Best Cuban food in Miami
Miami is a city that has become synonymous with Cuban culture and cuisine, thanks to the large number of Cuban immigrants who have made their home here over the years. As a result, there are a plethora of Cuban restaurants in Miami, each offering its own unique take on the island’s signature dishes. If you’re looking for the best Cuban food in Miami, here are the top 10 restaurants to check out:
- Versailles Restaurant – This iconic restaurant on Calle Ocho is a must-visit for anyone looking for authentic Cuban cuisine. Known for its delicious Cuban sandwiches, Versailles has been serving hungry Miamians for over 40 years.
- La Carreta – With several locations throughout the city, La Carreta is a popular spot for traditional Cuban dishes like ropa vieja and picadillo. Their flan is also a must-try.
- El Palacio de Los Jugos – This outdoor market is a Miami institution, serving up fresh juices, tropical fruits, and some of the best Cuban food in the city. Grab a Cafecito and some empanadas and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
- Havana Harry’s – This family-owned restaurant has been serving up classic Cuban dishes for over 20 years. Their vaca Frita (shredded beef) is a customer favorite.
- Sergio’s Cuban – With locations throughout Miami, Sergio’s Cuban is a popular spot for quick and delicious Cuban food. Their Cuban sandwich and black beans and rice are not to be missed.
- Islas Canarias – This family-owned restaurant has been a favorite among locals for over 40 years. Their croquetas are some of the best in the city, and their Pastelitos (Cuban pastries) are a must-try.
- El Cristo – This no-frills spot is known for its delicious roast pork and Lechon Asado. Order a plate with black beans and rice, and you’ll have a hearty meal that won’t break the bank.
- Doce Provisions – This trendy spot in Little Havana offers a modern take on Cuban cuisine. Try their guava and cheese empanadas or their fried yuca with garlic mojo for a unique twist on classic dishes.
- Puerto Sagua – While not strictly a Cuban restaurant, this classic diner has been serving up Cuban dishes alongside American fare since 1968. Their ropa vieja and Cuban sandwich are both customer favorites.
- Casa Juancho – This upscale restaurant has been serving traditional Spanish and Cuban cuisine since 1972. Their paella is a must-try, and their live flamenco shows make for a memorable dining experience.
Whether you’re a longtime Miami resident or a visitor to the city, these 10 Cuban restaurants are sure to satisfy your cravings for authentic Cuban cuisine.
| Restaurant Name | Location | Specialties | Atmosphere | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Versailles Restaurant | Little Havana | Cuban Sandwich, Cafe con Leche | Casual, Busy | $ |
| La Carreta | Multiple Locations | Ropa Vieja, Picadillo | Casual, Family-friendly | $ |
| El Palacio de los Jugos | Little Havana | Fresh Juices, Empanadas | Outdoor Market, Lively | $ |
| Havana Harry’s | Doral, Coral Gables | Vaca Frita, Arroz con Pollo | Casual, Family-friendly | $$ |
| Sergio’s Cuban | Multiple Locations | Cuban Sandwich, Black Beans, and Rice | Casual, Quick Service | $ |
| Islas Canarias | West Miami | Croquetas, Pastelitos | Casual, Family-owned | $ |
| El Cristo | Hialeah, West Miami | Roast Pork, Lechon Asado | No-Frills, Budget-friendly | $ |
| Doce Provisions | Little Havana | Guava and Cheese Empanadas, Fried Yuca | Trendy, Modern | $$ |
| Puerto Sagua | Miami Beach | Ropa Vieja, Cuban Sandwich | Casual, American Diner | $ |
| Casa Juancho | Little Havana | Paella, Live Flamenco Shows | Upscale, Romantic | $$$ |
This comparison table provides information on the location, specialties, atmosphere, and price range of the 10 best Cuban restaurants in Miami, making it easy for diners to compare and choose the restaurant that best suits their preferences and budget.
Versailles Restaurant
Versailles Restaurant is an iconic Cuban restaurant located in Little Havana, Miami. Established in 1971, it has become a cultural landmark for locals and tourists alike. Known for its authentic Cuban cuisine, Versailles Restaurant is particularly famous for its Cuban sandwich, which is made with ham, roast pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on Cuban bread. It also serves other classic Cuban dishes like ropa vieja, picadillo, and arroz con pollo. The restaurant’s atmosphere is casual yet bustling, with a lively vibe that captures the essence of Miami’s Cuban culture. With its rich history and delicious food, Versailles Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the best Cuban cuisine in Miami.
