Strong beautiful and delicious cocktails. Happy hour. Great server and gifted bar tender. Beautiful vintage interior. 2 bars. We only had drinks but would return to try food.

We stopped by the iconic Cafe La Trova for happy hour and it was packed! Nonetheless the servers were extremely attentive, we got our food and drinks quickly and they did not disappoint. We ordered the classic mojito and it really was one of the best mojitos I’ve ever had. The empanadas were also delicious.

This place lived up to the hype. The food was phenomenal and the drinks were scintillating! I can see why the bar is ranked as one of the top 50 bars in the world. If you're in Miami and wanting an authentic Cuban experience, li e music included, you must stop here!

Awesome evening at this bar/restaurant! The food is great, the drinks are good, and the music is fun. We had the ropa vieja, arroz con pollo and the ceviche. I LOVED the ropa vieja and the ceviche was good. The atmosphere is awesome and if you are looking for a good Cuban spot, this is the one.

We’ve been coming to Cafe La Trova for almost 4 years now, and it has become our go-to spot every single month. Whenever friends visit us in Miami, this is the place we proudly bring them. The cocktails are absolutely phenomenal — crafted by some of the best bartenders in the U.S., consistently ranked among the Top 50. The food is always delicious, and we’ve been especially impressed with how the menu has expanded to include more vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options without sacrificing flavor. The atmosphere is truly one of a kind in Miami — vibrant, welcoming, and unforgettable.

The restaurant was amazing! The food was so good, they had a branzino special and a banana tres leches which were just amazing! Cannot speak more highly of the food here! There was also live music by a live band and the service was great as well!

This place is a must on your visit to Miami. They have a nice live show where you can choose (pay-reserve) at the front or near the stage. I choose front from stage. Staff were very nice and attentive. Bar area is a bit overcrowded but understandable since they had a recognition for the #13 Best Bar of North America. However, nice experience, delicious food. Top Notch! 👌🏻

My husband celebrated his birthday on Saturday the 14th at Café La Trova. We had a wonderful night dancing and enjoying the great atmosphere. The food, drinks, and live music were all amazing. A big thank you to our waiter for making his birthday truly unforgettable.

STUNNING is the only word to describe the Nochebuena dining experience at Cafe La Trova. Food was spectacular and abundant. We were actually quite surprised to hear that we would get to try ALL of the menu instead of choosing one starter/one main/one dessert each. Food was incredibly tasty, servers were efficient, and very kind, and overall experience is amazing. Value for money ✔️✔️✔️ is accurate. Ambiance was also lively and the musicians were amazing. Check the menu in the pics attached! The only “weak” dish was the lechón. Don’t get me wrong it was not bad, but compared to the rest of the meal it was only ok. The rest was very tasty. If you’re a Latino looking for a place to spend Christmas Eve, look no further and book here!!!! For people that don’t live in the US, Remeber that the advertised price doesn’t include taxes- so just be mindful of that!

+6

This place is consistently rated in the top 50 bars in the world. So I was a bit skeptical when I walked in. But, boy oh boy! I can see why they deserve their reputation. The service was impeccable. The drinks were fabulous. Although we only had appetizers, the food was delicious. And it comes out quickly and piping hot.

Oh my lord, When I entered the 971 Sw 8th street in Miami, I never imagined how amazing is this place from outside. I did enjoy a wonderful event with a Latin band.. trust me, this is the place to visit while in Miami. I enjoyed the chupe de mariscos, a mix seafood in an Amarillo broth, that was fantastic and then went straight to the “ el special del cantinero “, a old rum ( Santa Teresa 1796), a cafecito Cubano and a cigar on a tray. I enjoyed my life even more than usual !

+1

Excellent service and great food . The live band was the perfect touch to a fantastic night!

+6

Wow!!! Must do Miami spot! Reservations are required but man are they worth it. Cocktails were good and the Lechon is out of this world! The atmosphere is loud and lively with a Cuban band playing the trumpet and singing. We later moved to the bar and the batender was amazing, never letting our drinks empty and even asking if we were OK when a strange man tried to approach us. Can't recommend this experience enough!!! It will likely be a repeat destination for me, on any future miami trips.

A great place for a feah vision of modern Cuban fare. The plating and attention to detail prepare you for the savory experience. We went with the potato and spinach empanadas. Both excellent. Ordered the Mushroom ripa vieja. Excellent, each bite!

What a great find Miami! The cocktails are a show and probably the best Hotel Nacional we have had. Highly recommend. bartenders are highly professional. The music was really nice too. we only had appetizers and they were spot on! Bravo and thank you

✨ Just wow! ✨ We were a party of four and had an unforgettable time at Café La Trova. The atmosphere feels like a bolt of lightning captured inside a crystal glass — vibrant, dazzling, and full of energy. From the first bite to the last note of live music, every detail shined. The mushroom truffle croquetas are absolutely delicious — a must-try — and the food overall is truly top-notch. Pair that with outstanding staff who are warm, attentive, and deliver five-star service, and you’ve got a perfect night out. This isn’t just a one-time spot; it’s the kind of place you’ll want to return to again and again. If you’re in the Miami area, Café La Trova is a must-visit gem. Congratulations to the entire team for creating such a magical experience! 👏🏾

Delicious Cuban food. The staff was very friendly and the food was seasoned so well. We were a party of 10 and everyone lest stuffed and pleased. The live band was exceptional as well. This is going on my forever list!

