Walking Tours in Miami
Little Havana Food Tour
Paola Bortolin
Little Havana is just one of the many jewels of Miami. In 2017, The National Trust for Historic Preservation added Little Havana to its list of National Treasures.
Often dubbed the “Capital of Latin America,” Miami could have been just another deep-South city in Florida if it wasn't for Cuban revolution of 1959 that sent waves of Cuban refugees to Miami swiftly transforming the city's central neighborhood, once known as Riverside, into Little Havana.
The strong Cuban influence here is felt primarily in an eclectic mix of traditional eateries and hip bars encompassing Calle Ocho and the surrounding areas chock-full of good eats. Colorful murals, monuments to heroes past and present, elderly men playing dominoes as they discuss politics, and cigar rollers at work amid the ever-present aroma of Cuban coffee. Visitors can sample fresh Spanish-style seafood, tasty Cuban sandwiches and delicacies from almost every Latin American country and you don't need to pay a whooping $70 for a tour.
We have collected all the places the culinary and food tours take tourists in this guide to Miami's Little Havana. So all you need to do is follow this self-guided walk for a real taste of Little Havana!
The strong Cuban influence here is felt primarily in an eclectic mix of traditional eateries and hip bars encompassing Calle Ocho and the surrounding areas chock-full of good eats. Colorful murals, monuments to heroes past and present, elderly men playing dominoes as they discuss politics, and cigar rollers at work amid the ever-present aroma of Cuban coffee. Visitors can sample fresh Spanish-style seafood, tasty Cuban sandwiches and delicacies from almost every Latin American country and you don't need to pay a whooping $70 for a tour.
We have collected all the places the culinary and food tours take tourists in this guide to Miami's Little Havana. So all you need to do is follow this self-guided walk for a real taste of Little Havana!
Calle 8
Southwest 8th Street between 12th and 27the Avenue
Southwest 8th Street between 12th and 27the Avenue
Calle Ocho is the heart of Little Havana. Soon after Fidel Castro took over Cuba in January 1959, hundreds of thousands of Cubans came to Miami and settled in this area. By 1962, more than 28 businesses between Southwest 5th and 15th avenues had already switched ownership from Anglo to Cuban. By 1966, the Cuban transformation was, for the most part, complete. From this Little Havana launching pad, Miami’s Cubans not only transformed a neighborhood; they transformed an entire city.
Little Havana Walk of Fame
Southewest 8th Street between 12th and 17th avenues
Southewest 8th Street between 12th and 17th avenues
This segment of Calle Ocho has star-shaped plaques along the sidewalk to honor Hispanic artists and celebrities such as Gloria Estefan, Maria Conchita Alonso, Sammy Sosa and the late Celia Cruz.
Cuban Memorial Boulevard and Bay of Pigs Monument
Southwest 13th Avenue between 8th and 12th streets
Regarded as the epicenter of the Little Havana neighborhood, Cuban Memorial Boulevard Park was created to serve as a place to remember those who fought for freedom and perished during the Cuban Revolution. It is defined by the Bay of Pigs Monument, a historic site that pays tribute to Cuban freedom fighters during the failed Bay of Pigs Invasion. Dedicated in 1971, one of its most iconic features is the Eternal Torch of Brigade 2506, honoring the soldiers who bravely fought during the Bay of Pigs Invasion.
Featured is a bronze statue of Nestor “Tony” Izquierdo, a Cuban revolutionary hero; a bronze map of Cuba; a statue of the Virgin Mary; and a bronze bust of General Antonio Maceo, an Afro-Cuban general who died fighting for the independence of Cuba. Also along the boulevard is the Plaza de Los Periodistas Cubanos, a memorial dedicated to Cuban journalists who devoted their writing and lives to speaking out against Castro’s regime. Note the large Ceiba tree with its roots filled with candles; it has religious significance to those who practice Santería.
The Ceiba Tree (the tree of life)
Cuban Memorial Plaza at 13th and Calle Ocho
After you pay your respects to these two luminaries, you’ll then find yourself approaching the giant ceiba tree. It is here under the tangled branches that you might catch a Santeria ceremony in progress. A sacred tree in the Santeria religion, at the Cuban Memorial Plaza. Santeria is a Afro-Cuban religion, born out of the beliefs of the Yoruba people, West Africans brought to Cuba to be slaves. In order to preserve their religious beliefs in the face of a hostile Catholic environment, they created a syncretic religion with Catholicism and their own beliefs.
Bay of Pigs Museum
1821 SW 9th street
This unique museum preserves and displays pictures, flags, uniforms and other items of Cuban soldiers of the Assault Brigade 2506 that invaded Cuba on April 17, 1961 and fought and died at the Bay of Pigs.
With weekly hours of Monday-Friday from 10AM to 4PM and Saturday from 10AM to 2PM, the Bay of Pigs museum offers a unique opportunity to explore exhibits that pay homage to the martyrs who fell in action and those who have since passed away.
Delve into the rich history of the struggle for freedom and gain insights into the political, cultural and social experiences of Cuban-Americans in the United States as you speak to one of their veterans. You can go as a walk-in or plan your visit by booking a tour online.
Máximo Gómez Park & Bust of Cuban Revolutionary (aka Domino Park)
Southwest 8th street and 15th Avenue
Máximo Gómez Park in Little Havana, more affectionately known as Domino Park by the locals, is a hidden gem right on historic Calle Ocho (8th Street). Named after General Máximo Gómez, who was chief of the Cuban Liberation Army during the wars of independence against Spain, this is a social spot popular with locals.
At any time of day, you will find the regulars sipping Cuban coffee, playing dominoes and chatting with friends. A tradition for more than 40 years. The small park features walkways of domino-decorated tilework and a perimeter lined with benches for spectators. You can’t miss the painted mural that serves as the backdrop for this popular hangout. Created by Dominican artist Oscar Thomas, the mural depicts the presidents of all American nations that attended the first Summit of the Americas, held in Miami in 1994.
