More Than Just a Sandwich: The Authentic Cuban Food Guide to Key West

We all love eating in Key West; it has so many fantastic restaurants that you could organize an entire trip around them. We've already been through the 7 top dining spots around our favorite foodie paradise & exquisite hidden gems for foodies. Today, we're exploring the ultimate multicultural foodie guide in Key West, focusing on authentic Cuban recipes.

First of all, what are the Cuban Sammy’s Origins?

It’s believed that the first Cuban sandwich was made more than a quincentenary ago by the Taíno.

As one of three different cultures that inhabited the island before Europeans arrived, the Taínos used casabe bread, made from yucca, to make the dish. Instead of pork -- an unavailable meat at the time -- the Taínos stuffed fish and bird meat inside the center of two thin, crunchy slices of casabe, which would taste more like a cracker than a slice of dough.

The sandwich has evolved quite a bit between now and then. Regardless of how you like it, these are the best places to get one in Key West.

Let's dive into the authentic Cuban experience!

Finding the Perfect Cuban Sandwich, AKA Cubano

For starters, if you're looking for delicious Cuban sandwiches, here we share 5 local & visitors' favorite places to get 'em:

1. Ana's Cuban Cafe

Located at the corner of Simonton and South Street across from Southernmost Beach Resort, this is our first recommendation for your morning coffee break and breakfast.

2. Kim's Kuban:

Located at North Roosevelt Boulevard, locals say it is the best mix of Cuban and Mexican Food. They have phone and online orders available for easy pickup & fast delivery anywhere in Key West (you can also download their app). One order to go, please!

3. The Original Sandy's Cafe:

Located at the M&M Laundry on White Street. If you're seeking authentic Cuban and Conch Cuisine, you're in the right place. Try the Cuban toast and Cafe con Leche to start your day, and if you decide to go there for lunch or dinner, try the Cuban Mix Sandwich. One word to describe it all – AMAZING!

4. Cuban Coffee Queen: There are 3 locations. One is located on Margaret Street by the Seaport. The second location is in Key Lime Square, just off Southard Street, and the third and newest is in Clinton Square Mall, next to the Custom House Museum. Here you can find traditional Cuban eats, sandwiches & smoothies to go. Grab n go traditional Cuban foods!

5. Five Brothers Grocery and Sandwich Shop:

Authentic Cuban Coffee alert! This hidden gem is located at Southard Street. While biking around the island, make sure to stop here and experience the roast pork sandwich and the guava pastries (to die for!).

Exploring Unique Cuban Flavors

From Cuban Nachos and Tamales to Lechon Asado and Vaca Frita, we've put together our list of the best Cuban restaurants in Key West serving every palate.

1. El Meson de Pepe Restaurant:

Located in the famous Old Town neighborhood of Key West and next to Mallory Square, El Meson de Pepe has been crafting authentic Cuban food and drinks for over 30 years. A passion that started in Cuba now thrives as a staple in the Key West restaurant scene.

2. El Siboney Restaurant:

Located at Catherine Street. Be aware; sometimes, the best food comes from the most unassuming, no-frills places, and that's exactly the first impression you get from El Siboney. Since 1984 delighting palates with outstanding Cuban flavors.

3. El Mocho Restaurant:

Located at Maloney Ave; if you're in the area, you should definitely stop here for lunch. Local favs include Cuban sandwiches, ropa vieja, and sweet treats like tostones, flan, or pancakes.

4. Blue Heaven:

One of the best Key Lime Pies in Key West awaits at 729 Thomas St, Key West. Experience Cuban cuisine just two blocks from the Key West Lighthouse in the heart of downtown. From jerk chicken sandwiches, shrimp melts, spiny lobster, and fresh fish to citrus snapper.

5. Amigos Tortilla Bar:

Just around the corner from El Meson de Pepe is the Amigos Tortilla Bar. Nachos, carnitas, grilled shrimp, Baja fish, and spicy chorizo await at 425 Greene St, Key West. Amigos is all about traditional ingredients and fresh daily.

Key West, a Multicultural Taste

Well, there you have it! Your authentic Cuban experience around Key West, we hope to see you here enjoying their exotic flavors very soon.

Key West provides many distinct customs and cultures that reflect the island's rich mix of ethnicities. If you're seeking the most memorable meals of your life & things to do while on vacation in paradise, reach out to us for your free travel plan and a list of customized hidden gems just for you.

You can also join our KW monthly newsletter with the latest happenings. We promise to send you only quality content to enrich your travels, inspire food adventures near and far — and help you have more life-changing eating experiences.

FREE TRAVEL PLAN

BlogVanessaJanuary 7, 2023key west restaurants, foodies