Andy's Restaurant Scorecard: Havana's Pilon, plus scores

MEMPHIS, TN (WMC) - It was down to Boston versus Memphis.

Marialys Gonzalez and Pedro Pena ran their Cuban restaurant for two decades in Puerto Rico until they decided it was time to move it to the mainland.

"We had friends in both cities, but it was the weather that brought us to Memphis (in May 2013)," Pena said.

A year and a half later, their restaurant, Havana's Pilon Authentic Cuban Cuisine, 143 Madison Ave., is our High Score of the Week with a near-perfect 99 on its Sept. 26 health inspection.

"She's very jealous with the kitchen," Pena said. "She only allows me to wash dishes, French fries ... she only allows me to do that!"

"It's called 'shredded clothes.' That's what it translates to," said customer Ian Read of Byhalia, MS. The Ropa Vieja is shredded beef with olives, carrots, brown rice and black beans -- with a flavorful Cuban marinade. "They have a marinade called 'mojo,' and it's garlic and olive oil ... it really adds flavor to it."

Add a side of yucca (think sweet and smooth potato with onions and garlic) and the strongest, tastiest coffee this side of Havana, and you have a Cuban's favorite Memphis Cuban restaurant.

WHAT ANDY LIKES: Cuban Cafe (coffee), Ropa Vieja, Cuban Sandwich, Fried Marinated Red Snapper, Guava & Cheese Empanada

OTHER SCORES OF THE WEEK:

T.G.'s, 3870 Macon Rd., Gaisman Park/East Memphis, 98 on Oct. 1

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Andy's Restaurant Scorecard: Havana's Pilon, plus scores