If you live in South Florida, then you're probably familiar with cafecito (Cuban coffee) and its energizing powers. Instead of in a mug, it's typically served in small, white shot glasses, which is done for more than just tradition's sake. The smaller receptacles ensure you only drink in sips because, while tasty, Cuban coffee is essentially digestible rocket fuel. While you can find cafecitos all over Miami, sadly, they aren't all created equal. However, we've made your search for the perfect cup easier by compiling a list of the best Cuban coffee places in Miami.
It's hardly a surprise that Miami's most famous Cuban restaurant would serve some of Miami's best Cuban coffee. Versailles is such an institution that locals head over and sip on Cuban coffee while discussing the current events for hours at a time. So pull up a chair at the counter, take a breather, and enjoy smooth sips of Cuban coffee while chatting with friends.
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West Miami has so many places serving Cuban coffee that it's comparable to finding a needle in a haystack, but Lucerne Bakery is easily one of the area's best, if not the best, at making cafecitos as evidenced by the usual long line spilling out the door.
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Don't let the name fool you. While Enriqueta's is indeed a sandwich shop, you can walk out of there with one of Miami's best, piping-hot Cuban coffees. Not only do they serve traditional cafecitos, they make remixes of the classic drink, so this is the place to go if you like your coffee with a twist.
Las Olas may not be one of Miami's most famous cafes or restaurants, but it's the closest you'll get to sipping on a Cuban coffee in Havana with its extensive coffee menu and comfortable atmosphere. Since it's a cafe, order a pan con bistec (steak sandwich) or empanada to pair with your cafecito.
While many people view chain restaurants negatively, La Carreta is a testament to its benefits. No matter which location you visit, you can expect the same quality cuisine and service. That certainly applies to ordering a Cuban coffee at La Carreta: they're always hot, sweet, and made-to-order.
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Sabor Latino is a testament to Miami's diversity and intermingling of culture. While it's actually a Colombian restaurant, Sabor Latino also serves some of Miami's best Cuban coffee.
Not only does Manolo & Rene serve some of the best Cuban coffee, it's also open 24 hours! In other words, it's perfect for anyone looking to pull an all-nighter whether for work, school, or play.
If you hadn't noticed yet, cafes and bakeries are usually the best places to go if you want Cuban coffee, and no list would be complete without Vicky's Bakery. It started as a small mom and pop shop but has expanded with new locations peppered throughout Miami. If you haven't already, give one of the bakeries a shot: you won't be disappointed!
When you're sipping Cuban coffee, it's about more than just waking up: it's an experience. So don't settle for anything less and go to one of these places serving Miami's best Cuban coffee.
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Cover photo courtesy of Ozgu Ozden on Unsplash
