La Carreta Cuban Cuisine
Cuban · Miami
Taste la vida cubana in Miami
About La Carreta Cuban Cuisine
Located at 3632 SW 8th St in Miami, La Carreta Cuban Cuisine stands as a beloved landmark offering an authentic and vibrant taste of Cuba. Since our establishment, we have been dedicated to preserving traditional flavors while providing a warm, inviting atmosphere that makes every visit feel like a...
Located at 3632 SW 8th St in Miami, La Carreta Cuban Cuisine stands as a beloved landmark offering an authentic and vibrant taste of Cuba. Since our establishment, we have been dedicated to preserving traditional flavors while providing a warm, inviting atmosphere that makes every visit feel like a special occasion. Our menu is crafted with passion using locally sourced ingredients to bring the essence of Cuba to your plate. From hearty sandwiches to rich stews, each dish tells a story through its spices and techniques passed down through generations. We offer diverse dining options including dine-in, takeout, and delivery, ensuring that our culinary journey can be shared with friends and family wherever you are. Taste the soul of Cuba at La Carreta Cuban Cuisine—where every bite is a celebration.
What Customers Say About La Carreta Cuban Cuisine
La Carreta is a beloved Little Havana staple serving authentic Cuban cuisine since the 1970s. Customers rave about the flavorful food, generous portions, and reasonable prices. Many reviewers mention it's a family tradition and a great alternative to Versailles.
Popular Dishes
Best For
Tip: La Carreta offers a wide variety of dishes. It's a great place to experience authentic Cuban food without the long lines often found at Versailles.
What to see nearby
Data from Wikidata
Explore the area around La Carreta Cuban Cuisine
La Carreta Cuban Cuisine is located in Miami, surrounded by cultural and historical points of interest. Here are some of the most notable places nearby.
Historical Heritage
- Douglas Entrance (A 224m) — historic site in Coral Gables, Florida, United States Lugar inscrito en el Registro Nacional de Lugares Históricos
Parks & Gardens
- Phillips Park (A 790m) — park in the United States of America
Other Points of Interest
- Biblioteca del Centro Cultural Español de Cooperación Iberoamericana con Miami (A 143m) — biblioteca
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Frequently asked questions about La Carreta Cuban Cuisine
La Carreta Cuban Cuisine Miami Reviews
Miami’s iconic Cuba restaurant serving favorite foods. Very friendly service.
Havana Nights in Miami: Why La Carreta Still Reigns Supreme . MIAMI, FL - Step inside La Carreta at 3632 SW 8th Street, and you’re immediately swept into a scene that feels equal parts nostalgic and electric. The décor is unapologetically old-school Cuban—dark wood, rustic tiles, and walls adorned with vintage photos that whisper stories of exiles and dreamers. The crowd is a heady mix: Cuban abuelos sipping cafecito at the counter, families celebrating milestones, and savvy travelers who know this is the real Miami, not the glossy brochure version. There’s a hum of Spanish conversation, the clink of dominoes from nearby tables, and the unmistakable smell of roasted pork wafting through the air. It’s not just dining—it’s immersion. . The Menu: La Carreta’s menu is a love letter to Cuban comfort food, and the regulars will tell you there are a few dishes you simply cannot miss: . Ropa Vieja: Shredded beef simmered in a tomato-based sauce, rich with peppers and onions. It’s hearty, soulful, and tastes like it’s been cooked low and slow by someone’s grandmother. Pair it with fluffy white rice and sweet plantains, and you’ve got a plate that could win over the most jaded palate. . Lechón Asado: The roast pork is legendary—marinated in garlic, citrus, and spices, then roasted until the edges crisp. The smell alone could lure you in from blocks away. It’s the dish that defines La Carreta, and rightly so. . Cuban Sandwich: A Miami icon, executed here with precision. Ham, roast pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard pressed into golden bread. It’s the kind of sandwich that makes you wonder why anyone bothers with anything else. . And let’s not forget the cafecito—served strong, sweet, and unapologetically Cuban. It’s less a beverage, more a rite of passage. . Here’s the kicker: despite its reputation, La Carreta is remarkably affordable. Most entrées hover in the $12–$20 range, with generous portions that could easily feed two. The Cuban sandwich sits comfortably under $10, and the coffee? Pocket change for liquid dynamite. In a city where fine dining can bleed your wallet dry, La Carreta delivers five-star flavor at neighborhood prices. . La Carreta isn’t about white tablecloths or Michelin pretension—it’s about authenticity, atmosphere, and food that hits you straight in the chest. It’s where Miami’s Cuban heartbeat is loudest, and where every bite feels like a celebration of heritage. For the seasoned traveler, it’s a cultural pilgrimage; for the casual diner, it’s simply one of the best meals you’ll have in Miami. . Five stars, without hesitation. La Carreta is not just a restaurant—it’s Miami’s Cuban soul served on a plate.
