CocoPalm Restaurant

CocoPalm Restaurant Restaurant Review:

Who would have thought you could find authentic Cuban cooking on a hill above the San Bernardino Freeway in Pomona? Not only does CocoPalm offer an expansive menu of Cuban and Spanish dishes, but it does it in style. Just past a grand entrance --- complete with elaborate fountains and a tropical bird aviary --- is a lively bar, nightclub and series of dining areas, all with panoramic views of the Pomona Valley (which is, by night, surprisingly romantic). The mojitos may be weak, but they are refreshing pairings with empanadas, camarones con coco, or croquetas de jamón. Entrées include classics like ropa vieja, mojo-marinated lechón asado, garlicky roasted chicken, and Spanish paella. Portions are generous and the cooking is generally well executed. The wine list offers a global selection, including some decent Spanish labels, and dessert options range from cheesecake with guava marmalade and crema catalana to bread pudding. A lounge singer belts out romantic Cuban ballads as the black beans and maduros are passed around the table.