Unearth The Voyage
Miami’s food scene pulses with the vibrant flavors of Latin America and the Caribbean, reflecting the city’s rich cultural tapestry. From Cuban classics that have fed generations to Peruvian ceviches that dance on your tongue, these restaurants serve more than just meals—they offer authentic tastes of home. Whether you crave a perfectly pressed Cubano, smoky jerk chicken, or hearty Haitian griot, these twelve spots deliver bold, unforgettable experiences. Get ready to explore the best Latin and Caribbean dining Miami has to offer.
1. Versailles (Cuban, Little Havana)
Since opening its doors in 1971, this legendary Cuban institution has become the beating heart of Little Havana. Generations of families gather here for tender ropa vieja that falls apart at the touch of a fork and medianoche sandwiches piled high with roasted pork.
The mirror-lined dining room buzzes with conversation in Spanish and English, creating an atmosphere that feels both celebratory and comforting. Don’t miss La Ventanita, the walk-up window serving strong Cuban coffee that locals swear by every morning.
2. Sanguich de Miami (Cuban Sandwiches, Little Havana & more)
What started as a passion project has earned Michelin recognition for doing one thing extraordinarily well: crafting the perfect Cuban sandwich. Every morning, bakers prepare fresh loaves that become the foundation for their famous Cubano, achieving that ideal balance of crispy exterior and soft, flavorful interior.
The original location remains a neighborhood favorite, while the newer Coral Gables spot brings the same dedication to quality. Each bite delivers perfectly proportioned layers of pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard that somehow taste better than you remember.
3. Islas Canarias (Cuban, Westchester)
Walk into this Westchester gem and you’ll immediately understand why locals have been coming back for decades. The croquetas here set the gold standard—crispy golden shells giving way to creamy, perfectly seasoned filling that tastes like someone’s abuela spent hours perfecting the recipe.
Beyond the famous croquetas, hearty plates of picadillo, lechon asado, and congri fill tables throughout the dining room. For those in a hurry, Islas Canarias Cuban Express offers the same beloved flavors in a faster format without sacrificing quality or authenticity.
4. El Palacio de los Jugos (Cuban & Latin, Multiple Locations)
Picture an open-air market where the scent of slow-roasted pork fills the air and fresh tropical juices flow freely—that’s the magic of this Miami institution. Entire pigs rotate on spits, their skin crackling to mahogany perfection while customers line up at multiple counters.
The lechon asado, carved fresh to order, practically melts in your mouth with each bite. Pair it with a freshly squeezed mango or guanabana juice, and you’ve got a meal that captures the essence of Cuban street food culture right here in Miami.
5. CVI.CHE 105 (Peruvian, Multiple Locations)
Juan Chipoco built a Peruvian empire one ceviche at a time, and the results speak for themselves across five thriving Miami locations. Each outpost—from downtown to South Beach—delivers the same commitment to fresh, citrus-cured seafood that makes Peruvian cuisine so addictive.
The tiraditos showcase paper-thin slices of fish swimming in bold, spicy sauces that wake up every taste bud. Whether you choose the Aventura, Dadeland, Coral Gables, or any other location, expect vibrant flavors that transport you straight to Lima’s coastline with every forkful.
6. La Mar by Gastón Acurio (Peruvian/Nikkei, Brickell Key)
Renowned chef Gastón Acurio brings his Peruvian mastery to Miami’s waterfront, where Chef Diego Oka leads the kitchen with precision and creativity. Positioned at the Mandarin Oriental, diners enjoy stunning Biscayne Bay views while savoring dishes that blend Peruvian tradition with Japanese technique.
Dinner service runs nightly, offering everything from classic ceviches to innovative Nikkei creations that surprise and delight. Sunday brunch has become a coveted reservation, though the restaurant has announced plans for a future relocation while continuing to serve guests at this beautiful location.
7. Doggi’s Arepa Bar (Venezuelan, Multiple Locations)
Venezuelan comfort food takes center stage at this growing chain that’s won hearts across Miami. Arepas arrive at your table still warm, their corn pockets stuffed with everything from shredded beef to black beans and plantains, each combination more satisfying than the last.
The cachapas—sweet corn pancakes folded around melted cheese—offer a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. Crispy patacones provide the perfect vessel for piling on toppings, making every meal feel like a customizable adventure through Venezuelan street food traditions at multiple convenient Miami-area locations.
8. Pinolandia (Nicaraguan, Little Havana + more)
Any hour of the day or night, this 24-hour fritanga serves up authentic Nicaraguan flavors that keep Miami’s late-night crowd coming back. The flagship location on NW 12th Avenue never sleeps, making it the perfect spot when cravings hit at 3 a.m. or any other time.
Perfectly grilled carne asada arrives sizzling alongside gallo pinto, the beloved rice and beans combo that Nicaraguans consider essential. Golden tajadas add a sweet crunch to every plate, while the casual, no-frills atmosphere lets the bold, honest flavors do all the talking.
9. Chef Creole (Haitian/Caribbean, Multiple Locations)
This beloved local brand has mastered the art of Haitian home cooking, bringing island flavors to multiple Miami neighborhoods. The griot—marinated pork chunks fried until impossibly crispy outside while staying juicy within—represents everything great about Haitian cuisine in one incredible dish.
Fresh seafood preparations showcase the Caribbean’s coastal bounty, while traditional sides like rice and peas, plantains, and spicy pikliz complete each plate. The welcoming atmosphere at every location makes first-timers feel like regulars, and the generous portions ensure nobody leaves hungry from this Haitian staple.
10. Naomi’s Garden (Haitian & Caribbean, Little Haiti/Liberty City)
In the heart of Little Haiti and Liberty City, this community favorite proves that Caribbean cooking can satisfy every dietary preference. An impressive selection of vegan options sits alongside traditional Haitian plates, making it easy for groups with different eating styles to share a meal together.
Open daily, the kitchen turns out flavorful dishes that honor Haitian culinary traditions while embracing modern dietary awareness. The warm, neighborhood vibe makes everyone feel welcome, whether you’re a longtime resident or discovering Haitian cuisine for the very first time at this special spot.
11. Clive’s Cafe (Jamaican, Little Haiti)
Finding its permanent home on NW 2nd Avenue in Little Haiti, this Jamaican icon has been serving soul-warming island dishes that taste exactly like they should. The oxtail, braised until the meat surrenders from the bone, sits in rich gravy that demands to be soaked up with rice and peas.
Jerk chicken arrives with that perfect balance of heat and smoke that defines great Jamaican cooking, while curry dishes offer aromatic comfort in every spoonful. The homey atmosphere makes you feel like you’ve stepped into someone’s kitchen, where good food and genuine hospitality always come first.
12. La Ventana (Colombian, Miami Beach)
Right on Miami Beach, this lively Colombian spot delivers the flavors of Medellin and Bogota to hungry beachgoers and locals alike. The bandeja paisa—a mountain of beans, rice, chicharron, chorizo, arepa, and a fried egg—challenges even the heartiest appetites while showcasing Colombia’s love for abundant, satisfying meals.
Freshly made arepas and tropical juices complement every dish, bringing brightness and authenticity to each bite. Reservations are available online through OpenTable, which is smart planning since this energetic restaurant fills up quickly with diners craving genuine Colombian hospitality and flavor.
