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Kool Korners Grocery - CLOSED
- Good for Groups:
- No
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- No
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Price Range:
-
$
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Takes Reservations:
- No
- Delivery:
- No
- Take-out:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- No
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Good For:
- Lunch
- Alcohol:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
Tony P. said: "They've matured nicely over the last few months. They have solved a number of the problems that they had after opening. There's a dollar sushi menu at lunch and they've weeded through some of the servers that they had at opening. I've…" read more »
42 reviews for Kool Korners Grocery
Review Highlights
"Bag of plantain chips, and a can of Guarana Antartica."
(in 4 reviews)
"This was the best Cuban sandwich place in town."
(in 9 reviews)
"The only seating is a single picnic table outside."
(in 4 reviews)
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42 reviews in English
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Review from andy n.
1/24/2010
They've reopened!!! I'm going to B'Ham next week for work and will be definitely stopping by to say hi and have a few cubans.
http://www.yelp.com/bi... -
Review from David H.
Atlanta, GA
5/6/2008 ROTD 7/6/2008
I almost didn't write this review. I perused the other ones before me and realized from a food perspective, I really had nothing to add. Yes, they have the best Cuban sandwiches in town. I'm pretty sure the sauce Kool Korners uses to season the sandwiches is laced with either crack, a Foie gras reduction, or something else equally addictive. Their menu is very simple so it's been more than covered by the other reviewers already.
Eventually, I did remember one thing to add. The one complaint most people have is that there's nowhere nearby to eat the food. They have 1 outside table for seating, and when it's busy that's rarely available.
What most people don't know is that there's a playground within walking distance, that has a couple more tables and is always empty. Walk (or drive, if you're feeling especially lazy) down State Street towards 10th (towards Georgia Tech). Before you get to 10th street, there are a couple of streets where you can turn right. If you turn right on Calhoun or Richards (I forget which one), there is a tiny playground with a swing set and a couple of picnic tables. It's out of the way of traffic so it's quiet, and I've never seen anyone else in that playground during lunch hours. There is a daycare next door, but they have their own fenced in playground and I don't believe their kids play in the open one.
You heard it here first. -
Review from Ivan S.
8/8/2008
I know it's closed, but I'm gonna review it anyway because I have a confession that's hard for a wanna-be gourmand to make: I never actually set foot in here. I never really had a chance to, working as I did in the nether-regions of OTP. But I did have their legendary Cuban sandwich--once. I happened to call a friend who worked nearby just as he was making an office run for his work team.
"Dude, add me to the list. I'll come by."
Some minutes later, I was standing in his office parking lot, exchanging currency for a nondescript paperbag while being given the stinkeye by a passing security guard. I'd heard so much about this sandwich and believed that there was no way it could meet with expectations. I tore into the packaging and bit...into a truly transcendent experience. Some way, some how all of my out-of-proportion expectations had been met and then exceeded. How, how, how?!
Even with that, I still failed to take advantage of it while I could. All things, even institutions, are fleeting. And now all I have left is the memory of that pork and bread eaten in the parking lot of Cbeyond. So here's to you, Kool Korners and to all of you Yelpers who may take your favorites for granted. Go visit one as soon as you can. Eat, drink, and be merry, for tomorrow we (or they) die. -
Review from Bill S.
9/21/2007
Yum! A large Cuban sandwich for under $5! And its actually very tasty! I got the "Classic" with everything, including the jalapenos and enjoyed it very much. Places like this are the main reason I love Yelp, I would never have known about it unless I found it on here.
Suffice it to say, I'll be back!Listed in: Northwest Atlanta
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Review from D. R.
Malibu, CA
6/30/2008
A little place. Big taste.
A Cuban that demands attention, warm, it melts in your mouth, and will never try to defect from your tastebuds. -
Review from Angela M.
2/9/2008 1 photo
The best sandwich in Atlanta! My stomach starts growling every time I hear the name. The sandwiches are very large, especially for the price. I've only ever gotten the Classic because it's so good, why would you want to try anything else? One friend of mine always gets the roast beef, and another claims it's the best Turkey sandwich she's ever eaten.
