Top Miami Cuban Restaurants: 8 Spots That Spice Things Up
Home to world-renown chefs, award-winning restaurants and a smorgasbord of cultures, Miami’s food scene ranks as one of the best in the U.S. Part of this is due to the eclectic number of restaurants inspired by Cuban influence and flavors. In fact, no trip to Miami is complete without dining at one or all — if there’s time. Keep reading to see which ones made this top Miami Cuban restaurants list.
Top 8 Miami Cuban Restaurants to Sample Some Spice
El Palacio de los Jugos
El Palacio de los Jugos is a popular chain restaurant in Miami with nine locations in the area. For over 20 years, the restaurant has brought Cuban flavors to southern Florida and serves cafeteria-style. Visitors walk up, select their favorites, and eat outdoors or take it home.
El Palacio de los Jugos serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Select sandwiches, all meats and poultry, sides, and dessert offered at an affordable price. Its menu has over 100 options, making El Palacio de los Jugos known for variety. Additionally, the portions are huge, so come hungry.
El Exquisito
Like many of the top Miami Cuban restaurants on the list, El Exquisito began over 40 years ago by a local family. Today, the restaurant is still owned and manged by locals who serve delicious dishes in a friendly atmosphere.
El Exquisito opens for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and features recipes that celebrate traditional Cuban dishes. This award-winning spot has dozens of options, showcasing seafood, poultry and meats, as well as soups, salads and sandwiches. Diners also enjoy the casual vibe, large portions and home-like feel in Little Havana.
Havana Harry’s
Havana Harry’s in nearby Coral Gables takes a different approach to Cuban food. Set in a modern atmosphere, Havana Harry’s fuses Cuban, Spanish and Latin American cuisines with a twist.
Come for lunch, dinner or late night, and find a selection of specials, entrees, soups, sandwiches, rice and combos. Harry’s combos feature different meats, seafood, veggies, or try a house-made dish. Havana Harry’s also has a reputation for tasty mojitos, creative presentation and was featured on FYI’s Food Porn series.
La Carreta
For over 40 years, La Carreta has served Cuban flavors and family traditions. Owned and operated by a local family, La Carreta has nine locations in the Miami area and offers authentic flavors and recipes.
Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, visitors find dozens of options. The restaurant serves dishes featuring pork, chicken, seafood and beef, including char-broiled steaks. In addition, La Carreta has daily specials that include soups, seafood, stews and meats. Guests also have a variety of sandwiches, sides, desserts and a kids menu. La Carreta is also known for affordable prices, perfect for families vacationing on a budget.
La Rosa
For an upscale dining experience, head to La Rosa. This top Cuban restaurant in Miami has delighted guests for over 40 years and offers traditional Cuban favorites and international dishes.
La Rosa serves lunch and dinner, with a full menu featuring soups, salads, omelets, sandwiches and large entrees. Cuban specialties include steak, seafood, chicken, pork, and lamb, all made with flavorful ingredients and spices. Daily specials are available for lunch or early dinners, and include options every day.
Latin Cafe 2000
Latin Cafe 2000 has three locations in greater Miami and combines Latin American flavors with a tropical environment. This top among our Miami Cuban restaurants offers indoor and outdoor seating, upbeat music and serves all meals. In addition, Latin Cafe 2000 uses fresh ingredients and oil that has no trans fat.
Dishes include chicken, seafood, pork and even Italian-inspired entrees. Visitors also enjoy the two-for-$20 special, which includes an appetizer and two entrees, perfect for sharing. Latin Cafe 2000 also offers a kids menu, salads, soups, daily specials and desserts.
Photo by Herson Rodriguez on Unsplash
Puerto Sagua
This casual spot offers comfort food in a family-friendly atmosphere. Puerto Sagua ranks as an affordable option in south Miami. Also serving all three meals, Puerto Sagua has large and small menu options.
Appetizers include green plantains and fried pork, or enjoy a rich, warm soup. Main courses include chicken entrees and sandwiches, such as the Cuban hamburger. Puerto Sagua has operated in the area since 1968, with a smaller setting and bar. Due to popularity, wait times can increase, so prepare to meet new people before getting a table.
Versailles
Perhaps the most famous Cuban restaurant in Miami – some even claim the world – is Versailles in Little Havana. For over 40 years, Versailles has served Cuban cuisine and remains a staple in the community. This restaurant even attracts celebrities who can’t get enough of their Cuban sandwich.
In addition to the traditional favorite, Versailles’ menu includes soups, salads, nearly 20 more sandwiches, fish, seafood, pork, chicken and meats. Chef and daily specials are also a popular choice. Versailles offers indoor seating and a to-go style cafe where visitors can pick up orders. Before leaving, try flan or cheesecake, which Versailles prepares different ways.
Take taste buds on vacation to these top Miami Cuban restaurants. Browse Miami rental homes to begin the journey, and read these Miami travel tips before visiting.