No trip to the Magic City is complete without trying the authentic Cuban restaurants in Miami. After all, would you visit Italy without trying gelato? Miami is a veritable melting pot of Latin cultures, which means there are plenty of savory comidas to try before you leave. Whether slow-cooked, flash fried, stewed, or sautéed, traditional Cuban food is packed with bold flavors.
Miami boasts dozens of Cuban restaurants, but not all are created equal. Here are three solid contenders to satisfy your Cuban food cravings. Wherever you choose to dine, remember to top off your meal with an energizing shot of café Cubano.
Versailles on southwest calle ocho (eighth street) is one of the best known Cuban restaurants in Miami. This Miami landmark draws in scores of people each day to feast on Cuban delights. Past the political chatter at the coffee take-out window you’ll be greeted with the tantalizing smell of plantain chips sizzling in the fryer. Try not to get overwhelmed by the extensive menu, just stick to the classics: vaca frita (shredded beef grilled with onions), chicken fricasse, or their famous Cuban sandwich. The casual vibe makes Versailles ideal great for families and large groups. Haven’t had enough? There are several Versailles restaurants and bakery stands throughout the Miami International Airport.
Another favorite among Miami’s Cuban community is Islas Canarias; a family-owned restaurant for over 30 years that prides itself on home cooked meals and friendly service. Islas Canarias offers a mix of traditional and gourmet dishes, of which the ropa vieja (shredded flank steak creole style with rice and sweet plantains) and oxtail in wine sauce are highly recommended. Islas Canarias has three restaurants across Miami-Dade County, but the Little Havana location is the original and most popular.
Cubans know their finger foods. Scrumptious croquetas, flaky empanadas, and cakes for all occasions are just some of the tantalizing items on display at La Rosa Bakery on the corner of West Flagler Street and 42nd avenue. La Rosa Bakery was founded by the Mayoral family in 1968 shortly after emigrating from Cuba. Call ahead to take-out for the ultimate Cuban picnic, or grab a seat along the window if you can’t contain yourself after smelling the freshly baked bread. No forks needed here, just an appetite and a plenty of napkins.
If your are looking for miami beach vacation homes, then check out this Miami vacation homes.
There is no need to make the 90-mile trip to the island of Cuba for authentic Cuban food – Miami has got all your cravings covered. These Cuban restaurants in Miami do not disappoint!
Counter
97 Countries • 1400 Cities