The Central Coast of California is known for its stunning scenery, vibrant communities, and flourishing food scene. But for Arqui and Chrystal Trenado, something was missing – a taste of Cuba. That’s where Cubanissimo bursts onto the scene, a vibrant testament to both Arqui’s heritage and their shared love for authentic Cuban cuisine.

The story of Cubanissimo starts in February 2016, not in a fancy restaurant kitchen, but on the open road. Arqui and Chrystal, a husband-and-wife team, launched the Cubanissimo Cuban Food Truck, bringing the irresistible flavors of Cuba to festivals, fairs, and events across San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara Counties. Their mission? Simple yet powerful: share Arqui’s cultural heritage with the local community through delicious, authentic Cuban food.

Their journey wasn’t just about serving food; it was about fulfilling a dream. As Cubanissimo gained popularity, the aroma of sizzling ropa vieja (shredded flank steak) and savory black beans wafted through the air, capturing hearts (and stomachs) along the way. For Arqui, it was the American dream coming true – the chance to share a piece of his culture and connect with others through the universal language of food.

Fueled by their success and a desire to offer a more traditional Cuban dining experience, Arqui and Chrystal embarked on their next adventure in August 2017. They opened the doors to the Cubanissimo Cuban Coffee House & Cafe in Orcutt, California. This wasn’t just a brick-and-mortar upgrade; it was a chance to create a warm, inviting space where patrons could savor Cuban cuisine in a comfortable and familiar setting.

Step into Cubanissimo Cafe, and you’re instantly transported to the heart of Cuba. The aroma of freshly brewed Cuban coffee fills the air, promising a warm and energetic atmosphere. The cafe boasts a high-quality, fast-casual dining experience, perfect for a relaxed lunch, a quick coffee break, or a delightful evening spent catching up with friends and family over a flavorful Cuban feast.

But the real star of the show is, of course, the food. Cubanissimo’s menu is a treasure trove of authentic dishes, prepared using traditional recipes and fresh, high-quality ingredients. Craving something hearty? Dive into a plate of Picadillo a la Habanera (ground beef simmered with tomatoes, olives, and raisins) or savor the rich flavors of Lechon Asado (roasted pork shoulder). Feeling lighter? Opt for a refreshing Ropa Vieja Bowl or a zesty Cuban Sandwich piled high with slow-roasted pork, tangy pickles, and gooey Swiss cheese on crusty Cuban bread.

Cubanissimo doesn’t stop at savory delights. Their bakery case is a haven for sweet tooths, overflowing with traditional Cuban pastries like Pastelitos (flaky pastries filled with guava or cheese) and Flan (a decadent custard dessert). And no Cuban dining experience is complete without a sip of their strong, aromatic Cuban coffee – the perfect way to end your meal or jumpstart your day.

Cubanissimo is more than just a restaurant; it’s a place that fosters community and celebrates Cuban culture. They regularly host events featuring live music, cultural performances, and themed evenings, bringing a taste of Cuba’s vibrant spirit to the Central Coast.

So, are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure to Cuba? Head down to the Cubanissimo Cuban Coffee House & Cafe in Orcutt and experience the magic for yourself. From the welcoming atmosphere to the explosion of flavors on your plate, Cubanissimo promises a delightful escape that will leave you wanting more. Buen provecho! (Enjoy your meal!)