The Gnarly Cuban- La Ventanita

Adorable hidden gem in college park. Fresh and unique food options. Great cafe con leche! The location feels a bit odd because you drive by warehouses and think “this can’t be right” but you see a doggie deli and pioneer coffee and feel like you discovered a little secret. Gnarly Cuban is a quick service window. There is no seating. Just order all your goodies and head to nearby Dartmouth or Albert Park for a lunch picnic! The empanadas have all the same great flavor or a sandwich, just easier to eat. They even have bottled cold coffee for your afternoon pick-me-up. I like the hot cafe con leche with my food then the cold bottle a couple hours later. Gnarly Cuban is my current fave meal-on-the-go

The absolute best cafecito (cold/hot) and empanadas in Florida, yes the entire state! Fresh, great flavors and always consistent. The lovely ladies there are genuinely passionate about their craft and offer amazing customer service! Poy Yo empanada with that garlic cilantro sauce! Good lord! **chefs kiss

First time at this place. Yes, the location is a bit hard to find, but once you discover this hidden treasure, you won't regret it. EVERYTHING was fantastic. The café con leche was exceptional and gave me a much-needed jolt of energy. The pastelito was absolutely delicious, and the mini Cuban empanada was gnarly (in the best way). Loved it. The cafecito reminded me of the tiny pocillo cups I grew up with in Puerto Rico. (Cuban and Puerto Rican cultures have so much in common....it felt like home.) The picadillo empanadas were my favorite....an absolute flavor bomb. So freaking good! The papa rellena rocked as well!. And that garlic cilantro sauce...chef's kiss. And last but definitely not least: the owners. They were amazing!. So friendly and clearly passionate about what they do, even while handling a long line of customers. That kind of vibe makes all the difference. I'll definitely be back when I'm in the area to try one of their bowls. I should've ordered one today, but didn't have time. Give them a chance. You won't regret it.

Today I stopped by The Gnarly Cuban in College Park, and wow, what an experience! The location was a little tricky to find at first, but once we got there, it was so worth it. This women-owned gem is perfect for a quick pick-up or a casual bite if you’re craving quality Cuban food. I ordered a cafecito with oat milk, and let me tell you… it was creamy, smooth, and absolutely delicious. That alone will have me coming back! The food was fresh and full of flavor, and you could really taste the love that goes into it. At the window, we were greeted by the owners themselves, both super sweet and clearly passionate about what they’ve built. It was such a pleasure chatting with them and seeing the care they put into every detail. Definitely looking forward to visiting again soon! ☕✨

I visited the Gnarly Cuban recently in September, and absolutely loved it! Amazing service, and the best cuban food in Orlando. The gnarly cuban empanada, ham croquetas, guava & cheese pastelitos and a cafecito are a must! We also tried the Cuba-rrito which honestly should be for 2 because its huge and stacked with mojo pork, diced plantains, Pico, white rice, black beans and garlic cilantro sauce...what else needs to be said! We live in South Florida, so I can't go as often as I would hope but definitely will be back as soon as I can! See you at the ventanita soon!