Top restaurants list
10 Best Cuban Restaurants in Miami
- 10 restaurants
- Miami, Florida
- Updated March 28, 2026
The ten best Cuban restaurants in Miami include Versailles, La Carreta, Cuban Guys, El Exquisito, Havana 1957, La Esquina de Mima, Mango’s Tropical Café, Old's Havana, Pilon Miami, and Sanguich de Miami. Miami's Cuban food culture is centered on strong cafecito, slow-roasted pork, and traditional pressed sandwiches. Many of the top Cuban restaurants in the city are known for local favorites like ropa vieja, vaca frita, and ham croquetas.
These Cuban cafeterias and restaurantes are found throughout Little Havana and Miami Beach, occupying historic buildings, busy street corners, and modern shopfronts. The top Cuban dining spots feature everything from iconic ventanitas (walk-up coffee windows) to traditional family dining rooms and fast-casual sandwich shops. A meal at a Cuban restaurant in Miami averages $20 to $30 per person.
Versailles stands out as the best overall due to a storied history as a community hub, a massive menu of traditional recipes, and the presence of a famous walk-up coffee window. Cuban Guys serves efficient, high-quality pressed sandwiches for a quick meal. Havana 1957 offers a more refined, nostalgic dinner experience with specialty rum cocktails. Versailles provides plant-based sides like black beans and rice for vegan diners, and Havana 1957 features naturally gluten-free options including roasted chicken and grilled seafood.
The top Cuban restaurants in Miami are listed below.
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1
Salads Sandwiches Lunch Comfort Food Latin American Spanish Soup Family Meals Cuban Family Friendly Group Friendly HispanicVersailles Restaurant stands as a legendary institution in Little Havana, serving traditional Cuban comfort food. The interior features mirrored walls, chandeliers, and a bustling, high-energy atmosphere.- Item Prices
- 668
- Average Item Price
- $10.81
Versailles Restaurant Menu PricesMore about Versailles Restaurant
Type of Restaurant:
Casual Dining
Type of Food:
Cuban
Signature Dishes:
Ropa Vieja
Vaca Frita
Sandwich Calle Ocho
Location:
3555 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33135, United States
Special Feature:
The walk-up window serves strong Cuban coffee to locals and visitors throughout the day.
What Makes It Special:
Generous portions of classic recipes provide a genuine taste of Cuban home cooking.
What Sets It Apart:
The cultural significance and status as a meeting place for the local community create an unmatched atmosphere.
Operating Hours:
Monday–Thursday: 8:00 AM–12:00 AMFriday–Saturday: 8:00 AM–1:00 AMSunday: 9:00 AM–12:00 AM
Price:
$10 to $20 per person
-
2
Mexican Latin American Breakfast & Brunch Coffee & Tea Cuban New Mexican Group FriendlyLa Carreta offers a family-friendly environment with decor reminiscent of a rustic Cuban farmhouse. The space includes traditional wooden accents and warm, inviting lighting.- Item Prices
- 640
- Average Item Price
- $8.09
La Carreta Menu PricesMore about La Carreta
Type of Restaurant:
Casual Dining
Type of Food:
Cuban
Signature Dishes:
Ropa Vieja
Vaca Frita
Maduros
Location:
3632 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33135, United States
Special Feature:
The menu includes a large selection of breakfast items served all day.
What Makes It Special:
Consistency and long-standing family recipes define the dining experience.
What Sets It Apart:
The focus on approachable, home-style meals makes the location a staple for daily dining.
Operating Hours:
Monday–Thursday: 8:00 AM–11:00 PMFriday–Saturday: 8:00 AM–12:00 AMSunday: 8:00 AM–11:00 PM
Price:
$10 to $20 per person
-
3
Cuban Guys operates as a fast-casual eatery focusing on quick, high-quality Cuban sandwiches and plates. The decor is modern, clean, and efficient.- Item Prices
- 466
- Average Item Price
- $7.21
Cuban Guys Menu PricesMore about Cuban Guys
Type of Food:
Cuban
Signature Dishes:
Cuban Guys Sandwich
Frita
Pan Con Croqueta
Location:
10801 Sunset Dr, Miami, FL 33173, United States
Special Feature:
The kitchen prioritizes speed without sacrificing the quality of the pressed sandwiches.
