Discover Spartanburg’s Caribbean & Latin American Culinary Treasures
By: Sasha Reyes
Special to OneSpartanburg, Inc.
Spice Up Your Palate!
Spartanburg County is no longer just known for its scenic charm and vibrant local culture, it’s rapidly becoming a culinary destination for lovers of Caribbean and Latin American food. Each establishment offers authentic flavors and cultural flair to the Upstate.
Roll-In Cuban Shack: From Wheels to Walls
Once a nimble food truck cruising the streets of Spartanburg, Roll-In Cuban Shack is now delighting diners in Cedar Springs with its dedicated brick-and-mortar presence. The menu is a love letter to Cuban heritage: imagine Cuban-style slow-roasted pork paired with perfectly seasoned Moro rice, complemented by the sweetness of tender plantains, a sprinkle of mixed cheeses, and a luscious avocado sauce—all generously wrapped in a warm, large flour tortilla. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration of traditional Cuban flavors reimagined for a modern audience.
El Chinchorro Puerto Rican Buffet: A Fusion of Flavors
Step into El Chinchorro Puerto Rican Buffet and you’re immediately greeted by an inviting café atmosphere that promises a culinary escape to the Caribbean. Here, time-honored Puerto Rican recipes are given new life, intertwined with Caribbean influences to create a robust fusion that resonates with tradition and innovation. Particularly famous for serving what many say is the best Caribbean-style roasted pork in the Upstate, this hotspot is a must-visit for anyone eager to sample authentic island magic.
Havana Bread Club: A Bite of Cuban Culture
At Havana Bread Club, every bite tells a story of Cuba’s rich culinary history. The café-style establishment is famed for its irresistible guava pastries, savory beef and chicken empanadas, and crispy ham croquettes. Traditional Cuban pressed sandwiches, bursting with a medley of flavors. And for coffee aficionados? The bold colada and creamy café con leche are as much a treat for the senses as they are an homage to Cuba’s passionate café culture.
Mama Juana Latin Food: A Fusion Feast
Mama Juana Latin Food takes you on a culinary tour of South and Central America, blending the best flavors from these diverse regions into one unforgettable menu. Savor the comforting notes of Spanish fried rice, where your choice of chicken, steak, or shrimp is elevated by a vegetable sofrito and topped with a perfectly fried egg. Dive into a traditional Costa Rican plate of Chifrijo—featuring diced, deep-fried pork belly alongside rice, beans, pico de gallo, avocado, and a squeeze of lime. And don’t miss the Venezuelan Cachapa: a tender corn cake lovingly filled with your choice of shredded beef, chicken, or pork belly.
Rosa’s BBQ: Caribbean Barbecue at Its Best
If it’s smoky, savory, and satisfying you’re after, Rosa’s BBQ is the place to be. Marrying Puerto Rican-inspired cuisine with all the flavor of a traditional island barbecue, this eatery lets you customize your feast—whether you opt for grilled pork, beef ribs, pork chops, or a half chicken. Relish classics like Arroz con Gandules (Puerto Rican-style rice and peas), paired with crispy yuca fries, sweet maduros (fried plantains), or an innovative vegetable stir fry. Each element is thoughtfully prepared to ensure that every visit feels like a backyard celebration.
Sabor Latino: A Colorful Colombian & Honduran Affair
For those craving a truly authentic dining experience, Sabor Latino is a vibrant celebration of Colombian and Honduran flavors. The restaurant’s ambiance is as festive as its menu, offering traditional dishes with local spices and ingredients. Round off your meal with delectable desserts and a drink or two that reflect the true spirit of South America. Experience the celebration of flavor yourself by visiting Sabor Latino.
La Cantina Tequila Bar & Kitchen
Step into La Cantina Tequila Bar & Kitchen, where a state-of-the-art dining space is brought to life by breathtaking artwork covering every inch of the building, innovative cocktails that sparkle with flavor, and exhilarating live music on the weekends. Savor their unbeatable Birria Tacos, and experience a vibrant fusion of art, music, and mouthwatering cuisine that promises a truly unforgettable night out.
Kingston Homestyle Kitchen: Island Flavors on the Go
Kingston Homestyle Kitchen brings the soul of Caribbean home cooking to Spartanburg in a truly mobile fashion. Operating both as a restaurant and a food truck, they deliver authentic island dishes like brown stew chicken, oxtail, and jerk chicken directly to your neighborhood. Complement your meal with traditional Jamaican sodas. Kingston Homestyle Kitchen is a celebration of Island heritage, find their food truck along Spartanburg or Cherokee County routes.