Phenomenal cocktails and service. Appetizers are very good quality as well. We didn’t eat dinner here, but the whole Cuban menu looked very good.

La Tova wasn't our first choice for a late night dinner but it turned out to be a VIP experience. When we arrived the music was pumping and we weren't sure if this was the place for us. The staff quickly moved us to a beautiful private room upstairs and everyrhing after that exceeded expectations. Would love to return earlier in the evening and take in more of this experience.

+2

Fantastic night out! We came to La Trova for after dinner drinks and sat in the bar area. The live music was great and the atmosphere was amazing. Our bartender/waiter Isreal was very attentive and helpful in suggesting drinks. I had a classic daiquiri and a Hotel National while my husband ordered a Mojito and a Cubano Viejo. All of their cocktails were made with FRESH ingredients and were very tasty! We decided to try the steak empanadas which were perfectly crafted. We really enjoyed our night here and will definitely be visiting again to try their prefixed dinner experience!

This place truly captures the essence of Cuba. If you’re seeking a Cuban experience in Miami, this is the place to be. The food is amazing , and the live music creates an enchanting atmosphere. The drinks are also excellent.

Everything was awesome at Cafe La Trova. Eclectic group of people, both locals and tourist. Food was amazing. Drinks were good. Service was awesome. Decor of the place is super cool. I would highly recommend anyone to visit.

Manuel took care of us last night and it was fantastic! The ambience at Cafe La Trova is truly festive, the live musicians are the best on each of the instruments they play, the “cantineros” (bartenders) are fantastic. In summary, the best ambience, festive environment. Don’t go if you like quite places!

+1

The food was delicious! The service was upstanding! That Cuban warmth we felt in every step of the service. The atmosphere was fantastic with live Cuban Son music. This is one of my favorite spots in Miami.

We had an incredible dining experience at this restaurant. The Cuban food was delicious, and the homey atmosphere made us feel right at ease. The service, led by Manuel, was top-notch and truly attentive. The live music added a fantastic touch to the evening, and the cocktails were absolutely fantastic. I can't wait to return!

This is the most amazing place! I come any time I can and this week I've come twice! The branzino is out of this world. The live sala band is absolutely incredible and last but certainly not least was our server Laura, so on top of everything we requested, so sweet and friendly (not to mention her musical talent with the flute!) We absolutely loved her. Can't leave out the best cocktails !

My girlfriend and I had an amazing experience at Cafe La Trova and appreciated the warm welcome we received from the team. The food and beverage selections were exceptional, and we were thoroughly impressed with the quality of the menu. The overall atmosphere was delightful and contributed to a memorable birthday dining experience, which made us feel valued as customers. We can’t wait to return.

+3

This restaurant is a rare find! In Little Havana, it's outward appearance has nothing on the interior. As soon as you enter, you feel immersed in the culture from the staff uniforms and service to the authenticity of the food. Live music kicks the experience up a notch. I highly recommend this restaurant!

+4

This is our second visit (we live out of state). LOVE the music, food, cocktails, food and atmosphere. The elevated comfort of the Cuban dishes are appealing to everyone! Special shout out to Evelin who made our evening extra special and enjoyable!

Worth seeing in Miami for Cuban experience, it's a party, live music is authentic, great dj, empanadas are awesome. Good drinks and coffe. Will bring visitors for Miami flavor each time

Great place to experience the atmosphere at Calle 8 with life Latin music until midnight and afterwards a DJ’s with the best from the 80’s on the back bar. They care for their customers, the bartenders are very fun and the place has always been alive every night I have been there with friends.

We were on vacation last week with family…had a lot going on so moved our reservation to the following night. Almost cancelled but, since my husband had read such great reviews, we skipped going out with extended family and tried it. The moment we walked in the door, we were immediately charmed by the dip back into another era. The cheerful vibe and retro feel was welcoming and the live music was a pleasant surprise. Everyone was warm and genuinely friendly/courteous. We have a couple of restaurants here in Ashevile, NC, so we appreciated the balanced menu options—everything we tried was absolutely delicious and beautiful as well. The drinks were a treat! We even splurged on the bread pudding with the rum-soaked raisins and it was a triumph! My dad has been gone 10 years now but he would have been transported into a blissful state with everything we experienced on our lovely date night at Cafe La Trova. We drank our toast to him and felt like he was with us. (Your band even played one of the songs he used to play on his guitar, when I was little). And your bartender! 😲 Joining in with the maracas! Awesome. We really loved it all. Thanks so much!

