14 Florida Cafés Known For Authentic Cuban Coffee And Pastries
Florida is home to cafés where Cuban coffee and pastries aren’t just drinks and snacks; they’re a ritual.
From rich, bold cafecitos to flaky, sweet pastries filled with guava and cheese, each bite and sip transports you straight to Havana.
Locals keep returning for the flavors that feel both comforting and vibrant.
In Florida, these 14 cafés prove that authentic Cuban treats can brighten mornings, afternoons, or any time you crave a taste of tradition.
1. Vicky Bakery – Miami, Florida
Walking into Vicky Bakery feels like crashing a family reunion where everyone’s invited.
Located across multiple Miami locations, this beloved chain has been slinging cortaditos and pastelitos since 1972.
The guava and cheese pastries here are criminally good, with layers so flaky they’ll leave a trail of crumbs from your car to your desk.
Locals swear by the croquetas, which are fried to golden perfection and stuffed with ham that’s seasoned just right.
The café con leche is sweet, creamy, and strong enough to power you through Miami traffic. Lines can get long during morning rush, but the staff moves faster than a cafecito shot kicks in.
Fun fact: Vicky Bakery started as a small family operation and now has over 20 locations. Whether you’re grabbing breakfast or a midday pick-me-up, this spot delivers authentic Cuban flavors without the fuss.
2. Pinecrest Bakery – Miami, Florida
Since 1974, Pinecrest Bakery has been the spot where birthday cakes meet cafecito dreams.
Situated at 12101 South Dixie Highway, this family-owned gem serves up everything from tres leches cakes to buttery media noche sandwiches.
The atmosphere buzzes with Spanish chatter and the sweet smell of sugar glaze.
Their flan is legendary, wobbling on the plate like it’s performing a tiny dance before you devour it.
The Cuban bread comes out warm, perfect for dipping into that morning coffee.
Employees treat regulars like old friends, remembering orders before you even open your mouth.
What sets Pinecrest apart is the sheer variety. You’ll find traditional Cuban sweets alongside creative fusion treats.
Grab a guava strudel or stick with classic croquetas. Either way, you’re leaving with a full belly and probably a whole cake box for later.
3. Cao Bakery & Cafe – Miami, Florida
Cao Bakery & Cafe brings a modern twist to classic Cuban flavors without losing an ounce of authenticity. Found at several Miami-area locations, including a busy Pinecrest storefront on 12505 South Dixie Highway, this spot attracts everyone from construction workers to corporate types looking for their morning fix.
The vibe is casual but polished, like your coolest cousin who always knows the best spots.
Order the cortadito here and watch the barista pull it with precision that borders on artistry.
The pastelitos are stuffed generously, whether you go sweet with guava or savory with meat.
Their croquetas preparadas (croquette sandwiches) are messy, delicious, and worth every napkin you’ll need.
Cao also offers a solid lunch menu with Cuban classics like ropa vieja and picadillo.
The service is quick, the portions are generous, and the prices won’t make your wallet cry. It’s the kind of place that becomes part of your daily routine before you even realize it.
4. Suite Habana Cafe – Miami, Florida
Nostalgia drips from every corner of Suite Habana Cafe like condensed milk from a café bombon.
Tucked away at 2609 North Miami Avenue in Miami’s Wynwood district, this café transports you straight to 1950s Havana with its vintage photographs and old-school charm.
The owner’s passion for Cuban culture shows in every detail, from the music to the menu.
Their Cuban coffee is brewed strong and sweet, exactly how abuela used to make it.
The empanadas are hand-folded and baked until golden, with fillings that range from traditional beef to creative chicken variations.
Regulars recommend the tostada Cubana, which is basically butter and sugar on toasted bread, simple but addictive.
What makes Suite Habana special is the warmth. Strangers become friends over shared tables and strong coffee.
It’s not just a café, it’s a time machine that runs on espresso and good vibes. Cash is preferred, so hit the ATM first.
5. Latin Cafe 2000 – Miami, Florida
Latin Cafe 2000 operates at the speed of Miami itself, fast, loud, and unapologetically vibrant.
With multiple locations around the city, including busy spots near the airport and in Brickell, this chain perfected the ventanita experience where you order your coffee through a window and gulp it down on the sidewalk like a proper Miamian.
