There’s something magic about Little Havana – just to the West of Miami’s downtown. People who visit this wonderful neighborhood are immediately drawn into the sights, sounds and tastes of what is a uniquely Cuban experience – in what is already one of the most visitor-friendly cities in the U.S.
A visit to Little Havana is to share if just for a moment in the dream of those people who fled the oppressive regime and political isolation (as well as economic hardship) of Fidel Castro’s Cuba.
The experience is all-encompassing. In Little Havana one can enjoy the best Cuban food in the U.S., sip on a great cocktail (at some of the most vibrant bars and nighttime destinations in Miami), enjoy fabulous live music – as well as being exposed to unique art and cultural attractions. If you are ready to immerse yourself in the joy and history of this great corner of the city then here are some of the best attractions to enjoy.
No Little Havana experience would be complete without visiting at least some of the great restaurants in the area. They’re not limited to Cuban inspired menu items – but you’d be doing yourself a grave disservice if you didn’t make it a point to enjoy some of that sort of cuisine. One of the signature items must, of course, be the Cubano – that iconic Cuban sandwich. Take a seat at Sanguich de Miami and enjoy a sandwich that is close to perfection. Even the mustard is made in house. Add to this the attractions of the house-made cured pork and freshly baked bread and you have a thing of beauty. An alternative is to head for La Carreta for authentic Cuban fare. The ‘vaca frita’ is delightful – the grilled, shredded beef and onion is perfectly complemented by the rice and beans.
If you’re after a relaxing evening out in Little Havana you will be spoiled for choice when it comes to bars and nightclubs. There is everything from classic (but Cuban inspired) dive bar venues to upscale lounges. Try out ‘Bar Nancy’ for a nautically inspired good time. there are no sandwiches available – but the inventiveness of the cocktail menu more than makes up for this lack. For a touch of the old school film fun try the ‘Smile You Son-Of-A-Bitch’ – inspired by the movie Jaws it even comes complete with a floating plastic shark. If oysters are your thing head to ‘Ella’s Oyster Bar’ here you will enjoy the freshest oyster themed offerings no matter the time of year. You’ll also have access to one of the best Mojitos in the city (the Sangria is also delicious). Happy hour is from midday to 7 pm so there is plenty of time to get into your seafood groove and suck down some tasty ocean-fresh oyster goodness.
Little Havana is well worth the visit. However, it’s not only food and drink that makes it so interesting. Check out some of the street art and the cultural attractions in order to work up an appetite (and a thirst). It’s a place that will reward exploration.
