Mojito Cubano is a rustic little Cuban eatery named after its signature drink. It's where dive bar Not My Dog used to be. Its chef used to cook at a restaurant in Cuba called Paladares many years ago.

There are images of famous Cubans all over the walls, as well as a picture of Cuba’s national bird and a huge Cuban flag draped on the exposed brick wall.

There are only a few little tables at the front, and then there’s a bit of bar and high seating at the back.

The nominal mojito ($10) is a straight up classic, sweet and boozy with huge sprigs of leafy mint and a ton of lime.

They also serve other Latin American drinks here like caipirinhas, made with a smoky Latin spirit and a pile of thick lime wedges, as well as cuba libres.

Try other Latin classics like yuca fries ($6), thick cut cassava that’s more starchy than potato fries. They’re almost twice the price but I can’t help but recommend this garlic-drenched crunchy side dish over the more lacklustre regular fries.

Perhaps try switching out the fries that come with the cubano ($11) for yuca fries or plantain, though fries are what this iconic ham, roast pork, cheese and pickle sandwich usually comes with. Either way, the sandwich is a flavour bomb upped significantly by using crispy, soft bread baked fresh in house.

Have breakfast for dinner here with the Spanish omelette ($8) which also comes with fries, and is a super simple protein-packed light dish, fluffy egg studded with potato and onion.

The ropa vieja main course ($17) impressed me, pulled flank steak in a moist spiced sauce topped with olives and peppers, served with rice and beans, very crunchy plantain and cooling avocado.

On the right night, you’ll be serenaded with jazzy tunes, possible even a saxophonist’s personal rendition of the Pink Panther theme, as I was.

Though very different from what came before, this is still a great Parkdale joint to snag a drink and maybe even catch some live entertainment.