The ladies making the sandwiches are friendly, and the owner himself is charming. Some may say they're not authentic Cuban sandwiches, but the staff is authentically Cuban, and they make the sandwiches, so in my mind, that's authentically Cuban.
You'd never know by the location what a great place this is, but what it lacks in decor, it makes up for in flavor. The parking situation is dicey, since the shops that just opened across the street are quite angry that the Kool Korner customers are parking in their lot and crossing the street (but why would you eat at Jimmy John's when you can have a KK Cuban?). The only place to sit is at a picnic table out the back... so it's definitely a to go place. While you're there, grab a sleeve of Maria's, a bag of plantain chips, and a can of guava juice. -
Review from Drew W.
Atlanta, GA
11/7/2006
I always used to think this place was just a ratty looking grocery store, driving past it several times a week for almost four years. I never knew that inside the shabby exterior was the best Cuban sandwich in Atlanta. Some Georgia Tech grads introduced me to the place, and they were horrified that I lived nearby and didn't know about it.
The Cubans at Kool Korners are so popular that the staff has a note up when you walk in the door that you only need to place an order if you're getting something other than the Cuban. If you want a Cuban (like everyone else), just get in line and tell them know how many. I don't think I've ever ordered anything else off the menu come to think of it.
Be prepared to wait through the line if you go at lunch. They sell chips and drinks as well as sandwiches, but that's it. There's no seating (aside from the one picnic bench that will invariably be full if it's not raining) so you'll need to have somewhere in mind for a spot to eat your sandwich. Piedmont Park isn't too far away if you've got the time and the weather is nice. Sometimes I'll go by Kool Korners and grab a few Cubans and bring them down to Centennial Park for lunch with my wife and friends. Seems like I'm always the one who has to fetch the sandwiches, but it never gets old going inside Kool Korners after the years of missing out on it.Listed in: Atlanta 24
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Review from Gabriel L.
Atlanta, GA
9/21/2007
I'm exactly half-way through a classic with everything (with jalapeno's of course). Kool Korner rocks. The sandwich is fantastic; I've never ordered anything but the classic besides the occasional bag of plantain or cassava chips. I usually eat a late lunch, so the lines are never too long for me. I like this place so much I bought a black and white ink print of the place at the Virginia-Highlands festival this past summer, and have it framed and hung above my desk in my office at work. It's these rinky-dink mom-and-pop shops that make me love the food in Atlanta.
Quantity and potency of the jalapenos seems to vary, so be careful if your spicy tolerance is weak. You can always ask for just a little jalapeno.
I need more data points, but it seems like things with the initials KK result in tasty eats (the other one being Krispy Kreme). -
Review from Charlie F.
Atlanta, GA
4/10/2008
I am a consumer of food, but a hunter of great sandwiches.
What a beautiful thing this was. This thing, I didn't think was possible, between a hunter and her prey. Wait- before I break out in song and completely expose my dorkitude...
I had no idea that place was even open for business. It's easy to miss and kind of a dive. So keep your eye out for it. There's a reason it's called Kool KORNER. I think it's simplicity only adds to it's charm. It's very nostalgic for me. [Sigh] I miss Tampa.
I also have to agree with other yelpers in saying that this place is better than Papi's. Trust me. Save your money, go to Kool's and just ask for the "Classic". Plain and simple.
Sadly, I've heard rumors that the owner may be retiring. Granted, he has been at this for quite some time and earnestly deserves a retirement, but I do hope that the business continues.
If Kool Korner's had a yearbook, I'd be that cliche classmate that would sign: "Don't ever change!" -
Review from Rebekha J.
Atlanta, GA
5/16/2007
BEST CUBA SANDWICHES!
I love the owner. He is an older gentleman. If you try to order anything other than a Cuban he says..."no you need a Cuban" and he is always right. I also accompany my Cuban with a side of plantains chips and a Inca Kola! (Just writing about it is making my mouth water!)
