Best Cuban Restaurants in Miami

There is almost always a line of diners vying to squeeze into the narrow space, designed with emerald-green walls, vibrant tile and sleek brass trimmings. Everyone comes for the same thing: a superb Cubano sandwich featuring pork butt that's been marinated for a week in garlic and spices, then pressed between expertly grilled slices of house-made bread.

All credit is due here to Chefs Michael Beltran and Monika Dominguez, who run this terrific Cuban diner, fitted with dangling greenery and cozy booths. One could make a meal out of the oxtail ajiaco alone, a satisfying Colombian stew that cures all ills. But then you wouldn’t have room for the several towering sandwiches, served on fluffy Cuban bread.

True to the area, the menu here is fundamentally Cuban with hearty flourishes. Golden chorizo croquetas, crispy lechon asado buns and tostones piled high with shredded beef make for a meal, but this is hardly the place to rush. Come with a group, order a round of drinks, and see where the night takes you.

This operation is happily christened with a name that translates to ink and coffee. The sandwich-focused menu is as classic and comforting as ever; the pavo real with turkey and cream cheese is nothing if not satisfying. Deep-fried croquetas are not to be missed. Our allegiance, however, is with the patria (their take on the Cubano with pork, ham, mustard, and pickles.)