Entering the park, you’ll see the Little Havana Paseo de las Estrellas (Walk of the Stars). Reminiscent of the Hollywood Walk of Fame in California, the stars here are given to Latin American actors, writers, artists and musicians.
No visit to the park is complete without a stop directly across the street at Azucar Ice Cream Company, known for its amazing artisanal gourmet ice creams and sorbets in Cuban, tropical and other flavors. Domino Park is located on the corner of SW 8th Street and 15th Avenue, just a few steps from the Little Havana Visitor Center. Free parking can be found behind the park and there is also metered street parking along 8th Street.
Little Havana Visitor Center
1600 SW 8th Street
Centrally located in the heart of Little Havana on Calle Ocho (Southwest 8th Street) between Domino Park and McDonald's, this welcome center provides visitors and residents with a resource for information about the attractions and happenings in Little Havana as well as other heritage and multicultural neighborhoods throughout Greater Miami. It offers a wide variety of brochures highlighting attractions and points of interest, maps, event calendars, tours and special offerings throughout the year.
Rooster Statues
When exploring Little Havana, be sure to get your selfies with the iconic rooster statues that have become a beloved symbol of the neighborhood. Based on the late sculptor, Tony Lopez’s design, these funky and often themed Calle Ocho Roosters first arrived in 2002, and since then, over 70 similar sculptures have been scattered along Calle Ocho and Flagler Street. As you stroll through the area, you may also encounter live roosters, or gallos, crowing atop the sprawling roots of the ceiba tree.
Los Pinareños (oldest standing fruit stand in the city of Miami)
1334 SW 8th Street
Los Pinareños Fruteria is a semi-outdoor fruit and juice market established by Guillermina Hernandez and her late husband, both originally from Pinar del Rio, Cuba (hence the name, Los Pinareños). This family-run business has been in operation since 1963. A genuine mom-and-pop shop, one step inside here makes you feel transported to an eclectic island oasis filled with classic Miami staples like mangos, watermelons, coconuts, mameys, guanabanas, sugarcane, and other exotic tropical fruits.
Additionally, they sell coffee, juices and smoothies — always fresh, never frozen. Here you can mix and match an array of fruits and veggies or just tell the vendor what you feel like having and they'll whip up a custom batch just for you only. A star beverage of the place is the "Green Juice" or Guarapo (sugar cane juice) made with real sugarcane. Batido ("beaten") – Cuban-style milkshakes – are also worth a try.
In case you're in for something more substantial, this cash-only operation can offer you some great food as well, including tamale, a mini Cuban sandwich and homemade tuna. A traditional finish to a meal would be a Café Cubano made by the lady of the house with an authentic, grandma flare. For extra fun, step out back where you will find fruit trees growing, flocks of chickens, and even the store's mascot, a pot-bellied Vietnamese pig who sleeps and eats just behind the market.
Party Cake Bakery
1356 SW 8th Street
For a sweet treat, head to Party Cake Bakery, a family-owned bakery where you can indulge in delectable pastelitos made by hand in their open kitchen. Located next to the Bay of Pigs Memorial and under the iconic mural dedicated to Cuban singer, Celia Cruz, Party Cake Bakery is a family-owned business started in the 1980s by Cuban exiles, Juan and Olga Montano.
In the early years, Olga and Juan faced challenges, with Olga crafting cakes and assisting customers while Juan focused on baking. The Montano's four boys would even sleep behind the display cases in the early mornings as they awaited the school bus. Despite the initial struggles, their dedication began to bear fruit as customers flocked in for their morning "Cafe Cubano" or the beloved "pastel de carne."
More than 25 years later, the dream that Olga and Juan envisioned is not only alive but thriving. The bakery offers a delightful selection of empanadas, pastries, sandwiches, and cakes. The menu is complemented by refreshing fresh orange juice and freshly brewed coffee. The service is not only swift but also welcoming and cheerful, creating an inviting atmosphere for patrons.
Still at the helm today, their bakery now has multiple locations around the city, operated by their children and grandchildren. Don’t miss trying their signature pastelitos de guyaba!
Azucar Ice Cream
1503 SW 8th Street
This parlor is a serious ode to the neighborhood and is Little Havana's—and arguably Miami's too—most famous outlet for ice cream. Distinctly marked on the outside by a massive plastic ice cream cone facade, you can’t miss it.
Azucar serves more than 100 signature and classic flavors – from chocolate to passion fruit to mamey. Their Mantecado (Cuban vanilla) ice cream is almost custardy and ultra-silky, but it is Abuela Maria, the trademarked flan ice cream concoction with heaps of Cuban rum, crispy galletas, vanilla base mixed with guava and cream cheese, that really takes the cake.
With a rotating board of fresh ice creams made daily, Azucar is an ultimate spot in Little Havana to go and treat yourself to all sorts of irresistible, only-in-Miami ice cream flavors, especially if you're on board with their use of cinnamon.
Exquisito Chocolates
2606 SW 8th Street
Miami’s Willy Wonka dreams ultimately came true with the opening of Exquisito Chocolates, the city’s very first chocolate factory, in the heart of Little Havana.
This place is a fascinating combination of a front retail shop and a 1,200-square-foot production facility in the back, allowing visitors to observe the entire process of chocolate making through large glass windows. Those particularly keen on learning every step of turning cacao beans into chocolate confections, can sign up for chocolate making classes and get a full first-hand knowledge.
At Exquisito they like to “Latinize” and “Miamify” their bean-to-bar bon bons outputting classic Miami flavors like Café con Leche and Little Guavana made with fresh Redland grown guava, and Miami Vice dark-chocolate truffle made with cafecito and dulce de leche. Overall, this retail shop carries 12 permanent truffle flavors, a collection of single origin bars made from cacao sourced directly from partner farms, and other confections manufactured daily.
Cuba Tobacco Cigar Co
1528 SW 8th Street
Cuba Tobacco Cigar Co., a family-owned and operated business, carries on the rich tradition of Cuban cigar-making. After the nationalization of their tobacco fields and factories in Cuba, the Bello family immigrated to Miami, where they revived their cigar heritage. Since 1994, they have been crafting cigars in Little Havana using the finest tobacco and traditional techniques. With five generations of experience, Cuba Tobacco Cigar Co. maintains their commitment to producing some of the world's finest cigars, upholding their old standards and preserving their Cuban cigar-making legacy.