+3

10/10! Great food! Great vibes! Great service! Went for an anniversary dinner with my boyfriend and we had a great time! I love that the staff put an emphasis on the fact that it was our first time there and they were always checking on us throughout the night. My boyfriend and I both agree that La Trova was one of our highlights during our trip. Will most definitely return!

Had the jamon and serrano croquetas, the Cubano empanadas (per our waitresses’s recommendation), the Lechón, and the banana tres leches. It was all fantastic, extremely tasty. Service was incredibly fast and attentive without feeling rushed. The atmosphere with the live music on a Friday night was amazing, truly can’t recommend this place enough. Glad they were able to get us in without a reservation but definitely recommend making one if you can!

Fabulous experience in dining. I went alone on a recent trip and ate at the bar before the music part of the evening. My bartender server made beautifully balanced drinks. My crab cakes served over avocado were excellent and I had a melon and fruit tapas that was perfect. It was the perfect light meal with gorgeous flavors! And the flan was delicate and yummy. I particularly enjoyed the flair in the shaking of drinks with a smile. Perfect evening!

Absolutely love the experience here. This is by far my favorite cocktail place. Period. The drinks, service, atmosphere here are wonderful!

+3

Multiple friends told me to go. Went with my Mom. Love 🇪🇸 rustic look. 🍸s were really 👌. Bartenders 👏 l. The happy hour apps that I had with my 👩 were really good.. Staff is great. Coming back to try all the happy hour appetizers

+5

Great food!!! Amazing vibes!! Even better music. You all can't miss coming to Cafe La Trova if you're looking for a Cuban night!!! Highly recommended.

Amazing experience! The drinks were phenomenal. I highly recommend the beef steak empanadas, the crispy whole red snapper, and the lechon with pork belly. Those were my favourite for the night. The service was attentive and personable. And I loved the live band - the best part of being there. It was so lively and everyone was having a great time!

+3

Was an amazing experience from the time we walked in, until the time we left. 100% a vibe you need to check out.

+2

Located in the heart of Calle Ocho, this vibrant hotspot brings authentic Cuban and Latin flavors to life! The menu won’t disappoint, offering a delicious selection of classic dishes that capture the essence of the culture. Just be ready to pause the conversation when the live music starts—because that’s when it’s time to sit back, relax, and soak in the energy! 🎶✨ And if you’re lucky enough to have Server Adianet taking care of you, expect the night to be even more special with top-notch hospitality!

+6

✨ Café La Trova · My Miami Must-Visit If you only have one day in Miami, or even just one meal, Café La Trova has to be the choice. 🍸 🍹 Cocktails: Pure Balance, No Misses Ranked Top 10 in The World’s 50 Best Bars, La Trova’s cocktails are the definition of balance and layers. Every ingredient shines, yet blends seamlessly. You can order blind—there are no misses here. • Mojito Criollo: The best Mojito I’ve ever had. Crisp, refreshing, perfectly balanced. • Gimlet: With lemongrass liqueur, bright and refreshing. • Margarita Picosa: Spicy, zesty, but never overwhelming. • Montemule: Bitter amaro + ginger beer, aromatic like fine perfume. • Always Sunny in Miami: Egg-white foam, velvety and hotel-lounge level elegance. • Hotel Nacional: Pineapple-forward, tropical and smooth. • Banana Daiquiri (Frozen): Creamy banana slushie—dessert in a glass. • Buenavista: Cucumber, mint, elderflower—my absolute favorite, crisp and refreshing. • Cuban Daddy: A refreshing El Presidente twist, served in a red mug. • Toasted Coconut Negroni: Rum fat-washed with coconut, a unique bitter-sweet balance. • Mamma Mia: Herbal, slightly bitter with vermouth depth—complex and addictive. • Especial del Cantinero – Trío Matamoros: Rum, Cuban coffee, and a cigar—a true Cuban cultural trio. 🍽️ Food: The Underrated Star Everyone comes here for the cocktails, but the food deserves equal praise. • Skirt Steak Ropa Vieja: Cuba’s national dish, with black beans, rice, plantains—absolutely stellar. • Rabo Encendido Pasta: Braised oxtail pasta with mascarpone and pecorino—hearty, rich, unforgettable. • Calamari: Mezcal-marinated, smoky and tender. • Jamón Serrano Croquetas: Crispy ham croquettes paired with fig jam—sweet, salty perfection. • Michy’s Bread Pudding: Rum-soaked raisins + chocolate—sweet but never cloying. • Queso Frito: Simple fried cheese, unbeatable with cocktails. 🎶 Atmosphere & Service: Havana in Miami Live Cuban music, retro décor, cantineros in vintage uniforms, and the most charming bartenders shaking Mojitos with flair—it feels like Havana’s golden era. And the staff? Absolutely wonderful. Bobbie, our server, was so warm and attentive. Yasmani and Javier, behind the bar, were not only amazing at their craft but also brought incredible energy. Everyone there truly passed the vibe test ✅—they made us feel like old friends. If Miami is a 70/100 in my heart, Café La Trova alone is at least 60 of those points. I went two nights in a row and would still come back for more. Truly, this is a place I could rave about forever. 💃🌴

+6

I have made a discovery worth leaving your house for. Whoa. This spot is on the Top 50 bars in the world list and I’m a bonafide tourist so it’s a perfect marriage. I walked in to live music, clapping, trumpet playing behind the bar, then the flute player came out. I now understand the fame. Oh oh oh and dancing. If you’re not having fun here, that’s a you problem. What a time. Let’s sell this energy fellas!

