Best Local & Traditional Foods to Try in Miami
Discover the 7 best local and traditional foods to try in Miami. Get AI-powered recommendations for authentic dishes, traditional cuisine, and the best restaurants.
Cuban Sandwich
A Cuban sandwich is a pressed sandwich made with Cuban bread, filled with layers of roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard. It's a staple of Miami's Cuban culture and can be found in many local eateries, reflecting the city's rich Hispanic heritage.
Ingredients
Best Time
lunch
Cultural Significance
The Cuban sandwich represents the fusion of Cuban and American culinary traditions in Miami.
Where to try it
Ropa Vieja
Ropa Vieja translates to 'old clothes' and is a traditional Cuban dish made of shredded beef cooked in a flavorful tomato-based sauce with bell peppers, onions, and spices. It's often served with rice and black beans, making it a hearty meal beloved by locals.
Ingredients
Best Time
dinner
Cultural Significance
Ropa Vieja is a testament to the slow-cooked flavors and comfort food traditions of Cuban cuisine.
Where to try it
Stone Crab Claws
Stone crab claws are a local delicacy, known for their sweet and tender meat. They are typically served chilled with a mustard dipping sauce and are available during stone crab season, making them a sought-after treat for seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Best Time
dinner
Cultural Significance
Stone crab claws are a symbol of Miami's coastal cuisine and are celebrated for their sustainability and flavor.
Where to try it
Flan
Flan is a creamy caramel custard dessert that is popular throughout Latin America. In Miami, it’s a beloved dessert, often made with eggs, milk, and sugar, resulting in a smooth texture and rich flavor that finishes off any meal perfectly.
Ingredients
Best Time
dessert
Cultural Significance
Flan embodies the influence of Spanish dessert traditions in Miami's diverse culinary landscape.
Where to try it
Guava Pastry
Guava pastry is a delightful Cuban treat made with flaky pastry dough filled with sweet guava paste and cream cheese. These pastries are a popular snack or breakfast item in Miami, showcasing the use of tropical fruits in local desserts.
Ingredients
Best Time
breakfast
Cultural Significance
Guava pastries highlight the use of local tropical ingredients and are a beloved part of Miami's baked goods repertoire.
Where to try it
Café Cubano
Café Cubano is a strong, sweet espresso shot that is a quintessential part of Cuban coffee culture. It's typically brewed using a Moka pot and served in small cups, often enjoyed throughout the day as a pick-me-up or social drink.
Ingredients
Best Time
anytime
Cultural Significance
Café Cubano is a cultural staple that reflects Miami's vibrant coffee culture and the influence of Cuban traditions.
Where to try it
Chicharrones
Chicharrones are crispy fried pork rinds, often seasoned with spices, and are a popular snack in Miami. They can be enjoyed on their own or served with a variety of dips and salsas, making them a favorite street food option.
Ingredients
Best Time
snack
Cultural Significance
Chicharrones reflect the influence of Latin American street food culture in Miami, offering a crunchy and flavorful bite.