What Makes It Special:
The menu caters to those seeking a quick, satisfying lunch or dinner with bold flavors.
What Sets It Apart:
The emphasis on a streamlined menu of core Cuban favorites creates a convenient option for busy diners.
Operating Hours:
Monday–Thursday, Sunday: 8:00 AM–11:00 PMFriday–Saturday: 8:00 AM–12:00 AM
Price:
$10 to $20 per person
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4
El Exquisito provides a no-frills dining experience in the heart of Little Havana. The interior is simple, allowing the focus to remain entirely on the food.- Item Prices
- 198
- Average Item Price
- $8.43
El Exquisito Restaurant Menu PricesMore about El Exquisito Restaurant
Type of Restaurant:
Casual Dining
Type of Food:
Cuban
Signature Dishes:
Delmonico Steak
Skirt Steak
Fried Pork Chunks
Location:
1510 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33135, United States
Special Feature:
The restaurant maintains a loyal local following due to its adherence to traditional preparation methods.
What Makes It Special:
The kitchen serves straightforward, honest meals that prioritize flavor over presentation.
What Sets It Apart:
The lack of pretension and the dedication to classic recipes make it a favorite for those seeking an unvarnished experience.
Operating Hours:
Closed
Price:
$10 to $20 per person
-
5
American Latin American Family Meals Cuban Family Friendly Group Friendly Bar FoodHavana 1957 recreates the glamour of pre-revolutionary Cuba. The interior features vintage photographs, warm wood, and a nostalgic, sophisticated design.- Item Prices
- 219
- Average Item Price
- $18.50
Havana 1957 Menu PricesMore about Havana 1957
Type of Restaurant:
Casual Dining
Type of Food:
Cuban
Signature Dishes:
Vaca Frita de Pollo
Ropa Vieja
Sandwich Cubano
Location:
1410 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33139, United States
Special Feature:
The restaurant offers a curated selection of rum-based cocktails.
What Makes It Special:
The atmosphere transports guests back to the 1950s with music and decor that evoke a bygone era.
What Sets It Apart:
The thematic immersion and focus on nostalgic Cuban aesthetics create a unique environment for evening meals.
Operating Hours:
Monday–Thursday: 11:30 AM–11:00 PMFriday, Saturday: 10:30 AM–12:00 AMSunday: 10:30 AM–11:00 PM
Price:
$20 to $30 per person
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6
Old's Havana sits in the heart of Little Havana, featuring a spacious patio and a vintage-inspired interior. The atmosphere is relaxed, with a focus on outdoor seating.- Item Prices
- 77
- Average Item Price
- $11.38
Old's Havana Menu PricesMore about Old's Havana
Type of Restaurant:
Casual Dining
Type of Food:
Cuban
Signature Dishes:
Crispy Shredded Roasted Chicken
Vaca Frita
Bistec de Palomilla
Location:
1442 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33135, United States
Special Feature:
The large outdoor patio provides a perfect spot for people-watching on Calle Ocho.
What Makes It Special:
The restaurant captures the spirit of Old Havana with a menu that emphasizes fresh, high-quality ingredients.
What Sets It Apart:
The prime location on Calle Ocho and the expansive patio create a quintessential Little Havana experience.
Operating Hours:
Monday–Thursday: 11:00 AM–11:00 PMFriday–Saturday: 11:00 AM–12:00 AMSunday: Closed
Price:
$10 to $20 per person
-
7
Sanguich de Miami serves artisanal Cuban sandwiches in a small, stylish shop. The interior is bright, with a focus on high-quality ingredients and precise preparation.- Item Prices
- 54
- Average Item Price
- $6.33
Sanguich de Miami Menu PricesMore about Sanguich de Miami
Type of Restaurant:
Fast-Casual
Type of Food:
Cuban
Signature Dishes:
Cuban Sandwich
Pan con Bistec
Cubano and De Miami
Location:
2057 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33135, United States
Special Feature:
The kitchen cures its own ham and bakes bread fresh daily.
