Margon
A beloved Midtown gem serving authentic Cuban-Dominican sandwiches, roast chicken, and coffee. A true hole-in-the-wall with big flavors.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, great coffee
Margon
Best Time
Fewer crowds, great coffee
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beloved Midtown gem serving authentic Cuban-Dominican sandwiches, roast chicken, and coffee. A true hole-in-the-wall with big flavors.
"This hidden gem restaurant has the best Cuban food in New York City."
🎯 Beat the Lunch Rush
Arrive before noon or after 2 PM to avoid the longest lines. Weekdays are busiest!
🥪 Sandwich Showdown
Try both the Cubano (crusty bread) and Media Noche (softer bread) to see your favorite!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Legendary Cuban Sandwich
Counter
A perfectly pressed sandwich with roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on crusty Cuban bread.
Juicy Roast Chicken
Counter
Tender, flavorful roasted chicken that's a must-try, often served with rice and beans.
Media Noche Sandwich
Counter
A sweeter, softer eggy bread version of the Cuban, packed with the same delicious fillings.
Authentic Cafe con Leche
Counter
Strong, sweet Cuban coffee made the traditional way, a perfect pick-me-up.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Midtown Lunch Rush
Embrace the Hole-in-the-Wall Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Beat the Lunch Rush
Arrive before noon or after 2 PM to avoid the longest lines. Weekdays are busiest!
🥪 Sandwich Showdown
Try both the Cubano (crusty bread) and Media Noche (softer bread) to see your favorite!
☕ Magic in a Cup
Don't miss the Cafe con Leche; it's a true NYC deal and a nostalgic treat.
💰 Worth Every Penny
Generous portions and delicious flavors make it an affordable Midtown gem.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Beat the Lunch Rush
Arrive before noon or after 2 PM to avoid the longest lines. Weekdays are busiest!
🥪 Sandwich Showdown
Try both the Cubano (crusty bread) and Media Noche (softer bread) to see your favorite!
☕ Magic in a Cup
Don't miss the Cafe con Leche; it's a true NYC deal and a nostalgic treat.
💰 Worth Every Penny
Generous portions and delicious flavors make it an affordable Midtown gem.
🗣️ Friendly Faces
The staff are genuinely happy to serve you and add to the welcoming atmosphere.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Margon is a beloved Cuban-Dominican spot in Midtown, praised for its authentic flavors, generous portions, and friendly service. While the ordering process can be chaotic and the space is small, the delicious food, especially the sandwiches and coffee, makes it a highly recommended destination for a taste of local NYC.
"Small spot in NYC. The food was very delicious. I had a Cuban sandwich combo that came with rice and beans. Location is small but still has sitting space available limited. The staff were very friendly and the cost was worth the amount of food that was received. Recommended hands down."
Fanny Lopez
"Sometimes a hidden bite can be that place where you can escape from the world a bit and feel at home. Many hole in the wall eateries can feel that way and we'll be focusing on Margon a Cuban/Dominican restaurant in Midtown Manhattan that for many years has been a trusted staple of the area because of their customer service, welcoming atmosphere, and of course food especially their sandwiches. Having come here for many years myself, Margon has always felt welcoming and you come out of it with a smile on the face. The menu will be familiar to those with Caribbean cuisine along with having daily specials from empanadas, pork chops and beef stew to steak, king fish, roasted chicken chicharron, and more with of course the classic rice and beans all done well and filling but if you are looking to wash things down then it has to be with their tropical shakes always made fresh.
At $8, options like tamarind, papaya, wheat, and moril sonando are great but so is one of my go too tropical shakes here - mamey - that transported me to a past that may or may not have happened. Also a little extra is always done that they give you in a small cup on top of the drink itself which is great and goes back to that great service. But we have to talk about the sandwiches as having a dedicated guy doing the sandwiches every day, watching this guy work is like seeing a magician do their thing.
Having had both their media noche and Cubano sandwiches, that are always fresh and made on the spot, you cannot go wrong with either. But what is the difference between the two? A Cubano traditionally is the bigger sandwich with a crusty Cuban bread and a media noche sandwich uses a softer eggy bread as they both share the same filling of roasted pork, ham, swiss cheese, pickles and mustard so if your looking for a softer sandwich the media noche is what you want. At $13, the media noche is an easy grab and go bite that satisfies on its own much like the Cubano at $16 that makes for a great lunch meal. The combination of meats satisfies, the pickles gives that acidity to balance things, the mustard isn't overdone, the cheese melts perfectly and that bread works so well that absorbs everything but doesn't feel all consuming. Roast pork, ham & cheese, steak, tunafish, and chicken sandwiches are also options to explore.
It can get busy, especially at lunch time, and with the small space can get crazy but it still flows well showing the experience accumulated over many years. Good eats in the Times Square/Rockefeller Center area of Midtown can be hard to come by, but Margon is one of those establishments that, despite its hole in the wall nature, shouldn't be missed offering well done Caribbean food, a staff that cares about what they do day in and day out, and an atmosphere that is always inviting that whether you are in the area or looking for a great downtown NYC bite for lunch or even cover yourself for dinner, they will not disappoint."
Orionis Mercado
"Must have: CAFE CON LECHE
That is what got us 6 blocks into Time Square - husband and I seek out cafe con leche wherever we go and Margon is now on our Must Have in NYC list. He got ultra nostalgic watching his coffee being made the way his grandmother made it for him: brew, add sugar, pour out and back to stir. I had no sugar with cinnamon and it’s the best I’ve had so far anywhere.
