The Best Cuban Sandwiches in Miami, Hands Down
We don’t mean to brag (OK, maybe we do), but Miami is basically the Cubano capital of the world. (Tampa? I don’t know her.) Though there are scores of incredible sandwiches in town, only a select few can be called the best of the best. You’d better cancel that 1 p.m. appointment, because you’re going to need an extended lunch break for this. Here, the 11 best Cuban sandwiches in Miami.
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1. Chug’s
At Chug’s in Coconut Grove, chef/owner Michael Beltran’s Cuban sandwich is cheesy, crunchy and bursting with flavor. Made with sourdough, honey ham and black pepper salami, think of Beltran’s version as a more gourmet version compared to Miami’s otherwise traditional varieties.3444 Main Hwy., Coconut Grove; chugsdiner.com
2. Sanguich de Miami
Now this is the place to go for gourmet Cuban sandwiches (down to the homemade pickles). This shipping-container-turned-ventanita churns out classic Calle Ocho fare—like a roast-pork pan con lechón and a batido de trigo (cereal milkshake)—plus a few dishes with a modern twist, like Cuban nachos topped with pickled mojo onions and garlic cilantro aioli.2057 SW Eighth St., Miami; sanguich.com
3. Babe’s Meat & Counter
This Palmetto Bay butcher shop is known for its classic Cuban, thanks in part to the house-made smoked ham and roast pork it’s stuffed with. Add in the mustard, pickles and Cuban bread, and you have a winning combination. While you’re at it, pick up some meat to bring home to recreate your own sandwich all week long.9216 SW 156th St., Miami; babefroman.com
4. Las Olas Café
Cash only. No frills. No matter what you order at this South Beach staple, you’re hard-pressed not to have one of the best Cuban meals in the city. As for its Cubano, this crispy, cheesy bite offers a serious bang for your buck. It helps that the spot is located right off the beach—grab one from the takeout window and head back to the sand.644 Sixth St., Miami Beach; or facebook.com/LasOlasCafeSouthBeach
5. La Carretta
La Carreta has been slinging Cuban-style cuisine, including its signature roast pork sandwich, since 1976. This one is best enjoyed with homemade crispy plantain chips and a sweet mamey papaya shake. Take it one step further and add an order of ham croquetas, too.Multiple locations; instagram.com/lacarretacuban
6. Three Palms Cuban Café
Picture the most gooey yet crispy grilled cheese sandwich…which also happens to be loaded with pork. Now layer on as many potato sticks as humanly possible. Yep, it’s a glorious sight (and bite)—and that’s exactly what you can expect at this North Miami mainstay.11500 Biscayne Blvd., North Miami; threepalmsrestaurant.com
7. El Palacio de los Jugos
We dream about the melt-in-your-mouth goodness of this sammy, which offers an extra-generous amount of meat and pairs nicely with mango juice. The best part? There are 10 El Palacio locations, which means you’re never too far from getting your Cuban fix.Multiple locations; palaciodelosjugos.com
8. Islas Canarias
Mainly served during breakfast, the Cubans at this longtime Miami institution clock in at less than $10. But it isn’t just the price that makes this meal a must-try: The bread is baked in-house daily, making it ultra fresh (even when freshly pressed). You’re welcome.13695 SW 26th St., Miami; islascanariasrestaurant.com
9. Versailles
This iconic restaurant speaks for itself. Plus, let’s not forget it’s responsible for some of the best Cubanos (and cafés con leche) in town. It’s as classic as it gets: Sweet ham—cooked in brown sugar and pineapple juice—along with roast pork and Swiss cheese smeared with mustard on toasted Cuban bread. Need we say more?3555 SW Eighth St., Miami; versaillesrestaurant.com
10. Enriqueta's Sandwich Shop
On the edge of Wynwood, Miami meets Cuba at one of the most popular lunch spots in the neighborhood. Order a pressed Cuban with an ideal meat-to-cheese-to-condiment ratio, and if you really want a treat, stuff a few croquetas right into the sandwich. Trust us, it’ll change your life.186 NE 29th St., Miami; facebook.com/enriquetasSandwichShop
11. Havana 1957
This Lincoln Road staple is known for its inviting atmosphere and vibrant menu of Cuban cuisine. With five locations (including four in South Beach!) this spot doesn’t get more popular—and it’s no surprise why. Order the signature Cuban sandwich and don’t forget to pair it with one of more than a dozen mojito options. (We’ll never turn down the passion fruit version.)819 Lincoln Rd., Miami Beach; havana1957.com
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