Mesa's BBQ

Considering the length of time I have lived/worked in Miami, I think some might call me a Miamian. Even though my Spanish needs a lot of work, I have tried to find out more about local i.e. Cuban cuisine. That being said, I have tried to eat at a variety of Cuban restaurants, from the touristy to the hole in the wall establishments. After this weekend, I think it's safe to say I may have found the best Cuban food in Miami. On the edge of Hialeah, is the gem called Mesa's BBQ. Upon entering the building, there is a small outdoor seating area and a large take away window. The smell of roasted meat and the sounds of fresh lechon being cut into manageable parts greet you as you walk through the door into indoor restaurant. I had to work with my best Spanish to communicate with the staff, but one of the waiters was kind enough to help me through my struggles. We started with some freshly made pineapple juice, perfect for the heat that was building outside. Next, we ordered the Costillas de Cerdo ( Baby Back Ribs) con arroz amarillo (yellow rice with pieces of pork) and a traditional dish called fufu, which is pounded half ripe plantains, with deep fried chicharron (pork belly) pieces on the top. We also ordered a side of the chicharron and yuca (cassava). The chicharron was the best I ever had. There was a great balance of meat and fat, and it was perfectly fried so that it was crunchy but not stiff. It was salty enough that paired excellently with the semi sweetness of the fufu. The ribs were roasted to perfection. The meat fell off the bone and was seasoned, I think with Mojo, which is a citrus based marinade used for many Cuban meat dishes. The portions were huge and easily shareable, even though you probably wouldn't want to, because of how good it all tasted. Even though I was stuffed, I had to try the Buñuelos (pound and fried yuca in a light syrup with anise) for dessert. They were amazing!!! I plan to brush up on my Spanish a little and head back down there with the rest of my family for more of the most delicious Cuban food I have ever eaten. Hope to see you there.