Cuban Food Miami
Little Havana is the best place in Miami to fully immerse yourself in Cuban Culture. While the shopping and attractions are great here, a way to truly experience Cuba is to seat yourself at a Cuban restaurant or Cafe and taste the food. Cuban food is anything but boring, and you're sure to be hooked on it after the first try!

Cuban Pastries are a popular snack, and can be purchased at many bakeries and Cafes in Little Havana. Pasteles or Pastelitos are made up of a flaky pasty and are typically filled with ham, coconut, guava and cream cheese, or various meats. These are the perfect things to eat either on the go or to have with a Cuban coffee. Cafe Cubano is a strong espresso coffee, which drips into a pot with several spoonfuls of sugar in it. As the pot fills up, the sugar is stirred, creating a sweet foam that rests on the top. Many Cubans order their coffee with water, to either clear their pallet before drinking or to drink after the strong coffee to dilute it. If this coffee seems a little intimidating and strong, try the Cafe con Leche, which is the same as Cafe Cubano but served with steamed milk. You can mix the coffee and milk together as you please and add as much sugar as you want for a sweeter, smoother coffee drink.

Although each restaurant has its specialties, there are a few Cuban staples and favorites that can be found almost anywhere. Arroz con Pollo is a favorite, often served for Sunday lunch, consisting of rice and tender chicken, flavored with saffron, wine and spices. Croquetas are a light batter filled with ground ham or other meats, and deep fried until golden brown. Frijoles Negros is a very common dish with black beans in a spicy garlic and pepper gravy, usually served over rice. You will also find many types of meat served with various dishes, often marinaded in Mojo, which is made with sour orange, garlic, onions and spices. Mojo is also used as a dip for many dishes. Many dishes are also served with Pan Cubano, or Cuban bread. This delicious bread can also be picked up from any bakery and makes for great sandwiches. Many Cuban dishes also feature seafood, from octopus to squid to prawns, and tend to be excellent.

For dessert try Arroz con Leche, a rice pudding with a distinct cinnamon taste, served often with raisins and a splash of Cuban rum. Flan, a rich egg pudding with caramelized sugar, is also a popular dessert. For a real treat, order it con coco rallado, with sweetened, shredded coconut.