7 Top Places to Enjoy Cuban Coffee in Miami
Don’t be misled by the occasional major coffee chain – Miami thrives on Cuban coffee.
This robust drink, made from Cuban espresso and sugar, not only helps locals overcome midday fatigue but also fosters social interactions, whether for casual chats or intense political discussions. Known as cafecito, it’s so ingrained in the local culture that the mayor of Miami designated 3:05pm as Miami’s official cafecito break time.
The first rule of cafecito is: a little goes a long way. The recommended serving size is a thimble-sized stack of cups that come with a colada — a four-ounce styrofoam cup of Cuban coffee — which encourages sharing. The second rule is: locate a ventanita. These walk-up windows offer flaky Cuban pastries alongside steaming cups of this potent brew.
If you’re eager to experience this caffeinated delight, explore one of our seven favorite spots for Cuban coffee in Miami. Remember, it’s 3:05pm somewhere.
Café Versailles has been dishing out cafecito for more than 50 years © AFP via Getty Images1. La Ventanita at Versailles
Versailles has been the epicenter of cafecito culture for over half a century, serving everyone from locals to celebrities and even US presidential hopefuls in its Little Havana location. Notably, the founder Felipe Valls Sr. is credited with pioneering the ventanita. The restaurant has also opened a nearby coffee bar and bakery where the cafecito achieves the perfect balance of sugar and espresso. For a unique take, try the cortadito—Cuban coffee mixed with steamed milk—paired with your pastries. At Versailles, opting for evaporated milk instead of regular is not only acceptable but highly encouraged.
How to get there: Travel east on SW 8th St/Calle Ocho until you reach 35th Ave.
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2. La Carreta
You can't go wrong with the cafecito at any of La Carreta’s various Miami locations, but the Bird Rd spot arguably boasts the finest ventanita. Bursting with energy and the comforting sound of the espresso machine steaming away, this vibrant ventanita becomes a gathering hub whenever a local sports team secures a championship victory. The robust Cuban coffee and deliciously sweet guava pastries will keep the festivities alive well into the night.
Directions: Take the Dolphin Expressway/836 West to Palmetto Expressway/826 South. Exit at SW 40th St and head west for about a mile.
La Colada Gourmet in Little Havana roasts its own coffee beans and offers coffee-themed souvenirs for purchase © Khosro / Shutterstock3. La Colada Gourmet
Known for some of the most creative cafecitos and coladas in town, La Colada Gourmet in Little Havana is your destination for innovative twists on the classic recipes. This gourmet spot not only roasts its own beans but also allows you to enhance your cafecito with options like condensed milk, Nutella, or even a splash of liquor. Before you leave, be sure to browse their selection of house-blend beans and various Cuban coffee accessories for the perfect 3:05pm keepsake.
Directions: Head onto I-95 S and take the NW 7th Ave exit. Continue on NW 7th Ave for about 1.5 miles.
4. Tinta y Café
Although Tinta y Café may appear to be a charming local coffee shop specializing in trendy latte art, it’s actually a Cuban café infused with the cozy vibes of an indie roaster. Here, your cortadito comes complete with latte art, as does your café con leche. Don’t forget to order a tostada—a rich, buttery slice of pressed Cuban bread—to dip ceremoniously into your café con leche. It’s a beloved local tradition, and you’ll want to savor every creamy drop left behind.
Directions: Travel west on Dolphin Expressway/836 to NW 14th St. Take the NW 37th Ave exit to Salamanca Ave in Coral Gables.
Enjoying a tiny plastic cup of Cuban coffee from a simple ventanita represents the quintessential cafecito experience © Madiha Brooks / Getty Images5. Islas Canarias
If you’re venturing into the western areas of Miami-Dade County, make sure to check out Islas Canarias for some of the best croquetas and cafecito in the city. With two nearby locations—one for dining and one for coffee—both spots keep it simple and straightforward. At the restaurant, approach the ventanita and order your cafecito and croqueta swiftly. The staff is often busy, but they’re highly efficient and will appreciate your promptness.
Directions: Take the Dolphin Expressway/836 West to SW 24 St/Coral Way. Continue heading west on SW 24 St/Coral Way until you reach 136 Ave.
6. Suite Habana Cafe
Located in Wynwood, the Cuban-owned Suite Habana Cafe aims to replicate the vibe of a paladar—a small, family-run restaurant often set up in homes. The inviting atmosphere, adorned with Cuban posters, white brick walls, cushioned seating, and eclectic lighting, creates the perfect backdrop for enjoying a cafecito or café con leche crafted from a house blend of Colombian and Brazilian beans tailored for Cuban espresso. Pair it with a croissant or pastry for the ultimate Miami treat.
Directions: Get on I-95 N and proceed to NE 36th St. Take exit 2B from I-195 E, then follow Biscayne Blvd and NE 27 St to North Miami Ave.
Each cafe in Miami adds its unique touch to Cuban coffee. © Juanmonino / Getty Images7. Bebito’s Cafe
In South Beach, if you’re craving Cuban coffee, Bebito’s is the place to go. Named after the owner's Cuban grandfather, this cafe serves up traditional cortaditos and café con leche made with a private-label blend of locally roasted Central and South American beans. With its marbled green walls, neon signs, and taffy-colored booths, it exudes a retro tropical vibe—perfect for enjoying a cafecito alongside a guava-and-cheese pastry before heading out for a day on the water.
Directions: Take I-95 N to the MacArthur Causeway. Head east and take the exit for FL-907 N/Alton Rd.
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