A proper Cubano is all about the press: crisp bread, melted Swiss, a little tang from the pickles. On South Sherwood Forest Boulevard, getting one takes a parking spot and a few minutes of patience.

Elisa's Cuban Cuisine, at 2627 S. Sherwood Forest Blvd., is built around traditional Cuban recipes and handcrafted drinks. It's open every day from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., and the same team also runs a food truck that makes stops around the community.

Start with the classics

El Cubano ($15) layers roasted pork, smoked ham, Swiss, pickles and mustard on pressed Cuban bread. The medianoche ($13) uses the same fillings on pressed medianoche bread, and the Frita Cubana burger ($14) tops a seasoned beef-and-pork patty with grilled onions, ham and Swiss.

For a full plate, the kitchen marks several dishes as house favorites. Cerdo asado tradicional ($17) is slow-roasted pork with congrí, yuca and mojo. There's also picadillo a la habanera ($15), pork chops and Cuban tamales. Ropa vieja ($17) is braised with peppers, onions, garlic and red wine. Seafood fans can go big with the Malecón Habanero ($25), a whole fried snapper.

Don't skip the starters: tostones rellenos, croquetas, beef empanadas and crispy malanga fritters. Finish with flan Cubano, tres leches cake or guava pastries.

A weekday lunch deal

A separate lunch menu runs until 2 p.m. Monday through Saturday, with lower prices on many dishes. The Ensalada Capitolio, for example, drops from $16 at dinner to $13 at lunch.

Thinking about the holidays?

Elisa's books private parties and holiday gatherings, from rehearsal dinners to office get-togethers, and offers catering packages for events off-site. If you're the one stuck planning the December party, a spread of croquetas and empanadas might be the easiest win of the season. Delivery is available through DoorDash and Uber Eats.

Call 225-256-0274 to ask about events. Or just come hungry and order the Cubano.

Photo courtesy of Elisa's Cuban Cuisine.