Whenever Miami’s food scene comes up, Cuban cuisine instantly pops into my head. The city overflows with authentic Cuban restaurants, from cozy, family-run diners tucked in Little Havana to sleek, modern spots in downtown.
I’ve gathered up eight standout Cuban restaurants in Miami—places that serve up classic dishes, bold flavors, and that unmistakable Havana vibe. You know, the kind of spot where you sit down and suddenly feel like you’ve been whisked off to Cuba.
All the staples are here: Cubano sandwiches, ropa vieja, black beans and rice, sweet plantains, and more. Each spot brings its own flair, but they all take tradition and quality seriously.
If you’re hunting for the best Cuban food in Miami, these are the places I’d put at the top of your list.
Maybe you’re new to Cuban food, or maybe you already crave it. Either way, this guide should help you find the spots locals swear by and visitors rave about.
Meet Miami’s Cuban Dining Scene
Exploring Miami’s Cuban restaurants always feels like a new adventure. Each neighborhood throws in its own flavor.
Little Havana brings pure energy, Coral Gables leans into elegance, and Brickell and Doral? They mix tradition with a modern Miami twist.
The Heart of Little Havana
Calle Ocho in Little Havana honestly feels like a portal straight to Cuba. The air fills with the aroma of strong Cuban coffee and slow-roasted pork.
Locals gather outside places like Versailles Restaurant or El Exquisito, chatting over plates of ropa vieja and crispy plantains.
Music spills out from open doors, and it’s hard to miss the scent of hand-rolled cigars nearby. El Rey de las Fritas draws crowds for its fritas—Cuban burgers topped with crunchy shoestring potatoes.
Every dish here seems to have a backstory, and the staff treat you like family.
A stroll down Calle Ocho isn’t just about the food—it’s a living slice of Cuban history. Dessert lovers will find flan and pastelitos de guayaba at every turn, so there’s always something sweet to finish the meal.
Old Havana Flavors in Coral Gables
Coral Gables gives Cuban dining a different spin. Here, comfort and a dash of elegance blend together.
Places like Havana Harry’s feel bright and welcoming, with menus loaded with classics—lechon asado, picadillo, and tamal en cazuela.
Portions come out generous, and dishes always look as good as they taste. Havana Harry’s stands out for its rich ropa vieja and the ever-popular Cuban sandwich.
The vibe is relaxed but always lively, making it great for brunch with family or dinner with friends. Presentation gets as much love as flavor, so meals feel a bit extra special.
Some spots even surprise with desserts like guava cheesecake or tres leches cake.
Cuban Hospitality in Brickell and Doral
Brickell and Doral’s Cuban spots blend old-school recipes with Miami’s fast-paced pulse. These neighborhoods draw young professionals and families chasing both speed and authenticity.
Sergio’s and other local favorites serve up pressed Cuban sandwiches, empanadas, and fresh juices.
At lunchtime, tables fill up fast as folks grab a quick slice of Cuban culture. I always notice the attention to detail—plates come out just right, and the staff genuinely care.
Most places offer plenty of seating and quick service, making them perfect for work lunches or laid-back dinners.
The energy is infectious, and honestly, the Cuban coffee here? Some of the best I’ve had in Miami.
Must-Try Signature Cuban Dishes
Cuban cuisine in Miami packs bold flavors and a deep sense of tradition. Many top restaurants rely on recipes passed down through generations, mixing old-world roots with Miami’s fresh ingredients.
Classic Cuban Sandwiches
Whenever I walk into a Cuban restaurant, the Cuban sandwich is usually my first move. It starts with soft Cuban bread, pressed until it’s crispy on the outside but still pillowy inside.
The classic filling? Layers of roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and yellow mustard. Some places in Tampa add salami, but Miami keeps it simple.
The real secret is the marinated roast pork—slow-cooked until it’s tender and bursting with flavor. Sandwiches get sliced on the diagonal and pair perfectly with plantain chips or yuca fries.
Here’s a quick look at what goes inside:
| Ingredient | Feature |
|---|---|
| Cuban bread | Crispy outside, soft inside |
| Roast pork | Slow-cooked, seasoned |
| Ham | Mild, juicy |
| Swiss cheese | Melting, creamy |
| Pickles | Tart, crunchy |
| Mustard | Tangy, sharp |
Ropa Vieja and Lechon
Ropa vieja has always been one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug. Shredded beef simmers in a tomato-based sauce with onions, peppers, and garlic.