What Makes It Special:
The attention to detail in every component of the sandwich elevates a simple meal to a gourmet experience.
What Sets It Apart:
The singular focus on perfecting the Cuban sandwich through house-made ingredients separates the location from other sandwich shops.
Operating Hours:
Monday–Sunday: 10:00 AM–6:00 PM
Price:
$10 to $20 per person
-
8
8. La Esquina de Mima
La Esquina de Mima features a cozy, home-like setting with colorful, hand-painted tiles and vintage memorabilia. The atmosphere feels personal and welcoming.More about La Esquina de Mima
Type of Restaurant:
Casual Dining
Type of Food:
Cuban
Signature Dishes:
Super Cuban Sandwich
Tres Leches
Fettuccine Alfredo
Location:
1388 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33135, United States
Special Feature:
The kitchen uses family recipes passed down through generations.
What Makes It Special:
The emphasis on "Mima's" home cooking provides a warm, comforting meal.
What Sets It Apart:
The personal touch in every dish and the charming, intimate decor separate the location from larger commercial spots.
Operating Hours:
Monday–Sunday: 9:00 AM–12:00 AM
Price:
$20 to $30 per person
-
9
9. Mango’s Tropical Café
Mango’s Tropical Café is a high-energy venue on Ocean Drive. The space features live music, professional dancers, and a large, open-air bar.More about Mango’s Tropical Café
Type of Restaurant:
Casual Dining, Entertainment Venue
Type of Food:
Cuban, International
Signature Dishes:
"Fall Off the Bone" Caribbean Jerk Ribs
Mediterranean Branzino
Fettuccine Alfredo with Blackened Chicken
Location:
900 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33139, United States
Special Feature:
Live entertainment, including salsa dancing and music, occurs throughout the evening.
What Makes It Special:
The combination of dinner and a show creates a non-stop party environment.
What Sets It Apart:
The integration of live performance and nightlife with a menu of Cuban staples makes it a unique destination.
Operating Hours:
Monday–Sunday: 12:00 PM–5:00 AM
Price:
$30 to $50 per person
-
10
10. Pilon Miami
Pilon Miami offers a modern take on Cuban classics in a sleek, contemporary space. The interior utilizes clean lines and bright accents.More about Pilon Miami
Type of Restaurant:
Casual Dining
Type of Food:
Cuban
Signature Dishes:
Pechuga de Pollo
Ensalada Pilón
Bamboo Box
Location:
12750 SW 128th St Suite 106, Miami, FL 33186, United States
Special Feature:
The kitchen focuses on quick, healthy versions of traditional Cuban dishes.
What Makes It Special:
The menu appeals to the busy professional crowd in the Brickell area.
What Sets It Apart:
The modern presentation and focus on efficiency while maintaining traditional flavors make it a standout in the business district.
Operating Hours:
Monday–Tuesday: 12:00–6:00 PMWednesday–Thursday: 12:00–10:00 PMFriday–Saturday: 12:00 PM–3:00 AMSunday: 12:00–10:00 PM
Price:
$20 to $30 per person
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Makes Cuban Restaurants in Miami Famous?
Cuban restaurants in Miami earn fame through a combination of strong espresso, slow-roasted pork, and traditional pressed sandwiches. Little Havana serves as a cultural epicenter where these dining rooms provide a direct link to the island's heritage. Pressed Cuban sandwiches featuring ham, roasted pork, and pickles remain a staple across the city. The presence of walk-up windows, known as ventanitas, allows locals to gather for quick coffee and conversation. Traditional cooking methods like marinating meats in sour orange and garlic create the distinct flavor profiles associated with the region.
What Type of Cuban Restaurant is Commonly Found in Miami?
The types of Cuban restaurants commonly found in Miami are walk-up coffee windows, traditional family-style dining rooms, and fast-casual sandwich shops. The list below details the specialized Miami restaurants available throughout the city.
- Walk-up Coffee Windows (Ventanitas): Ventanitas provide quick service for espresso and pastries on nearly every street corner.
