Miami Guide: Little Havana
No visit to Miami is complete without spending a few hours in Little Havana. Separated by just 299 miles, the flavor of Cuba is felt through out Miami but this area really expresses Cuban culture through music and culinary experiences that make for an epic afternoon. Below is a little bit of some of my favorite food experiences in Little Havana.
Address | 1503 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33135
On one of Little Havana’s most popular streets, Calle Ocho, is the famous Azúcar Ice Cream shop. Offering a long list of possible scoops to satisfy your sweet tooth, Azúcar flavors pay homage to Little Havana with names like Domino, and to Cuban culture as well with flavors such as café con leche and montecado (pictured below). I was told that the Abuela Maria is one of the most popular flavors and so of course I had to try it. This scoop includes guava paste, cream cheese, and crumbled Maria cookies. Escape the Miami heat with these cool scoops.
Address | 1638 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33135
One vice I have is that I do now and again enjoy having a cigar. Usually on vacation or to celebrate special occasions. When in Miami it definitely feels like part of the package to fully relax and enjoy myself. I found Art District Cigars just by checking out reviews of the best shops in Little Havana. The dark wood interior is classic and inviting giving an air of history and expertise. The selection was great and the staff very helpful.
Address | 3555 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33145
If you had a fun late night in Miami (which you definitely should!) you’ll need a good pick me up the next morning. Versailles Restaurant is the perfect place to go. In front of our South Beach hotel we waited for our car to arrive and while chatting with other guests also waiting, we discovered that we were all on our way to Little Havana for the famous Versailles. The first order of business: Cortados. Cortado—meaning cut—is simply espresso cut with warm milk. This traditional Cuban coffee will wake you right up. Next carb load from Versailles’ delicious selection of baked goods. Photographed below is croissant, Spanish tortilla, strudel and a tarrito de dulce leche.
Address | 1555 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33135
After a few solid hours of exploring Little Havana I’ve come to realize that you will never run out of opportunities for an epic culinary experience. I had to pass up many a great smelling Cuban sandwich stands but when we came across Velvet Crème Doughnuts, Lynette pointed out we can take them to go for the next day. Done deal. Velvet Crème has been on the Miami scene since 1947. It has an old school diner feel with a selection of classic doughnuts. The doughnuts are handmade on site and delicious with a spongy texture.
Book a hotel with a gym! You’re going to need it after experiencing the enticements of Little Havana.