Casa Habano
1743 SW 8th Street
The cigars are hand-rolled by Cuban-trained professional cigar rollers. They use an exclusive tobacco blend selected among the highest quality leaves. Join their hand rolled cigar tour.
Upon entering Casa Del Tabaco, each guest will be greeted with a traditional Cuban coffee or “Cafe Cubano” to get a full sensory experience. From there they begin a video on the seeding, germination, planting, curing, fermenting and sorting of tobacco leafs before shipped to factories.
They continue by sharing the history of Commercial cigar rolling in Florida which began with small-scale operations by Cuban immigrants in the 1830s, and blossomed in to the “cigar Capital of the World”, with Pioneers like Vicente Martinez Ybor and Eduardo Manrara. Next you will visit their pettit GALERA to experience each manufacturing stage. A true Little Havana experience!
LoanDepot Park aka Marlins Park
501 Marlins Way
Experience the excitement of the ballpark with two-time World Series Champions, the Miami Marlins, Miami’s Major League Baseball team since 1993. loanDepot Park, a state-of-the-art retractable roof stadium on the site of the former Miami Orange Bowl in Little Havana, is home to the Miami Marlins. The Marlins play a Major League Baseball regular season from March to September. Plan your Marlins experience by viewing the team's schedule and game day information.
Southwest 13th Avenue between 8th and 12th streets
Regarded as the epicenter of the Little Havana neighborhood, Cuban Memorial Boulevard Park was created to serve as a place to remember those who fought for freedom and perished during the Cuban Revolution. It is defined by the Bay of Pigs Monument, a historic site that pays tribute to Cuban freedom fighters during the failed Bay of Pigs Invasion. Dedicated in 1971, one of its most iconic features is the Eternal Torch of Brigade 2506, honoring the soldiers who bravely fought during the Bay of Pigs Invasion.
Featured is a bronze statue of Nestor “Tony” Izquierdo, a Cuban revolutionary hero; a bronze map of Cuba; a statue of the Virgin Mary; and a bronze bust of General Antonio Maceo, an Afro-Cuban general who died fighting for the independence of Cuba. Also along the boulevard is the Plaza de Los Periodistas Cubanos, a memorial dedicated to Cuban journalists who devoted their writing and lives to speaking out against Castro’s regime. Note the large Ceiba tree with its roots filled with candles; it has religious significance to those who practice Santería.
The Ceiba Tree (the tree of life)
Cuban Memorial Plaza at 13th and Calle Ocho
After you pay your respects to these two luminaries, you’ll then find yourself approaching the giant ceiba tree. It is here under the tangled branches that you might catch a Santeria ceremony in progress. A sacred tree in the Santeria religion, at the Cuban Memorial Plaza. Santeria is a Afro-Cuban religion, born out of the beliefs of the Yoruba people, West Africans brought to Cuba to be slaves. In order to preserve their religious beliefs in the face of a hostile Catholic environment, they created a syncretic religion with Catholicism and their own beliefs.
Bay of Pigs Museum
1821 SW 9th street
This unique museum preserves and displays pictures, flags, uniforms and other items of Cuban soldiers of the Assault Brigade 2506 that invaded Cuba on April 17, 1961 and fought and died at the Bay of Pigs.
With weekly hours of Monday-Friday from 10AM to 4PM and Saturday from 10AM to 2PM, the Bay of Pigs museum offers a unique opportunity to explore exhibits that pay homage to the martyrs who fell in action and those who have since passed away.
Delve into the rich history of the struggle for freedom and gain insights into the political, cultural and social experiences of Cuban-Americans in the United States as you speak to one of their veterans. You can go as a walk-in or plan your visit by booking a tour online.
Máximo Gómez Park & Bust of Cuban Revolutionary (aka Domino Park)
Southwest 8th street and 15th Avenue
Máximo Gómez Park in Little Havana, more affectionately known as Domino Park by the locals, is a hidden gem right on historic Calle Ocho (8th Street). Named after General Máximo Gómez, who was chief of the Cuban Liberation Army during the wars of independence against Spain, this is a social spot popular with locals.
At any time of day, you will find the regulars sipping Cuban coffee, playing dominoes and chatting with friends. A tradition for more than 40 years. The small park features walkways of domino-decorated tilework and a perimeter lined with benches for spectators. You can’t miss the painted mural that serves as the backdrop for this popular hangout. Created by Dominican artist Oscar Thomas, the mural depicts the presidents of all American nations that attended the first Summit of the Americas, held in Miami in 1994.
Entering the park, you’ll see the Little Havana Paseo de las Estrellas (Walk of the Stars). Reminiscent of the Hollywood Walk of Fame in California, the stars here are given to Latin American actors, writers, artists and musicians.
No visit to the park is complete without a stop directly across the street at Azucar Ice Cream Company, known for its amazing artisanal gourmet ice creams and sorbets in Cuban, tropical and other flavors. Domino Park is located on the corner of SW 8th Street and 15th Avenue, just a few steps from the Little Havana Visitor Center. Free parking can be found behind the park and there is also metered street parking along 8th Street.
Little Havana Visitor Center
1600 SW 8th Street
Centrally located in the heart of Little Havana on Calle Ocho (Southwest 8th Street) between Domino Park and McDonald's, this welcome center provides visitors and residents with a resource for information about the attractions and happenings in Little Havana as well as other heritage and multicultural neighborhoods throughout Greater Miami. It offers a wide variety of brochures highlighting attractions and points of interest, maps, event calendars, tours and special offerings throughout the year.
Rooster Statues
When exploring Little Havana, be sure to get your selfies with the iconic rooster statues that have become a beloved symbol of the neighborhood. Based on the late sculptor, Tony Lopez’s design, these funky and often themed Calle Ocho Roosters first arrived in 2002, and since then, over 70 similar sculptures have been scattered along Calle Ocho and Flagler Street. As you stroll through the area, you may also encounter live roosters, or gallos, crowing atop the sprawling roots of the ceiba tree.