Wow this was a good meal. The steak was off the chain. I wished we had food like this in my area. Food I ordered Rating 1-10 Appetizer: Croquettes. They were ok something I would not order again. Rating 5 Appetizer: Gambas "Al Ajillo" this was good and I'm drooling thinking about it the Flavors were there is it tasted fresh and no wierd frozen texture. I wished I can get more of this. Rating 9 Main Dish: Churasco Steak. One word wow. This steak made me all fuzzy inside. If I could use the Dirty O word this steak did it. I enjoyed it so much I ended up ordering another one to take home. Rating 10 Side dishes Black Beans and white rice. The beans tasted home made with add ins to them like onions and other stuff. It was Legit. Rating 10 Atmosphere: Very comfortable dining being a white guy in Miami I didn't feel out of place going here. Very welcoming. Rating 9 Staff: My waitress was fantastic she was an older woman Im sorry for not getting her name. She made me feel welcome and part of the family when I sat down. I had an issue with a drink I ordered being wierd and she quickly apologized for the problem and even though I told her it was fine she was super fast about correcting the issue. My trip was Dec 6th around 430 so if you have a way to say thank you to her for me I would be grateful. Raining 10 Cleanliness: The staff seemed quick to bust tables and make sure that the restaurant appeared clean. As something was used my waitress grabbed it keeping my table clean and neat. Rating 10 All in all this business trip was fantastic because of this place. I'm so glad that I listened to a friend's recommendation. So word of mouth is great for this place I have already recommended it to two of my coworkers. I did have the choice to go across the street and pay higher money for Cuban food but I like the Mom and Pop types of places. I can make you this promise the next time I come to Miami this place will be on my schedule. Overall rating 10
I’ve been going to this La Carreta for over 30 years. This is Cuban Food and the best place to get it, in my opinion. I’ve never had a bad experience here with the food or service. I try to eat here when I can and introduced my son to this location a few years ago. I hope some day he introduces his son to La Carreta. *****UPDATE ***** I guess every restaurant has a bad day; tonight the service was poor, I left a good tip anyway. The food was poor, could not finish it. Basically, whoever was in the kitchen did not give a da##. The management was no where to be seen. I will not remove my 5 star rating from before, as La Carreta is my favorite restaurant and every restaurant has a bad day.
If you’re looking for authentic Cuban food, La Carreta is the place to be! From the moment I walked in, I was greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere that perfectly captures the essence of Cuba. The menu is filled with traditional dishes, and everything we ordered was absolutely delicious. The ropa vieja was tender and flavorful, but the real star of the show was the mojito – it’s hands down the best I’ve ever had! Refreshing, with just the right balance of mint and lime, it complemented our meal beautifully. The service was fantastic; the staff was friendly and attentive, making sure we had everything we needed throughout our visit. If you’re craving authentic Cuban cuisine, La Carreta is a must-try! I can’t wait to go back and indulge in more of their amazing dishes! 🍽️🇨🇺✨
La Carreta has excellent service and first-class cuisine; the physical ambience is simple but warm and accommodating. Before departing for Miami I had plans to dine at the renown Versailles-- one block over on the emblematic "Calle Ocho" in Little Havana BUT two incidents diverted me to La Carreta: a) A former US President's visit there after his arrest and arraignment at the local Federal Court on espionage and obstruction charges and the fact that he was serenaded with "Happy Birthday" by the patrons present therein; b) The recommendation of a local resident that La Carreta is the best. However, it's worthwhile to note that Versailles introduced high-quality coffee in the USA, starting in the 1970s at its small stand in Miami International Airport; coffee and "pastelito" (a ground-beef Cuban pastry). Today, at the Cuban owned Triton Supermarket in Miami Beach, I was able to 'stock up' on my daily dose of two cups of good quality coffee; a tradition, I will say, that was started by Versailles. And, I must commend the restaurant for its imposing and beautiful building on "Calle 8". Back to La Carreta: before leaving for Miami, I had longed to have a day-to-day Cuban dish (white rice, black beans, fried ripe plantain, and stewed chicken or beef). But, Triton Supermarket offered these and other staples on a daily basis-- though of three-star quality versus La Carreta's five-star. Thus, when I got there, I decided on two of my favorite dishes that I had not had in over 30 years-- Paella and Caesar's Salad and they both were the best that I ever had in my life. Note: La Carreta has a branch at Miami International Airport, in front of Gate D-39 in the American Airlines section.
