Little Havana is one of Miami’s most culturally inclined neighborhoods. Just walking along its famed Calle Ocho, guests can find a number of different kinds of restaurants featuring cuisines from around the world, but the roots of this colorful area are Cuban as one may recognize from its name. Little Havana is home to several different Cuban concepts making it the perfect area to hang out in if you’re looking to dive into Cuban culture.
Little Havana is a magical neighborhood filled with art, culture, and tons of Cuban tradition. It’s a top Miami destination and one can easily get lost in all of its nuances. For those looking to take in all that Little Havana has to offer, consider booking the Little Havana Tour through Miami Culinary Tours where you’ll have the chance to explore the neighborhood and experience each of these delicious spots.
Ball & Chain is a nightclub with decades of history in Little Havana. Known for its live bands, salsa dancing, and late nights — it’s also got a killer cocktail selection and great food. Stop in to enjoy the music, and stay for a Cuban egg roll, fish tacos, and a couple of mojitos. Looking to cool off a bit in Miami’s heat? Order a Bananita Daiquiri made with Bacardi rum, créme de banana, fresh lime juice, simple syrup, coffee beans, and a tiny banana.
@ballandchainmia
When craving Cuban food for lunch, it’s likely a Cuban sandwich is going to be the go-to. Old’s Havana is home to one of the best in the area. The toasty melty sandwich is made with pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on pressed Cuban bread. Take in the retro-feel of the restaurant as it displays old Cuban decor and plenty of black and white photos to transport you back to days of old.
While in Little Havana, it’s hard to miss the large colorful rooster that stands on the corner of Calle Ocho and 15th avenue. If you’ve found the rooster, then you’ve found El Pub. The menu features Cuban classics that can be ordered inside or from the ventanita (a little service window on the outside) where you can opt for one of the delicious empanadas as a quick snack to pair with your afternoon cafecito.
You’re not doing Cuban food right if there’s not a pastelito or two to start. Pastelitos are crispy flakey pastries that come with various fillings from meat to cheese to fruits like the Cuban favorite — guava. Yisell Bakery in Little Havana is known for its plethora of pastries, breads, and sweet cakes. No trip to Little Havana is complete without a pastelito, and Yisell Bakery is the place to get them.
The best way to wrap up an adventure in Little Havana is with a sweet ending. Located right next to Ball & Chain, visitors will find Azucar Ice Cream Company. Azucar means sugar in Spanish and that’s exactly what you’ll find here. Flavors include everything from traditional vanilla, chocolate, and cookies n’ cream — but also wonderful Cuban-inspired delights like Abuela Maria made with guava and Maria crackers (a popular Cuban staple) and Mantecado, classic Cuban vanilla. The large Celia Cruz mural on the wall is a tribute to the beloved Cuban artist who is known for her song Azucar.
@azucaricecream