Los Pinareños (oldest standing fruit stand in the city of Miami)
1334 SW 8th Street
Los Pinareños Fruteria is a semi-outdoor fruit and juice market established by Guillermina Hernandez and her late husband, both originally from Pinar del Rio, Cuba (hence the name, Los Pinareños). This family-run business has been in operation since 1963. A genuine mom-and-pop shop, one step inside here makes you feel transported to an eclectic island oasis filled with classic Miami staples like mangos, watermelons, coconuts, mameys, guanabanas, sugarcane, and other exotic tropical fruits.
Additionally, they sell coffee, juices and smoothies — always fresh, never frozen. Here you can mix and match an array of fruits and veggies or just tell the vendor what you feel like having and they'll whip up a custom batch just for you only. A star beverage of the place is the "Green Juice" or Guarapo (sugar cane juice) made with real sugarcane. Batido ("beaten") – Cuban-style milkshakes – are also worth a try.
In case you're in for something more substantial, this cash-only operation can offer you some great food as well, including tamale, a mini Cuban sandwich and homemade tuna. A traditional finish to a meal would be a Café Cubano made by the lady of the house with an authentic, grandma flare. For extra fun, step out back where you will find fruit trees growing, flocks of chickens, and even the store's mascot, a pot-bellied Vietnamese pig who sleeps and eats just behind the market.
Party Cake Bakery
1356 SW 8th Street
For a sweet treat, head to Party Cake Bakery, a family-owned bakery where you can indulge in delectable pastelitos made by hand in their open kitchen. Located next to the Bay of Pigs Memorial and under the iconic mural dedicated to Cuban singer, Celia Cruz, Party Cake Bakery is a family-owned business started in the 1980s by Cuban exiles, Juan and Olga Montano.
In the early years, Olga and Juan faced challenges, with Olga crafting cakes and assisting customers while Juan focused on baking. The Montano's four boys would even sleep behind the display cases in the early mornings as they awaited the school bus. Despite the initial struggles, their dedication began to bear fruit as customers flocked in for their morning "Cafe Cubano" or the beloved "pastel de carne."
More than 25 years later, the dream that Olga and Juan envisioned is not only alive but thriving. The bakery offers a delightful selection of empanadas, pastries, sandwiches, and cakes. The menu is complemented by refreshing fresh orange juice and freshly brewed coffee. The service is not only swift but also welcoming and cheerful, creating an inviting atmosphere for patrons.
Still at the helm today, their bakery now has multiple locations around the city, operated by their children and grandchildren. Don’t miss trying their signature pastelitos de guyaba!
Azucar Ice Cream
1503 SW 8th Street
This parlor is a serious ode to the neighborhood and is Little Havana's—and arguably Miami's too—most famous outlet for ice cream. Distinctly marked on the outside by a massive plastic ice cream cone facade, you can’t miss it.
Azucar serves more than 100 signature and classic flavors – from chocolate to passion fruit to mamey. Their Mantecado (Cuban vanilla) ice cream is almost custardy and ultra-silky, but it is Abuela Maria, the trademarked flan ice cream concoction with heaps of Cuban rum, crispy galletas, vanilla base mixed with guava and cream cheese, that really takes the cake.
With a rotating board of fresh ice creams made daily, Azucar is an ultimate spot in Little Havana to go and treat yourself to all sorts of irresistible, only-in-Miami ice cream flavors, especially if you're on board with their use of cinnamon.
Exquisito Chocolates
2606 SW 8th Street
Miami’s Willy Wonka dreams ultimately came true with the opening of Exquisito Chocolates, the city’s very first chocolate factory, in the heart of Little Havana.
This place is a fascinating combination of a front retail shop and a 1,200-square-foot production facility in the back, allowing visitors to observe the entire process of chocolate making through large glass windows. Those particularly keen on learning every step of turning cacao beans into chocolate confections, can sign up for chocolate making classes and get a full first-hand knowledge.
At Exquisito they like to “Latinize” and “Miamify” their bean-to-bar bon bons outputting classic Miami flavors like Café con Leche and Little Guavana made with fresh Redland grown guava, and Miami Vice dark-chocolate truffle made with cafecito and dulce de leche. Overall, this retail shop carries 12 permanent truffle flavors, a collection of single origin bars made from cacao sourced directly from partner farms, and other confections manufactured daily.
Cuba Tobacco Cigar Co
1528 SW 8th Street
Cuba Tobacco Cigar Co., a family-owned and operated business, carries on the rich tradition of Cuban cigar-making. After the nationalization of their tobacco fields and factories in Cuba, the Bello family immigrated to Miami, where they revived their cigar heritage. Since 1994, they have been crafting cigars in Little Havana using the finest tobacco and traditional techniques. With five generations of experience, Cuba Tobacco Cigar Co. maintains their commitment to producing some of the world's finest cigars, upholding their old standards and preserving their Cuban cigar-making legacy.
Casa Habano
1743 SW 8th Street
The cigars are hand-rolled by Cuban-trained professional cigar rollers. They use an exclusive tobacco blend selected among the highest quality leaves. Join their hand rolled cigar tour.
Upon entering Casa Del Tabaco, each guest will be greeted with a traditional Cuban coffee or “Cafe Cubano” to get a full sensory experience. From there they begin a video on the seeding, germination, planting, curing, fermenting and sorting of tobacco leafs before shipped to factories.
They continue by sharing the history of Commercial cigar rolling in Florida which began with small-scale operations by Cuban immigrants in the 1830s, and blossomed in to the “cigar Capital of the World”, with Pioneers like Vicente Martinez Ybor and Eduardo Manrara. Next you will visit their pettit GALERA to experience each manufacturing stage. A true Little Havana experience!