We had a wonderful dining experience last night. Our server, Viviana, was delightful. She was very accommodating to our English only language barrier. She answered all of our questions and offered her suggestions as to what we might enjoy. The food was delicious, reasonably priced and came out rather quickly. We will definitely plan to visit again!
Originally planned to go to Versailles, but with a ridiculous wait time of about 2 hours, realized La Carreta across the street is the same owners and food. Sat quickly and ordered the fried calamari for an appetizer, and the breaded chicken breast “Milanese.” It was pleasantly tender chicken and fantastically seasoned. Got a Special Cuban for good measure and it was equally delicious. Food came out fast. Excellent alternative to the flagship. Small Cuban coffee afterward was the perfect cherry on top of a superb meal.
This place it just WOW ! Look at the size of those dishes. Not only that I was full there but I also was eating it for two days after... :) It was very delicious food ! The rice especially ! You have to try. I also got sangria and croquettes. Don’t remember how much exactly I paid but I remember it wasn’t expansive at all for the amount of food that I received. I’ll definitely come back for more rice :)
Just WOW!!! The food was delicious and so was the mijito (had about 3 which did give me a headache liquor must be cheap liquor) but the taste was delicious. Food was out of this world good and the portions are the right amount. Our server was GREAT and super nice and attentive.
We came for the Cuban food experience, we knew we got the right spot because most of the patrons were speaking Cuban. We started our meal with classic Cuban mojito’s and a ceviche appetizer. Mojito was good and sweet and helped cut through the tangy tasty of the ceviche with lots of red onions. Good start to the meal. I ordered the lechon asado with morro rice and fried plantains. The pork was very tasty and rich, the morro rice was really good. The wife ordered the mases de puerco (fried pork chunks) she said the pork was well seasoned and juicy. She also had the morro rice and a side of cassava which she thought was overcooked and flavorless. Plenty of food at a very reasonable price, service was great. They helped guide us through the menu which was in Cuban. It was loud and vibrant and good time.
Recommend by the car rental place when we picked up the car as a good breakfast spot, they were not lying. The breakfast was amazing and definitely gave you that Cuban flavors. Everything was fresh, including the oj, which was fresh squeezed. This place is definitely a must visit if you are in the mood for a Cuban breakfast. We can recommend the empenadas and French toast if you have kids who are picky eaters.
Great cuban food spot! I have been here several times, so I will try to compilate my experiences and provide a comprehensive review. The restaurant is quite big and has a lot of seating available. I have been attending for lunch and dinner multiple times, with my wife in some occasions, with friends in others, and I’ve never had to wait. The food menu is big but I always go for the cuban classics: Vaca Frita, Lechon, Maduros, Yuca with Mojo, a tamal and a pudding as a dessert to top it off. Food flavor is consistent every time of my visits. Portions are large for sharing. You can’t go wrong with La Carreta!
What an amazing oxtail in this place!!!! If you like oxtail you should definitely try it in this location. I originally wanted to eat fish but our server mentioned oxtail so I said why not. I did not regret it. This was probably the best oxtail I have ever had in my life. The restaurant is an old style restaurant and family oriented. You can see lots of families coming to eat and celebrate different occasions. There is a parking lot so no need to look around to find it on the street. Come to this Cuba restaurant and enjoy amazing oxtail and other food!