They don't have seating so hope that the pic-nick table out side is available and that it is a nice day.Listed in: Atlanta
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Review from John K.
Atlanta, GA
9/18/2006
1 of the 2 best places to have Cuban sandwiches in Atlanta. The other being Havana Sandwich Shop on lower Buford Highway.
It's true that this is really only a take-out sandwich shop. The only seating is a single picnic table outside. Also there is no official parking except for a couple of spots and whatever street parking you can find.
When you walk in, you'll see the no frills atmosphere, but do not be discouraged. The Cubans here are the best around. The classic Cuban has ham and pork pressed between Cuban bread with swiss and all the fixings. They'll ask if you like freshly chopped jalapenos added on. Just say yes if you like a little kick, they're really not that hot. Lately I've been passing on the classic and getting the salami. It's a little greasy, but the swiss pairs wonderfully with the salt cured salami goodness. Pick up a 20-ounce Coke and you've got a wonderful lunch for about $5. If you choose a sandwich other than the classic, it's best that you flag down someone when you enter as they'll have to specially make it up. They'll already have classics made up for miles. Don't be surprised around noon for the line to be out the door, but it tends to move quickly.
The hours are from just before noon to late afternoon. But be forewarned that they occasionally close without prior notice. They'll have a sign on the door and usually an explanation which at least can be seen from driving by.
All in all, a great sandwich at a reasonable price. -
Review from Katie W.
1/4/2008
My mouth starts watering when I just think about these sandwiches - every time, even right now. I have been a Kool Korner patron for about 15 years now; I have friends who have been going for much longer. The sandwiches have always been fantastic - full of flavor, big and a great bargain. The prices have gone up a bit over the years but, still, they are a great deal.
I don't like to get into the argument about whether or not they are authentic Cuban sandwiches. I don't really care; either way, I truly believe they are the best sandwiches in Atlanta. I will gladly stand in line with all the other hungry souls waiting patiently for our turn to call out our toppings (I like everything - with hot peppers!).
Be sure to let them know right away upon entering if you are getting something other than the classic so you don't mess up the flow. I usually grab a bottle of soda and a bag of fried plantains (I like the garlic ones as well as the plain), and they have some packages of cookies that are pretty good, too. If there are no open tables outside, I have been known to eat my entire sandwich in my car just outside Kool Korner - I just can't wait! -
Review from Adam R.
Atlanta, GA
9/24/2009
This is one of those places you just have to know about. If you are driving down 14th Street, chances are you will not see the small unassuming sign for Kool Korners. You will see Jimmy John's next door and probably be tempted to go in there for a sandwich, and that would be a mistake.
If you go across the street to Kool Korners you will get a much better sandwich and experience. It is a very small place with not a lot of standing room and nowhere to eat inside. I have never been there without a decently large line though. When you enter it is best to tell them immediately if you do not want the "Classic Cuban" so by the time you get up there they would have made it.
They have some other drinks and snacks that are interesting as well. I generally just stick to the chips though as I am not that adventurous. I have heard good things though. I usually opt for the roast beef sandwich which is really good. The people working here are not teenagers looking for a part time job, they are truly authentic and have been making this food for many years. They are always very kind and efficient. Even with long lines you get in and out pretty fast. Only downside is there is nowhere to eat inside but I live about a half a mile away so no big deal. -
Review from James E.
Ammon, ID
9/28/2007
Kool Korners has the best Cuban sandwiches! When I worked at Turner Broadcasting, I would always go around the corner to Kool Korners for a quick lunch. Fast, Cheap, Delicious!
I have since moved away from Atlanta, and will probably never return, but if I ever do, I will definitely go to Kool Korners for lunch no doubt! -
Review from Erica D.
Philadelphia, PA
1/10/2007
"Grocery" is really a misnomer. This literal hole-in-the-wall is where you'll find the best cuban sandwich around. Owned by a cute elderly Cuban couple (the lady of the house passed a few years ago, bless her soul), this take-out only shop is truly a diamond in the rough.