LoanDepot Park aka Marlins Park
501 Marlins Way
Experience the excitement of the ballpark with two-time World Series Champions, the Miami Marlins, Miami’s Major League Baseball team since 1993. loanDepot Park, a state-of-the-art retractable roof stadium on the site of the former Miami Orange Bowl in Little Havana, is home to the Miami Marlins. The Marlins play a Major League Baseball regular season from March to September. Plan your Marlins experience by viewing the team's schedule and game day information.
Futurama Galleries
1637 SW 8th Street
The Futurama 1637 Art Building established in 2011, serves as a hub for over 42 local and international artists from places like Argentina, France, Peru, and Ecuador. With twelve artists having their studios on-site, visitors can witness the creative process firsthand. Additionally, Futurama actively engages with the community through events like free art classes, the Umbrellas of Little Havana festival, and the Cafe con Arte collective exhibit.
WHAT TO EAT IN LITTLE HAVANA & WHERE
PASTELITOS
Translates to small pastry. These are flaky turnovers made with puff pastry and typically sweet-filled with guava, guava and queso (cream cheese), or just queso, or savory-filled with beef or ham.
Arahi's Bakery
Versailles Cuban Bakery
Party Cake Bakery
La Colada Gourmet
CROQUETAS
A croquette is a deep-fried roll originating in France with a creamy inner layer & a crispy breaded outer layer. The inner layer contains ingredients typically ham and cheese or spinach and cheese. These ingredients are mixed with a binder made from mashed potatoes or bechamel sauce (flour, milk & butter).
Cafe La Trova
Doce Provisions
Sanguich de Miami
Cubaocho
ICE CREAM
Arahi's Bakery
Versailles Cuban Bakery
Party Cake Bakery
La Colada Gourmet
CROQUETAS
A croquette is a deep-fried roll originating in France with a creamy inner layer & a crispy breaded outer layer. The inner layer contains ingredients typically ham and cheese or spinach and cheese. These ingredients are mixed with a binder made from mashed potatoes or bechamel sauce (flour, milk & butter).
Cafe La Trova
Doce Provisions
Sanguich de Miami
Cubaocho
ICE CREAM
There's no better and legendary place than Azucar.
CHURROS
Churro, a fritter of Spanish origin made of flour-based batter that is piped into extremely hot fat and fried, then rolled in cinnamon-laced sugar, resulting in a treat that is sweet and crispy on the outside but fluffy on the inside. Churros are also popular in Argentina, where they are filled with dulce de leche (caramelized milk and sugar), and Cuba, where they are served with fruit. The most common accompaniment in Mexico and Spain, however, is melted chocolate.
Churromania
GUARAPO AKA SUGAR CANE JUICE
Los Pinarenos Fruteria
CAFE CUBANO AKA CUBAN COFFEE
Café cubano, type of espresso originating in Cuba that has been sweetened with demerara sugar during brewing. It is typically made with dark roasted finely ground coffee beans. Café cubano in larger quantities, typically four to six shot-sized servings, is called a colada. When topped with steamed milk, the drink is known as a cortadito, and café con leche refers to a tall mug containing much more milk than coffee.
La Colada Gourmet
Versailles Restaurant Ventanita
Cubaocho
EMPANADAS
Empanada, a baked or fried pastry stuffed with any of a variety of fillings, such as meat, cheese, vegetables, fruits, and other ingredients. Empanadas can be found around the world, especially in Latin America, Spain, and Portugal. They are made by folding a sheet of dough over the filling and sealing it before cooking, either baked or fried.
El Pub Restaurant
Cafe La Trova
El Rey de Las Fritas
El Nuevo Siglo Supermarket (The bakery/deli counter and full-menu restaurant are tucked away in the back of a small supermarket.)
CUBANO AKA CUBAN SANDWICH
A Cuban sandwich, known as a Cubano, is a grilled ham-and-cheese sandwich variation that was created in Florida—Key West and Tampa—by Cuban immigrants who needed a filling and easy-to-carry lunch. The combination of flavorful juicy pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, mustard, and Cuban bread makes this dish an undeniable hit.
Sanguich de Miami
Doce Provisions
Versailles Restaurant
La Carreta
El Pub
CHURROS
Churro, a fritter of Spanish origin made of flour-based batter that is piped into extremely hot fat and fried, then rolled in cinnamon-laced sugar, resulting in a treat that is sweet and crispy on the outside but fluffy on the inside. Churros are also popular in Argentina, where they are filled with dulce de leche (caramelized milk and sugar), and Cuba, where they are served with fruit. The most common accompaniment in Mexico and Spain, however, is melted chocolate.
Churromania
GUARAPO AKA SUGAR CANE JUICE
Los Pinarenos Fruteria
CAFE CUBANO AKA CUBAN COFFEE
Café cubano, type of espresso originating in Cuba that has been sweetened with demerara sugar during brewing. It is typically made with dark roasted finely ground coffee beans. Café cubano in larger quantities, typically four to six shot-sized servings, is called a colada. When topped with steamed milk, the drink is known as a cortadito, and café con leche refers to a tall mug containing much more milk than coffee.
La Colada Gourmet
Versailles Restaurant Ventanita
Cubaocho
EMPANADAS
Empanada, a baked or fried pastry stuffed with any of a variety of fillings, such as meat, cheese, vegetables, fruits, and other ingredients. Empanadas can be found around the world, especially in Latin America, Spain, and Portugal. They are made by folding a sheet of dough over the filling and sealing it before cooking, either baked or fried.
El Pub Restaurant
Cafe La Trova
El Rey de Las Fritas
El Nuevo Siglo Supermarket (The bakery/deli counter and full-menu restaurant are tucked away in the back of a small supermarket.)
CUBANO AKA CUBAN SANDWICH
A Cuban sandwich, known as a Cubano, is a grilled ham-and-cheese sandwich variation that was created in Florida—Key West and Tampa—by Cuban immigrants who needed a filling and easy-to-carry lunch. The combination of flavorful juicy pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, mustard, and Cuban bread makes this dish an undeniable hit.