🌴🍽️ La Carreta Cuban Restaurant Food Review – Miami Edition! 🇨🇺✨ Today, I’m exploring the flavors of Cuba right here in Miami at La Carreta! Let’s dive into this culinary experience! 🤤🇨🇺 📍 Ambiance: The moment you step into La Carreta, you're transported to a vibrant Cuban atmosphere. With its colorful decor and lively Cuban music playing in the background, it feels like a little slice of Cuba. Perfect for family dinners or grabbing a bite with friends! 🎶🍹 🍽️ Food Highlights: - Appetizers: We kicked off with the Tostones (fried green plantains) served with garlic sauce. They were crispy, perfectly salted, and the garlic sauce added an amazing zing! 🌿✨ - Ropa Vieja: This classic Cuban dish stole the show! The shredded beef was incredibly tender, simmered in a savory tomato sauce with bell peppers. Each bite was bursting with flavor, served with rice and black beans. I can’t recommend it enough! 😍🥩 - Lechon Asado: You have to try the slow-roasted pork! It's seasoned to perfection, with crispy skin and juicy meat. Paired with their tangy mojo sauce, it's a game-changer! 🍖🔥 - Dessert: We couldn’t leave without trying the Tres Leches Cake. It was super moist and sweet, the perfect ending to our meal! 🍰🥥 🤩 Overall Impression: La Carreta nails the authentic Cuban experience with its delicious food and warm ambiance. Whether you’re a Miami local or just visiting, this spot is a must-try for amazing Cuban cuisine! Have you been to La Carreta? What was your fave dish? Let me know in the comments! 👇❤️ #FoodReview #CubanCuisine #LaCarreta #MiamiEats
Good here is authentic and very flavorful. I had a churrasco and vegetable side dish. Everything was better than expected and the service was top notch. The code at the end of the visit was the best I have ever had. I will continue to come here om the weekends. Thanks
I love the food at this place, it's amazing! Of all the places out there, it's the best cook, haha, in my opinion.
The best rice pudding I ever had. I said it to my sister and after she had it she agreed. I do not even live in Miami, but whenever there, I will HAVE to get some.
Let me start by saying love la carreta used to go there all the time at least twice a month it's been about 4 years since I've been I had to go to Miami on Sunday so we stopped at la carreta it was me my husband and my mother .the bill was 85.00 it was lunch time we asked for the check didn't get a paper check the server had a hand held point-of-sale machine he swiped my credit card and automatically the charge came right to my text messages 85.00 but before I paid with my credit card my husband left a $20 tip and cash so lunch cost us$100 the food is good but they won't get another hundred dollars from me I'm the only one that had steak we had a Cuban sandwich two cups of coffee the special was corn stew I believe with three plantains a Coke and a diet Coke the food was very good but a little too expensive for me I don't live in Miami
I came to Miami with one mission: find a great Cuban sandwich. La Carreta did not disappoint. They started with a basket of garlic bread that was tasty. I ordered the Especial, the bigger Cuban sandwich and fries. The sandwich was delicious: crunchy and melty and savory, all the flavors I was looking for pressed into a warm flat slice of heaven. The fries were real potatoes fresh fried and crispy. Was very happy with my experience.
So if you are in the Miami area near the airport, I highly recommend you hit the La Carreta! Had a long layover for the day, so decided to make a foodie detour to find some authentic Cuban cuisine! Prior to leaving the airport, I called my long time Cuban friend Walfredo, to point me in the right direction! And man was he on point about this place! I had the roasted mojo pork with black beans and rice, and a side order of sweet fried plantains! Washed it all down with a refreshing Cuban Lager called Hatuey! Everything was fresh and delicious! Customer service was super fast, and prices were nice! Will definitely be back when I’m in MIA again!
Best cuban food in Miami, hands down! I grew up down here and this is where we always came as a family. As an adult, every time I'm in town, I go here. We came to Miami for my brother's bachelor party weekend and I took all of us here and they were blown away. I always get worried, because sometimes you over hype something in your mind when you miss it, but this spot always delivers. I get the bistec a la milanesa and they tried the ropa vieja, and it was all amazing! My steak was super flavorful, the black beans are the best in town, and the Croquettes are mind blowing! If you're in Miami, this is a must go to. Skip the spot that starts with a V across the street, where you will wait an hour to eat some basic tasting food and come on over here. Our waitress (I wish I remembered her name but I suck) was one of the best ones I've ever had anywhere. I hope you remember us from the pictures. And I'm talking about the one for dinner, not breakfast, she kind of sucked lol.