- Family-Style Dining Rooms: Family-style dining rooms focus on large portions of rice, beans, and meat intended for group dining.
- Fast-Casual Sandwich Shops: Modern fast-casual spots prioritize efficiency and specialized menus centered on the Cuban sandwich.
- Artisanal Bakeries: Artisanal bakeries serve freshly baked bread, pastries, and savory snacks like croquetas.
Does Miami Have an Authentic Cuban Restaurant?
Yes, Miami has authentic Cuban restaurants, including Versailles, La Carreta, and El Exquisito. Versailles preserves a traditional dining experience with mirrored walls and the classic menu that has remained unchanged for decades. La Carreta provides a genuine taste of Cuban home cooking, utilizing family recipes for staples like picadillo and vaca frita. El Exquisito offers a real neighborhood experience in Little Havana, focusing on straightforward preparations of black bean soup and palomilla steak.
Do Cuban Restaurants in Miami Offer Easy Online Reservations?
Yes, Cuban restaurants in Miami offer easy online reservations through digital portals. Guests secure bookings via restaurant websites or through platforms such as OpenTable and Resy. Larger restaurants use these booking services to manage high guest volumes. Smaller, fast-casual spots and walk-up windows operate on a first-come, first-served basis without the need for scheduling. A majority of sit-down locations provide convenient online booking options for dinner service.
What are the Signature Dishes of the Best Cuban Restaurants in Miami?
The signature dishes of the best Cuban restaurants in Miami include slow-cooked beef and artisanal pressed sandwiches. The list below describes notable food in Miami.
- Ropa Vieja: Shredded beef slow-cooked in a tomato-based sauce with bell peppers and onions. Versailles is famous for this staple.
- Vaca Frita: Flank steak marinated in lime and garlic, then seared until crispy. La Carreta specializes in this traditional dish.
- Cuban Sandwich: A pressed sandwich featuring ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on Cuban bread. Sanguich de Miami is well-regarded for this staple.
- Croquetas: Small, breaded rolls filled with minced ham or chicken and deep-fried. Cuban Guys features these as a core menu item.
- Lechon Asado: Pork marinated in mojo sauce and slow-roasted until tender. Pilon Miami is known for this recipe.
Does Miami Enjoy Cuban Food?
Yes, Miami locals enjoy Cuban food, shown by the full tables and busy atmosphere in Little Havana and Hialeah. Residents and visitors look for dining that offers cultural quality and a social setting. High traffic at ventanitas and family dining rooms shows a strong appetite for traditional meals. The city stays connected to these offerings, with Cuban eateries in all neighborhoods.
What is the Average Meal Price for Cuban Restaurants in Miami?
The average meal price at Cuban restaurants in Miami is $20 to $30 per person. A single meal at a fast-casual spot like Cuban Guys or Sanguich de Miami costs between $10 and $20. A group meal for two to four people at a mid-range restaurant runs from $40 to $100 total. A meal at a budget-friendly coffee window costs $5 to $12 per person. A full dinner with drinks at a more upscale location such as Havana 1957 requires $30 to $60 per person.
Are There Vegan Options in Cuban Restaurants in Miami?
Yes, vegan options at Cuban restaurants in Miami include plant-based selections on menus at Versailles, La Carreta, and Pilon Miami. Versailles provides a menu with several vegetable-based sides like white rice, black beans, and sweet plantains. La Carreta features a section of the menu with boiled yuca and mixed salads. Pilon Miami provides modifications for numerous vegetable dishes to be vegan upon request. A large number of locations offer fresh tropical fruits and salads suitable for plant-based diners.
Do Cuban Restaurants in Miami Offer Gluten-Free Options?
Yes, gluten-free options at Cuban restaurants in Miami include naturally wheat-free dishes at Versailles, La Carreta, and Havana 1957. Versailles clearly identifies items like grilled fish, roasted chicken, and steak that do not contain gluten. La Carreta offers numerous naturally gluten-free sides such as black beans, rice, and fried plantains. Havana 1957 prepares numerous meat and vegetable dishes without gluten-containing ingredients. A majority of sit-down locations provide modifications to suit gluten-free diners.
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