La Carreta
La Carreta is a popular chain of Cuban restaurants with several locations throughout Miami. It has been serving authentic Cuban cuisine since 1976 and has become a staple in Miami’s food scene. La Carreta’s menu features a variety of classic Cuban dishes, including ropa vieja, picadillo, and Lechon Asado. Its Cuban sandwich is also a customer favorite, made with ham, roast pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on Cuban bread. La Carreta’s atmosphere is casual and family-friendly, with a lively and welcoming atmosphere that captures the essence of Miami’s Cuban culture. With its delicious food and inviting atmosphere, La Carreta is a must-visit for anyone looking for a taste of authentic Cuban cuisine in Miami.
El Palacio de Los Jugos
El Palacio de Los Jugos is a beloved Cuban restaurant located in Little Havana, Miami. What sets this restaurant apart is its focus on fresh juices and fruits, making it a popular spot for breakfast or a midday snack. Along with the fresh juices, El Palacio de Los Jugos also serves a variety of classic Cuban dishes, such as empanadas, tamales, and Lechon Asado. The restaurant’s atmosphere is lively and bustling, with outdoor seating and a vibrant marketplace selling fresh fruits and vegetables, creating an authentic Cuban experience. With its focus on fresh and delicious cuisine, El Palacio de Los Jugos has become a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the vibrant flavors of Cuban cuisine in Miami.
Havana Harry’s
Havana Harry’s is a family-owned Cuban restaurant with two locations in Miami, in Doral, and Coral Gables. The restaurant is known for its authentic Cuban cuisine, which includes dishes like vaca Frita, arroz con pollo, and ropa vieja. Its Cuban sandwich is also a customer favorite, made with slow-roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on Cuban bread. The restaurant’s atmosphere is casual and family-friendly, with colorful murals and vintage Cuban décor that create a lively and inviting atmosphere. With its delicious food and welcoming atmosphere, Havana Harry’s is a great spot for anyone looking to experience the best of Cuban cuisine in Miami.
Sergio’s Cuban
Sergio’s Cuban is a popular chain of Cuban restaurants with several locations throughout Miami. The restaurant serves a variety of classic Cuban dishes, including the famous Cuban sandwich, black beans and rice, and ropa vieja. Sergio’s Cuban is known for its quick service and casual atmosphere, making it a great spot for a quick and satisfying meal. The restaurant also offers a catering service, making it a popular choice for events and parties. With its delicious food and convenient locations, Sergio’s Cuban is a must-visit for anyone looking for a taste of authentic Cuban cuisine in Miami.
Islas Canarias
Islas Canarias is a family-owned Cuban restaurant located in the heart of Miami. Established in 1977, the restaurant has been serving authentic Cuban cuisine for over four decades. Islas Canarias is famous for its croquetas, which are made fresh daily and come in a variety of flavors, including ham, chicken, and bacalao. The restaurant also serves other classic Cuban dishes, such as ropa vieja, picadillo, and churrasco. Its Cuban sandwich is also a customer favorite, made with slow-roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on Cuban bread. The restaurant’s atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, with a family-friendly vibe that captures the essence of Miami’s Cuban culture. With its delicious food and warm atmosphere, Islas Canarias is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the best Cuban cuisine in Miami.
El Cristo
El Cristo is a family-owned Cuban restaurant located in the heart of Little Havana, Miami. The restaurant is known for its traditional Cuban dishes, which include ropa vieja, picadillo, and Lechon Asado. Its Cuban sandwich is also a popular choice, made with ham, roast pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on Cuban bread. El Cristo’s atmosphere is cozy and intimate, with vintage Cuban décor and friendly service that makes customers feel like family. With its delicious food and welcoming atmosphere, El Cristo is a must-visit for anyone looking for an authentic taste of Cuban cuisine in Miami.
Doce Provisions
Doce Provisions is a modern Cuban restaurant located in Miami’s Little Havana neighborhood. The restaurant serves a creative fusion of Cuban and American cuisine, using locally-sourced ingredients to create unique and delicious dishes. Its menu features dishes such as duck confit croquetas, Cuban bibimbap, and guava bread pudding, alongside classic Cuban staples like ropa vieja and Lechon Asado. Doce Provisions’ atmosphere is stylish and contemporary, with an industrial-chic décor and a lively bar that serves creative cocktails and local craft beers. With its innovative menu and trendy atmosphere, Doce Provisions offers a fresh take on Cuban cuisine and is a must-visit for anyone looking for a unique dining experience in Miami.