Consider picking up a few cubans on a sunny day and having a picnic in Piedmont Park. If you're looking for a place to sit down, try Havana Sandwich Shop on Buford Highway.Listed in: Top Restaurants
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Review from David H.
Santa Clara, CA
5/26/2009
Yeah, they're closed now, so this review is just for posterity. Kool Korners really had the best Cuban sandwich in Atlanta ("The best Jerry, the best"). Mr. Ramirez was super nice and roasted the pork himself in house. Sure, some people would say that the standard addition of jalapenos, lettuce or mayo weren't "authentic" (and I had him hold the mayo), but even these griping pedantic purists would admit the sandwiches were amazing.
Yeah, the place looked run-down on the outside, and there really isn't anywhere to eat on site (except for a couple of picnic tables around back), but these are all minor trifles to taste these legendary Cuban sandwiches. I'd go, grab a bag of plantain chips and a drink and wait for my Classico. Sometimes I'd mix it up and get a salami or a roast beef instead of the classic, but whichever one I got they were consistently sublime.
Thanks for the memories, Kool Korners. -
Review from Gil ..
Atlanta, GA
3/23/2006
You won't accidentally walk into this store at the corner of 14th and State Streets. It's not even obvious that it's in business unless you happen to drive by during the lunch rush and see the line extending out the door and onto the sidewalk.
This little corner grocery store has been there forever (I first went there 14 years ago, and it was there long before that) and has been the winner of numerous awards for "Best Cuban Sandwich" in Atlanta as given by the various periodicals.
In recent years they've raised their prices a little as well as added a real menu that hangs on the wall (previously you just had to know what they served!). There's really not much else in the "grocery" store that you'll probably want besides a drink or possibly some chips. Their main business is derived from their lunchtime sandwich sales.
Some claim that real Cuban sandwiches don't have jalapenos or lettuce, but hey, I've never been to Cuba (something about a trade embargo). Plus, I also hear something about all that Mexican stuff we eat being fake. So I just can't get hung up over a few peppers and some shredded iceberg.
There's no place to sit, so it's only to-go. There's a picnic table outside, but on nice days, it'll be hard to find empty. As the area continues to improve with the advent of Atlantic Station and the renaissance in Midtown, I'm sure they'll eventually be pocket parks and other outside spots to walk to to eat your sandwich. But the question remains, will Kool Korners survive the urban renewal? Maybe they'll have a chance to relocate close by, but it definitely won't be the same. Go now while you still can!
Did I say that the sandwiches are awesome!? They grill them right in front of you, and they are huge! Try it. You'll be glad. -
Review from Juan M.
5/26/2009
I'll add one too as I am one of the two (as far as I know) Cubans (okay, Cuban-American) on the site.
Okay - history time.
Ramirez (aka "El Buitre" or "The Vulture") was an institution. He moved to Miami (aka "The Elephant Graveyard for Cubans") recently but leaves in his wake many happy customers with huge butts because of all the lard in the food he prepared - okay, not lard, but certainly pork fat.
I first met him about 30 years ago as a mere pup when he was running one of the Diaz stores (yes, Diaz Foods used to have multiple convenience stores where homesick Cubans could get their fixes of food trucked up from Miami). Diaz had a store in Peachtree Hills that Ramirez and his wife would run - when anyone had a party going on, you would tell him to jam another lechón (Cuban Spanish for "kick-ass tasting pig with lots of fat to make your butt big") and Cuban bread (also made with lard - that one I know cuz I saw them make it that way) in the oven.
Whew, those were the days.
Then he moved to Midtown on his own gig. We used to go there after class at Tech or work (my Dad owned a business around the corner) and we would just be blown away.
Glad I just worked out - I think I just gained some weight thinking about those sandwiches. -
Review from TANIA T.
Seffner, FL
8/27/2008
OH NO, I just heard they closed! This was the best Cuban sandwich place in town. It totally reminded me of the Soup Natzi, since you had to wait in line forever, get to the counter, order what you want as fast as possible, pay and run out the door.
