As downtown Harrisburg undergoes many transformations in its bars and restaurants, the small historic area known as Shipoke offers its own new addition. Los Tres Cubanos opened its doors in July and has been inviting patrons to enjoy this “little slice of Cuba” ever since.

Los Tres Cubanos, or “the three Cubans,” is owned by Jose M. Manjon, Jose E. Misas, and Alfred Leal. Their roots in Cuba fostered a love of the culture and food that is evident as soon as you step through the door. With the sounds and smells of Cuba surrounding you upon entrance, you cannot help but be swept away into the experience. Bright colors and warm lights evoke the energy and feel of the tropics while the simple layout fits the quaint building.

Cuban artwork and photographs adorn the brick walls and a small bar is located in the back, where the bartender quickly mixes up signature cocktails. If you are in the mood for something tropical, try Los Cubanos, made with Sobieski Orange Vodka, cranberry juice and mango juice. For something a little more sophisticated, try the rye and honey Manhattan, prepared with Knob Creek Rye, Barenjäger honey, sweet vermouth, bitters and black cherry juice.

Drinks and atmosphere may be what draw you in, but the food at Los Tres Cubanos is what will keep you coming back for more. The menu features five appetizers, four salads, 11 main courses and three desserts. Each offers either a traditional or unique twist on Cuban cuisine. Dishes range from empanadas to slow-roasted pork shoulder and even a whole fried snapper with mango and pineapple salsa. The best decision is to try a little bit from each course.

My party and I started with the empanadas and ceviche. The beef empanadas, or fried Cuban turnovers, were bursting with flavor. The savory meat filling was met with the subtle sweetness of raisins to deliver a perfect balance. The ceviche was teeming with bright fresh flavors, like citrus and cilantro, which marinated shrimp and bay scallops.

For our main course, two stand-out items were La Cubanita and Ropa Vieja. La Cubanita was their version of a Cuban sandwich. Pulled pork, ham, Swiss cheese, mustard and pickles were pressed between two slices of Cuban bread, delivering a warm tangy sandwich you will not soon forget. Ropa Vieja, which translating to “old clothes,” is anything but. A traditional Cuban dish, Ropa Vieja is made with shredded beef brisket braised in garlic and bell peppers, olives, parsley and Spanish white wine. The dish is served over white rice and is reminiscent of a red sauce or stew, but with much more depth.

If there is ever a time you should leave room for dessert, this would be now. We sampled the Tres Leche, a traditional three-milk cake topped with whipped cream and a cherry. This moist cake offers a rich, decadent sweetness, while the classic dish, flan, is subtle and creamy, just the way it should be. And if dessert is not your thing, try ending the meal with a Cuban coffee or the Café Bombon, made with sweetened condensed milk. Either way, you are certain to end with a smile.

Los Tres Cubanos brings a wonderful “slice” of Cuba to the Harrisburg area with great food and atmosphere. To quote the owners themselves, “three times the Cubans means three times the flavors and fun!” Their menu ranges with dishes priced from $7- $35 (the average around $15); located at 540 Race St. Harrisburg, open from 4-10 p.m., reservations recommended.

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