Miami’s vibrant Cuban influence runs deep, from its music to its art and, perhaps most enticingly, its food. On a warm evening, I found myself walking down the lively Calle Ocho in Little Havana, eventually drawn into Old’s Havana Cuban Bar & Cocina, a place that perfectly captures the essence of Cuba’s culinary heart.
The dimly lit space was buzzing with conversations in both Spanish and English, the air thick with the aroma of sizzling meats, fresh herbs, and sweet plantains. The walls were adorned with vintage Cuban memorabilia, setting the tone for a dining experience that promised more than just a meal—it promised a journey.
The Dishes: A Cuban Feast
El Guapo
I started with El Guapo, a towering platter that practically commanded attention. The dish lived up to its name (“The Handsome One”), arriving with a medley of roasted meats, sweet plantains, black beans, and fluffy white rice. What struck me first was the vibrant presentation—Cuban food is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the stomach.
The meats were seasoned with a blend of traditional spices, each bite carrying a punch of flavor. The roast pork was tender, with a crispy exterior that gave way to juicy, succulent meat. The sweetness of the plantains provided a perfect contrast to the savory notes of the pork. Paired with the simplicity of the beans and rice, it was a balanced dish that showcased the richness of Cuban cuisine without being overwhelming.
Fricasse de Pollo
Next up was the Fricasse de Pollo, a classic Cuban stew that felt like a warm embrace. The chicken, slow-cooked to perfection, absorbed the flavors of the tomatoes, onions, and bell peppers it simmered with. The broth was rich and comforting, with hints of garlic and a touch of acidity from green olives that added complexity to the dish.
Served with a side of white rice, the fricasse had a homestyle quality to it—like something a Cuban grandmother would prepare for a Sunday family dinner. It was hearty, flavorful, and soulful, with each bite inviting you to savor the layers of seasoning that had been carefully developed over time.
The Experience: A Glimpse of Cuba in Little Havana
Dining at Old’s Havana felt like stepping into a Cuban time capsule. The vibrant energy of the restaurant was enhanced by live music playing in the background, a band strumming familiar Cuban rhythms that made the evening feel even more festive.
The staff, warm and welcoming, brought an extra layer of authenticity to the experience. They eagerly shared stories about the origins of the dishes, making me feel not just like a diner but like a guest in their home. There was a genuine sense of pride in every plate they served, which added to the restaurant’s charm.
By the end of the meal, I was fully immersed in the flavors and culture of Cuba without ever leaving Miami. Old’s Havana Cuban Bar & Cocina isn’t just a restaurant—it’s an experience. If you’re in Miami and looking to taste the soul of Havana, this spot on Calle Ocho is where you want to be.
As I walked out onto the street, the sounds of Cuban music fading behind me, I knew that this meal would stay with me long after the night ended.
A Taste of Old’s Havana at Home: El Guapo Sandwich Recipe
After savoring the bold flavors of El Guapo at Old’s Havana Cuban Bar & Cocina, I couldn’t resist trying to recreate this iconic Cuban sandwich at home. The combination of juicy roasted pork, savory ham, melted Swiss cheese, tangy pickles, and sharp mustard, all pressed between crispy Cuban bread, makes for a mouthwatering bite every time. Here’s how you can bring a taste of Havana to your own kitchen with this homemade El Guapo Sandwich.
Classic Cuban Sandwich
Dive into the flavors of the iconic Cuban Sandwich, inspired by the 2014 movie ‘Chef’! This recipe, crafted by culinary maestro Roy Choi, brings together succulent Mojo Marinated Pork, savory ham, tangy pickles, and melted Swiss cheese, all pressed to perfection. Whether you have a panini press or just a skillet, this sandwich promises a crispy, golden exterior with a melty, flavorful inside. Perfect for lunch or a quick dinner, and it freezes beautifully for future cravings!
4
sandwiches10
minutes15
minutes450
kcal1
minute26
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
For the Sandwiches
4 thin slices of baked ham
8 large slices of Mojo Marinated Pork
2 tablespoons melted butter for brushing
2 tablespoons yellow mustard
4 thin slices of Swiss cheese
4 dill pickles, thinly sliced
Alternative Ingredients
Ham Turkey slices or chicken breast for a lighter option.
Mojo Marinated Pork Deli pork slices if homemade is unavailable.
Swiss Cheese Provolone or mozzarella as substitutes.
White Baguette Whole wheat baguette for a healthier twist.
Dill Pickles Bread and butter pickles for a sweeter flavor.
- Alternative Ingredients:
Ham: Turkey slices or chicken breast for a lighter option.
Mojo Marinated Pork: Deli pork slices if homemade is unavailable.
Swiss Cheese: Provolone or mozzarella as substitutes.
White Baguette: Whole wheat baguette for a healthier twist.
Dill Pickles: Bread and butter pickles for a sweeter flavor.
Directions
- Prepare Meat: Heat a nonstick pan over medium heat. Cook ham and pork slices until slightly browned on each side (about 2-3 minutes per side). Transfer to a plate.
- Toast Baguettes: Brush the cut sides of the baguettes with melted butter. Place them in the pan, cut side down, and toast until lightly browned (about 2 minutes). Remove from heat.
- Assemble Sandwiches: On the bottom half of each baguette, layer pork slices first, followed by ham slices, Swiss cheese, and dill pickles. Spread mustard on the cut side of the top halves of the baguettes and place them on top of the sandwiches.
- Press and Cook: Butter the outside of both the top and bottom of each sandwich. Heat the pan over medium-high heat. Place sandwiches in the pan and cover with a sheet of baking paper. Weigh down with a heavy skillet or pot to compress the sandwiches. Cook for about 3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy and the cheese is melted.
- Rest and Serve: Let sandwiches rest for 1 minute before cutting in half. Serve immediately.
Equipment
- Chef’s Knife
- Cutting Board
- Nonstick Pan
- baking sheet
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 1200mg
- Potassium: 300mg
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Vitamin A: 500IU
- Vitamin C: 2mg
- Calcium: 200mg
- Iron: 3mg
