Havana Central Times Square: Cuban Vibes, Mojitos & Music in Midtown
Store Overview
Located at 151 W 46th St, New York, NY 10036 (📞 212-398-7440), Havana Central Times Square is a Cuban restaurant that doubles as an immersive experience. The space is designed to transport guests back to 1950s Havana, with bright retro décor, Latin music, and a festive energy that fits perfectly in the Times Square district.
Its neon signage, rum bar, and large dining area make it a standout among the crowded restaurant scene. The crowd here is just as eclectic as Times Square itself—Broadway theatergoers, tourists, Midtown office groups, and families all find a place here. Havana Central is active online via havanacentral.com, Resy, and delivery platforms, and its social media presence (@havanacentral) keeps customers engaged with event promotions and colorful food photos.
Menu & Services
Havana Central’s menu is unapologetically hearty, showcasing classic Cuban comfort food and cocktails. Favorites include:
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Cuban Sandwich – Pressed, melty, and one of the restaurant’s signatures.
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Vaca Frita ($27.95) – Crispy shredded beef with rice and beans.
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Churrasco a la Parrilla ($29.95+) – Grilled skirt steak with chimichurri.
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Paella & Arroz con Camarones ($19.95+) – Rich, shareable rice dishes.
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Empanadas & Tostones – Popular starters for groups.
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Piña Colada ($11) and Classic Mojito – Drinks are fresh and photogenic, though some say a bit small.
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Tres Leches Cake & Flan de Coco – Classic Latin desserts to finish the meal.
Services extend beyond dining: Havana Central offers weekday lunch specials, happy hour, live Latin music, catering, party rooms, and outdoor seating.
Review Summary
Customer Feedback (Balanced):
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Positive: Guests love the authentic flavors, vibrant atmosphere, and live music. Service is praised as welcoming, and it’s considered a great spot for groups.
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Negative: Some reviews note small drink sizes, loud ambiance, and prices that feel a touch high—though not surprising for Times Square.
Human Commentary:
This balance is classic Times Square dining: you’re paying a premium for location, atmosphere, and entertainment. Still, Havana Central does more than just fill the tourist gap—it provides a lively, culturally immersive dining experience that feels fun, social, and memorable.
Location & Accessibility
Havana Central sits at the heart of Midtown, steps from Times Square and major Broadway theaters. Transit access includes the N/Q/R/W, 1/2/3, A/C/E, and 7 trains at 42nd Street–Times Square.
Nearby landmarks that fuel business:
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Broadway Theaters – Perfect for pre-show dinners and post-show cocktails.
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Times Square – A constant stream of tourists ensures high visibility.
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Bryant Park – Adds weekday lunch and happy hour crowds.
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Rockefeller Center – Brings in family tourists who seek group dining.
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Radio City Music Hall – Concert-goers looking for a festive meal nearby.
With seating capacity, live music, and large portions, Havana Central is uniquely positioned for groups, celebrations, and events—something many Midtown restaurants struggle to accommodate.
Genius Marketing Analysis
GI (Genius Insight): Havana Central offers more than food—it delivers a Cuban cultural escape in the middle of NYC. For tourists and locals, it feels like a mini-vacation without leaving Midtown.
MDA (Marketing Action): They could expand their event-driven promotions (Broadway partnerships, Latin music nights, cocktail-making classes) to deepen their brand as both a restaurant and entertainment destination.
Genius Ideas (10)
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Pre-Theater Prix-Fixe Menu – Streamlined 3-course meal for Broadway-goers.
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Mojito Masterclass – Cocktail-making events on slower weekday nights.
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Late-Night Salsa Nights – Music and dance after 9 PM to capture post-show energy.
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Tourist Family Bundles – Group meal deals with paella, empanadas, and dessert.
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Latin Brunch – Weekend specials with Cuban coffee, huevos, and live music.
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Broadway Playbill Discount – Show your ticket, get a free appetizer.
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Corporate Party Packages – Market catering and private rooms for Midtown companies.
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Social Media Fiesta Contest – Guests post Havana-themed pics with #HavanaCentralNYC.
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Holiday Tie-Ins – Special menus for Cuban holidays and NYC cultural festivals.
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Times Square Performer Happy Hour – Discounts for Broadway performers, encouraging word-of-mouth.
Conclusion
Havana Central Times Square isn’t just dinner—it’s a celebration of Cuban culture in the middle of New York’s busiest district. With live music, colorful décor, and food that feeds both stomach and spirit, it thrives as a gathering spot for tourists, theater fans, and locals alike. It’s proof that in Midtown, restaurants succeed not just by serving meals, but by delivering memorable experiences that reflect NYC’s global heartbeat.
Q & A
Q: What are Havana Central’s hours?
A: Open 11:30 AM – 10 PM (Sun–Fri), 11:30 AM – 11 PM (Sat).
Q: What’s the price range?
A: $$ – around $20–35 per entrée.
Q: Do they take reservations?
A: Yes, via havanacentral.com, Resy, OpenTable, and Tripleseat.
Q: What’s the most popular dish?
A: The Cuban Sandwich, Vaca Frita, and Mojitos are staples.
Q: Is it good for groups?
A: Yes, with large seating areas, party rooms, and family-style platters.
