La Tropical Latin Kitchen at Chattahoochee Food Works

Tucked inside Chattahoochee Food Works, La Tropical is a vibrant celebration of Puerto Rican, Cuban, and Latin cuisine that immediately transports you to the Caribbean. The concept, crafted by renowned celebrity chef Roberto Treviño and brought to life by the talented Chef Minelly Amador, offers a menu steeped in authenticity, warmth, and bold flavors. From classics like Cuban sandwiches, bacalaitos, mofongo, carne frita, arroz con pollo, and ropa vieja, every dish feels like a love letter to the islands.

I was recently invited to a special dining experience, where a curated four-course menu was paired with playful cocktails that perfectly matched each dish. The evening began with mini pork belly empanadas and ropa vieja topped with a rich Caribbean sauce, paired beautifully with a refreshing guava mojito. The second course, a golden mofongo ball crowned with garlicky ajillo shrimp, was brightened by a tangy passion fruit cocktail an instant favorite.

For the third course, Chef Amador served pastel de carne, a sweet plantain lasagna layered with savory meat, accompanied by a classic Cuba Libre. This dish was a standout for me comforting, inventive, and absolutely delicious. The fourth course brought a hearty plate of congri rice and yuca with salsa mojo, paired with tender skirt steak and a creamy piña colada cocktail. To finish, a silky coffee flan with a splash of coquito provided the perfect sweet ending.

Beyond the food, the atmosphere was just as warm and inviting. The staff was lively and engaging, while Chef Amador’s gracious personality shone as she guided us through the courses with genuine pride and joy.

La Tropical isn’t just a restaurant, it’s an experience. From the cocktails to the flavorful dishes, it’s a culinary journey through Latin heritage that feels festive, welcoming, and full of heart. If you visit, don’t miss the sweet plantain lasagna, it’s unforgettable. And for non-drinkers like myself, the passion cocktail was a refreshing surprise I’d happily sip again.