I loved the service there. Everytime I go there I always get a really good experience. My waiter was Rene and the charm and knowledge was amazing and definitely made me feel like family. Me and my companion had breakfast which it was super economic and delicious. I would say that no more than $10 per person and you'll be eating to your likes. Overall amazing dine in and definitely would come back with my family.
This time instead of eating in the restaurant, I decided to get food to go . Ordered the croquetas jamon (ham) and pastry with meat. Very delicious and not expensive. Looking forward to dining again at La Carreta as it is a place I've always enjoyed whenever in Miami.
Great authentic 🇨🇺 Cuban food. Gladlys was our waitress and she was so sweet so kind and very friendly. We felt warm and welcomed. I highly recommend.
Gladys M was so incredibly lovely and her service was impeccable. I come here all the time but today was so different and elevated. I’ll be excited to return and hope to see her soon.
My only complaint is parking. It is tight and not well marked that it is for LA Carreta. The food was good and the service was good. They have waitresses that can speak English. The price is right.
Good food, good prices and we've never had a major complaint. My favorite part is they bring bread for dinner and there's nothing better than Cuban bread! We've been for breakfast, lunch and dinner and visited their window many times. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this location as well as a few others.
La Carreta is a total gem. The portions are huge, the prices are great, and the food is full of flavor. Cocktails are just $11 – and they’re actually really good! It’s honestly worth taking a taxi just to eat here. The atmosphere is warm and lively, and while I can’t remember our server’s name, the service was outstanding. If you want a satisfying meal that feels like a great deal, this is the place.
La Carreta Miami is a true gem! The staff was incredibly warm and welcoming, making us feel right at home from the moment we walked in. The food was absolutely delicious—comforting, flavorful, and exactly what we needed after a long day out in the sun and water. They offer a wide variety of dishes and sides, and everything tasted like it was made with care and love. A must-visit for anyone craving authentic, satisfying Cuban food!
Delicious authentic Cuban food served at this restaurant in Little Havana. Oxtail was perfectly cooked, and the Cuban sandwich was also tasty. Friendly and fast service, without having to wait in a long line unlike at Versailles across the street. Plenty of parking. All items were reasonably priced and large portions.
I’ve read this restaurant is a sister restaurant of Versailles. Their food was amazing. I do highly recommend eating here when you’re in Miami. Their braised lamb shank - Jardiniere is to die for. Chicharonnes de Pollo and Masas de Puerco is equally good as well. I don’t even know if there’s any dish that is isn’t good served in this restaurant. I can’t wait to go back.
The food was great the atmosphere is awesome you can park next door at the bank on Sunday. Didn't have no complaints far as the food goes our waitress was continuously on her phone checking her phone hiding under the counter on her phone. This is my actual only complaint my wife got the Cuban sandwich. I got the mahi-mahi was phenomenal.
We ordered the tamal and tostones and of course a cafe Cubano. The tamal was delicious. Different than a Mexican tamal, but it was flavorful, moist and evenly cooked. The waiter wasn't the friendliest person, that was a little annoying, but maybe he was having a bad day. I still recommend this restaurant!
Authentic Cuban food with plenty of options along with good portions. You can take the food to go or grab a tray and sit at their tables. There’s a bakery/coffee shop next to it. The people seemed joyful and happy to help. Below is the rating on the foods I tried: *Parcha/Passion Fruit Juice: 4/5 *Morro (rice and beans): 4/5 *Ropa Vieja: 4/5 *Yuca: 5/5 *Sopa de Pollo: 5/5 It gets pretty packed so make sure you grab your seat before you get your food.
We got the oxtail, churrasco, the Cuban sandwich, and a grilled chicken dish. The Cuban sandwich was a little inferior compared to others I’ve had, the bread just had less texture and flavor and to me, that is what makes a Cuban sandwich. Get the La Carreta special sandwich, it’s just a more flavorful Cuban. Nothing wow’ed me here, though I do recommend getting the oxtail. I was disappointed with the amount of food for the price you pay.
I haven't been here in a while and I must say it did not disappoint. The potaje and yuca croquetas were very good. I also enjoyed the Mahi Mahi en salsa criolla. What tasted different was the lechon. It seems like they changed their original recipe. It tasted like they put wine in it which is not the traditional way of making it. Our server was very attentive. Food came out quickly.
