If you’re on the lookout for establishments where you can get your hands on a deliciously satisfying Cubano, be sure check out this list of where to find the best Cuban sandwiches in Miami.
A classic Cuban sandwich is a combination of ham, slow-roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, pressed between two slices of Cuban bread.
And while generally regarded to have been invented in Tampa, this iconic Floridian creation has become a staple of the Miami’s food scene and continues to be a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
The Best Cuban Sandwiches in Miami
Sanguich De Miami
Sanguich is a cozy Cuban cafe on Calle Ocho that has gained recognition as not just the best Cuban sandwich in Little Havana, but perhaps the best Cubano in Miami. What sets this sandwich apart is its meticulous preparation process, with each ingredient made in-house. From the ground mustard to the 24-hour marinated lechon and brined ham, the Cubano here offers a perfect balance of flavors. The sandwiches are pressed to perfection, resulting in a juicy and crispy delight.
This sandwich has taken Miami by storm, as it’s been named on lists of the best sandwiches in the U.S. And Sanguich has even received a Michelin Bib Gourmand award, generally given to restaurants that aren’t as fancy but offers great value for the money. If you only have time to go to one place for a Cubano, this is probably where you should come.
I suggest coming early as a line forms by lunchtime. This has definitely become the hot spot seen on social media and a large number of tourists have been coming here. So, I feel there’s been some pushback from locals claiming this to be a tourist trap. While I acknowledge it has become the trendy spot to visit, everything is made in house, including their Cuban bread which is technically made at a different location and then driven over each morning.
The popularity of Sanguich has allowed them to open three other locations in Little Haiti, Bayside Market, and Coral Gables.
Doce Provisions
If anywhere rivals Sanguich for the best Cubano in Miami, it might be Doce Provisions.
But Miami purists might have something to say about it. Breaking the mold and infusing creativity into their sandwiches, Doce Provisions has garnered a loyal following in Little Havana. But their Cuban sandwich dares to incorporate salami, a departure from Miami tradition and instead is in line with how the Cubanos are made in Tampa.
They use a sliced pork and a Cuban style deli ham that is packed into the casing and steamed. Then, the Mojo mayo brings a unique twist that finishes it off. I recommend ordering a side of croquettes (chorizo are popular but they often have other varieties). The Ropa Vieja and fried chicken with waffle are also big hits.
Tinta y Café
Tinta y Café in my favorite spot to grab a quick coffee in Coral Gables, in particular an iced cafe con leche and then a dirty chai latte for my significant other.
While the menu features many delicious options, a standout is their Patria sandwich, which is their take on a Cuban sandwich. Although they deviate from the traditional recipe by using mortadella and a baguette instead of Cuban bread, the resulting flavors are exceptional. Tinta y Café serves their sandwiches with local ingredients and freshly baked bread, offering an authentic and enjoyable experience.
There is also a second location in Miami Shores.
OFF SITE Nano Brewery
OFF SITE Nano Brewery in Little River was my biggest surprise when seeking out the best Cubano in Miami.
This nano brewery offers their own Super Good Lager and then a small rotating selection of draft and beers in a bottle/can. And their kitchen offers just a few snack and sandwich options. But their Cuban sandwich has the perfect combination of lechon style pork, aged ham, house pickles, and mustard. The fried chicken sandwich is also one of my favorite foods in this neighborhood.
Enriqueta's Sandwich Shop
Enriqueta’s Sandwich Shop is favorite for locals and probably the best Cuban sandwich in Wynwood. This unassuming little eatery serves up a fantastic Cubano that has garnered a loyal following. The parking lot is small and there’s usually a lunch crowd so you might have to park on the street nearby. Enriqueta’s Cuban sandwich is a true representation of Miami’s vibrant culinary scene. They also have daily specials, and if you go on a Friday the Lechon Asado special is another order that they hit out of the park.
Babe's Meat & Counter
Jason & Melanie Schoendorfer began selling smoked sausages, bacon, and premium meats at farmer’s markets before eventually opening Babe’s Meat & Counter. If you’re willing to head all the way down to Palmetto Bay or perhaps driving to the Florida Keys, stop in at Babe’s for one of the best Cuban Sandwiches in the Miami area.
What makes Babe’s so great is that the meats such as ham, sausage, bacon, and pastrami are smoked in house. It is also consistently named as having one of the best burgers in Miami. And because it’s a butcher shop and one of the best delis in Miami, there is a large selection of meats to buy and take home. I’d list Babe’s further up this list if it were more accessible to people visiting Miami, as the Cubano is better than several listed above.
