Flacos - Gainesville

I discovered Flaco’s back in 2020. My wife and I were on a long weekend getaway, I saw they had good reviews, and the weather was perfect (late October). We checked this place out and I experienced the most delicious empanadas I’ve ever had. We drove 45 minutes out of our way to stop there today because we knew we wouldn’t be this close any other time. Their beef empanada is delicious. The pastry is lite, airy, and flakey. The filling is perfectly seasoned. For dessert, make sure you grab two or twelve of the guava and cheese empanadas. They’re amazing and the two fillings are perfectly balanced. It may sound weird but it works. The only thing that will disappoint you is when all your empanadas are gone. So make sure you take several.

First time there. The service was nice. I ordered a single shot Expresso Cuban coffee for $1, sweetened. It was good But the best part was the Cuban Sandwich

The best simple Cuban food you're going to get in Gainesville. It can't compare to Miami or Cuba (obviously), but the Cuban Gator sandwich and the beef pastry puff were legit. Love that it's open super late compared to other restaurants in Gainesville. Will come again to try their ropa vieja. There was a fair wait for our food on a busy Fri night, but staff were friendly and prices are extremely reasonable.

Had tried some bites of my friend’s orders a few times and never understood the hype. Went back and tried a cuban as well as the nachos and was thoroughly impressed. Great place to grab a beer, eats some cuban food, and listen to live music in their own closed off street. 100% a must try for people new to Gainesville