato Topped With Pickled Red Onions served with Rumba's Homemade Hot Sauce). It was a good choice and allowed us to try a little bit of everything. Our entrees were both DELICIOUS, perfectly seasoned, and the portions were filling. They were....Picadillo a la Cuba de Ayer (Cuban style ground beef, simmered with tomato, potatoes, spanish olives, raisins, peppers & onions) and Bistec de Pollo a la Plancha (Boneless chicken breast cutlet marinated in mojo sauce, and topped with grilled onions). I enjoyed all of what the Clifton Rumba Cubana offered and is highly recommended. read more

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This place was cool.. From the Cuban origin art work around the dining room walls;, to the lit up bar , n cool Cuban vibes in the seating area ., Took my son for his 20th bday dinner. We was not disappointed, got my beer in a chillled mason jar w box hile my son got the virgin pina colada .. for apps,we had empanadas and garlic shrimp which was fresh n full of flavor..nice!!! , service was awesome and waiter was always on point ,provided meal info and specials with grace ., We both enjoyed the skirt steak meal which was SLAMMING!!! Yummm .. I added shrimp and a side of fried yuca , n house salad... I recommend this place for dates, group gatherings, and/ or just plain dinner... ps., took an additional plate of skirt steak/rice n beans to go for the wife ;) .. bill $170.. read more

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Stopped by Rumba Cubana after work for some drinks and a quick bite with my GF. The place is spacious with a decent crowd for a Wednesday evening, and plenty of waiters on standby, giving a bit of a "security guard" vibe as they stood around, ready to assist at a moment's notice. Starting with drinks, I ordered the Caipirinha, which I've been fond of ever since trying it at Fogo de Chao. I opted for the passion fruit version, which was decent but not quite on the same level as the one I've had at Fogo. My girlfriend tried the Mula Cubana, their take on a Moscow Mule. It was tasty, though a bit too sweet, and I would've liked more ginger. Finally, I asked our waiter, Hollman, for a strong drink recommendation, and he suggested Papa's Mentirita, their version of a Cuba Libre. It was exactly what I was looking for--strong and flavorful, perfect to cap off my night without risking a hangover for work the next day. For appetizers, we started with the Calamares Rumberos, which were well-cooked and paired with a unique dipping sauce that really elevated the dish with its bold, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors. We also tried the Ceviche De Pescado Traditional. Unfortunately, this was a big letdown. The ceviche was overwhelmed by lime, to the point where it was hard to taste the fish or any other ingredients. We didn't even finish it and had it taken away. For the main course, my girlfriend ordered the Vaca Frita, which was served in a plantain bowl with shredded beef. The beef was delicious and flavorful and paired well with the fried crispy plantain. The dish overall was pretty good. We skipped dessert this time around, feeling satisfied after the meal. Our waiter, Hollman, was outstanding throughout the night. Very attentive and helpful with menu suggestions, and even took the ceviche off our bill without us asking when he noticed we didn't enjoy it. That gesture really elevated the service experience for us. One thing to note is the parking situation. The layout is a bit strange, with cars blocking each other in. I didn't want to risk getting blocked in, so I opted to park on the street. Overall, Rumba Cubana was a pleasant surprise. For the quality of service, food, and drinks, the price was more affordable than I expected, making it an excellent value. I could definitely see myself returning to try more menu items, and I would highly recommend the Clifton location, especially for the great service. read more

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Food and services are great my experience was very good and I am happy to recommend it to everyone

Went here for my grandmother's 90th birthday and our family loved it! They even sung happy birthday- although not in the traditional way that everyone's used to and I thought it was great. They even brought out the cake to us too. On to more of the good stuff though. The pricing was quite affordable despite us having around nine people. The food, delicious I might add, was also brought out to us quite fast and we didn't have to wait too long. The waiters were wonderful and friendly. Because it's a Cuban restaurant, i did my best to speak spanish. It is still a work in progress and im learning everyday but, the waiter, although bilingual like everyone else, was very patient when I spoke even though I probably sounded like a fool doing so haha! Loved the ambiance as well as it was quite relaxed. All in all, definitely check out this place! read more

Past this please many time while going home- NOT BAD! Great Cuban food- music- atmosphere is amazing... yuca fries yumm.... Piña colada addictive lol.... Ropa vieja- I have no words .... Mofongo de pollo ufff super...definitely come and try this Cuban restaurant. read more

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I love Rumba Cubana - like others I am worried that success and expansion may ruin a good thing, but for my first time here in probably 4 years and it is excellent. While the prices are still great, they've defintiely gone up over the past 5-6 years (but that's not their fault of course). But I thought the WNY and Guttenberg locations were such a great alternative while I was living in Hoboken and think the food is excellent. Favorites are all the cuban sandwiches, ropa vieja, empanada trio etc. read more

Rumba Cubana - Cuban Near Me - Clifton, New Jersey

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Ordered: El Vegetariano Llego - Vegetarian Sampler Platter (~$12): Combination Of Corn Fritters, Fried Cassava, Spinach Empanada, Sweet Plantain with Melted Mozzarella Cheese, And Green Plantains Served With Cilantro Aioli and Crema Fresca El Balserito - Seafood Sampler Platter (~$25): Shrimp, Calamari, Cod Croquettes, Fish Bites, Yuca Fries, Sweet Chili Sauce, Tartar Sauce, Cilantro Aioli. Your Choice of Ceviche: shrimp or fish (we chose fish) Vaca Frita (~$15): Famous Crispy Seared Shredded Flank Steak, Marinated in Rumba's Citrus Mojo, Garlic & Red Onions served with white rice and black beans Parrillada (~$55): combination platter of chicken, steak, shrimp, pork, and sausage served with 3 sides (white rice, black beans, fried plantains) Aya's take: This meal was absolutely delicious and surprisingly affordable! We started off with the El Vegetariano Llego & El Balserito. Both were great for sharing; I still think about those corn fritters and all the seafood was extremely fresh and nicely fried. The Vaca Frita was definitely a highlight. The beef is thinly sliced, tender yet crispy, and pairs nicely with the plantains. Their white rice and beans are also very aromatic. The Parrillada is good for sharing especially if you're indecisive as it has all the proteins you could want. The flavors are pretty basic for this dish. Overall, great experience; I'd definitely go back! read more