It will be missed! -
Review from Michael E.
Atlanta, GA
1/4/2008
Hands down the best Cubans in the city. This charming little grocery story (be careful - if you're not looking for it, you'll pass right by) is family run and full of fun. Shout out your order, stand in line and wait for samwich nirvana. Oh, and I don't think they accept credit cards - so make sure you have some Benjamins on ya.
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Review from Sean L.
Atlanta, GA
2/13/2008
Best Cuban sandwich in town without a doubt. Better than Papi's. Food is cheap too under $5. They have the classic cuban and a few alternate meat choices. The classics are their top seller. You don't have to be cuban to love this place.
It's a "humble" store, there is no parking and there is always a line. If the food wasn't so damn good I would never come here yet every time I leave satisfied. -
Review from Stephanie S.
Chicago, IL
5/17/2007
Keeping it cool with the Classic Cuban at Kool Korners
This true "hole in the wall", family owned shack on the corner of 14th and State Street is home to a Cuban tradition here in Atlanta. Kool Korners Grocery store is easy to miss, but worth it to find. For the price of just a sandwich at some midtown trendy hot spot, you can pick up a home-made classic Cuban sandwich, a bag of plantain chips, and a soda at Kool Korners. Bring cash, the owner is a traditionalist when it comes to running a store and doesn't like credit cards. Also, be prepared to wait in line if you get there at peak lunch time. And don't expect any more seating than the picnic tables on the side of the building. However, do expect to chat with frequent customers about the tasty sandwiches while waiting in the unaired-conditioned store. Do keep it simple and order the classic Cuban, nothing else is as good. Make sure you ask for extra napkins (the traditional mojo sauce leaks out the bread and I've made messes of myself). If you are a girl, flirt back with the owner, he's just a sweet old man who likes to make people smile. Practice your Spanish by exclaiming "muchas gracias" while walking out the door. Get a tan on your forehead as you sit with your new friends at the picnic tables. And most importantly, enjoy your classic Cuban and vow, like many have before including myself, to come back again to enjoy this Atlanta experience at Kool Korners.Listed in: Ethnic fun!
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Review from V L.
Fresno, CA
7/24/2008
I have the worst luck. Found out today that the place is CLOSED! The owner was kind and came out (I guess he lives in the back) and thanked us for our patronage through the years. He said there were plans to develop the area. Can't blame him if he sold out - he's served the community well over the years with his brand of Cuban sandwiches. Will be sorely missed....
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Review from Anna W.
Atlanta, GA
1/21/2008
Cheaper than Papi's. These less than $5 sandwiches are pretty darn good. The garlic plantain chips are a nice complement. They close at 3pm.
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Review from Peter B.
Decatur, GA
8/5/2008
Rest in Peace Kool Korners. I loved this place. Their cuban sandwiches were legendary! The old man was as endearing as anyone in Atlanta. He gave me back whole dollar amounts shorting himself all the time. Super generous with his smiles. Loved the family feel. A real loss for Atlanta. I'm glad to count myself as a Kool Korners Alumnus.
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Review from Elaine O.
7/13/2007
Yummy cuban sandwiches prepared by Mr. Ramirez himself. The lines are always long...sometimes I wait for 20 minutes for a "classico." But it's so worth it. Better get here soon. Rumor is that after 21 years, they're gonna tear down the old shack on the corner and build high rises, while Mr. Ramirez flees to retirement in Alabama.
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Review from B. Nicole G.
Moorhead, MN
2/23/2008
I learned long ago that if you see all sorts of cars- from jags to escorts- out front, then it has to be good food. It is agreed this spot has the BEST Cuban Sandwiches this side of Miami. While there is no parking, and it can be hard to locate (for some) if you aren't a local or know what you are looking for, Kool Korner is worth every ounce of trouble you might encounter. The owner is friendly and always has a smile on his face. All the ingredients are daily fresh and each sandwich is prepared in front of you. Take the time to become a regular here and you won't regret it.