Puerto Sagua
Puerto Sagua is a classic Cuban diner located in Miami Beach, serving up delicious Cuban cuisine since 1968. The restaurant’s menu features a variety of Cuban staples such as ropa vieja, picadillo, and Palomilla steak, all served with rice, black beans, and sweet plantains. Its Cuban sandwich is also a customer favorite, made with roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on Cuban bread. Puerto Sagua’s atmosphere is casual and nostalgic, with a vintage diner décor that transports customers back to a time when Miami Beach was known as the playground of the rich and famous. With its delicious food and retro vibe, Puerto Sagua is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the classic flavors of Cuban cuisine in Miami.
Casa Juancho
Casa Juancho is a family-owned Cuban restaurant located in the heart of Miami’s Little Havana neighborhood. The restaurant is known for its authentic Spanish and Cuban cuisine, specializing in fresh seafood and paella. Its menu features a variety of classic Cuban dishes such as ropa vieja, picadillo, and vaca Frita, as well as seafood specialties like lobster tail and red snapper. Casa Juancho’s atmosphere is elegant and sophisticated, with a grand dining room decorated in the style of a Spanish villa. The restaurant also features a lively bar and outdoor patio, making it a great spot for a night out or a special occasion. With its delicious food and upscale atmosphere, Casa Juancho offers a unique dining experience that captures the essence of Miami’s vibrant Cuban culture.
Conclusion
Miami is known for its vibrant Cuban culture, and the city is home to some of the best Cuban restaurants in the world. From classic diners to modern fusion spots, Miami’s Cuban restaurants offer a wide variety of delicious and authentic cuisine that reflects the city’s unique blend of Cuban and American cultures. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional dishes like ropa vieja and Cuban sandwiches, or you’re looking for a more innovative take on Cuban cuisine, Miami’s Cuban restaurants have something for everyone. With their welcoming atmospheres and delicious food, these restaurants are a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the best Cuban cuisine in Miami.
Best Cuban Restaurants Miami FAQ
Q: What makes Cuban cuisine unique?
A: Cuban cuisine is a blend of Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences, resulting in a unique fusion of flavors and ingredients. It typically features dishes such as ropa vieja, picadillo, and Lechon Asado, as well as plantains, yuca, and black beans.
Q: Are there any vegan or vegetarian options available at Cuban restaurants in Miami?
A: Yes, some Cuban restaurants in Miami offer vegan and vegetarian options. For example, Versailles Restaurant offers a vegetarian platter that includes plantains, yuca, black beans, and rice, while Doce Provisions has a vegan bibimbap made with tofu, vegetables, and quinoa.
Q: Is it necessary to make a reservation at Cuban restaurants in Miami?
A: It depends on the restaurant and the time of day. Some Cuban restaurants in Miami can get very busy during peak hours, so it’s a good idea to make a reservation to avoid long wait times. However, many of these restaurants also offer walk-in seating, especially during off-peak hours.
Q: Are Cuban sandwiches the only option for lunch at Cuban restaurants in Miami?
A: No, Cuban sandwiches are a popular choice for lunch at Cuban restaurants in Miami, but there are many other options available as well. Some restaurants offer lunch specials that include a variety of dishes, such as ropa vieja, picadillo, and Lechon Asado.
Q: Are the prices at Cuban restaurants in Miami affordable?
A: Yes, most Cuban restaurants in Miami offer affordable prices, especially for lunch and early dinner specials. However, some upscale restaurants may have higher prices, especially for seafood and other specialty dishes.
Q: Can I find live music at Cuban restaurants in Miami?
A: Yes, many Cuban restaurants in Miami feature live music performances, particularly on weekends. This is especially true of restaurants in the Little Havana neighborhood, where there is a strong cultural emphasis on music and dance.
Q: Are there any Cuban restaurants in Miami that offer outdoor seating?
A: Yes, many Cuban restaurants in Miami offer outdoor seating options, particularly in areas such as South Beach and Little Havana. Some restaurants have outdoor patios, while others offer sidewalk seating that allows diners to enjoy the sights and sounds of Miami while they eat.
Q: What is the dress code for Cuban restaurants in Miami?
A: The dress code at Cuban restaurants in Miami varies depending on the restaurant. Some restaurants have a casual dress code, while others may require business casual or formal attire. It’s always a good idea to check with the restaurant beforehand to ensure that you are dressed appropriately.
Last Updated on April 14, 2023 by Viktoria
Comments are closed