TSM Verdict
The Verdict
Smokies Cuban Cafe is a casual Cuban eatery in Pigeon Forge known for its pressed Cuban sandwiches, classic roast pork plates, and tropical fruit shakes. The menu focuses on authentic Cuban mains and sides, making it a go-to for those craving traditional flavors in a relaxed setting.
Before You Drive
Check current hours
Public hours currently show Monday and Sunday closed. Verify before making a longer drive.
Last checked January 22, 2026
Worth it?
Yes, especially if you are near Pigeon Forge.
Best order
Cuban Sandwich, Roast Pork Sandwich, Croquette Sandwich, Ropa Vieja
Best time
Lunch or early dinner
Verify
Verify hours before driving.
Go For
- Cuban Sandwich
- Roast Pork Sandwich
- Ropa Vieja
- Lechon Asado
- Croquette Sandwich
Skip If
- You want a formal or upscale dining experience
- You're seeking extensive vegetarian or vegan options
- You prefer American comfort food over Cuban cuisine
Before You Go
Verify hours before driving.
Decision Guide
Decision Guide
Is it worth visiting?
It's a great choice for anyone interested in authentic Cuban sandwiches and classic Cuban entrées, especially if you're already in Pigeon Forge or nearby. The menu is best suited for those who enjoy traditional Latin flavors and casual dining.
Best first order?
Cuban Sandwich, Roast Pork Sandwich, Ropa Vieja, Lechon Asado, Croquette Sandwich
Worth driving from Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge?
If you're in Pigeon Forge, it's a convenient stop for Cuban food right on the Parkway; from Gatlinburg, it's a reasonable nearby meal option but not a destination restaurant worth a special trip.
Current concern?
Verify hours before driving.
Planner Snapshot
At a Glance
Location
Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
Cuisine
Cuban restaurant
Price
$
Best meal
Lunch or early dinner
Families
Confirm fit before going
Planning fit
Best as part of a Pigeon Forge stop
Hours warning
Public hours currently show Monday and Sunday closed. Verify before making a longer drive.
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
Looking for authentic Cuban food in the Smokies? Smokies Cuban Cafe brings the vibrant flavors of Havana to Pigeon Forge's bustling Parkway. This family-run Cuban restaurant stands out for its generous portions and wallet-friendly prices, making it a welcome alternative to the area's abundant barbecue and pancake houses.
The menu centers on Cuban classics done right - their ropa vieja features tender shredded beef in a rich tomato sauce, while the Cuban sandwich arrives perfectly pressed with layers of ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, and pickles. House-made croquetas offer a crispy start to any meal, and the black beans and rice complement every dish on the menu.
Morning visitors can kick-start their day with authentic Cuban coffee and fresh-baked pastries, including guava and cheese selections that regulars swear by. For lunch and dinner, the palomilla steak and twice-fried plantains (maduros) showcase the kitchen's attention to traditional preparation methods.
Despite its strip mall location, the restaurant's compact dining room fills quickly, especially during tourist season. The space is casual and straightforward, focusing on food quality over fancy decor. Families appreciate the kid-friendly options and portions large enough to share or take home for later.
First-timers should try the house-made tropical fruit shakes (batidos) and save room for the guava pastries. While the wait can stretch during peak hours, the fresh-made food and friendly service make Smokies Cuban Cafe worth seeking out when you're craving a taste of Cuba in Pigeon Forge.
Amenities & Features
- Genuinely authentic Cuban food that impresses even Miami natives and Florida transplants
- Outstanding Cuban sandwiches—described as the best some have had in years
- Excellent café con leche and traditional sides like tostones, yucca fries, and sweet plantains
- Warm, attentive service with a family-feel atmosphere from the owner and staff
Insider Tips for Smokies Cuban Cafe
Insider tips
Visitors most often point to Cuban Sandwich, Ropa Vieja, and Fresh Croquetas. 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.
Before you go
Plan around 30-60 minutes (longer if you're savoring multiple dishes and Cuban coffee) unless you are only stopping in briefly. Current price guidance on this page is $7-10 per person for entrees, $5 for breakfast items.
Menu Guide
What to Order at Smokies Cuban Cafe
Main
Cuban Sandwich
Ham, pork, mustard, pickles, and Swiss cheese pressed on Cuban bread; this is the restaurant’s signature sandwich and a frequent customer favorite.
Main
Roast Pork Sandwich
Cuban-style roasted pulled pork with grilled onions and mojo, served on Cuban bread for a classic, savory main.
Main
Croquette Sandwich
Ham, pork, mayonnaise, ketchup, Swiss cheese, and croquettes layered on Cuban bread, offering a unique twist on the traditional Cuban sandwich.
Main
Ropa Vieja
Shredded beef entrée served with rice, beans, and plantains, representing a staple of Cuban home cooking.
Main
Lechon Asado
Oven-roasted pork with mojo and grilled onions, served with rice, beans, and plantains for a classic Cuban plate.
Side
Yuca Frita / Yuca Fries
Fried yuca served as a side, sometimes accompanied by cilantro sauce depending on the menu source.
Side
Tostones / Green Plantains
Fried green plantains, a classic Cuban side often served with entrées.
Drink
Tropical Fruit Shakes
Mango, guava, mamey, or guanabana shakes; a notable drink option for a refreshing, tropical finish.
Best For
- Families looking for authentic ethnic cuisine
- Budget-conscious travelers wanting big portions
- Locals seeking a break from typical tourist food
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
- Portions are huge, so consider sharing or bringing a cooler for leftovers
Opening Hours
Best Times to Visit Smokies Cuban Cafe
Check the restaurant's current seating policy before weekend evenings; popular spots can have waits.
Tags
Traveler Questions
What are the hours for Smokies Cuban Cafe?
Public sources conflict on this listing's hours. Verify hours before driving.
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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