Miami has developed quite a reputation for its local food scene. Especially when it comes to the best Cuban restaurants! If you’re looking for a local spot for your next girls’ lunch, date night, family outing, or just because, check out these 10 recommendations for Cuban restaurants in and around Miami.
Padrino’s
Padrino’s prides itself on family, Cuban culture, and tradition. A very special Cuban restaurant that has been built upon three generations of hard work and sacrifice. The restaurant began in Hialeah in 1976 by the Padrinos who had immigrated here from Cuba. 47 years later, the restaurant is being predominantly run by the three adult grandchildren. Yet during the 80’s and 90’s the couple’s son, Mario Padrino, helped the restaurant to grow to more locations throughout Broward County. They now have locations in Broward and Palm Beach counties, with their closest to Miami located in Hallandale Beach.
The Padrino’s story is one of rich tradition in their Cuban recipes. The Lechon Asado is a customer favorite. One of our family’s favorites is the Palomilla Steak. We always make sure to order the mariquitas & mojo appetizer. They also offer some great-tasting Mojitos, but my favorite is their Sangria. And it wouldn’t be a complete Cuban meal without having Flan for dessert. Padrino’s Flan is out of this world.
The atmosphere at Padrino’s is so inviting, with hints everywhere of their culture and history. When you walk in you are greeted by their hospitable staff. Food can be a connection to a warm memory or favorite event. Guests who visit us from out of town want to eat food that represents Miami and its Latin vibe–we always recommend Padrino’s. They do not disappoint because they do such a great job of honoring their legacy and keeping a level of excellence that can only be found in the best Cuban restaurants in town!
Cuban Guys
When you are a mom and it is one of those days of driving the kids to after-school activities with no time to cook a tasty meal, Cuban Guys is the place. They offer awesome Cuban food with a little more speed of service than a sit-down restaurant. They began in Hialeah in 2012 and have now grown into 5 locations. There are 4 in the Miami area and 1 in Broward. They also offer a food truck for anyone with local catering needs. Cuban Guys is owned by three men who have a passion for bringing the community Cuban food served fast, but delicious.
The menu has lots of choices ranging from fritas, sandwiches, and bowls. They also offer a kid’s menu and breakfast. Our favorite item on the menu includes the Vaca Frita sandwich and their Chicken Bowl. Monday through Friday they offer an online daily deal with prices that make us smile. You can have your food delivered, order online for pick-up, or eat inside their casual dining area.
Whatever you choose, it is a suitable place to go with the family when you need quick service and tasty food. Headed to a concert or the beach, get it to go and enjoy it wherever you are. They stay true to their Latin recipes and spices that are a big part of Cuban cuisine. Cuban Guys meets the need of the mom on the run needing a moderately priced menu! Everything is made fresh and oh-so delicious!
Versailles
When it comes to Cuban restaurants in Miami, Versailles is iconic. It’s basically a landmark on its own. It’s famous for its ventanita and authentic Cuban food! People like to gather here after political events and discuss politics over a delicious cortadito and some croquetas. Versailles should be on every visitor’s to-do list to experience an authentic Cuban restaurant!
Café La Trova
Café la Trova has a vibe like no other restaurant. This popular Little Havana spot offers some of the best Cuban food in town. It’s best known for its retro style and live music. Chef Michelle Bernstein comes up with the most delicious Cuban food creations and innovative drinks. The ambiance is fancy and on the weekends at night, it turns into a dance floor.
Calle Dragones
Calle Dragones is a newer addition to Little Havana where you get amazing Asian-inspired Cuban food with a show! It’s influenced by the Chinese neighborhood in Havana, Cuba. Calle Dragones steps back in time to Old Havana. While you eat, you enjoy performances inspired by Moulin Rouge, Studio 54, Italian Night, and Tropicana. They also have amazing mixology drinks served in the most creative ways!
Chug‘s Diner
Chug’s Diner is a more modern and hip Cuban restaurant located in the heart of Coconut Grove. Their food is so good that it was added to the Michelin Guide. They offer and serve the most delicious Pastelito from Pastelito Papi. They come in unique flavors such as Frita, PB&J, arroz con pollo, guava and cheese, and more. Make sure to come early as they sell out quickly. Their croquetas have cool flavors too such as short rib, black bean, and eggs and cheese. Make sure to wear your stretchy pants as they also serve the best homemade pies!
Islas Canarias
One word: Croquetas! Islas Canarias is known for the best croquetas in town (if not the best croquetas on the planet). They have a cafe and a casual restaurant, both in Kendall. If you want a more upscale date-night experience, their owners also operate Finka Table & Tab and Amelia’s 1931.
Doce Provisions
Doce Provisions has locations in Little Havana and Doral. The food is so good that the restaurant was added to the Michelin Guide. And their Little Havana location is so hip that they filmed John Leguizamo’s show Leguizamo Does America there. Don’t leave without trying the Coconut Rum Tres Leches!
Mario’s Cuban Cuisine
Located near US1 on N Homestead Blvd, Mario’s is a family-owned Cuban restaurant. Known for their authentic dishes and great price, this is definitely a must-try. This is not your typical Cuban-style chain restaurant. Their home-style croquetas are amazing and perfect for any time of the day. Also, you can’t go wrong with their pan con bistec. It is big enough to feed two, which is why I usually share it with my husband. If you need a little pick me up and just want to grab a quick colada or tostada, there is a ventanita where you can order anything from the menu and take it to go.
