Local StoriesMay 6, 2026

Hidden Gems: Meet Alvaro & Claudia Carta of AZUCAR CUBAN CUISINE

Local Stories

Today we’d like to introduce you to Alvaro & Claudia Carta.

Alvaro & Claudia, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I’m Cuban, and I lived in Miami, where I grew up surrounded by the authentic flavors of Cuban cuisine that always felt like home.

Later, I met my wife in Atlanta, and we started our life here. Over time, I realized how much I missed that taste of Miami and the culture behind it.

That’s how this journey began—bringing a piece of Miami to Atlanta, sharing our heritage and flavors in every dish we serve, hoping to make people feel at home with every bite.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Not at all—it hasn’t been a smooth road.

There were financial challenges, long hours, and the difficulty of starting over in a new city and market. We also had to figure out how to introduce authentic Cuban flavors in a way that connects with people here in Atlanta.

But every challenge made us stronger and more committed to what we’re building.

Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about AZUCAR CUBAN CUISINE ?
We are a modern Cuban restaurant in Atlanta, blending authentic Cuban flavors with a vibrant Miami-inspired atmosphere.

At the heart of our space is a real magnolia tree that has stood for over 100 years, giving the restaurant a unique and timeless character.

We’re known for some of the best Cuban sandwiches and mojitos in Atlanta, crafted with authenticity and a modern touch.

Every Friday and Saturday, live music fills the space, creating a lively, tropical energy. Our patio is the perfect place to relax, stay a while, and enjoy the moment—especially while catching some of the most beautiful sunsets in Brookhaven.

What were you like growing up?
Growing up, I was very family-oriented and observant. I enjoyed watching how food brought people together and how much meaning was behind simple traditions.

I was always interested in cooking, culture, and anything that connected people. Even before I realized it, I had a natural passion for food and hospitality.

Personality-wise, I’ve always been focused and determined. When I set my mind on something, I work hard until I make it happen.

Pricing:

Cuban Bowls Lunch specials $12.99

Contact Info:

Website: https://www.Azucarcubancuisineatl.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/azucar_cuban_brookhaven/

Bar with blue and white chairs, hanging lamps, and a well-lit shelf with bottles, greenery, and people in the background.

People sitting at an outdoor table under a wooden pergola, enjoying drinks and conversation.

Indoor seating area with tables, chairs, hanging lamps, and a large tree with green leaves.

Grilled fish fillet on a bed of salad with vegetables and croutons on a white plate.

Indoor space with pink wall, wooden window shutters, hanging wicker lamps, and a large tree with string lights.

Bar area with hanging lamps, string lights, and a wall of greenery behind the counter.

Assorted dishes including fried fish, grilled chicken, roasted potatoes, rice, and vegetables on white and black plates.

Steak with sauce being poured, rice, vegetables, and fried items on a white plate.

Grilled fish fillet with rice, fried plantains, pink pickled onions, lime wedge, and a drink in a glass, on a white plate.

Salad with shrimp, vegetables, and dressing on a white plate, with a glass of white wine nearby.

Person holding two sandwiches with cheese and fried chicken outside a restaurant, with a sign reading 'CUBAN' in background.

Bar with hanging woven lamps, shelves with bottles, and string lights, with people working behind the counter.

Person cutting cooked meat with fork and knife on a white plate, with salad and sauce nearby.

A slice of pizza with pink pickled onions and a lemon wedge on top, served with three dipping sauces on a black plate.

A cocktail glass with a yellow garnish on top, set against a dark background.

Person holding fork with spaghetti and tomato sauce over a patterned bowl, with rice on the side.

Colorful cocktail in a tall glass with a green straw, blurred background with bokeh lights.

Hand holding a cocktail glass with lime, mint, straw, and sugar rim, against a bokeh background.

Bar with hanging lamps, greenery, and bar stools, illuminated warmly, with bottles on shelves in background.

Young woman with long dark hair sitting at a table in a restaurant, engaging in conversation with others.

Indoor restaurant with hanging lamps and a decorated tree with lights, tables, and chairs visible.

Indoor space with hanging lights, tables, and chairs, illuminated with warm lighting and decorative elements.

Woman with striped pants and dark top looking at her phone in a dimly lit indoor setting.

Two hanging woven lamps illuminated, with greenery and string lights in the background.

Tall glass with a creamy white drink, garnished with a cherry, pineapple slice, and a small blue umbrella.

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