Sanguich de Miami
Doce Provisions
Versailles Restaurant
La Carreta
El Pub
VERSAILLES RESTAURANT
Declared as the “World's Most Famous Cuban Restaurant,” Versailles has been a pillar of Cuban cuisine and culture for over 50 years. Since its establishment in 1971, this Miami institution has been the unofficial town hall for El Exilio (Cuban expats in exile) since 1971, serving as an unofficial town square. The restaurant is a favorite among celebrities, politicians, and the media. In 1998, Versailles expanded to include an on-site bakery, ensuring that all pastries, breads, and desserts are freshly made from scratch.
If you are from out of town, you should come here for your very first shot of cafecito at least. And if time is in shortage, order it at la ventanita (walk-up window) along with some croquettas.
Otherwise, if you are in for something more substantial, sit inside and order a full meal of some of their staples like Cuban sandwich with classic fixings, such as sweet ham and Swiss cheese – winner with the fast-casual crowd, or a traditional hearty Cuban-style roast pork with rice and beans on the side. On a lighter note, consider vaca frita, medianoche, some croqueticas, or pastelito.
The place is open until 1am Friday and Saturday, making it ideal for late night comfort food.
EL PUB
With a six-foot rooster statue at the entrance, the menu at El Pub is a celebration of Cuban flavors from beef empanadas and ham croquettes to lechon asado (roasted pork) and picadillo. The true star is the Cuban sandwich (Cubano), and its cousin, the delicious Media Noche. Don't miss the opportunity to savor their strong and sweet Cuban coffee standing at “la ventanita” outside on the corner. Get yourself a frothy cortadito. The restaurant's walls are adorned with memorabilia that reflects a Cuba of the past, featuring laminated articles from vintage newspapers and magazines, with a particular focus on baseball, Cuba's beloved pastime.
OLD'S HAVANA CUBAN BAR & COCINA
Old's Havana Cuban Bar & Cocina transports its guests back to a pre-revolutionary era with its vintage decor and live music. As the self-proclaimed "La Casa del Mojito," it offers an exceptional mojito experience, named the city's Best Mojito by the Miami New Times. Made with freshly muddled mint and a selection of 29 aged rums, the mojitos are a true delight. The restaurant is also famous for its quintessential Cuban sandwich and succulent lechon asado, showcasing the flavors that define Cuban cuisine.
LA CARRETA
La Carreta is a chain of Cuban restaurants with multiple locations across Miami. It may well not enjoy the global fame of Versailles, its main rival, but for most Miamians La Carreta is the place to go for better food and better cafecito than that offered by its more iconic neighbor.
Guarded by a colorful rooster statue, the original La Carreta restaurant in Little Havana's Calle Ocho is particularly loved for its authentic Cuban fare. The latter comes in an extensive choice including vaca frita (grilled shredded beef and onions with a side of rice and beans), chicken breast milanesa (Cuban iteration of chicken parm), ropa vieja, picadillo, palomilla, and more. In addition to Cuban classics, they also serve some American dishes like chicken wings and spare ribs in barbecue sauce, plus some Spanish-inspired fare, too.
Each day, those in favor of Cuban basics will find at La Carreta a selection of three to four specials, plus weekday lunch deals featuring breaded pork chop, shrimp creole, and fried grouper for a rather moderate price.
La Carreta may not serve the most gourmet Cuban food in Miami, but it is a convenient place to get the classics. A fast, inexpensive spot for good lunch, dinner, breakfast or late-night snack stop. La Carreta opens late and its walk-up coffee window stays open till 5am on weekends to serve you the much wanted post-club cafecito and pastelito to kiss your hangover goodbye.
CAFE LA TROVA
Cafe La Trova is a by-product of: James Beard Award-winning chef Michelle Bernstein, her chef/restauranteur husband David Martinez and nationally acclaimed cantinero Julio Cabrera.
Cabrera’s cocktail menu takes you back in time from pre-Revolutionary Cuba to present-day Miami with a Hemingway Special (rum, maraschino, grapefruit and lime), drink to Havana’s famed Hotel Nacional (rum, apricot liquor, pineapple and lime) or sip on a Yin & Tony, an updated gin & tonic with an amusing phonetic moniker. Bernstein puts her own spin on the Cuban classics, serving a Spanish-inspired Cubano with Serrano jam, empandas filled with hand-cut steak and an unbelievable paella croqueta.
Immerse yourself in Miami Cuban culture with live music played by real Trova musicians. #13 North America's 50 Best Bars.
SANGUICH DE MIAMI
One of the best Cubanos in Miami comes from this quaint 25-seat restaurant along Calle Ocho. The tiny shop makes most of its ingredients in-house. The Cubano consists of mostly housemade ingredients—cured ham, pork brined in-house, fresh pickles and artisanal mustard—plus crusty Cuban bread. The menu features six sandwiches, including the medianoche and pan con croqueta, and seven batidos (Cuban milkshakes), all of which are made to order. They even have an adorable ventanita (walk-up window).
EL REY DE LAS FRITAS
One of the city’s original purveyors of juicy Cuban burgers, El Rey de Las Fritas (the King of the Fritas aka French fries) reigns supreme in these parts. El Rey has everything, croquetas, churros, soups, and the delicious sandwich made up of a chorizo-beer patty between slices of toasted and buttered Cuban bread, topped with a generous sprinkling of crunchy shoestring fries. The ambiance, too, is part of the experience. U-shaped counters fill the space, inviting you to take a seat on a spinny stool and take in the full Cuban diner-like experience.
SALA'O CUBAN RESTAURANT AND BAR
The owners also run the nearby Old Havana Cuban Bar and Cocina—channeled famous writer Ernest Hemingway when creating their latest Calle Ocho venture. Sala’o has the look and feel of a cozy-yet-opulent 1940s living room, complete with marble accents, dark wood finishes and crystal chandeliers. A famous fan of Cuba and the Florida Keys himself, Hemingway would no doubt appreciate Sala’o’s menu consisting of local, daily catch fish dishes, east coast oysters, home-style Caribbean seafood, classic Cuban cocktails and live music performed from a raised wooden stage.