It’s savory, tender, and usually served over white rice with sweet plantains on the side.
Lechon—roast pork—shows up at every big Cuban celebration. The pork marinates in mojo (garlic, sour orange, herbs) and slow-roasts until the skin turns crisp and the meat stays juicy.
In Miami, lechon often comes with congrí (black beans and rice), fried yuca, and sometimes a fresh salad.
Both dishes carry deep family and cultural roots. Chefs take their time, letting flavors meld. If I see ropa vieja or lechon on the menu, I’m ordering.
Tapas and Frita Cubana
Tapas make sharing easy, and Miami’s Cuban restaurants offer plenty. Empanadas, croquetas, tostones, and yuca frita fill the menus.
Each tapa brings something different—crunchy tostones, savory empanada fillings, or the creamy center of a croqueta. I usually go for a sampler plate to try a bit of everything.
Frita cubana is Miami’s own take on the burger. The patty, made from seasoned pork or beef, gets topped with shoestring potatoes, onions, and sometimes a tangy sauce, all inside a soft Cuban roll.
Fritas have a smoky, slightly spicy kick, and the crispy potatoes add a fun crunch.
Seafood Paella and Black Beans and Rice
Seafood paella is a showstopper at many Cuban restaurants in Miami. Inspired by Spain, this dish features rice cooked in saffron broth with shrimp, clams, mussels, fish, and sometimes squid.
Each bite bursts with flavor, and the rice soaks up every drop of that savory broth.
On the simpler side, black beans and rice are everywhere. This combo, sometimes called “moros y cristianos,” is filling and comforting.
The beans get seasoned with cumin, bay leaf, and garlic, then mixed with fluffy rice.
Arroz con pollo (chicken and rice) is another classic—cooked all together with veggies and spices. I suggest trying both for a taste of Cuban home cooking.
In Miami, it’s the little things—the herbs, the slow simmering, the care—that make Cuban food stand out.
8 Authentic Cuban Restaurants in Miami
Miami’s packed with Cuban restaurants, each with its own personality. From old-school favorites to fresh takes on Cuban classics, I’ve wandered through spots that serve up rich flavors and genuine hospitality.
Versailles Restaurant: The Icon of Cuban Cuisine
Versailles Restaurant is basically the heart of Cuban food in Miami. You’ll find it in Little Havana, where it’s been serving the community since 1971.
There’s always a lively buzz—locals and tourists mixing, conversations flying. The menu covers all the classics: ropa vieja, lechón asado, and that famous Cuban sandwich.
Bakery cases show off pastelitos and flan, tempting you as soon as you walk in.
The place oozes old Havana charm, with mirrored walls and chandeliers. Staff move quickly and keep things friendly.
Versailles doubles as a gathering spot for political talk and family celebrations. If you want to go local, grab a cortadito and a guava pastry.
Vegetarian options pop up here and there, but the pork and beef dishes really shine.
El Rey de las Fritas: Home of the Frita Cubana
El Rey de las Fritas has built its name on the frita cubana—a burger like no other. Their signature frita combines seasoned beef and chorizo, topped with crispy shoestring potatoes.
You can find them all over Miami, but the original spot keeps things classic. The menu stays casual with pan con bistec, croquetas, and milkshakes.
Prices are easy on the wallet, and portions won’t leave you hungry.
Service is quick, and the colorful decor gives off old-school diner vibes. I often see families and solo diners digging in.
A fresh juice or Cuban coffee to go? Always a good idea.
For honest, satisfying Cuban comfort food, El Rey de las Fritas never lets me down.
Old’s Havana Cuban Bar & Cocina: Vintage Vibes in Little Havana
Old’s Havana Cuban Bar & Cocina nails the retro-cool look in Little Havana. The decor transports you to the 1950s, with Cuban memorabilia and vintage photos everywhere.
Menus cover all the bases: picadillo, plantain chips, pressed Cuban sandwiches. Their mojitos hit the sweet spot—not too sugary, super refreshing.
Live music brings extra energy, especially at night or on weekends. I’ve noticed the staff go out of their way to help first-timers.
The outdoor patio is shaded, making it ideal for people-watching on Calle Ocho. Empanadas with café con leche make a great snack, or you could settle in for their seafood paella.
Havana 1957: Nostalgia on Every Plate
Havana 1957 brings the golden age of Cuba to life with vintage decor and timeless recipes. With several locations—Española Way and Ocean Drive among them—it’s an easy stop.