Only got coffee for our walk (and stopped again on our way out of the city). The food snells amazing - walk just past the register and inhale. THE PEOPLE make the experience extra special. They are genuinely happy to see you come in, kind and warm, and send you away with an abundance of well wishes. If i could, I’d stop in or call every day to share in that.
Please give this a try!!
We can’t wait to go back.
And $7 for a double cafe con leche is a true NYC deal!"
Kate Rivera
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Margon is conveniently located at 136 W 46th St, just a short walk from Times Square. It's considered a hidden gem in the heart of Midtown Manhattan. +1
The closest subway stations are Times Sq-42nd St (N, Q, R, W, S, 1, 2, 3, 7) and 47-50 Sts-Rockefeller Ctr (B, D, F, M). From there, it's a short walk.
While it's a 'hole in the wall' spot, it's well-marked and located on 46th Street between 6th and 7th Avenues, making it accessible.
Yes, taxis and ride-sharing services can drop you off on 46th Street. Be aware that traffic in the Times Square area can be heavy.
As a small, counter-service spot, accessibility might be limited. It's best to call ahead or assess the space upon arrival.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Margon is a restaurant, not an attraction. You simply order and pay for your food at the counter.
Hours can vary, but Margon is typically open daily, often from early morning until late evening. It's recommended to check their current hours before visiting.
There is no cover charge. You pay for the food and drinks you order.
Margon is a counter-service restaurant, so reservations are not typically accepted or needed. It's first-come, first-served.
Wait times can vary significantly, especially during peak lunch hours. Expect a wait of 15-30 minutes or more during busy periods.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Cuban Sandwich and Media Noche sandwich are highly recommended. The roast chicken, chicharron, and daily specials are also popular. Don't forget the Cafe con Leche! +2
Both have the same fillings (roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, mustard). The Cubano uses crusty Cuban bread, while the Media Noche uses a softer, eggy bread.
While Margon specializes in meat dishes, sides like rice and beans, and plantains can be enjoyed by vegetarians. Some reviews mention steak or tuna sandwiches as alternatives.
Margon is known for being affordable, especially for its location. Sandwiches are typically in the $10-$16 range, with combos and specials offering great value.
Yes, Margon offers a variety of fresh tropical shakes like mamey, tamarind, and papaya, which are a great way to cool down.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant colors of the food, especially the perfectly pressed sandwiches and rich Cafe con Leche. The bustling counter and friendly staff also make for great candid shots. +1
Most visitors take photos of their food and the general ambiance. Be mindful of other diners and the busy staff.
The lighting inside is typical of a casual eatery. Natural light might be limited, but the food is generally well-lit for appealing shots.
The exterior is unassuming, fitting its 'hidden gem' status. Capturing the street scene around it, especially with the church across the street, can add context.
Popular hashtags include #MargonNYC, #CubanFoodNYC, #MidtownEats, #NYCFoodie, #HiddenGemNYC, and #TimesSquareFood. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be prepared for a small, counter-service environment. While there is some seating, it can get crowded, especially during peak hours. The friendly staff and delicious, straightforward food make it a good spot for a quick, satisfying meal without breaking the bank.
💰 Budget Travelers
Opting for the daily specials or a hearty sandwich with a side can easily serve as both lunch and an early dinner. The generous portion sizes mean you get a lot of food for your money, making it a smart choice for saving on dining expenses while still enjoying high-quality cuisine.
🚶 Day-Trippers
Grab a Cuban sandwich or roast chicken to go, or enjoy it at their counter seating. Don't forget to pick up a Cafe con Leche for an energy boost to continue your sightseeing. It's an ideal spot for a delicious and efficient meal that won't eat up your precious sightseeing time.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Cuban Sandwich Experience
For those who prefer a softer bite, the Media Noche sandwich offers the same delicious filling but on a sweeter, eggy bread. This variation is a favorite for many, providing a different textural experience. Both sandwiches are substantial and satisfying, making them a perfect meal for lunch or a quick dinner.
The preparation is an art form, with a dedicated sandwich maker crafting each one fresh to order. Watching the process, from the layering of ingredients to the final press, is part of the enjoyment. The result is a sandwich that is both comforting and exciting, a true taste of Cuban culinary tradition.
Beyond the Sandwiches: Daily Specials & Sides
No Cuban or Dominican meal is complete without rice and beans, and Margon's are consistently well-prepared. The creamy rice and flavorful beans are the perfect accompaniment to any main dish or sandwich. Don't forget to try the plantains too; they add a touch of sweetness and are a delightful textural contrast.
For a truly authentic experience, consider trying some of their less common offerings like chicharron (fried pork belly) or tripe stew, which are often highlighted by adventurous eaters. These dishes showcase the depth and variety of the cuisine served at Margon.
The Unforgettable Cafe con Leche
At $7 for a double, it's considered an excellent value for New York City, making it a popular choice for both locals and tourists seeking an authentic taste. The addition of cinnamon or a touch of extra coffee on the side further enhances the experience, making it a highlight for many patrons.
Beyond the coffee, Margon also offers a selection of tropical shakes, made fresh with fruits like mamey, tamarind, and papaya. These shakes are a refreshing way to complement your meal or cool down on a warm day, adding another layer to the authentic Latin American flavors available.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit