Every New Yorker knows that, if you’re looking for authentic Cuban food with a touch of history and class, there’s only one place to go: Victor’s Cafe.
Located a few blocks north of Rockefeller Center, Victor’s is loved by VIP visitors and locals alike. For a Miami transplant who discovered this Latino landmark back in the 2000s, I can attest that it’s as legit as it gets. I was skeptical but hungry. But, turns out, it was the real deal. And, now, almost two decades later, I found out that it’s one of the oldest restaurants in the city. With the food, the atmosphere, and the history, it’s no wonder Victor’s Café has stood the test of time. Do you know about Victor’s Cafe?
The Family Behind Victor’s Cafe
Victor’s Café was founded in 1963 by Victor Del Corral and his wife Eloina Ruiz de Ugarrio, Cuban immigrants who clearly knew what New Yorkers needed in their lives. Years later, it’s still family-run, with his daughter, Sonia Zaldivar, at the helm, keeping the dream alive.
“My parents wanted to offer a home away from home for Cuban immigrants and introduce the broader community to the unique tastes of Cuba,” Zaldivar tells Forbes.
“Since its inception in 1963, the restaurant has gone through three generations of family involvement. My father, Victor, and my mother laid the foundation with their hard work and dedication,” Zaldivar explains. “I … grew up at the restaurant … it was there I did my homework, had nightly dinners and played with my friends.”
She says he took over the reins in 1983, adding “some new ideas such as modernizing Cuban cuisine” while keeping “core traditions.” Today, her youngest daughter Monica runs restaurant day-to-day operations.
‘Jennifer Lopez Comes Here A Lot’
Walking into Victor’s feels like you’ve crashed a Havana supper club circa 1957, complete with the colorful artwork, elegant décor, and live music on select nights. It’s the kind of place where you half expect to see Desi Arnaz waltz in with a conga drum. Actually, there are many celebrity sightings over the years, including some of the biggest names in Latin America.
“Pitbull comes here a lot,” Zaldivar tells Our Town NY. “He is the most humble person; he loves sitting in the bar area. … Jennifer Lopez comes here a lot. She loves our chicken. Gloria Estefan, Billy Murray, Mike Tyson, Roberto Durán. Barbara Walters, she was one of my favorites.”
From the Ropa Vieja to Flan
Let’s talk food. Victor’s menu is a greatest hits album of Cuban cuisine. First, you’ve got ropa vieja, which is the island’s famous shredded beef stewed with the Cuban sofrito and tomato sauce. Then there’s lechón asado, aka slow-roasted pork that’s usually served at a Nochebuena feast. Add a side of Moros y Cristianos (black beans and rice) or yuca con mojo for a traditional plate rarely found in these parts.
RELATED POST: Who Really Invented the Caja China?
In a city where restaurants have a short lifespan, Victor’s Café just celebrated its 60 year anniversary. How? By staying true to its roots while evolving just enough to keep things fresh.
So,next time you’re near Midtown and craving something extraordinary, you know where to go. Victor’s Café is waiting to welcome you with open arms, live music, and the best Cuban food this side of South Florida. Just save room for the flan. It’s chef’s besito. Muah!