The colada here comes in a small Styrofoam cup with tiny plastic thimbles for sharing, a ritual that bonds coworkers and strangers alike.
Their croquetas are crunchy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and dangerously easy to eat by the dozen.
The pan con lechon (roast pork sandwich) is a lunch favorite, piled high with juicy pork and topped with grilled onions.
Service is brisk but friendly, with employees who can take orders in Spanish and English at lightning speed.
It’s cheap, authentic, and always packed, which tells you everything you need to know.
6. La Carreta – Miami, Florida
La Carreta isn’t just a restaurant, it’s a Miami institution that’s been feeding hungry souls since 1976.
Located at multiple spots including the famous Little Havana flagship at 3632 Southwest 8th Street and a busy Bird Road location on Southwest 40th Street, this place serves as a go-to Cuban comfort food headquarters from morning until late at night.
The giant oxcart outside is a landmark locals use for directions.
Sure, it’s known for full meals, but the café con leche and pastries hold their own against any dedicated bakery.
The guava pastries are flaky perfection, and the café is strong enough to jumpstart a hibernating bear.
Grab a seat in the bustling dining room or hit the walk-up window for a quick cafecito fix.
Late-night cravings? La Carreta’s got you covered with long hours and a full menu. The vibe is loud, family-friendly, and authentically Cuban.
You’ll hear dominoes slamming, babies crying, and animated conversations in Spanglish. It’s chaotic, delicious, and perfectly Miami.
7. Islas Canarias Restaurant – Miami, Florida
Family-owned since 1977, Islas Canarias Restaurant at 285 Northwest 27th Avenue proves that consistency is king.
This long-running spot on Northwest 27th Avenue has stayed busy by staying true to its roots, serving the same excellent Cuban coffee and pastries that built its reputation decades ago.
The cortadito here achieves that perfect balance between bitter espresso and sweet steamed milk.
Their pastelitos come fresh from the oven throughout the day, with the guava variety being the clear crowd favorite.
The pan Cubano is baked on-site daily, crusty outside and pillowy inside, perfect for making your own sandwich or just eating warm with butter.
Prices remain shockingly reasonable despite Miami’s changes over the years.
The staff treats everyone like family, whether you’re a construction worker or a gallery owner.
Cash only, so come prepared. It’s old-school Cuban hospitality at its finest, no frills, just flavor.
8. Sanguich de Miami – Miami, Florida
Sanguich de Miami took the traditional Cuban sandwich and gave it a hipster makeover without losing its soul.
Found at 2057 Southwest 8th Street in Little Havana, this spot bridges generations with creative takes on classics alongside traditional favorites.
The name is a playful twist on the Spanish pronunciation of sandwich. While sandwiches steal the spotlight, the coffee program deserves equal attention.
Their cortadito is pulled with care, and the pastries rotate with seasonal specials that complement the standbys.
Try the guava and cheese croissant, a fusion that sounds wrong but tastes so right.
The space itself is Instagram-worthy with colorful murals and vintage touches. It’s become a destination for food tourists and locals alike.
Prices run slightly higher than old-school ventanitas, but the quality and creativity justify the cost.
Weekend brunch gets packed, so arrive early or embrace the wait with a strong Cuban coffee in hand.
9. Cuban Coffee Queen – Key West, Florida
Down in Key West at 5 Key Lime Square, Cuban Coffee Queen reigns over the island’s caffeine scene with tropical flair.
This walk-up window café captures the laid-back Keys vibe while serving seriously strong Cuban coffee.
Tourists in flip-flops mix with locals in work boots, all united by their need for that morning jolt.
The café con leche here tastes even better when sipped in the sunshine, watching chickens wander past like they own the place.
The pastelitos are made fresh daily, with the cream cheese variety being a local secret worth discovering.
Their Cuban toast, buttered and pressed until crispy, pairs perfectly with any coffee order.
What makes this spot special is the location. You’re steps from the waterfront, surrounded by Key West’s quirky charm.
The staff moves at island speed, which means friendly but never rushed. Cash preferred, though they take cards too. It’s Cuban coffee with a side of paradise.
10. Sandy’s Cafe – Key West, Florida
Forget the tourist traps on Duval Street. Sandy’s Cafe at 1026 White Street is where Key West locals get their daily dose of Cuban coffee and real talk.
This no-nonsense spot has been caffeinating the island since way back, serving up strong coffee and stronger opinions.
