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312 Eats
Back of the Yards · Caribbean

Cafeteria Yesenia

4.6535 reviews ·Opens at 6AM tomorrow
I highly recommend this restaurant to anyone looking for delicious Latin cuisine in a casual and welcoming setting
Cristian Estevez ChaconCristian Estevez Chacon · 153 Google reviews
Read the reviews on Google →

Cafeteria Yesenia — solid, no-fuss caribbean in Back of the Yards. Always packed, always worth it. Warm, genuine service throughout. Wallet-friendly, quick and efficient. Cristian Estevez Chacon: "The combination of flavors and textures was perfect, and the sandwich was served on a fresh and flavorful roll"

What 535 diners keep saying

Great valueLivelyCozyQuick bite
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4244 S Ashland Ave, Chicago, IL 60609
Back of the Yards
Today6AM-4PM
Sun8AM-4PM
Mon–Sat6AM-4PM
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What 535 diners keep saying

verbatim, from Google
Review photo by roxann sanchez
Jul 2026

First time here everything is was so delicious. From the cafe con leche, papas rellenas to the lechon. Even got nice fresh warm bread with your meal. Will definately be back.

roxann sanchez

roxann sanchez

53 reviews on Google

Review photo by Jonathan Earps
Apr 2026

This place is amazing!

Jonathan Earps

Jonathan Earps

30 reviews on Google

Review photo by Mark Tellado
Aug 2025

Best Cuban coffee, Cuban sandwich and steak sandwich.

Mark Tellado

Mark Tellado

4 reviews on Google

Review photo by Noah Gutierrez
Mar 2025

I always order the Yesenia chicken sandwich that comes with frites, mayo, tomato, cheese and that homemade salsa is delicious 😋 I highly recommend

Noah Gutierrez

Noah Gutierrez

69 reviews on Google

Review photo by Ron Slattery
Mar 2025

The best Cubano sandwich I’ve ever had in my life. Exceptional service, exceptional food highly recommended.

Ron Slattery

Ron Slattery

145 reviews on Google

Review photo by JobCorps
Oct 2024

Really nice spot for a nice cubano sandwich and the specials on the wall can't be beaten. Some 🍨 are home made.

JobCorps

JobCorps

67 reviews on Google

Review photo by Maria Jimenez
Apr 2024

Best Cuban food place on the south side. Never disappoints me!

Maria Jimenez

Maria Jimenez

11 reviews on Google

Review photo by Rene Reyes
Apr 2026

Steak sandwich ham croquettes and a cortadito. Not bad. I give it an 7.5 out of 10

Rene Reyes

Rene Reyes

211 reviews on Google

Review photo by Incision Incision
Sep 2025

Cafeteria Yesenia have very tasty coffee and nice cozy vibe. I like come here in morning before work, the coffee always fresh and smell so good. Staff friendly and place feel warm and relaxing. Good little spot for quick coffee or just sit and enjoy.

Incision Incision

Incision Incision

11 reviews on Google

Review photo by Roosevelt Holmes
Oct 2024

Great prices. Friendly staff. Not much parking. Seasoning less than average (bland)

Roosevelt Holmes

Roosevelt Holmes

153 reviews on Google

Review photo by CS CS
Aug 2024

The upside to this restaurant was the service and the atmosphere. The food was a let down. We ordered empandas. The chicken was not seasoned at all, very bland and it was "doughy" The tostones were too thick and also were not seasoned. The garlic sauce was placed on top but again - very tasteless. The Cuban sandwich was descent. It was seasoned better however, I did not enjoy the food and could not finish it. I will not go back to this restaurant.

CS CS

CS CS

61 reviews on Google

Jul 2026

If you’re looking for delicious Cuban food, I highly recommend Cafeteria Yesenia! The food is always fresh, flavorful, and made with care. My favorite is the steak sandwich—it’s perfectly seasoned, tender, and absolutely delicious. You also have to try the Yesenia Fries! They’re loaded with amazing flavor and make the perfect side. The service is friendly, and the atmosphere is welcoming. I’ll definitely be coming back. If you haven’t been here yet, it’s definitely worth a visit!

Cynthia Patino

Cynthia Patino

9 reviews on Google

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