Their pollo Havana 1957 (roasted half chicken with secret sauce) served with rice, beans, and plantains, always hits the spot. The daiquiris and other classic cocktails are worth a try.
Dishes taste homemade, and the wait staff often dress in vintage outfits, adding to the nostalgia. It gets busy, so if you want a quieter meal, try going during off-peak times.
Desserts like tres leches cake seal the deal. Havana 1957 balances tourist appeal with real-deal flavors.
Marabú: Contemporary Cuban Flavors in Brickell
Marabú in Brickell brings Cuban cuisine into the present. The vibe is sleek and modern, with an open kitchen and decor inspired by Havana’s elegance.
Dishes put a creative spin on tradition. I especially like their charcoal-grilled meats, like lechón roasted over open flames.
Tostones and yuca fries come out extra crispy. Cocktails are inventive, with playful riffs on mojitos and rum drinks.
Whether you’re out for a casual dinner or something more special, Marabú fits the bill.
The staff know the menu inside out and offer helpful pairing tips. Marabú nails contemporary style while still honoring Cuban roots.
Havana Harry’s: Cuban Comfort in Coral Gables
Havana Harry’s in Coral Gables is my go-to for big portions and a menu that covers all the bases.
The space feels open and family-friendly. Standouts include vaca frita (crispy beef), masas de puerco (fried pork chunks), and a wide range of rice and bean sides.
The Cuban sandwich and chicken milanesa are local favorites.
Desserts deserve their own mention—definitely try the flan or coconut tres leches cake. Even on busy weekends, service stays efficient.
Vegetarian options are there, but the menu leans heavily toward meat. For classic Cuban dishes or creative specials, Havana Harry’s always delivers.
Sanguich: Gourmet Sandwiches and Cuban Street Food
Sanguich sits right in the heart of Little Havana and takes the classic Cuban sandwich to another level. Their Cubano? It’s unforgettable—house-cured ham, slow-roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, all pressed until the bread crackles.
The menu doesn’t try to do too much. You’ll find other favorites like pan con bistec and those sweet plantain milkshakes that I can never resist. Every loaf of bread and jar of pickles comes from their own kitchen, and you can tell they care about every ingredient.
The space feels modern and bright, with an open kitchen so you can watch the action. I love how fast the service moves, making it a perfect spot for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner if you’re in a hurry.
Sanguich really celebrates Miami’s Cuban street food roots, but they add their own twist of quality and attention to detail.
Top Spots in Miami Beach and South Beach
Miami Beach and South Beach have some Cuban gems you shouldn’t miss. If you’re in Miami Beach, Puerto Sagua is one of those places locals swear by—think café con leche, Cuban breakfasts, and hearty stews, all in a laid-back, no-frills diner.
Las Olas Café also deserves a shoutout for its speedy service and sandwiches packed with flavor. Want something a bit fancier? Havana 1957 has a couple of South Beach locations, each dripping with old-school Cuban charm and a menu to match.
These spots serve up the classics, but you’ll also find lighter bites for those who just want a quick taste before heading back to the beach. I’d say don’t leave without trying a media noche sandwich or a comforting bowl of black bean soup.
Here’s a quick table to help you out:
| Restaurant | Neighborhood | Known For |
|---|---|---|
| Versailles | Little Havana | Iconic Cuban classics |
| El Rey de las Fritas | Multiple | Frita Cubana burger |
| Old’s Havana | Little Havana | Vintage ambiance, mojitos |
| Havana 1957 | Various | Nostalgic vibe, roast chicken |
| Marabú | Brickell | Modern Cuban grill |
| Havana Harry’s | Coral Gables | Hearty portions, variety |
| Sanguich | Little Havana | Gourmet Cuban sandwiches |
| Puerto Sagua | Miami Beach | All-day Cuban diner |
It’s honestly tough to have a bad Cuban meal in Miami with so many options.
Enhancing the Cuban Dining Experience
Great Cuban restaurants in Miami serve up more than just food. The sense of place, the music, and the hospitality all come together to create a true Cuban dining experience.
Atmosphere and Authentic Decor
Stepping into a Cuban restaurant in Miami, the décor usually hits me first. Painted tile floors, vintage family photos, and those old-school light fixtures—it feels like a little time capsule from 1950s Cuba.