+3

Hands down the best meal we’ve had in Miami, and likely the best overall for us. My wife and I are both into food, and we agree this may be the best meal we’ve ever had. Our server, Lara, was fantastic and all her recommendations were excellent. We had the mushroom croquetas which were amazing, the octopus that was the best preparation I’ve ever had, and the Cuban sandwich empanadas were great too. For entrees we had arroz con pollo and lechon, both were amazing but I preferred the lechon if I had to pick one. The bread pudding for dessert was just incredible. Drinks were great too, I think my favorite was the hotel nacional. The food here is what made it for me and I can’t say enough how good it was. Each dish that came out seemed better than the last and we were just floored how good it was. We’re lucky enough to dine in many nice restaurants and I wouldn’t trade this experience for any, it was really that good. Service was perfect with Lara, there when you needed her but not checking in constantly. We felt no need to hurry but also got things quickly. Everything came out hot and portions were great. Not too much you can’t finish but substantial with all. The live music adds a whole additional level to make this an event and not just a meal. We were lucky enough to sit by the stage, and while it was loud I was glad we did. The band was great and really made the experience more enjoyable. I’m shocked we got a reservation here and that they aren’t booked out months in advance. There wasn’t one thing I ordered that I feel anyone else could have made better than the folks at Cafe La Trova did. This place just got a Michelin star and I’m not surprised. If you’re in Miami for one night, this is the place to go. We’ve tried many great restaurants during this trip, and I don’t want to minimize any of them. But if I could only pick one place to eat, it would be Cafe La Trova.

The food and atmosphere was amazing! We had an incredible waitress named Addy who answered our questions and brought our food quickly. She also gave us wonderful recommendations. The atmosphere was amazing with the welcoming staff, fun lighting, and AMAZING MUSIC it was truly a memorable place. The live music was not only good but entertaining there was exiting moments where the bar tenders would play the trumpet or trombone and the rest would sing and dance along. Again, truly an amazing atmosphere. I would definitely recommend this to people visiting miami!

A Gem!! A transport to Cuba, amazing Vibe!!! The food and drinks are outstanding!! One of all time Miami Favorites!!! A must for out of town visitors! This is maybe the 10th visit! The NY Steak was perfectly cooked, Branzino grilled was fantastic!!! The staff is swift and the Live Music is Top Top!!!!

There's a reason why this is one of the BEST bars in the world!!!! Drinks are amazing, food is unique, atmosphere is just right, and the 80s vibes after midnight is something worth to stay around for! Absolutely love this place!!!💯❤️🍹💃🕺

Second time here and always a great meal. Amazing atmosphere and excellent live Cuban band. Even better when the bartenders join the band.

TLDR; really delicious Cuban food and great vibes, get a reservation. I got dinner reservations here weeks before and I think it was completely worth it because the place gets super crowded in the evenings. We debated between getting a table right by the live music but in the end just got a regular because it comes with a separate charge. Honestly in the end, I think it was the right decision because you can still hear and see the musicians from the regular tables too, and it gets really loud near the special tables. Food here is 💯- we ordered the mushroom croquettes, roast potato empanadas, mushroom ropa vieja and the lechon between the two of us. The flavors are so so good - the croquette literally melt in your mouth, the sauce that comes with the empanadas is absolutely lovely and both the mains were incredibly hearty. Service is really nice too - our waiter was very warm throughout.

+3

One of the best restaurant experiences I’ve ever had! The food was delicious. We got the ropa vieja, lechon, croquettas, and cortados for dessert. They had Cuban music band that made this experience so memorable. People were dancing and having a great time! The world needs more places like this!! You could just feel the Cuban culture in the air!

We had a great time. The food, music, and service was excellent.

Loved the experience. Really enjoyed the live band and just a fun vibe overall. Tried the Miami Spice and had one of the best ropa vieja I have ever eaten, seasoned and so tender. The empanadas and the croquettes were very tasty. Sat a little away from the stage which makes it easier to speak. It was busy for during the week. I would recommend a reservation.

+1

We came to try a world famous mojito and decided to have dinner. This is one of the best meals I've had in Miami. The mushroom croquette was amazing with the truffle aoli. We had the arroz con Pollo and wanted to lick the plate clean it was so good. We finished the meal off with arroz con Leche and it was just what we needed to finish on the meal. The atmosphere is great the servers were very attentive and made sure we were having a great time.

