Little Havana is a vibrant neighborhood in Miami, considered by many to be the heart of the city. The Cuban community dropped anchor in Little Havana where the sights, sounds, and smells all pay homage to the capital of Cuba, but what you’ll find beyond ventanitas (Cuban coffee windows, a must stop) may surprise you in this quickly changing neighborhood. 

Where to Eat in Little Havana

Versailles

Address: 3555 SW 8th Street, Miami FL 

Restaurant Overview: Versailles is the area’s most iconic restaurant, a place beloved by the Cuban community, where the same crowd gathers every day for a shot of super strong sugary coffee around the ventanita and a pastry or two. Priced like a diner with large portions of homestyle Cuban food, but set in a gilded series of mirrored dining rooms, this pillar of the Cuban community takes up a full city block. 

What to Eat: Pastelitos, croquetas, and Cuban sandwiches comprise the basics, but go wild on the huge menu and take some pastries from the onsite bakery home with you for round two. 

El Rey De Las Fritas 

Address: 1821 SW 8th Street 

Restaurant Overview: It’s entirely possible you’ve never heard about the “frita,” a Cuban hamburger, so now is the time to experience this delightful local favorite. El Rey De Las Fritas has served as the go-to Little Havana frita spot since 1976, serving ground beef patties, with crispy potato stix and grilled onions on a Cuban bread roll. 

What to Eat: A frita paired with a Cuban soda, like Jupiña or Materva. 

Lung Yai Thai Tapas

Address: 1731 SW 8th Street 

Restaurant Overview: Lung Yai Thai Tapas, a popular spot for a night out in Little Havana, introduces non-Cuban flavors into the mix. This herby, fresh Thai food located right on 8th Street, Little Havana’s main street, makes for an unexpected, yet welcome addition to the scene, with dishes whipped up by a Bangkok-born chef.  

What to Eat: A papaya salad is the perfect starter on a warm Miami night, especially when sitting outside on their small patio. Follow it up with a Northern Thai specialty dish, like Larb Muang, or any item from the Chef’s Recommendations section of the menu, like the Duck Basil. 

Ahi Sushi Bar 

Address: 1527 SW 8th Street, Miami FL 

Restaurant Overview: Operating out of a tiny space,  Ahi Sushi Spot creates a fun culinary experience tucked into Little Havana, where Cuban coffee and finger food form the signature meal. Reserve one of the handful of seats at the bar and watch as Chef Bas expertly executes technique-driven Japanese food every night at this elevated, but affordable omakase restaurant. 

What to Eat: Go omakase and sample the chef’s choice of fresh fish, vegetable dishes, and whatever ingredients inspire Chef Bas that day. 

La Camaronera Seafood Joint and Fish Market

Address: 1952 W Flagler St, Miami, FL 33135

Restaurant Overview: Go to La Camaronera, a local Little Havana seafood joint, when the craving for a fresh fish sandwich strikes, and in Miami, that happens all the time! Founded by a family of Cuban fishermen, this popular restaurant has stood the test of time. Today, a modern renovation gives it an updated feel, but it remains a comfortable place to dig into a platter of fresh seafood and a cold beer. 

What to Eat: The OG Minuta Sandwich is the house specialty, a fried snapper sandwich served on a fluffy Cuban bun. Pair it with a side of sweet plantains and stone crabs if they’re in season. 

Find Your Dream Apartment in Miami

Now that you know where to eat in Little Havana, find out where to live there so that you can dine at these local favorites anytime. AptAmigo knows the best apartment buildings in this neighborhood and can get you the best deals on rent here, or anywhere else in Miami. Our 1-on-1 real estate service is completely free. We’ll take over the apartment search for you, saving you time and energy. Connect with a Miami apartment locator today!