Little Havana: A Taste of Home on Calle 8
This month, my journey through Latin America brings me to Cuba, a country rich in history, culture, and, of course, food. While I haven’t yet set foot on Cuban soil, a trip to Little Havana in Miami gave me a glimpse—and a taste—of what it might feel like. Little Havana is more than just a neighborhood; it’s a heartbeat of Cuban culture transplanted into the heart of Miami. Walking down Calle 8, with its vibrant murals, the aroma of Cuban coffee in the air, and the sound of dominoes clacking from nearby tables, it was easy to imagine myself in Cuba.
A Seat at El Cristo: Family, Food, and Flavors
One of the highlights of my trip was eating at El Cristo, a family-style Cuban restaurant that sits right on Calle 8. It’s the kind of place where you can sit outside, watch people stroll by, and feel like you’ve been welcomed into someone’s home for a meal. The warmth of the senoritas immediately reminded me of the family gatherings we have in our own homes—the type where the food is amazing, and you are surrounded by love!
The family behind El Cristo has done something magical. They’ve taken the soul of Cuban cuisine and recreated it in the U.S., giving those of us who miss our abuelita’s cooking a chance to feel connected again. Every meal there is a reminder of the importance of preserving our roots through food.
Breakfast at El Rey De Las Fritas: A Legacy on a Plate
No Cuban culinary journey is complete without a good breakfast, and El Rey De Las Fritas didn’t disappoint. This spot is another family-run gem in Little Havana, with a legacy that dates back to 1979. I loved learning about how the founders, Victoriano “Benito” Gonzalez and his wife, Angelina, poured their passion into this business. Their children, Mercedes and Yamil, now carry that same love forward, making sure that every meal served continues their family’s legacy.
The Frita Supreme was a standout for me. Imagine biting into a juicy patty loaded with seasoned goodness, topped with everything you could want. It’s a simple dish, but it’s one that’s packed with flavor.
Of course, no Cuban meal is complete without a cafecito. This Cuban coffee was everything I hoped for—strong, smooth, and with that perfect foamy top. It’s the kind of coffee that doesn’t need milk; the richness speaks for itself.
It took me straight back to the kitchens of the Dominican Republic where my family would make us something quick yet packed with flavor.
Calle 8: A Street That Feels Like Cuba
While the food was incredible, the experience of walking through Little Havana is something I’ll never forget. The colorful murals that line Calle 8 are more than just pretty art; they tell the stories of the Cuban people, their struggles, their triumphs, and their culture. Each piece feels like a celebration of identity, and as a Latina mom, I can’t help but appreciate how important it is for us to see and share these stories with our children.
I was lucky enough to bring my husband along. The highlight for him was the Cuban cigars! We went into one of the many cigar shops. The aroma of freshly rolled cigars filled the air, and he was in heaven! Watching him enjoy the craftsmanship of a well-rolled Cuban cigar, I couldn’t help but feel connected to the artisans who have kept this tradition alive for generations.
Calle 8 has this magical ability to make you feel as though you’ve stepped into Cuba. From the lively sounds of salsa music spilling out of storefronts to the aroma of food that hits you as soon as you walk by, it’s an immersive experience. For those of us who may have never visited Cuba, or who can’t visit often, this neighborhood offers a connection—a reminder of where we come from.
Honoring the Cuban Spirit Through Food
One of the most beautiful things about Cuban cuisine is how it brings people together. I felt the presence of generations of Cuban families, each one adding their own touch to the recipes, yet keeping the heart of the dish intact. This is the kind of cooking that doesn’t just nourish the body; it feeds the soul.
For me, that’s the essence of our Latin American heritage. Food is how we show love, how we stay connected to our roots, and how we pass down our stories. As a mom, I find so much joy in teaching my children about our Dominican roots, just as Cuban families have done for generations here in Miami. Whether it’s through making a batch of pastelitos, or brewing a strong cup of café Cubano, we’re continuing a tradition that connects us to something bigger than ourselves.
Bringing Cuban Flavors Into Our Own Kitchens
After my trip to Little Havana, I knew I wanted to bring some of these Cuban flavors into my own kitchen. Cuban cuisine is known for its simplicity, but also its ability to pack a punch of flavor with just a few key ingredients. One dish I’ve started making for my family is Ropa Vieja—a slow-cooked, shredded beef dish that’s both hearty and flavorful. With some white rice and plantains on the side, it’s become a family favorite.
I also couldn’t resist making my own version of the Frita, inspired by El Cristo’s Frita Supreme. I used a mix of ground beef and pork, seasoned with spices like cumin and paprika, and topped it with crispy shoestring potatoes. It’s a simple recipe, but it always brings back memories of sitting outside on Calle 8, soaking in the vibrant energy of Little Havana.
The Beauty of Preserving Our Heritage
My trip to Little Havana reminded me of the beauty of our Latin American heritage, especially how food plays such a big part in preserving it. Whether you’re Cuban, Dominican, Puerto Rican, or any other nationality, there’s something universal about the way we use food to connect with our past and share our culture with future generations.
As we continue this year-long journey through Latin America, I encourage you to explore the flavors of Cuba in your own kitchen. Try making a Cuban sandwich, brew some strong Cuban coffee, or roll up some plantains with your next meal. Every dish you make is a tribute to the rich cultures that make up our heritage—a way of keeping the stories, the flavors, and the love alive for future generations.
Our heritage isn’t just something we remember. It’s something we taste, something we share, and something we pass down, one delicious meal at a time.