Iconic place and a great evening. It’s hard to find veggie friendly Cuban, but the empanadas, polenta, cauliflower, and halloumi (not so Cuban, but delicious), were all excellent. A bit hard to hear the excellent band from the back half of the restaurant. Happy hour at the bar is a bargain and a great place to enjoy the music.

The food was delicious, fresh, felt like cooked at home by an abuela. The cocktails also were amazing and the service ni se diga! The whole experience was great and we will for sure be back

Highly recommended Cuban restaurant experience. The food here was amazing, ambience superb, the entertainment was one of a kind. The bartenders, what part of the entertainment and they did an amazing show, they're highly skilled and engage the audience in everything they did, the band that played was so enticing, they had everyone know. Jumping up & dancing and wanting to be in the rhythm with the cuban beats! Loved this place, and the food was exceptionally delicio.

+6

A full experience — excellent food, friendly and attentive staff, and and live entertainment. This dinner was my most memorable one from my trip to Miami. Looking forward to going back again

This was first visit and honestly I wonder why I haven’t been sooner. The food was excellent, the servicer was attentive, and the ambiance was relaxed. Towards the end of our dinner a live band started and it was a perfect touch to an already amazing experience. I highly recommend Cafe La Trova as they provide a full culinary adventure.

Cafe La Trova is the place to be if you're looking for a vibrant, festive atmosphere that transports you straight to the heart of Havana! The energy here is infectious, with live music, dancing, and an upbeat crowd that fills the room with an undeniable joy. It's definitely more than just dinner—it’s an experience. The food is delicious and well-prepared, capturing authentic Cuban flavors that pair perfectly with the lively ambiance. The drinks are crafted with flair, adding to the festive vibe. However, with such a packed space and couples dancing between tables, the service can feel a bit chaotic. Staff are friendly and accommodating, but it’s clear they’re navigating a full house, so patience goes a long way here. Overall, Cafe La Trova is perfect for a night out where you want to let loose, enjoy great food, and soak up a fun, high-energy setting. Just be ready for a bit of a wait and some lively hustle and bustle! The only thing missing day I went was meeting Michelle Bernstein in person. Oh, and there's an 80s party after midnight!

+6

DELICIOSO! This was the best meal we had in Miami and was well worth the late-night reservation. The vibes are immaculate with live bands and features from our waitress and bar staff. The back room turns into an 80s bar later in the night after the live music is done. We love this spot and would recommend it to all looking for a great time!!!

+4

This place is worth the hype. It's very authentic food. If you like Cuban food you'll love it. They had live music but it wasn't too loud which I was worried about. The service was outstanding. Laura was our server and she was professional and exceptional. And the host and runners and everybody was great.

Great spot! The service was excellent and food delicious. The live music and dancing at the bar enhanced the ambiance and made it very enjoyable and entertaining. I do recommend to book a table for large parties as the place gets full and the bar get packed quick.

The energy! I felt like I was back in Havana. Definitely go for the live music. I went on a very busy Friday evening for a drink. I stood for a while which I didn't mind. I managed to get a bar seat after. The buzz! I can see why this is currently number 82 on The World's 50 Best Bars (2025). The mojito was very good. Highly recommend.

Very old school establishment. Came here for the cocktails since it was one of the top cocktail bar in the world. Cocktails were pretty good but the food was actually surprisingly very tasty. I did not expect it to be flavorful. The service was the only thing lacking. Sitting by the high table next to the entrance on the right hand side next to the bar. Even I had a reservation at 5pm on Saturday so it was not busy yet however the hostess was not very accommodating and was always talking to one of the waiters. I am not sure if this was the reason but the service was super slow and for this reason it was hard to order additional drinks or food. I did not want to wait 20 minutes for somebody come by and ask if we need anything else. The bartenders what I heard and observed were very attentive to the costumers sitting at the bar and explained the history or the story behind the cocktails.

+6

Café La Trova absolutely lived up to the hype. Even though it was fully packed, the service was excellent, friendly and fast. The live music sets a nice and romantic vibe: it made the whole night feel like a celebration. I ordered lamb chops with risotto, a special for the night, and it was hands down the best I’ve ever had. On top of that, their own take on cocktails is fantastic: creative and balanced. Between the food, drinks, and energy, this is a must-visit spot in Little Havana.

An outstanding Cuban restaurant offering delicious food, classic cocktails, and live music. If you’re in Miami, this place is a must-visit.

I just spent an incredible evening at Cafe La Trova! I was there for a work event and they took wonderful care of us and even put our name up in welcome. The food was amazing (I could have eaten myself sick on the empanadas, ceviche, and churros), the live music was fantastic (I was overjoyed when they played Chan Chan, one of my most favorite Cuban songs), and the service was top tier! I particularly want to thank Manuel for the excellent drink recommendations and for being so warm and kind. He helped make the evening so special!

Best Cuban restaurant I’ve ever been to! Every dish was excellent. Very doable as a vegetarian with many great sides as well as spinach empanadas, queso frito, and mushroom croquetas which were all incredible

La Trova has a vibe you just can’t find anywhere else. They make you feel a sense of belonging, and you really feel like you’re in Cuba to be honest. The music, the atmosphere, the hospitality, and the drinks all come together to make it a magical night. I’d recommend La Trova a million times.

On our last night of a trip to South Florida we were staying about 15 minutes from Little Havana and Cafe La Trova popped up when I did a quick search for a nearby well-rated bar with classic cocktails and a good happy hour. We arrived just after 4, parked on the street right in front of the door, sat at the bar, and ordered drinks and apps. Happy Hour prices and quality of the offerings were great. The Always Sunny in Miami was delicious but, for a bar that is known for their Cantineros, I was disappointed that they used a machine to do the dry shake. The tapas menu was delicious and so filling that we didn't need dinner; two of us shared the Malanga, ham croquettes, spinach empanadas, and sliders. I also ordered the Buenavista cocktail from the main menu and it was a nicely balanced gimlet-style drink. It turned out the day we were there was their 7 year anniversary so by 5:30 the bar was packed with industry folks and the mood was celebratory. The bartenders did a great job keeping up with the crowd. We slipped out a little after 6 so didn't hear any music but I'm sure it would've been great, too. As with many places we visited in South Florida, a gratuity was automatically added into the final bill.

B Garcia

Que buena aorpresa encontrar este lugar ! Bello todo, la gente arreglada, la musica en vivo super animada y la atencion muy buena ! La comida estuvo muy buena pedimos cositas de picar! El ceviche 10/10, las empanadas 10/10 y asi todo . Volvere sin duda

Luis Urdaneta

Una experiencia excepcional. ambiente de música y esparcimiento perfecta para disfrutar la velada. Quiero destacar especialmente el servicio y el talento de Laura, cuya atención cálida y profesional hizo que todo fluyera de la mejor manera. Su energía y dedicación realmente elevan la experiencia del lugar. En Miami, una visita obligada!!! Lo recomiendo!!!

Josantonio Mellado Jr.

✨ Una joya en la Calle 8: Café La Trova ✨ Tuve la oportunidad de cenar en Café La Trova y la experiencia fue simplemente espectacular. Desde que entras, te transportas a una atmósfera vibrante y llena de vida, con una mezcla perfecta entre lo clásico y lo contemporáneo. El ambiente cubano es auténtico, con música en vivo que le da alma al lugar y hace que la noche se sienta especial desde el primer minuto. La comida fue excelente, con muy buen sabor y presentaciones que reflejan el cariño con el que cada plato es preparado. Si vas, no dejes de probar sus especialidades — son una fusión perfecta entre tradición y creatividad. El servicio fue muy bueno. Atentos, amables y con muy buenas recomendaciones. El personal realmente se esmera por hacerte sentir bienvenido. Nos quedamos en la barra y los bar tenders bailan, tocan instrumentos al son de buena salsa Sin duda, Cafe La Trova es una parada obligatoria en Miami para quienes buscan una experiencia ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ¡Volveré pronto!

Francisco Arias

Una experiencia espectacular. Todos los platos que pedimos para picar estaban muy sabrosos. Bocadillos de bacalao, croquetas de jamón serrano, masas de puerco en un puré de plátano maduro, empanada de espinaca, focaccia de lechón. De verdad todo merece mención y los tragos uff. Super buenos todos. Una muy buena experiencia en realidad. Espero retornar pronto.

Great atmosphere and live music! Café La Trova is a fantastic spot in Little Havana with an amazing Cuban vibe. The live music and cocktails create an incredible ambiance, and the place feels very lively and authentic. Prices are definitely on the higher side. but overall experience makes it worth it if you’re looking for a fun night out.

So if you want to sit near the stage there is a $25 per person surcharge which ended up with the band playing to a lot of empty tables which I think is a shame because they were really good. We were sat so far away, It was hard to hear with all the talking and we were there early. We were put in a very uncomfortable location with a large man behind me and people next to us when there were six empty two tops nearby. It would have been so easy to make us more comfortable and that did not happen. Also, I have no idea how much the tip that was included was because I could not hear what the waitress said and they automatically add more, not being able to hear the waitress to know what was charged in the first place, I just went along for the ride. I had an unusual drink with Pink peppercorn that was terrific, the oxtail was unusual and delicious.

4.2⭐️ I’ve been to this place before taking pics — a recommendation from a Cuban friend who knows the chef. One of the better Cuban places in Miami. From the outside doesn’t seem much, but the inside is charming; beautiful Cuban-themed interiors and welcoming staff, which is quick and kind. This time we only went with appetizers and coffee—good stuff with a modern twist. Cocktails are a must since they are the bomb! You can't go wrong with any. I am looking forward to sharing more photos and recommendations.

