Delightful Cuban Restaurants in Miami You Need to Try

In the mood for some Cuban food? In a place like Miami, there is no shortage of delicious and authentic Cuban venues to check out. Whether you are craving some Ropa Vieja or Croquettes, you are sure to find some in Miami. The next time you go out, consider visiting these popular places!

Searching for the perfect gift for your loved one? Give them the gift of delicious Cuban cuisine with a virtual GiftYa card. These convenient cards can be applied to any of the below Cuban restaurants. Because they are virtual, your loved one never has to worry about losing them as long as they have their cell phone with them. 

1. Old’s Havana Cuban Bar & Cocina

Vibrant and bustling Cuban spot known for its delicious cuisine

oldshavana.com 

1442 SW 8th St, Little Havanna

Located in the heart of Little Havana, Old’s Havana Cuban Bar & Cocina offers an eclectic assortment of authentic Cuban food. Since its start in the 50’s Old’s Havana has served as the premier destination for Cuban food. Classic dishes including Empanadas and Fricase de Pollo are served in a vibrant and electric atmosphere. If you’re craving a sandwich, delicious options like the Cubano and Media Noche are perfect for filling your belly. In addition to their main dishes, Old’s Havana also offers Cuban Flan, Tres Leches, Torrejas, and more for dessert. 

“Ceviche was amazing as a starter with a balance of citrus and spice with white fish. Cuban Roast Pork sandwich was fantastic and my wife had to take half home. The Cuban Sandwich was amazing from the fresh breast to the savory ham and cheese. Would definitely recommend this place to anyone looking off the normal fair!” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for Old’s Havana Cuban Bar & Cocina. 

2. Mary’s Cuban Cafe

Late-night spot that serves authentic and hearty Cuban food

cubacaferestaurant.com 

2055 E Tropicana Ave, Eastside

Mary’s Cuba Cafe is found in the heart of Miami. Guests enjoy this restaurant for its savory and authentic dishes as well as its energetic atmosphere. Everything from the ingredients to the tray presentation is carefully put together in order to provide the ultimate culinary experience.

Not sure what to get? We recommend the Rabo Encendidio, which is braised oxtail served alongside white rice and black beans. The Arroz con Mariscos is a popular seafood dish that will also leave you filled and satisfied. 

“We found this Gem while searching for a Cuban restaurant. So glad we picked Cuba Cafe. The food was amazing, customer service exceeded my expectations. We went on a Saturday and they had live music (amazing!) We hadn't had such good Cuban food since we left Miami. They even have a few items on the Menu from Puerto Rico. If you are in the area I highly recommend you visit them.” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for Mary’s Cuban Cafe. 

3. El Tropico Cuban Cuisine

Polished space serving up traditional Cuban cuisine

tropicocubancuisine.com 

17020 Collins Ave, Sunny Isles Beach

If you’re looking for authentic and filling Cuban cuisine, you can’t go wrong with El Tropico Cuban Cuisine. Since 1995, El Tropico has enjoyed a stellar reputation as one of the best Cuban restaurants in Miami. House specialties like the Whole Snapper, Arroz Con Pollo and Churrasco are a favorite among guests. On Thursdays and Saturdays, guests can enjoy savory food while also listening to live music. In addition to its delicious Cuban cuisine, El Tropico also offers fresh Mojito Margaritas and Pina Coladas. 

“I've never had Cuban cuisine in my life, but I noticed how busy this place was on a Friday lunchtime, so I stopped by. The food was incredible. I got all 3 empanadas, yucca fritas, ropa vieja, black beans with rice, and a cold Coke. It was all amazing, and I will be going back for the empanadas for sure. Outdoor seating only, no more than 4 to a table (during COVID-19, July 30, 2020).” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for El Tropico Cuban Cuisine. 

4. La Carreta

Cuban restaurant known for its savory brunch specials and sandwiches

lacarreta.com 

3632 SW 8th St, West Flagler

In English, La Carreta translates to The Oxcart, which is an open vehicle with either two or four wheels. Traditionally, oxcarts are used to transport sugar cane on large plantations. La Carreta Restaurant stays true to its Cuban heritage with its classic name.