Places like Old’s Havana Cuban Bar & Cocina go all out with tropical plants and rattan chairs, giving off a chill, authentic vibe. Colorful murals and hand-painted signs pop up everywhere, celebrating Cuban culture and history.
You’ll spot old radios, cigar boxes, maybe even a painted rooster tucked into a corner. These aren’t just for show—they pull you right into the heart of Cuban culinary heritage.
Live Music and Entertainment
Live music always seems to fill the air in Miami’s Cuban restaurants. I can hear salsa, son Cubano, or bolero drifting from a corner stage or a tiny band by the bar. Sometimes, guests even join in the dancing—why not?
Cafe La Trova, for example, hosts live acts every night. The music isn’t just a background playlist; it’s woven into the whole experience. It makes you want to linger, order another drink, and just soak up the energy.
Drinks like mojitos and cuba libres usually show up with a side of guitar strums and drum beats. Honestly, the rhythms and flavors together make the evening feel like a celebration.
Cuban Hospitality and Service
I almost always get a warm welcome at Cuban restaurants. The staff greets you like an old friend, and it’s not unusual for them to share recommendations or stories about their favorite dishes.
Ask about a dish, and chances are someone will explain the ingredients or the family recipe behind it. That personal touch turns a simple meal into something way more memorable.
Sharing food and coffee is just part of the culture. Order a colada (Cuban coffee), and it’ll come with tiny cups so everyone at the table can have a taste. It’s a small gesture, but it brings people together and really shows the heart of Cuban hospitality.
Cuban Drinks, Sweets, and Sides to Savor
Cuban food in Miami is about more than just the savory stuff. The drinks, desserts, and sides round out the experience and keep you coming back for more.
Mojitos and Cuban Cocktails
You can’t talk about Cuban drinks in Miami without mentioning the mojito. It’s a classic mix of white rum, fresh mint, lime juice, sugar, and sparkling water. I love how the mint and lime cut through the sweetness and give it a refreshing kick. Some places even muddle the mint right at your table, which smells incredible.
The Daiquiri is another staple—rum, lime juice, and simple syrup, usually blended with ice. Supposedly, Hemingway made it famous during his Havana days. If you want something different, try a Cuba Libre (rum, cola, and lime) or the Old Cuban, which adds sparkling wine and bitters.
If you’re skipping alcohol, don’t worry. Guarapo (fresh sugarcane juice) and Malta (a sweet, malty soda) are popular, too.
Popular Cuban Cocktails:
| Cocktail | Main Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Mojito | White rum, mint, lime, sugar, soda |
| Daiquiri | Rum, lime juice, simple syrup |
| Cuba Libre | Rum, cola, lime |
| Old Cuban | Aged rum, mint, lime, wine, bitters |
| Guarapo (NA) | Sugarcane juice |
| Malta (NA) | Malted soft drink |
Churros and Classic Desserts
Churros are a go-to dessert at many Cuban spots in Miami. Fried and dusted with sugar, they’re crispy outside and soft inside. I can’t resist dunking mine in thick, warm chocolate—most places serve it on the side.
Flan is another must-try—creamy custard with a caramel top. Tres leches cake pops up everywhere, rich and soaked in three kinds of milk. If you’re in the mood for something fruity or cheesy, pastelitos (little pastries filled with guava or cheese) are a fun option.
Some restaurants serve arroz con leche, a sweet rice pudding with cinnamon and vanilla. These desserts usually come in small portions, just enough to satisfy your sweet tooth after a big Cuban meal.
Café con Leche and Sweet Treats
Café con leche pops up everywhere in Miami’s Cuban cafes. Folks usually whip it up by mixing strong Cuban espresso with steamed milk, sometimes tossing in a spoonful of sugar.
The drink turns out smooth and bold. Personally, I think it’s perfect with breakfast—or honestly, any time I need a little afternoon boost.
When it comes to sweets, I often spot merenguitos (those crispy meringue cookies), turrón (almond nougat), and all sorts of coconut goodies on bakery shelves. There’s something about pairing these treats with coffee that just feels right, and they’re usually easy on the wallet if you’re craving a quick bite.
Most Cuban restaurants also serve “batidos”—tropical fruit milkshakes in flavors like mango or banana. These shakes come out thick and cold, but not too sugary.
On a hot Miami day, grabbing a batido feels like the smartest way to cool down. Sometimes, I’ll even skip dessert and just sip one of these instead.
