The Best Cuban Coffee in Miami: Your Ultimate Guide

November 27th, 2024 | Food & Dining

The Best Cuban Coffee in Miami: Your Ultimate Guide

Miami is synonymous with Cuban culture, and nowhere is that connection more apparent than in the city’s love for Cuban coffee. From the lively streets of Little Havana to hidden gems in Downtown Miami, Cuban coffee is more than just a beverage—it’s a cultural experience. Whether you’re craving a strong Cuban espresso, a creamy cortadito, or a shareable colada, Miami has it all.

Staying at The Elser Hotel in Downtown Miami gives you easy access to the city’s best Cuban coffee spots. Let’s explore where you can find the most authentic and flavorful Cuban coffee in Miami.

What Makes Cuban Coffee Unique?

Cuban coffee, or café Cubano, is a bold, sweet coffee that uses finely ground dark-roast beans. Its distinctive flavor comes from the espuma, a frothy layer made by whipping sugar with the first few drops of espresso. This method creates a creamy, caramelized sweetness that sets Cuban coffee apart.

Popular Cuban Coffee Drinks:

Colada: A large serving of sweetened espresso, perfect for sharing.
Cortadito: A shot of Cuban espresso mixed with steamed milk.
Café con Leche: A milder option, similar to a latte, enjoyed with buttered Cuban toast.

Best Cuban Coffee Spots in Miami

1. Versailles Restaurant

Located in Little Havana, Versailles is often referred to as the “world’s most famous Cuban restaurant.” Their coffee window, or “ventanita,” serves iconic café Cubano and cortaditos alongside authentic Cuban pastries.

Highlights:

Must-try: Cortadito paired with a guava pastelito.
Atmosphere: A bustling hub of Cuban culture.
Location: 3555 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33135

Distance from The Elser Hotel: 15 minutes by car.

2. La Colada Gourmet

Nestled in the heart of Little Havana, La Colada Gourmet elevates Cuban coffee to an art form, offering a wide selection of espresso blends and creative twists on classic drinks.

Highlights:

Must-try: Signature colada flight to sample different espresso roasts.
Atmosphere: Cozy and Instagrammable.
Location: 1518 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33135

Distance from The Elser Hotel: 10 minutes by car.

3. All Day

This Downtown Miami café is known for its modern take on coffee while staying true to Cuban flavors. Their cortadito is a local favorite, blending rich espresso with perfectly steamed milk.

Highlights:

Must-try: Cortadito with house-made almond milk.
Atmosphere: Bright and minimalist.
Location: 1035 N Miami Ave, Miami, FL 33136

Distance from The Elser Hotel: 5-minute walk.

4. Enriqueta’s Sandwich Shop

A local favorite in Wynwood, Enriqueta’s is known for its hearty Cuban sandwiches and strong Cuban coffee. It’s a must-visit for a quick breakfast or lunch stop.

Highlights:

Must-try: Café con leche with a side of buttered Cuban toast.
Atmosphere: Casual and family-friendly.
Location: 186 NE 29th St, Miami, FL 33137

Distance from The Elser Hotel: 10 minutes by car.

5. El Exquisito

Another gem in Little Havana, El Exquisito serves traditional Cuban dishes and some of the best coladas in Miami.

Highlights:

Must-try: Colada paired with croquetas.
Atmosphere: Homely and welcoming.
Location: 1510 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33135

Distance from The Elser Hotel: 10 minutes by car.

How to Enjoy Cuban Coffee Like a Local

Start at the Ventanita: Many Cuban cafés have walk-up windows where locals gather to sip coffee and chat.
Order a Colada to Share: Coladas come with small cups, making them perfect for sharing with friends.
Pair Your Coffee with Pastries: Try it with a guava pastelito or croqueta for the full experience.

Why Cuban Coffee Is a Must-Try in Miami

Cuban coffee isn’t just about flavor—it’s about community and tradition. Whether you’re visiting Little Havana or exploring Downtown Miami, every sip connects you to the city’s rich Cuban heritage.

Fun Fact:

The cortadito is often called Miami’s version of an afternoon pick-me-up, perfect for a quick energy boost between sightseeing or business meetings.

Why Stay at The Elser Hotel for Your Coffee Tour?

Located in Downtown Miami, The Elser Hotel offers modern luxury and easy access to Miami’s best Cuban coffee spots. After a day of exploring, relax in your spacious suite or enjoy a coffee from our on-site café.

Benefits of Staying at The Elser Hotel:

Central Location: Minutes from Little Havana, Wynwood, and Miami Beach.
Luxury Amenities: Spacious suites with floor-to-ceiling windows and fully equipped kitchens.
Rooftop Pool: Perfect for unwinding after your coffee adventures.

Plan Your Miami Coffee Adventure Today

Miami is a city where coffee is more than a drink—it’s a way of life. Whether you’re indulging in a creamy cortadito or sharing a bold colada, the city’s Cuban coffee culture is an experience not to be missed.

Book Your Stay at The Elser Hotel

Make The Elser Hotel your home base for exploring Miami’s best Cuban coffee. Reserve your stay today and sip your way through the city’s most iconic cafés.