On the menu, you can find delicious entrees like the Chicken Carretero, Roasted Chicken au Jus, and Roasted Beef Tongue. If you would rather just get takeout, you can order a Family Special to-go. These specials can serve five to ten people, making them great for small get togethers. Savory options like the Grilled Chicken Breast and Fried Pork Chunks are perfect for keeping everyone satisfied. 

“The melanga soup was starchy and creamy. Pretty good for something I've never tried before. The yuca fries were the perfect snack/appetizer. I've alway loved yuca fries so I knew I couldn't go wrong here. The shrimp in creole sauce was tomatoey and saucy. It came with a side of rice and plantains.” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for La Carreta. 

5. La Rosa Restaurant

Upscale Cuban restaurant perfect for a special night out

larosarestaurantmiami.com

4041 NW 7th St, West Flagler

At La Rosa Restaurant, you are treated with exceptional service and delicious Cuban cuisine. Since its start in February of 1968, La Rosa Restaurant has since grown into a popular Cuban restaurant in the West Flagler area. High-quality dishes like the Fried Squid and Coconut Shrimp in Mango Jam are popular among guests. If you’re in the mood for seafood, you’ll enjoy the Fried Whole Snapper or Seafood Casserole. For dessert, you have a wide selection of options to choose from. Ride Pudding, Fritters, and Three Milks Cake are the perfect finish to an already wonderful meal. 

“Good authentic food!! Not a bad wait at all. Server was nice and had great recommendations. Enchilado de camarones were nice. The portions are huge. And best of all was palomilla. It was light and cooked but not overcooked. Everything was just right! My honest recommendation!” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for La Rosa Restaurant. 

6. Cafe La Trova

Popular Cuban restaurant that serves delicious food and cocktails

cafelatrova.com

971 SW 8th St, Little Havana

Voted one of GQ’s Best New Restaurants in America, Cafe La Trova is a popular and vibrant restaurant located in Little Havana. Run by the world-famous Julio Cabrera and friend Chef Michelle Bernstein, Cafe La Trova serves some of the best Cuban cuisine in Miami. On the menu, you will find appetizing choices like the Crispy Whole Boneless Snapper and Braised Bone-in Short Rib of Beef. A full bar featuring inventive cocktails is also available. Whatever dish you choose, you are sure to love it and be ready to come back to the restaurant again. 

“Love love love! I was so happy with how they have handled the reopening since Covid19!! I felt so safe and relaxed. From the moment you get there they have you wait outside, sanitize your hands, and walk you to your "zone" where you are 6 feet apart. Each table, as you can see in the photo, has its own marked space. Plus, they have QR menus! Hands free = yes from me!” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for Cafe La Trova. 

7. Enriqueta's Sandwich Shop

Top-notch destination for the best Cuban sandwiches in Miami

facebook.com/EnriquetasSandwichShop

186 NE 29th Street, Wynwood

Situated in Wynwood, Enriqueta’s Sandwich Shop serves some of the best Cuban sandwiches in the city. Enriqueta’s is perfect for grabbing a quick bite or enjoying a casual meal with friends. If you’re not sure what to get, you definitely can’t do wrong with the Steak Sandwich. The Cuban Sandwich and Croquettes Sandwich are also great options. For an extra boost of energy, you can order their Colada or Cafe Americano. 

“The Cubano is everything you could want between two slices of bread: generous layers of garlicky crisped ham and pork, melted cheese, some pickle chips, and subtle spreads of mayo and mustard. As with many things, the Cubano begins and ends with the bread, a special Cuban variety that's split lengthwise, buttered, and then smashed by the sandwich press until the inside is soft and warm and the outside has a blistered crunchiness and shine that has become this sandwich's trademark.” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for Enriqueta's Sandwich Shop. 

In Miami, you are certain to find an authentic and vibrant Cuban restaurant. What restaurants have you visited so far? Let us know in the comments!