Declared as the “World's Most Famous Cuban Restaurant,” Versailles has been a pillar of Cuban cuisine and culture for over 50 years. Since its establishment in 1971, this Miami institution has been the unofficial town hall for El Exilio (Cuban expats in exile) since 1971, serving as an unofficial town square. The restaurant is a favorite among celebrities, politicians, and the media. In 1998, Versailles expanded to include an on-site bakery, ensuring that all pastries, breads, and desserts are freshly made from scratch.
If you are from out of town, you should come here for your very first shot of cafecito at least. And if time is in shortage, order it at la ventanita (walk-up window) along with some croquettas.
Otherwise, if you are in for something more substantial, sit inside and order a full meal of some of their staples like Cuban sandwich with classic fixings, such as sweet ham and Swiss cheese – winner with the fast-casual crowd, or a traditional hearty Cuban-style roast pork with rice and beans on the side. On a lighter note, consider vaca frita, medianoche, some croqueticas, or pastelito.
The place is open until 1am Friday and Saturday, making it ideal for late night comfort food.
EL PUB
With a six-foot rooster statue at the entrance, the menu at El Pub is a celebration of Cuban flavors from beef empanadas and ham croquettes to lechon asado (roasted pork) and picadillo. The true star is the Cuban sandwich (Cubano), and its cousin, the delicious Media Noche. Don't miss the opportunity to savor their strong and sweet Cuban coffee standing at “la ventanita” outside on the corner. Get yourself a frothy cortadito. The restaurant's walls are adorned with memorabilia that reflects a Cuba of the past, featuring laminated articles from vintage newspapers and magazines, with a particular focus on baseball, Cuba's beloved pastime.
OLD'S HAVANA CUBAN BAR & COCINA
Old's Havana Cuban Bar & Cocina transports its guests back to a pre-revolutionary era with its vintage decor and live music. As the self-proclaimed "La Casa del Mojito," it offers an exceptional mojito experience, named the city's Best Mojito by the Miami New Times. Made with freshly muddled mint and a selection of 29 aged rums, the mojitos are a true delight. The restaurant is also famous for its quintessential Cuban sandwich and succulent lechon asado, showcasing the flavors that define Cuban cuisine.
LA CARRETA
La Carreta is a chain of Cuban restaurants with multiple locations across Miami. It may well not enjoy the global fame of Versailles, its main rival, but for most Miamians La Carreta is the place to go for better food and better cafecito than that offered by its more iconic neighbor.
Guarded by a colorful rooster statue, the original La Carreta restaurant in Little Havana's Calle Ocho is particularly loved for its authentic Cuban fare. The latter comes in an extensive choice including vaca frita (grilled shredded beef and onions with a side of rice and beans), chicken breast milanesa (Cuban iteration of chicken parm), ropa vieja, picadillo, palomilla, and more. In addition to Cuban classics, they also serve some American dishes like chicken wings and spare ribs in barbecue sauce, plus some Spanish-inspired fare, too.
Each day, those in favor of Cuban basics will find at La Carreta a selection of three to four specials, plus weekday lunch deals featuring breaded pork chop, shrimp creole, and fried grouper for a rather moderate price.
La Carreta may not serve the most gourmet Cuban food in Miami, but it is a convenient place to get the classics. A fast, inexpensive spot for good lunch, dinner, breakfast or late-night snack stop. La Carreta opens late and its walk-up coffee window stays open till 5am on weekends to serve you the much wanted post-club cafecito and pastelito to kiss your hangover goodbye.
CAFE LA TROVA
Cafe La Trova is a by-product of: James Beard Award-winning chef Michelle Bernstein, her chef/restauranteur husband David Martinez and nationally acclaimed cantinero Julio Cabrera.
Cabrera’s cocktail menu takes you back in time from pre-Revolutionary Cuba to present-day Miami with a Hemingway Special (rum, maraschino, grapefruit and lime), drink to Havana’s famed Hotel Nacional (rum, apricot liquor, pineapple and lime) or sip on a Yin & Tony, an updated gin & tonic with an amusing phonetic moniker. Bernstein puts her own spin on the Cuban classics, serving a Spanish-inspired Cubano with Serrano jam, empandas filled with hand-cut steak and an unbelievable paella croqueta.
Immerse yourself in Miami Cuban culture with live music played by real Trova musicians. #13 North America's 50 Best Bars.
SANGUICH DE MIAMI
One of the best Cubanos in Miami comes from this quaint 25-seat restaurant along Calle Ocho. The tiny shop makes most of its ingredients in-house. The Cubano consists of mostly housemade ingredients—cured ham, pork brined in-house, fresh pickles and artisanal mustard—plus crusty Cuban bread. The menu features six sandwiches, including the medianoche and pan con croqueta, and seven batidos (Cuban milkshakes), all of which are made to order. They even have an adorable ventanita (walk-up window).
EL REY DE LAS FRITAS
One of the city’s original purveyors of juicy Cuban burgers, El Rey de Las Fritas (the King of the Fritas aka French fries) reigns supreme in these parts. El Rey has everything, croquetas, churros, soups, and the delicious sandwich made up of a chorizo-beer patty between slices of toasted and buttered Cuban bread, topped with a generous sprinkling of crunchy shoestring fries. The ambiance, too, is part of the experience. U-shaped counters fill the space, inviting you to take a seat on a spinny stool and take in the full Cuban diner-like experience.
SALA'O CUBAN RESTAURANT AND BAR
The owners also run the nearby Old Havana Cuban Bar and Cocina—channeled famous writer Ernest Hemingway when creating their latest Calle Ocho venture. Sala’o has the look and feel of a cozy-yet-opulent 1940s living room, complete with marble accents, dark wood finishes and crystal chandeliers. A famous fan of Cuba and the Florida Keys himself, Hemingway would no doubt appreciate Sala’o’s menu consisting of local, daily catch fish dishes, east coast oysters, home-style Caribbean seafood, classic Cuban cocktails and live music performed from a raised wooden stage.
BALL & CHAIN
Today’s Ball & Chain is a recreation of a 1930s hotspot that once occupied the same space and welcomed jazz superstars like Billie Holiday, Count Basie and Chet Baker to its stage.
