Versailles Cuban Restaurant in Little Havana

Miami is globally famous for it’s exceptionally large Latin American immigrant population. The foods and flavors that have accompanied the waves of immigration have endowed the city with sumptuous and authentic tastes representative of Latin America’s 20 countries, most notably Cuba, Peru and Mexico.

(3067 Grand Avenue, next to Coco Walk): A number of new bars, restaurants, and clubs have recently re-invigorated artsy Coconut Grove, luring locals back to the 1990s hotspot. In particular, the gastronomic indulgences at Jaguar Ceviche are the best reason to return to the Grove in 2010. Naturally, dinner should begin with the ceviche sampler, six distinct Peruvian and Mexican recipes served in oversized spoons (Ceviche Peruano and Ceviche Los Cabos are my two favorites). Every meal also begins with blue corn tortilla and pita chips served with authentic Mexican salsa. Divine, colorful dishes such as the Pescado Jarocho (mahi-mahi and fresh tomato sauce with olives, capers, fresh herbs, jalapeños, onions, garlic, and lemon) and the Mexican Tortilla Lasagna (chicken, Poblano peppers, corn, tomato sauce, and cream, topped with melted cheese) represent innovative Peruvian and Mexican flavor combinations that define the Jaguar experience. Dessert items such as the Dulce de Leche Cheesecake (with Maria cookie crust) are well worth extra hours in the gym.

(3555 Southwest 8th Street, Miami): A quick trip to the center of the Cuban exile community, Little Havana, makes for a rewarding cultural and gastronomic excursion. The best part of visiting Little Havana is gorging on delicious Cuban food, best enjoyed at the famous Versailles Restaurant. Versailles is the quintessential Cuban experience, from its perfect location smack dab in the center of Little Havana to its traditional preparation of entrees such as ropa vieja (pulled pork), arroz con pollo (chicken and rice), and bistec palomilla (flank steak with onions) with all the authentic trimmings such as yucca, beans and rice, and fried plantains. Though it’s hotly debated whether Versailles or La Carretta (across the street) is the restaurant of choice for Cubans across South Miami, they both provide authentic food at reasonable prices.

– Paul Rubio