Welcome to La Bamba Cuisine
La Bamba Cuisine, located in Cortland, NY, offers an authentic taste of Puerto Rican cuisine that delights locals and travelers alike. With a focus on quality ingredients and expert preparation, this cozy spot is renowned for its flavorful dishes, including the beloved tostones, slow-roasted pork, and homemade hot sauce praised for its fiery kick. The warm husband-wife team creates an inviting atmosphere, making each visit a memorable experience. Cleanliness and attention to detail add charm to this hidden gem, making it a must-stop for anyone craving comforting Caribbean flavors. Whether dining in or on the go, flavor and hospitality shine at La Bamba.
La Bamba Cuisine: Reviews & Ratings
Oh my god this was incredible. Straight food coma. Make sure to get their homemade HOT sauce. It's literal fire. Food was cooked to perfection. It's 2 seconds off the hwy so make sure to stop on your way somewhere.
Cannot RECOMMEND strongly enough. Occasionally, we bump into a surprisingly wonderful dining experience. La Bamba was one of those that provided a delicious break from a long highway drive that left us sated and happy. The food preparation is top-notch, among the best pulled pork and perfectly prepared plaintain. The husband-wife team are warm, engaging, smiling, and, well, cute to watch interacting. And, for a quick stop (fast casual), about the cutest/cleanest bathroom you might encounter with cute touches elsewhere, such as the bicycle holder for utensils. If you're driving down 81 with the slightest hunger, STOP and dine at La Bamba. If you live in the area, ask yourself why you haven't tried it already.
Found this gem on a road trip for work and I was really craving tostones...and boy did they deliver! Their rice and pernil are really good but the TOSTONES are SO freakin good! I was happy with the service, the cleanliness, and the flavor/portions of food. It almost feels like you’re sitting in a restaurant in Miami in there. The natural juices/ jugos naturales are delicious. We had mango and guava and they were both very delectable. I highly recommend stopping by if you’re looking for authentic Puerto Rican food. Thanks for the great experience, I will definitely be back on the next roadtrip.
We were looking something to eat for lunch on our way to Alexandria Bay and to be honest we didn’t looking for this specific place so my husband drove around the parking lot and we saw at first we read the sign said “a taste of the carribean” but then we read the sign on the window near the entrance door said “authentic Puerto Rican” we just got back a month ago from PR trip and of course we still remember our experience when we were there. So without thinking twice we said “let’s go in”. This place seems like sort of cafeteria style to my eyes. Placed our order with the two young lady behind the line, paid and sit down then they brought the food to our table. Hubby got his favorite Cuban sandwich, he said this dish barely has the roll/bread and loaded more to meats instead (he wasn’t complaining he was just thrilled). Mine was arroz con gandules with pollo guisado and was delicious meals. Too bad this only one time things for us to eat here but we were just glad to found this corner hidden gems to eat rather than eat subway or Arby’s. If we ever be around the area again for the future at least we know where to find foods that feels like home food.
Wasn’t sure what to expect out of this little hole in the wall spot, but I’m so happy I stopped in! Ordered a combo #2 for 14.99 which included a choice of protein, yellow rice, an empandilla, and a canned soda. My choice for protein ended up being the slow roasted pork and it was delicious! Great service and great portions for the price. Would highly recommend!!
Wow, great service and the food was amazing. I recommend the shrimp plate, platanos fritos and the chicken plate. They also have some authentic drinks! We were on our way to bethel in Canada and we just had to stop! Bendito!
Excellent food and service. Fresh gandules in the yellow rice. We sampled a little bit of everything from pernil to chicken to empanadas and sweet plantains. Bilingual speaking, so ordering in person or phone would not be an issue. There is plenty of seating. Good atmosphere. Easy to get to right of 81S to Cortland, NY. Didn't get a chance to take pics of food. We were hungry, and it was good.
I am very happy I found this great Latin food restaurant on my trip south on 81. Very easy on and off the Cortland exit. Food was delicious. The two people who worked there were extremely pleasant. I had the chicken, plantains and rice. Perfect amount of food per serving, and the home-made hot sauce was delicious!! It was a low to medium heat (I understand not everyone loves their lips and tongue burning off like me), but it had a nice bite and it did not change the actual flavor of the food. If you enjoy hot sauce, give it a try! I can't wait for my next trip up 81 to stop in here! With so many fast food places (which I refuse to eat at), this was a great find with great food. Could have taken the food to go, but I ate there and really enjoyed the atmosphere. My order was prepared quick, so don't concern yourself about a wait for delicious food.
Location
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160 Clinton Ave, Cortland, NY 13045, United States Hotline: +1 607-218-6898
Welcome to La Bamba Cuisine, a culinary gem nestled at 160 Clinton Ave, Cortland, NY. This lively establishment brings the vibrant flavors of authentic Puerto Rican and Caribbean cuisine right to your plate, offering a delightful escape for both locals and travelers alike. The moment you step inside, the warm atmosphere and the aroma of home-cooked meals instantly transport you to the heart of the Caribbean.
As you dine here, you’re treated to an experience that embodies the essence of true comfort food. Patrons rave about the slow-roasted pork, perfectly seasoned and decadent, as well as the must-try tostones that have left many guests in a state of culinary bliss. The creative touch of a husband-wife team cultivates a charming and inviting dining experience that goes beyond just great food. Their homemade HOT sauce is often described as ‘literal fire’, adding a playful heat that elevates every dish.
Reviews highlight not only the food but the meticulous care taken in preparation. From the juicy arroz con gandules and pollo guisado to the enticing selection of natural juices like mango and guava, every bite is a nod to authentic Puerto Rican culinary traditions. Visitors can expect a clean and charming dining environment, complete with unique decor elements that make each visit feel like a special occasion. One reviewer even playfully noted the cute bicycle holder for utensils, showcasing the attention to detail that enhances the overall dining experience.
For those on long drives along Highway 81, La Bamba Cuisine is an essential pit stop. Guests like A Siegel have found that a meal here can turn a tedious journey into a delight, providing a satisfying break with each flavorful bite. It’s not just a meal — it’s an experience filled with delightful surprises that leave patrons longing to return.
If you find yourself near Cortland, don't bypass this hidden treasure. With a menu that resonates with island spirit and offerings that burst with flavor, La Bamba Cuisine isn’t just a restaurant; it’s an invitation to savor the rich tapestry of Caribbean food culture. So, the next time hunger strikes on your travels, make sure La Bamba Cuisine is on your itinerary — your taste buds will thank you!