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Very good food! I just got the shrimp bowl with black beans, rice, plantains, and avocado, which was very tasty. I brought my baby and my friend brought her 4 year old. If you are bringing kids, be mindful that they play the bongos when someone has a birthday dessert and it can be pretty loud. That may seem like it's few and far between but in 2 hours of being there, the bongo happy birthday happened 6 times read more

Terrible portions and price. Look at the pic... all rice and next to no ropa vieja. Maybe they thought it was a kids order. What a joke. Never again. read more

Rumba Cubana - Ropa Vieja de Carne Shredded Beef - Cuban Near Me - Clifton, New Jersey

We celebrated my daughter's graduation dinner at Rumba Cubana in Clifton on January 13, 2026, with a party of 25, and I cannot say enough good things about this restaurant. From start to finish, the staff and manager were absolutely phenomenal. The service was attentive, organized, and warm, especially impressive given the size of our group. The food was delicious and came out timely for everyone, which made the evening run smoothly and enjoyably. What truly set this experience apart was when our daughter's graduation cake unfortunately fell and was ruined. Without hesitation, the manager went out personally and purchased a replacement cake for her. That level of kindness, professionalism, and genuine care is rare and deeply appreciated. To top it all off, the bill for 25 people was very affordable, making the night even more enjoyable and stress-free. Rumba Cubana turned what could have been a disappointing moment into a truly memorable celebration. Exceptional service, great food, and outstanding management -- we will absolutely be back and highly recommend this restaurant for special occasions. read more

I came here on a Tuesday night with my family for my birthday dinner and had an excellent experience. We made reservations for 11 and they sat us down 5 minutes after we walked in. Staff was friendly upon entering welcoming us with a friendly smile. Our waiter was quick to tend to us and offer us drinks as we waited for the other 5 guests to arrive . Food was very tasty. I had the Un Poquito de Todo which was recommended by the waiter and I'm glad I did . The plate was filling I even got to take some home . My family also mentioned their food was also very tasty. My mother was a bit unhappy with her order of fish as she mentioned she wished it had been fried versus grilled which was just a preference issue nothing again the meal. I love coming hear because each time I come it's such a good ambiance. There's good music playing and usually by the end of the night every table is filled! PS: if it's your birthday get ready to get startled with the happy bday song in a good way! Love the energy! Can't wait to come back. read more

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Rumba cubana Clifton has everything you need all in one place. Good Food, Good Drinks , and great service. I typically visit at least once a week and always sit at the bar with my family. Every time we receive the food everything tastes like it's truly made with love. Nicole, Ana , and Holman do an outstanding job at making us feel welcomed every time we come around. read more

Very fun place for lunch or dinner. Nothing great food wise but worth the try for sure. They have an old car parked outside which is cold for the car heads and kids. We love the margaritas with the corona floater. Definitely will be back. read more

Hollman and Anna the bartenders - were absolutely great. The drinks were amazing and I will return a million times I had the seafood special today. Thank you read more

Great place to have a good meal ambiance is beautiful, but a bit to loud for me. Service is great the place it's also beautiful and is not pricey at all. read more

Was seated promptly without a reservation needed around 5pm on a Monday. Ordered the chorizo app, red snapper with maduros, black beans and white rice. The chorizo is prepared differently with huge chunks of chorizo rather than diced in smaller bits with the veggies. Got charged extra for asking for onions on top of the fish and for sauce. A little ridiculous when I found out on the receipt and wasn't told when I ordered. I'm a frequent customer and never got charged these minute things. My red snapper and sides lacked a lot of seasoning and needed to request for hot sauce regardless. For drinks, I ordered the virgin pina colada which was good and remained consistent like I remember. Waiter provided very slow service and we had to ask for water to be brought to our table mid-meal. Getting the check and to-go boxes was also a hassle. Not my typical experience. I hope they can do better quality control with the food that's brought out, remain consistent on pricing, and try better with the in dining service! read more

I find that the food was very delicious. The service was exemplary and the decor was to die for. I would recommend anyone and everyone to come visit this fine establishment! read more

As a business owner myself, I was shocked by the behavior I experienced at Rumba Cubana Clifton. I would never allow my staff to treat a customer--or anyone--this way. I came in excited to enjoy a meal with my partner after hearing great things. And while the food was good, the experience was absolutely humiliating. Staff members, assuming I didn't understand Spanish, made cruel comments about my body and even questioned why my partner would be with someone like me. To make matters worse, nearby guests heard them and laughed. I've never felt more embarrassed. People don't know what others are going through or why they may be in a certain place physically or emotionally. We stayed because our food had already arrived, but I will never return. Respect and basic human decency should never be optional in customer service. I truly hope management takes accountability and addresses the toxic, disrespectful environment they're fostering. read more

The food is the most authentic Cuban food you can get without having it homemade. Reasonable rates good drinks from the bar. The waiters are extremely friendly and you'll find out with all the staff. We try to get there at least twice a month if not more because we feel that we're at home and the food is so good read more

Rumba Cubana - Ropa vieja my favorite - Cuban Near Me - Clifton, New Jersey