Iconic Cuban Spots in Little Havana

Miami’s Little Havana is a treasure trove of incredible Cuban restaurants and eateries. After multiple visits, I wanted to highlight five of my personal favorites—all standouts for their unbeatable value and delicious food. These are based solely on my own taste and experiences. Sanguich, Little Havana 🍴 A Michelin-worthy Cuban sandwich spot with lines all day No matter the time, there’s always a long line outside—with separate queues for takeout and dine-in. The space is tiny, with just a counter and a small table (max 4 people), but it’s worth every minute of waiting. CUBANO (signature Cuban sandwich): The toasted bread is crispy outside, soft inside, stuffed with generous layers of ham and roasted pork. Tangy pickles and a hint of mustard cut through the richness, making every bite juicy and balanced. PAN CON BISTEC (steak sandwich): A heartier option with tender steak and crunchy fried potato strings—heavy, but deeply satisfying, like a flavor-packed hug in sandwich form. Their shakes are also a hit—fruity and refreshing, the perfect pairing. Versailles Restaurant Cuban Cuisine 🍖 A beloved Cuban institution, loved by locals and tourists alike This famous spot draws crowds of visitors, but it’s also a go-to for Miami’s Cuban community for meals and gatherings. It’s as authentic as it gets—try the braised ox tongue and oxtail: Ox tongue is simmered until melt-in-your-mouth tender, swimming in a savory tomato-spice sauce that’s perfect over rice. Oxtail, rich with collagen, falls off the bone, each strand of meat soaked in flavorful broth. It’s messy, delicious, and totally worth the effort. The vibe is lively, like a big Cuban family dinner, and portions are generous—ideal for sharing. Azucar Ice Cream - Little Havana 🍦 A Little Havana staple serving natural, crave-worthy ice cream Founded in 2011, Azucar prides itself on using natural ingredients, and it shows—no artificial dyes, just vibrant, honest flavors. Sample before you order! Standouts include guava (bright, tropical, and slightly tart) and Cuban coffee (bittersweet, like a frozen espresso). The texture is creamy, not icy, with a clean finish that avoids that cloying “processed” taste. The colorful shop has outdoor seating—grab a cone, soak up the sun, and savor the slow pace of Little Havana. La Colada Gourmet "THE HOUSE OF CUBAN COFFEE" ☕ A iconic coffee spot with serious Cuban soul A Little Havana landmark, popular with tourists but beloved for good reason. The cute, quirky interior feels like a Cuban coffee museum—vintage machines, playful coffee mugs, and memorabilia line the walls (great for photos!). Order a colada (Cuban espresso)—served in tiny cups, with a golden crema on top. It’s rich, slightly sweet, and surprisingly smooth, with a depth that lingers. It’s “addictive” in the best way—you’ll want to take home a bag of beans. Snag an outdoor seat to people-watch: locals playing dominoes, salsa music floating by, and the energy of Little Havana unfolding around you. El Rey De Las Fritas 🍔 A Cuban burger joint made famous by food bloggers (and for good reason) I discovered this spot from Mark Wiens’ YouTube channel, and it lived up to the hype. These aren’t your typical American burgers: The bun is Cuban bread, toasted to crispy perfection with a buttery, slightly sweet flavor. The beef patty is juicy, piled high with options like fried onions, fries, eggs, or cheese—each bite is a crunch, savory, messy delight. It’s a local favorite (fewer tourists here!), with old photos on the walls and a laid-back vibe. Affordable too—under $15 for a burger that’ll leave you stuffed. 📍 Little Havana Food Trail: How to Eat Your Way Through Brunch: Sanguich sandwich + La Colada coffee = energy for exploring. Dinner: Versailles oxtail + El Rey De Las Fritas burger = hearty, authentic Cuban eats. Dessert: Azucar ice cream = a sweet, tropical finish. Each spot has its own charm, but all capture the warmth and flavor of Cuba. You won’t need to splurge—just come hungry. #Miami #MichelinEats #CubanFood #HiddenGems #CubanSandwich #LittleHavana #MiamiFood #MiamiTravel #MiamiGuide