Established 1976 in Corona, Queens and still operating today, Rincon Criollo (which means a sanctuary or home like grandma's) now continues the welcoming family tradition in their second location in Huntington Station.  The original family business, started by two of the six Acosta brothers, Rene and Baldo, dates back to the 1950s in Santiago de Las Vegas, Havana, Cuba, where it became known by many celebrities and dignitaries for its vibrant ambiance, gracious hospitality and authentic Cuban cuisine.

Rudy Acosta, a culinary graduate and one of the family's owners and host, welcomes you into his "home away from home" making you feel like you are a part of his family.  He works with his mother and father, sister and cousins to make sure that you will completely enjoy the awesome Cuban food lovingly made from the same recipes of his grandfather in Cuba that were passed on to his siblings here in America.  They cook with tremendous pride and passion doing everything right.  The house favorite is the incredible Picadillo, which was featured on the popular TV Show "Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives" by celebrity chef and host Guy Fierri, who says "this is not just a restaurant it's a cultural experience."  Other signature dishes include the Ropa Vieja - shredded flank steak which we enjoyed; and Rabo Encendido - oxtail stew.  We also loved chorizo espanol, Spanish sausage with smoky flavors; yuca rellena; and chicharron de pollo - crispy fried tender pieces of chicken in a garlic sauce. White rice, beans, sweet plantains, and rice and beans mix were perfect accompaniments to our entrees. All dishes are true to the Cuban flavors and very reasonably priced. Stay for dessert: tres leches and flan are exceptional. Specialty drinks include their famous mojito, Cuban drinks, and Cuban rums; and house made red or white sangria.  Enjoy live Cuban music on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings.

Many family photos from their home town in Cuba are proudly displayed throughout the restaurant.  The ambiance is warm and inviting with a traditional rustic flair.  The bar room has thick butcher block high top tables, a cherry wood bar with arched wood framed mirrors, candles on the tables and a large wine rack.  There are window openings from the bar room that let you look into the main dining room which has red and white checkered tablecloths, thick hardwood and leather chairs, mirrored windows and shutters, lantern style light fixtures, and Cuban artifacts.  Visit their other location " their first original US restaurant" at 40-09 Junction Boulevard, Corona, Queens, 718-458-0236.  At either location you will experience the Cuban culture at its best with delicious, authentic Cuban dishes, excellent drinks, genuine warm, inviting hospitality - and you are sure to have a great time. Is it your birthday...the whole restaurant joins in the celebration with multi-colored strobe lights, singing in joyous celebration. Monday nights are Mojito Nights and during the warmer months, they show Cuban movies outside on the patio.