Find Authentic Cuban Dishes And Crispy Yuca Fries At This Orlando Deli

When it comes to authentic Cuban cuisine, Black Bean Deli stands out as an Orlando institution.

Housed in a renovated 1950s gas station on Colonial Drive, this charming eatery has become a go-to spot for anyone seeking genuine Cuban flavors.

With its perfect combination of traditional recipes, friendly service, and affordable prices, it’s no wonder this place has earned a loyal following for their perfectly seasoned black beans, crispy yuca fries, and authentic Cuban sandwiches.

Menu Highlights

The Cuban Sandwich: This is a true standout that lives up to its reputation.

Perfectly pressed with the ideal ratio of ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, this sandwich delivers authentic Cuban flavors in every bite. Probably one of the best lunch deals you’ll find in the area.

Havana Pork Plate: This generous plate comes loaded with juicy pulled pork, perfectly seasoned black beans, rice, and a side salad of fresh tomatoes, lettuce, and cucumber.

The slightly charred sweet maduros (plantains) add the perfect finishing touch to this hearty meal.

Cuban Bowls: These bowls combine all the best flavors of Cuban cuisine into one convenient dish.

Empanadas: Available in several varieties including picadillo (seasoned ground beef) and a vegan option that’s so delicious many mistake it for meat.

These pockets of perfection make for the ideal grab-and-go meal or quick snack.

Yuca Fries: Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and served with a complementary sauce that greatly enhances their flavor.

If you give these a try then you might consider them to be the best yuca fries they’ve ever tried.

Black Beans: These beans are the restaurant’s namesake for good reason.

Seasoned to perfection with authentic Cuban spices, these might be the best black beans in Orlando. They accompany most plates and add rich, savory flavor to every meal.

Sweet Treats: Don’t miss their homemade Cuban pastries!

The quesitos (cheese pastries), tres leches cake, and guava and cheese pastelitos provide the perfect sweet ending to your meal.

Atmosphere & Décor

New York Vibes: The space has a distinctive café/bistro feel reminiscent of establishments you might find in NYC. Very authentic.

Converted Gas Station: The restaurant’s history as a vintage ’50s gas station adds character to the space, with thoughtful renovation that preserves the building’s charm while creating a comfortable dining environment.

Seating Options: Both indoor and outdoor seating is available here, making it suitable for different preferences and weather conditions.

Clean and Inviting: The interior feels clean and appealing with décor that really fits the dining experience.

Pricing & Value

Affordable Quality: Most sandwiches run around $10 (give or take) and while some come solo, the quality and size make them worth every penny.

Generous Portions: The plates and bowls, typically priced around $18, offer tremendous value with multiple components and enough food to satisfy even the heartiest appetites.

Daily Specials: Keep an eye out for their rotating specials, which often provide excellent value and a chance to try unique dishes not always available on the regular menu.

Coffee Value: Their café con leche comes in surprisingly generous portions, perfect for getting your caffeine fix alongside your meal without breaking the bank.

Other Considerations

Peak Hours: The restaurant can get quite busy during peak lunch hours, so consider visiting during off-times if you’re in a hurry or want a more relaxed experience.

Parking Challenges: Located on a busy corner of Colonial Drive, parking can be somewhat limited. You might need to circle the block or park a short distance away during busy periods.

Ordering System: Black Bean Deli operates with a “order at the front” casual style system. This makes it better for a quick lunch while still maintaining quality that rivals sit-down restaurants.

Coffee Customization: Their Cuban coffee comes sweetened by default, so be sure to specify if you prefer yours without sugar or with a custom amount.

Vegetarian Options: Despite being known for Cuban cuisine (which often features meat), the Black Bean Deli does offer excellent vegetarian and even vegan options. These include vegan empanadas and a vegetarian plate with three different beans.

Take-Out Friendly: Whether you’re grabbing an empanada on the go or ordering a full meal for takeout, their food travels well and it tastes great wherever you eat it.

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Black Bean Deli
📍 1835 E Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL 32803
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