Everything here is made with love and zero pretension. The Cuban mix sandwich is legendary among locals, piled with ham, pork, and salami on fresh Cuban bread.
The cortadito is perfectly balanced, sweet but not syrupy. Pastries are simple but satisfying, the kind your Cuban grandmother would approve of without reservation.
The crowd skews local, with regulars who’ve been coming for years. Conversations happen in rapid-fire Spanish and island English.
Prices are refreshingly low compared to tourist-zone cafés. It’s authentic, unpretentious, and exactly what a neighborhood Cuban café should be. Don’t expect fancy décor, just expect good food and better coffee.
11. Five Brothers Grocery & Sandwich Shop – Key West, Florida
Housed at 930 Southard Street, Five Brothers Grocery & Sandwich Shop is part bodega, part café, and completely essential to Key West’s Cuban food scene.
Brothers actually run this place, carrying on family traditions while serving some of the island’s best Cuban sandwiches and coffee.
The café con leche is brewed strong and served hot, perfect for washing down one of their massive Cuban sandwiches.
Speaking of which, the pan con lechon here is stuff of legend, with slow-roasted pork that’s been marinating since before you woke up.
The pastelitos disappear fast, so grab them early before the lunch rush hits. Beyond coffee and pastries, you can stock up on Cuban groceries, from Malta to guava paste.
The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, with locals stopping in for everything from lottery tickets to lunch.
It’s a true community hub where everyone knows everyone. Cash is king, cards accepted reluctantly.
12. Key West Cuban Coffee Shop – Key West, Florida
Sometimes a place does exactly what its name promises, and Key West Cuban Coffee Shop delivers without gimmicks or pretense.
Located in the heart of Key West, this straightforward café focuses on doing Cuban coffee right, which honestly is all you need when you’re this far south.
The cortadito here hits that sweet spot between strong and smooth. Their colada comes with enough thimbles to share with your entire tour group.
Pastries rotate based on what’s fresh, but the guava and cheese pastelito is a constant favorite.
The Cuban toast, simple as it sounds, becomes addictive when made with good bread and real butter.
Service is friendly and efficient, perfect for tourists trying Cuban coffee for the first time or locals grabbing their third cup of the day.
Prices won’t shock you, portions won’t disappoint you. It’s unpretentious island living powered by excellent espresso.
Grab your coffee, find a shady spot, and watch Key West wake up slowly.
13. Zaza Cuban Comfort Food – Orlando, Florida
Orlando’s Zaza Cuban Comfort Food at 2915 East Colonial Drive brings authentic Cuban flavors to Central Florida with style and substance.
This isn’t your typical theme park tourist trap, it’s a genuine Cuban restaurant where locals bring their families for Sunday lunch and weekday cafecito breaks.
The café con leche is rich and properly sweetened, served in generous portions that’ll keep you buzzing through your Magic Kingdom visit.
Their pastelitos are baked fresh throughout the day, with both sweet and savory options that disappear faster than FastPasses.
The guava pastry strikes that perfect balance between fruit and pastry, not too sweet but definitely satisfying.
Beyond coffee and pastries, the full menu offers Cuban classics that compete with anything you’d find in Miami.
The atmosphere is warm and family-friendly, with staff who genuinely care about your experience.
It’s become an Orlando institution for good reason, consistently delivering quality and authenticity miles from the Cuban community hubs.
14. Black Bean Deli – Winter Park, Florida
Tucked into Winter Park at 915 West Fairbanks Avenue, Black Bean Deli proves that great Cuban food isn’t exclusive to Miami.
This family-owned spot has been serving authentic Cuban coffee and comfort food since 1994, building a loyal following among Orlando-area residents who know good food when they taste it.
Their cortadito is smooth and strong, made the traditional way without shortcuts.
The pastelitos come out warm and flaky, with generous fillings that actually taste like real guava and real cheese.
Their Cuban sandwiches are pressed to perfection, but don’t sleep on the breakfast offerings, the tostada with butter and a strong café con leche is breakfast perfection.
The space is small and unpretentious, decorated with Cuban nostalgia and filled with the sound of sizzling pork and friendly conversation.
Regulars are greeted by name, and newcomers are welcomed like old friends.
It’s affordable, authentic, and worth the drive from anywhere in Central Florida. Cash and cards both welcome.