Although not technically within the confines of Little Havana, these restaurants are Miami institutions and places locals consider to be must-go-to destinations when they are within the vicinity. The following restaurants are outside of Little Havana by a only mile or two, so we felt like they deserved a special mention when it came to recommendations of where to go eat. You can NOT have a true Miami experience without visiting these recommendations close to Little Havana.
Translating to "The Juice Palace," this place serves more than just juices. In fact, their selection of cafeteria-style Latin cuisine consists of more than 20 options. Portions always make the serving dish seem like it is about to burst open and the food is always flavorful and authentic to what it should taste like. Although there are various locations throughout the city, the original one keeps on offering the best selection of food while being bombarded with locals on a daily basis. No matter what else you get, order a serving of chicharrones, the Hispanic answer to what Americans like to call pork belly.
5721 W Flagler St, Miami, FL 33144
www.elpalaciodelosjugos.com
This restaurant's kitchen is a one-man-show ran by "El Mago" himself. The Magician has been working the griddle for the past 30 years to provide Miami with Fritas before their popularity started to grow a couple of years ago. He has his own blend of seasonings and takes pride in serving a product of extremely high quality at very affordable prices. Sit down and watch magic develop before your very eyes.
5828 SW 8th St West Miami FL 33144
elmagodelasfritas.com
This Miami staple offers the same Cuban dishes as any other Cuban restaurant in the city, but the cooks here are just superb. You cannot go wrong with any choice of dish, but I am partial to the Cubano Especial (large Cuban Sandwich) and the Bistec Empanizado (breaded steak). The sandwich making area is surrounded by hanging legs of ham to provide a different atmosphere than what you would typically see in your normal Cuban cafeteria.
898 SW 57th Ave, West Miami, FL
Pastelitos de Guayaba may be the epitome of a Miamian snack, and Karla Bakery may be offering some of the best in the city. This bakery has been open for over 20 years, and it has been giving the people of Miami a taste of what honest and true Cuban cuisine should be. Whether it is sandwiches or pastries, the food here is top notch, and it is a prime example of what a Cuban cafeteria is.
6474 W Flagler Street Miami, FL 33144
karlabakery.com/index
Calling itself the "World's Most Famous Cuban Restaurant," Versailles has been serving the neighborhood since 1971. This is a local hotspot for Cubans of all generations to come and reminisce of times past in the motherland. Don't be surprised to find politicians and other celebrities here, as they use this place as a way to connect with the Cuban population. The history of this place is enough of a reason to visit, but the fact that the food is mighty tasty does not hurt either. When on your way out, visit the bakery sporting the same name next door for your sugary fix.
3555 Southwest 8th Street
versaillesrestaurant.com
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