+6

The vibe and energy at this place past the dining hours was awesome. Playing all the greatest hits from the 70s, 80s & 90s. A great throwback bar. Highly recommended for people who enjoy the decades of music that makes them feel young again. The space can get a bit tight due to the layout but none the less a great time. Drinks were ranged from $14-$18

The atmosphere on a Thursday at 10pm was amazing. Band was amazing and the energy in the room was high. The only complaint I have is that Flan they have for desert is definitely subpar. I took one bite and had to get them to exchange it for the bread pudding. Other than the flan everything else was great! I highly recommend the location.

Cafe La Trova is a charming spot in Little Havana. The ambiance is vibrant and it’s a high energy place, be sure to make a reservation as it was tough to find seating even at the bar! The portions here are generous, so come hungry! The menu offers a variety of dishes, and while everything we tried was flavorful, but I do feel like a little something was missing. The service was friendly, but they were busy so it felt a bit like we were left to the side. If you’re looking for a place with good vibes, satisfying portions, and a nice overall experience, Cafe La Trova is a nice experience in Little Havana

+1

I love this place—it instantly transports you to Havana. The atmosphere is amazing, and the piña colada is a must-try. I’ve tried a few appetizers, which weren’t my favorite, but I’d still come back again and again just for the vibes.

This was our first time here. We visited a Sunday and the valet guy recommended us the malanga frituras but we were seated in the main dining room and after trying to order it we were told that those are only on the happy hour menu which is only served by the bar area. What a Shame! Anyways, the ambiance was great, the live band by the bar is really the star of this place. Nice music! I would recommend to try to get a table near the stage by the bar especially during happy hour instead of the main dining. Their menu is extensive and got a bit of everything. All the food we ordered came out good especially the queso frito, and our server was nice but service could be better.

+6

The atmosphere was very energetic. Once you walk into the restaurant, it feels like you’ve been transported back to the 1950s. With dim lights, classic Cuban music, and great food, it’s truly a unique experience. The food was delicious! We started with tostones with lechón, which were full of flavor—the mojo was especially tasty. Then we followed that with la croqueta de chorizo, which was also very good. We couldn’t get enough of the lechón, so we made that our main dish, and it came with yuca con mojo and chicharrón. To end the night, we had the bread pudding with chocolate, which was divine! We took the arroz con leche at home. Overall, though, the rest of the food was excellent!

Scot Fishman

In a word, fun! Cafe La Trova is *the* spot for a quintessential night out on Calle Ocho with friends. You'll be listening to the sounds of an incredible (and loud!) band while enjoying some tasty drinks and Cuban food. The way to go here is to focus on the appetizers and drinks. The mojitos were on point! Same with the empanadas, the croquettas (both jamon/queso and mushroom were awesome!), and the ceviche (according to my friends). The entrees were solid - good enough but I wouldn't say amazing. We had the lechon, skirt steak ropa vieja and butterflied branzino and all were tasty. But the stars of the show were the appetizers, drinks and music, surely. Our server was delightful- so helpful and so nice. Can't wait for my next visit! En una palabra, ¡diversión! El Café La Trova es *el* lugar para pasar una noche por excelencia en la Calle Ocho con amigos. Escucharás los sonidos de una banda increíble (¡y ruidosa!) mientras disfrutas de algunas bebidas sabrosas y comida cubana. La mejor manera de hacerlo aquí es concentrarse en los aperitivos y las bebidas. ¡Los mojitos estaban en su punto! Lo mismo con las empanadas, las croquetas (¡las de jamón y queso y las de hongos eran increíbles!) y el ceviche (según mis amigos). Los platos principales eran sólidos, lo suficientemente buenos, pero no diría que increíbles. Pedimos lechón, bistec de falda ropa vieja y branzino en rodajas y todos estaban deliciosos. Pero las estrellas del espectáculo fueron los aperitivos, las bebidas y la música, sin duda. Nuestro camarero fue encantador, muy servicial y agradable. ¡No puedo esperar a mi próxima visita!

MID. Food came out after 5min we ordered, and it tasted exactly like premade. Seafood was frozen, you can get the calamari everywhere, pork shoulder pork smell was too strong. Drinks were ok. If their drinks were award winning, other bars might just didn’t go to the competition. Not bad, just average. Barely any service, yet 20% gratitude was added without telling you. Overrated.

Had a reservation for 2 people, while making the reservation it was stressed out that the dress code is “smart casual” and to please dress appropriately, no problem but when we got to the restaurant and as we were seated we noticed there are people dressed very casually even wearing sporty shorts, normal T shirts and even baseball caps??? At the table?? Also the place was quite loud (no live music at the time of our reservation, just loud guests) This combination really bothered me as it made the place look and feel like a sports bar not an upscale restaurant that “requires” a dress code… other than that the food was really good, staff and service were good but the prices are a bit high, the 20% service fee is included and then additional tip is expected?? I would return but please either enforce the dress code you require or just remove it completely

Our waitress was extremely kind and helpful, unfortunately the food was just not good... we ordered a round of cocktails but they were nothing special. There's live music and people dancing, hence is loud and difficult to hold a conversation if that's what you were looking for. The bar itself feels like a tourist trap, so I wouldn't come back.

