Duration
30-60 minutes (longer if you're savoring multiple dishes and Cuban coffee)
Price
$7-10 per person for entrees, $5 for breakfast items
Best For
Families looking for authentic ethnic cuisine • Budget-conscious travelers wanting big portions • Locals seeking a break from typical tourist food
Pro Tip
Order the Cuban sandwich with a side of fried plantains and ask for extra garlic sauce - it's not on the menu but they'll make it for you.
About Smokies Cuban Cafe
Smokies Cuban Cafe stands out as the premier destination for authentic Cuban cuisine in Pigeon Forge. This intimate family-operated restaurant on the Parkway delivers generous portions of ropa vieja, Cuban sandwiches, and crispy plantains at surprisingly affordable prices.
The restaurant's location in a strip mall makes it easy to miss, but the fresh-made croquetas and robust Cuban coffee quickly win over first-time visitors.
Portion sizes are notably large, with most diners taking home leftovers. The palomilla steak and black beans earn particular praise, and everything is prepared fresh each morning.
The compact dining room fills quickly during peak hours, so timing matters. While the atmosphere remains casual and unpretentious, the exceptional food quality compensates for any lack of ambiance.
Families appreciate kid-friendly options like the Cuban sandwich and yuca fries. The guava and cheese pastries make an excellent dessert choice for those with room to spare.
Amenities & Features
Don't Miss
Cuban Sandwich
Their signature sandwich is loaded with roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on pressed Cuban bread. The portions are generous throughout and the bread is perfectly crispy. It's what keeps us coming back every time.
Ropa Vieja
This traditional shredded beef dish is cooked to perfection with peppers and onions. It comes with a huge serving of black beans and rice that could be a meal by itself. The flavors are authentic and remind us of trips to Miami.
Fresh Croquetas
These crispy ham croquettes are made fresh every morning and are absolutely addictive. They're perfectly seasoned and have that satisfying crunch when you bite into them. Order extra - you'll want them.
Fried Plantains
Sweet, caramelized plantains that are crispy on the outside and tender inside. They're the ideal side dish or even dessert. Our kids always ask for seconds on these.
Cuban Coffee
Strong, authentic Cuban coffee that's way better than anything else on the Parkway. It's the real deal - thick, sweet, and exactly what you need after a big meal. Don't expect American-style coffee here.
Guava and Cheese Pastries
These flaky pastries filled with sweet guava paste and cream cheese are the ideal way to end your meal. They're made fresh and have that perfect balance of sweet and creamy that makes Cuban desserts so special.
Know Before You Go
- It's in a strip mall at 3526 Parkway - easy to miss while driving, so keep an eye out for the address
- Bring cash as backup since it's a small local business, though cards are accepted
- The dining room is tiny, so consider takeout during busy times
- Hours can change seasonally - call ahead to confirm they're open
- Portions are huge, so consider sharing or bringing a cooler for leftovers
Visitor Sentiment
Based on reviewsSmokies Cuban Cafe receives consistently positive feedback from visitors. Located in Pigeon Forge, it's a solid choice for the area.
Smokies Cuban Cafe Opening Hours
Best Times to Visit Smokies Cuban Cafe
For the best dining experience, consider making reservations for weekend evenings.
Tags
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours for Smokies Cuban Cafe?
They're typically open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 AM to 8 PM, closed Sundays and Mondays. Hours can vary seasonally, so we always recommend calling (865) 365-1700 to confirm before heading over.
How much does Smokies Cuban Cafe cost?
Most entrees and sandwiches run $7-10, with breakfast items around $5. The portions are massive, so it's honestly one of the best values on the Parkway. Just heads up that drinks are a bit pricier compared to the food.
Do I need reservations for Smokies Cuban Cafe?
No reservations needed - it's casual counter service in a small cafe setting. Just show up, but be prepared to wait during busy lunch and dinner times since the dining room is pretty tiny.
How long should I spend at Smokies Cuban Cafe?
Plan on 30-60 minutes for most meals. It's quick service, but you'll want time to savor the food and maybe linger over that strong Cuban coffee.
Is Smokies Cuban Cafe good for kids?
Absolutely - families love it here. Kids go crazy for the Cuban sandwiches, yuca fries, and rice and beans. The casual atmosphere means you don't have to worry about them being too loud.
Is there parking at Smokies Cuban Cafe?
Yes, there's a shared parking lot for the strip center at 3526 Parkway. It's free parking, though it can get tight during peak tourist season.
Do they have vegetarian options?
Yes, they have several veggie-friendly dishes including sweet plantains, black beans and rice, and vegetarian empanadas. The guava and cheese pastries are also vegetarian.
Is the Cuban food actually authentic?
Definitely - this is the real deal. The family makes everything fresh each morning using traditional recipes, and you can taste the difference compared to typical tourist food.
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We use a weighted 10-point scoring system to evaluate the best places to visit and things to do in the Smokies.
Scoring is carefully evaluated based on reviews, social signals and expert assessments.
Smokies Cuban Cafe receives consistently positive feedback from visitors. Located in Pigeon Forge, it's a solid choice for the area.
Last Updated Dec 27, 2025
3526 Parkway #4 Pigeon Forge TN 37863
3526 Parkway #4 Pigeon Forge TN 37863
Pigeon Forge
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