Las Olas Café
Las Olas Café is the place to come for the best Cuban Sandwich in Miami Beach. Their version features lechon style pork (which is my preference vs sliced) and a heavy dose of mustard pressed between freshly baked Cuban bread. The sandwich is toasted to perfection, achieving a crispy exterior and a warm, gooey interior.
It’s definitely a hole in the wall kinda place, which only adds to my love for it. They have a variety of daily specials set out in steam trays, sandwiches, and rice bowls, some of which can all be hit or miss. But the Cubano is a hit.
Sarussi Subs
Sarussi Subs offers an unconventional twist on the Cuban sandwich. Known as the Sarussi Original or Original Cuban Sandwich, they diverge from tradition by using sweet shaved ham, mozzarella, fluffy Italian rolls, and a secret sauce that replaces mustard. Despite these variations, the sandwich is incredibly delicious and will satisfy your craving. Maye some argue it’s not a true Cubano…Whatever.
Convenient Spots for Decent Cubanos
El Palacio de los Jugas
Multiple locations
Palacio de los Jugos, a vibrant produce market and restaurant, is a must-visit for those seeking a true Miami-Cuban experience. Amidst the bustling food stalls that sell Cuban dishes, smoothies, and some of the best fresh fruit juices you’ll ever have, you’ll find the station that makes one of the best Cuban sandwiches in Miami. The bread isn’t as pressed as most of the other spots, so it is thicker but with a light airiness to it. And I love that it’s served with potato sticks.
This is an open bodega, so while you’re here grab fresh produce, dairy products, and some chicharrónes. Sure, there are multiple locations, which tends to water down the quality, but you have to visit one when visiting in Miami.
Sergio's Cuban Café & Grill
Multiple Locations
Sergio’s Cuban Café & Grill is a beloved chain of Cuban restaurants in Miami, offering a diverse menu of Cuban delights. Their Cuban sandwich is a customer favorite, crafted with care and attention to detail. The sandwich boasts layers of marinated roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, all pressed between fresh Cuban bread. Sergio’s Cuban sandwich is a satisfying combination of textures and flavors that will transport you to the streets of Havana.
Cuban Sandwiches Living on Past Hype
Versailles Restaurant
No list of restaurants in Miami would be complete without mentioning Versailles Restaurant. A legendary establishment in the heart of Little Havana, Versailles is known for its authentic Cuban cuisine. They even describe themselves as The World’s Most Famous Cuban Restaurant, which might actually be true.
Like the Columbia Restaurant in Tampa, it’s a place that gets by a little too much on its past fame rather than the food quality. But both remain must stops when in their respective cities. And you’ll still find plenty of local Cuban-American’s grabbing breakfast and a Cafecito (a Cuban espresso) each morning. Even if you don’t want to sit down for a meal, you can stop by the outside coffee counter or grab pastries next door at their bakery.
While not top of this list of best Cubans in town, find time to make a stop at Versailles.
Puerto Sagua
For over five decades, Puerto Sagua Restaurant has been a South Beach institution, serving up authentic Cuban cuisine with a side of warm hospitality. Indulge in their pressed Cuban sandwiches, a true staple of their menu, along with other beloved favorites like fried plantains, ropa vieja, and fried whole snapper. Don’t forget to complete your meal with a cup of their rich and aromatic Cuban coffee.
Latin American Coral Way
It’s been around since 1974, but the biggest draw to Latin American Coral Way these days is the proximity to downtown Miami. It’s a casual spot with Cuban food at reasonable prices. I do like that the Cubano is served with plantain chips. But it’s generally an unremarkable sandwich. That didn’t prevent me from stopping in from time to time though.
Other Great Cuban Sandwiches in Miami
Proper Sausages: Similar to Babe’s, this Miami Shores establishment is owned by a husband & wife team who began selling house-made sausages at farmer’s markets before opening a physical location. You can get meat and poultry from local farms in addition to great sandwiches.
Caja Caliente: Honestly, this should have its own post above probably in the 2nd tier category. It’s one of the best spots in Coral Gables.
Chug’s Diner: One of my favorite spots in Coconut Grove for brunch or lunch. They appropriately name their version the Cuban-American Sandwich.
Islas Canarias: Another one that’s pretty far outside the city. The Croquetas are some of the best around.
Luis Gallindo Latin American: About a decade ago, this was perhaps THE SPOT to come for a great Cuban sandwich. Locals sometimes still list this as a top choice. It’s fine. Try the pan con bistec instead though.
