An Afternoon in Miami's Little Havana
Little Havana is steaming with Cuban culture! The music, the food, the coffee, the people. It’s fun just walking around and taking in the scenes! We don’t just walk around though…we indulge!
So, of course, our first stop was for food at Old’s Havana Cuban Bar & Cocina. While it felt a little like a tourist trap from the outside, the food did not disappoint! Staff were dressed in white button-ups and suspenders, serving up some of the most flavorful Cuban dishes we’ve ever tasted! I had the Cubano sandwich and Arthur had a traditional plate with crispy shredded chicken, fried plantains, and boiled yuca. Everything was TO DIE FOR!!!
After lunch, we stopped by Domino Park to watch the locals get feisty over a good game of dominoes. One of the gentlemen saw me smiling big while watching their game and called me over. He told his friends to step aside so I could get a better view. Gotta love a cheeky old man. As soon as I got nestled into my spot by the table they all started yelling at each other! They must do this to tourists often: bring them in close, then scare them with their yelling. I couldn’t help but laugh. My Spanish is not top notch, so I’m not sure what they were yelling about, but they were a lively bunch!
Needing a little pick-me-up, our next stop was The House of Cuban Coffee. The staff here are experts in traditional as well as modern Cuban espresso drinks, and take great pride in their creations. Our barista asked what we were feeling, sweet, bitter, lots of caffeine? Then suggested a specific coffee for each of us. I had the traditional cafe con leche, but Arthur went with their calle ocho which had a little chocolaty sweetness to it.
Coffee then ice cream! Right?! YES!
Our next stop to satisfy my sweet tooth was at Azucar. If the sign doesn’t draw you in, wait until you see their selection of flavors!
Our final stop for the afternoon was at the iconic Ball & Chain bar. They had a live band, a one-of-a-kind pineapple stage, and AMAZING drinks. With happy hour everyday, there really isn’t an excuse not to check them out!
An afternoon was not nearly enough time to explore all that Little Havana has to offer. Have you visited this iconic section of Miami and have suggestions on where to go next time? Leave us a comment below!