Havana 1957 Cuban Cuisine Española Way

It’s not usually a good sign when you see tourists wearing Panama hats and awkwardly wielding cigars outside a Cuban restaurant. Expectations are even lower when that restaurant is in South Beach. But it turns out that Havana 1957 isn’t just popular because of its location on Española Way—the food here is very good. Service is fast and personable (unlike nearby tourist traps) and the mojitos are refreshing. You’ll find some other creative takes on Cuban food, like ropa vieja empanadas served with a sweet pepper sauce on the side. And although the vaca frita looks like the sad tourist-trap variety that would startle an abuelita, its taste would certainly make her happy. Just make sure to mix it up so it gets to know the vinegary onions.