We recommend sampling a few Cuban-inspired cocktails: the Mojito Criollo (made the classic way with the mint leaves left intact for enhanced aroma, and more sugar), the Canita (white rum, lime, house-made honey syrup, guarapo or sugarcane juice, sugarcane stick) and the Pastelito Daiquiri (pastelito-infused aged rum, lime, simple syrup, and a side of pastelitos or guava pastries).
Who performed at Ball & Chain? The better question is, who didn't? Most of the country's greatest jazz musicians have graced the stage at Ball & Chain, from Count Bassie and Nat King Cole to Tito Puente, Jr. These days, local bands such as Spam Allstars and crooners such as the likes of Brendan O'Hara are part of the regular circuit of performers at the club's unique pineapple stage.
This lively establishment features two stages that offer jazz and spirited salsa music. The Cuban theme extends to the food and drinks, with classic mojitos, bananita daiquiris, and unique concoctions like the Calle Ocho Old Fashioned and the Miami Mule. Enjoy live music all day every day from noon onwards. Their Little Havana Under the Stars is a weekly Thursday event featuring live latin music, salsa dancing classes, and fabulous DJ sets starting at 9PM.
VIERNES CULTURALES
Viernes Culturales, Little Havana's celebrated monthly event, is a lively street party and gallery walk. Taking place every third Friday along Calle Ocho between 13th and 17th Avenues, it has been a cultural celebration for over 20 years. Enjoy Latin-Caribbean culture with lively latin music, art exhibits, and live performances.
CUBAOCHO MUSEUM & PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
Cubaocho Museum and Performing Arts Center in Little Havana is a cultural gem. This space brings together art, music, dance, cigars, coffee, food and mojitos. Explore the museum's extensive collection of pre-revolution 19th and early- to mid-20th century Cuban art while enjoying a cocktail. The venue also features a research library, a café bar with an impressive selection of rums and live entertainment that ranges from salsa bands to Latin jam sessions and Cuban jazz legends.
Today’s Ball & Chain is a recreation of a 1930s hotspot that once occupied the same space and welcomed jazz superstars like Billie Holiday, Count Basie and Chet Baker to its stage.
We recommend sampling a few Cuban-inspired cocktails: the Mojito Criollo (made the classic way with the mint leaves left intact for enhanced aroma, and more sugar), the Canita (white rum, lime, house-made honey syrup, guarapo or sugarcane juice, sugarcane stick) and the Pastelito Daiquiri (pastelito-infused aged rum, lime, simple syrup, and a side of pastelitos or guava pastries).
Who performed at Ball & Chain? The better question is, who didn't? Most of the country's greatest jazz musicians have graced the stage at Ball & Chain, from Count Bassie and Nat King Cole to Tito Puente, Jr. These days, local bands such as Spam Allstars and crooners such as the likes of Brendan O'Hara are part of the regular circuit of performers at the club's unique pineapple stage.
This lively establishment features two stages that offer jazz and spirited salsa music. The Cuban theme extends to the food and drinks, with classic mojitos, bananita daiquiris, and unique concoctions like the Calle Ocho Old Fashioned and the Miami Mule. Enjoy live music all day every day from noon onwards. Their Little Havana Under the Stars is a weekly Thursday event featuring live latin music, salsa dancing classes, and fabulous DJ sets starting at 9PM.
VIERNES CULTURALES
Viernes Culturales, Little Havana's celebrated monthly event, is a lively street party and gallery walk. Taking place every third Friday along Calle Ocho between 13th and 17th Avenues, it has been a cultural celebration for over 20 years. Enjoy Latin-Caribbean culture with lively latin music, art exhibits, and live performances.
CUBAOCHO MUSEUM & PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
Cubaocho Museum and Performing Arts Center in Little Havana is a cultural gem. This space brings together art, music, dance, cigars, coffee, food and mojitos. Explore the museum's extensive collection of pre-revolution 19th and early- to mid-20th century Cuban art while enjoying a cocktail. The venue also features a research library, a café bar with an impressive selection of rums and live entertainment that ranges from salsa bands to Latin jam sessions and Cuban jazz legends.
Myaamia by local Cuban artist Santos Mendez
12 Ave & 8 Street
Curras Brothers Mosaics
At Domino Plaza, Cuba Ocho, Tower Theatre & McDonald's
Summit of the Americas mural created by Oscar Thomas
Depicting the Presidents of all the American nations that attended the 1st Summit of the Americas in Miami in 1994
Las Damas de Blanco by Daniel Fila
15th Ave & 8 Street, north side
Amor by @rendawriter
1637 SW 8 Street
Aristedes Frescos at Latin Quarter
1465 SW 8 Street
Roosters of Little Havana sculpture by Ernesto Damian
8 Street from 27-12th Ave
Celia Cruz Azucar mural by @mslushy
13 Ct & 8 Street
Cuban Party by Diana Contreras
Second floor 1356 SW 8 Street
Arte de Las Americas mural by local Nicaraguan artist Luis Manuel Cuadra Peraltaat aka Archie Nica
La Esquina de la Fama
12 Ave & 8 Street
Curras Brothers Mosaics
At Domino Plaza, Cuba Ocho, Tower Theatre & McDonald's
Summit of the Americas mural created by Oscar Thomas
Depicting the Presidents of all the American nations that attended the 1st Summit of the Americas in Miami in 1994
Las Damas de Blanco by Daniel Fila
15th Ave & 8 Street, north side
Amor by @rendawriter
1637 SW 8 Street
Aristedes Frescos at Latin Quarter
1465 SW 8 Street
Roosters of Little Havana sculpture by Ernesto Damian
8 Street from 27-12th Ave
Celia Cruz Azucar mural by @mslushy
13 Ct & 8 Street
Cuban Party by Diana Contreras
Second floor 1356 SW 8 Street
Arte de Las Americas mural by local Nicaraguan artist Luis Manuel Cuadra Peraltaat aka Archie Nica
La Esquina de la Fama