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Review from James G.
8/5/2008
Wow, Im sorry it closed, they were such a cute old couple. Being from Florida I had to come here to get a taste of home, whenever I was in Midtown.
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Review from Heath P.
Atlanta, GA
3/25/2008
Kool Korners has been an Atlanta staple for me for the past 13+ years, and I would wager that this tasty take out dive is at least as old as Methuselah. That said, they still make the best Cuban Sandwich in town. I used to go in and load up on plantain or yucca chips and get some crazy Latin nectar in a can, but i think i grew out of that phase - now it's a "Classic Cuban all the way", a bit of small talk with the family (family owned and operated), and adios !! It's ideal if you go during off-peak lunch times (I like the 1:30-2:00 time slot) as you will be in and out with your sammy in a flash, but if you have to have your Cuban at noon, the line moves relatively fast. If you speak Spanish (which regretfully I do not), be sure to engage the family in some friendly small talk - it seems entertaining and I'm sure makes the wait go by quickly. Great Cuban and a great price !!
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Review from Ali S.
Atlanta, GA
10/14/2007
A must try if you're in the area from 11am-4pm on Monday-Saturday. When you walk in, they'll assume you want a classic cuban, anything else you have to tell them specifically. If you want anything else you really shouldn't be eating there anyways - Jimmy John's is right across the street :) This is such an experience!
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Review from Rich V.
Atlanta, GA
8/6/2008
My condolences to us all on losing one of the most lovely and endearing eateries in town.
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Review from Dawn S.
Chicago, IL
7/22/2008
The Kool Korner is perfect example of what takeaway food should be. Very tastey and unbelieveably inexpensive. A little bit of love crimped between two pieces of pressed bread. I get an authentic culinary, cultural experience for less than $5. The veggie is less than $3.
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Review from Naveen D.
Alpharetta, GA
6/16/2007
You could eat this every day for lunch. So good. So cheap.
It's their sauce man.... they put drugs in it (just kidding)... but its so darn good.
You can get a veggie sandwich here for just over $2!
CASH ONLY !!!
No indoor seating. Eat in your car or at the one picnic table they have! -
Review from Lori F.
4/19/2006 1 photo
Mmmm... best cubanos in town!
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Review from Curtis J.
Atlanta, GA
Updated - 8/23/2008
truly a travesty... I heard they moved to Alabama or something. With the line wrapped around the building every lunch time you'd think they'd want to stay, but no! They left us... now there is a void in my life where these cubans used to be...
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/10/2008
Delicious cubans! Just beware going there around prime lunch time. The line is ALWAYS out the door.… Read more »
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Review from Joe G.
Atlanta, GA
8/7/2008
This is the best Cuban sandwich in town. I've been there many times for lunch and it is consistanty great. Extremely affordable too. It's run by a nice old Cuban couple and their kids. Highly recommended. The only thing close to this is Havana on Buford highway.
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Review from Jeremy A.
8/16/2008
This makes me very sad, I used to go there all the time after I went to the Knuckle Up Fitness Gym. I am from Tampa so I know good cubans and these were definitely one of the best. I guess its Woodys on Saturdays for me.
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Review from Greg B.
Denver, CO
1/7/2009
Crazy looking neighborhood and an even crazier looking place. You get a Cuban Sandwich because it is about all they have, and you leave. The Cuban Sandwich is excellent. It's as simple as that.
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Review from Lorne C.
Atlanta, GA
6/16/2008
Just a tiny grocery store that does one awesome cuban - probably the best in Atlanta.
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Review from Huck C.
Marietta, GA
6/17/2008
I've been going here since 1997 when I was a freshman at Tech. The cuban sandwiches are the best here! I get the classic which has the pork, ham, swiss cheese, pickles and mustard, which is heat-pressed on a panini-type sandwich press. This will crisp up the bread and melt the cheese a little. Too bad there's no seating, but you can always walk down 14th Street and eat at the same time. By the way, I think they are closed until the 6th of July...
