Cuban food tells the story of the country's history, ... Arroz Imperial. Rice is certainly at the heart of many Cuban dishes, and this is no exception when it comes to arroz imperial.

Cuban coffee, known as cafe cubano or cafecito, is a staple in Cuban cuisine. Jamie from A Sassy Spoon enjoys her recipe after almost every meal. (and typically served after every meal).

Imperial, however, is neither. This month-old Cape restaurant serves excellent Cuban food — sandwiches pressed on the plancha, coffees brewed strong, sweet and to-order. I got ropa vieja, crisp ...

The celebration of all things Cuban continues on the menu. Start with classic, bite-sized crispy ham croquetas ($3.50) or papas rellenos (fried mashed potato balls stuffed with seasoned meat, $3).