Connect
To Top

Hidden Gems: Meet Ozzy Llanes of Cubanos ATL

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ozzy Llanes.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Established in August 2020, Cubanos ATL is dedicated to delivering authentic Cuban flavors using high-quality ingredients and time-honored recipes. Our laid-back atmosphere invites guests to unwind and savor a vibrant, sensory Cuban dining experience.

Ozzy Llanes moved to the US from Cuba in 1995, and his mother’s Cuban recipes filled their home. After graduating high school in Miami and earning a business degree in West Palm Beach, he launched a successful career that led him from Miami to Atlanta. His love for Cuban food and culture inspired him to open Cubanos ATL, where he’s excited to share his family’s recipes and celebrate Cuban tradition, inviting everyone in Atlanta to enjoy a genuine taste of Cuba.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Like many small businesses, Cubanos ATL has faced its share of challenges along the way. One of the biggest has been balancing growth while staying true to our roots — maintaining the same homemade quality and authentic flavor as demand grows.

Another major challenge has been navigating the ups and downs of the food industry — from rising supply costs to staffing shortages and the impact of unexpected events like the pandemic. Through it all, we’ve stayed focused on adapting, learning, and finding creative ways to keep serving our community.

As a small, family-owned Cuban business, we’ve also worked hard to build awareness and visibility in a competitive market while staying authentic to who we are and the culture we represent.

Despite those challenges, every obstacle has made us stronger and more proud of how far we’ve come. Our community’s support has been the key to overcoming each hurdle — and that’s what keeps us going every day.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Cubanos ATL is a family-owned Cuban restaurant based in Sandy Springs, Georgia, known for bringing authentic Cuban flavors and hospitality to the Atlanta area. We specialize in traditional Cuban sandwiches, bowls, coffee, and catering — all made with love, culture, and sazón.

What sets us apart is our commitment to authenticity and community. Every dish on our menu tells a story — from our slow-roasted lechón to our classic ropa vieja — prepared the same way it’s been made in Cuban homes for generations. We’ve built a space where guests can experience not just great food, but the warmth and energy of Cuban culture.

We’re most proud of how our brand has become a local favorite and a gathering spot for people from all backgrounds who want to enjoy real Cuban food made from the heart.

We want readers to know that Cubanos ATL is more than just a restaurant — we cater, we host events, and we celebrate culture. Whether you’re stopping by for a sandwich and café con leche, or ordering catering for your next event, we’re here to make every meal feel like a celebration.

So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
There are so many ways to work with and support Cubanos ATL! We love partnering with local businesses, organizations, and creators who share our passion for community and culture. Whether it’s catering your next event, collaborating on pop-ups or cultural celebrations, or featuring our food at festivals — we’re always open to new ideas and collaborations.

You can also support us by ordering directly through the Cubanos ATL app, booking us for catering, following us on all social media platforms or simply stopping by our Sandy Springs location to enjoy a Cuban sandwich or coffee with friends.

Every visit, share, and recommendation helps us continue growing and bringing authentic Cuban flavor to Atlanta. We’re all about community — and we’d love to be part of yours!

Contact Info:

Image Credits
@bitesandbevsmedia

Suggest a Story: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

More in Local Stories