The restaurant is highly rated, but I suppose it's because of the live music and cocktails. The food itself was underwhelming. My arroz con pollo was very dry and salty. The empanadas were dry and overall not somewhere I would return to. I have been to very good Cuban restaurants and this is not that good. It is very noisy and loud, so go if you plan on being entertained. I also didn't exactly care to pay $15.00 for parking when it was parked 10 feet away from me. If you can, there is plently of metered street parking, which is a much budget-friendly alternative.

Atmosphere- Full Marks Service- Ordered Spinach Empanadas. Hostess got me beef empanadas. I ate beef without knowing (I don’t eat beef) and then she apologized and replaced my dish Food- Ordered a rice and chicken entree (the chicken was clearly dry) Pork appetizer was good (as per my wife) Drinks- Presidente cocktail was disappointing Will visit again. Maybe I ordered the wrong dishes. Would recommend this place for a good night out

The food was good. I’d give it an 8/10. The service was really good. But wow! Super expensive for what you get. For dinner for two of us, our bill was $280. Seemed more like a $120 meal. Very expensive. Way better options in Miami.

I had booked a table for 5 weeks in advance. However when we came in at 9pm we were given a table for 4 (table 72), where a 5th chair had been added at one end and facing a wooden panel. No view of the stage at all and quite cramped. It seemed that at the beginning no waiter was assigned to the table, so we waited quite a long time before ordering. Then appetizers came before we got our drinks. The waiter was nice but quite overwhelmed. We ordered second bottle of water which never came. However, at 3 occasions, food was delivered to our table which we had not ordered and we had to be quite firm to to take it.When the check came a 20% tip was already included while not deserved at all. Overall despite the excellent music and cocktails, not a good value for money and a disappointing experience

They stopped my husband for having sandals on and our friend had to purchase a Tshirt due to his sleeveless shirt. Didn’t expect a dress code since the atmosphere was pretty casual. They charged us for the Tshirt and a mandatory gratuity of 20% even though we were only a party of four. They ask you to tip on top of that at the end. Food was overpriced for what you get.

The food was delicious, the music was great, but the service was horrible. I decided to sit at the bar with my friends, and unfortunately, we felt discriminated against. Maybe because we were three women. However, the waiter who served us was very formal with other people and extremely rude to us. I thought it was unfair to pay him 20% of the tip out of obligation when he doesn't even deserve to work in customer service. I was traumatized

We arrived at Café La Trova at 10:35 PM and chose to sit at the bar. The bartender handed us the menus and we ordered two cocktails and two appetizers. About three minutes later, we added an additional order of buñuelos. After 40 minutes of waiting, I finally asked the bartender what was going on with our food. His response was shocking: “You didn’t order any food.” When I questioned him, he doubled down and claimed that we had only ordered drinks, saying we arrived right before the kitchen closed. This is unacceptable. There was still live music playing when we placed our order, and at no point were we informed that the kitchen was closed or closing. I understand staff may be tired and ready to go home, but flat-out telling a guest to their face that they never ordered food—when they absolutely did—is beyond unprofessional. That single interaction completely ruined not only this visit, but every positive experience I’ve had at Café La Trova in the past. I asked to speak with the manager, who was polite and understanding, but by then the damage was already done. Being dismissed and essentially called a liar as a customer is not something easily forgotten. Café La Trova has built a reputation on hospitality, attention to detail, and world-class service. Unfortunately, this experience revealed a serious breakdown in bar service and accountability. A venue of this caliber should never allow this level of negligence or disrespect. Extremely disappointing, and not the standard this place claims to represent.

They need to train their waiters better. We sat at a table of 7 people but we asked for 3 separate bills as it is very common to do when you go out with multiple couples. When the waitress brought the bills she told that she could only accept payment from 3 credit cards per table. But we wanted to pay with more credit cards because we were splitting the bills among more people. She gave us an attitude and told us multiple times that she couldnt do it any other way when we knew for a fact that was incorrect because the credit card machines do have the option to split the payment in multiple portions. She didnt even try to ask someone for help, she just stood in our faces telling us those were the rules. There were 3 couples in the table and some of them wanted to pay their bill 50/50 , but according to her rule they wouldnt be able to do that. So I had to ask her to bring the manager because we wanted to pay how it was convenient for us. She came back in 2 seconds saying that the manager approved for her to do that. And it was super easy to split the bills in multiple payments. So what she was claiming from the beginning was a lie. This place is nice but their waiters have poor customer service skills. In these modern times people split the bill in many credit cards when they go out with many friends and this place should get on board with that or shouldnt be in the business of serving multiple people. They make a ton of money every night to not be able to afford the credit card company fees per charge. I hope they fix this and train their staff to find solutions to accomodate the customer and not themselves.