Parking can be a bit of a hastle specially that spots are limited. The only reason I would give this place a four star review instead of a full five star review rate is because we had to wait around 25 mins for our food to come out as well the water cups had like plaque like floaters that I have posted the photos of. Waiter was friendly and seemed hard working she got us a small side of bbq sauce for our meal with no extra charge. A warm basket of bread was served at the start for free.
Hello, I recently visited La Carreta, a traditional Cuban restaurant, and I wanted to say that the food was absolutely delicious and the service was quick — truly excellent. However, I feel it’s important to mention that I would recommend avoiding the waitress Maricela C. This was the third time she has served me, and unfortunately, she treated me poorly once again. Anyone else would be perfectly fine, just not her.
La Carreta is a true Miami icon in Little Havana, serving authentic Cuban food since the 1970s with that classic and cozy abuela-style comfort. Portions are generous, prices super affordable, and the food is reliably good (ropa vieja, picadillo). The maduros are absolutely delicious, perfectly sweet. They steal the show! Friendly service and great value make it a solid go-to for real Cuban cravings.
I enjoyed this little restaurant with my wife when we visited Miami. We wanted to go to an authentic "home grown" Miami restaurant, and we succeeded. The food was really good and tasted like it came out of the kitchen of an old lady with all the best recipes. :-) It would help to know a little Spanish because there were no English speakers when we went there but, my wife speaks spanish so we were good. I am doing my best to learn the language.
Staff is very friendly and nice, they will give you great recommendations. The food was okay, nothing extraordinary, except for the lamb that was excellent according to my husband. Service is a bit slow, but nothing crazy. My children got the chicken breast and said they liked it. We had a good time.
The restaurant was nostalgic in nature, had plenty of seating and very little wait time. The service was pleasant, well informed and polite. The atmosphere was good and AC was On! The seafood dish was flavorful and well presented. It could have been hotter though. The scallops, shrimp, mussels, clams & calamar were hot and the sauce had zezt. i The garlic toast was tasty. Keep improving!
We visited La Carreta and overall had an acceptable experience. The piña colada was excellent — well-made and refreshing. Our server, Jessica, was friendly and attentive, which we really appreciated. We started with the mixed croquettes, which were tasty. For the main courses, I had the churrasco and my girlfriend had the breaded fish. Both dishes had good flavor, but nothing particularly special or memorable. The dessert, however, was the highlight — the cheesecake flan was delicious. One downside was the lack of proper background music. It was so low that the noise from the kitchen and nearby conversations became too noticeable, which affected the overall ambiance. In summary, good food, excellent service from Jessica, but the atmosphere could use improvement to enhance the dining experience.
I couldn't be happier with the attention from our server, he was friendly and fast bringing our orders and the check. The food was good the deserts and the coffee were great, the portions of the main dishes weren't as big as I expected compared with another similar places. What I totally unapproved is the cleaning of the bathrooms and outside area, the girls bathrooms was so disgusting that I prefer not going deeper in comments, and the outside place I could see how a girl supposed to be picking up trash from the floor but she was just chatting and not picking even the big bag that the ventanita people let fly from inside their space. Overall I love the desserts, coffee and service.
It's been a long time since I've been here. I used to come here very often years ago. They used to open 24 hrs. Not anymore. Now they close at 11PM. The food was way better back then and the location was in much better condition as well. Seems a bit run down now. On arrival we were welcome by the hostess. Very nice young lady and she was very nice. Our server was very nice as well. Can't complain about that. Unfortunately, the food was just ok. Nothing to rave about. The thing that turned me off the most was the bathroom. The bathroom wasn't terrible but it definitely needed some attention. Too much urine on the floor by the urinals. Too much garbage. You could tell that it had been a while since someone checked on it. The worst part is that the hand soap dispenser was not working. No soap was coming out doesn't matter how much I tried. That's a big no no for me. Cooks have to use the bathroom as well, you know what I mean?? No bueno. A dirty bathroom kills anyone's appetite. I hope that they get on it and pay more attention to it. The people were nice but the place need some TLC. Thank you very much for checking in. Have a blessed and safe day.
Cute authentic Cuban spot. The service was okay not the best. I ordered the seafood paella. That was okay too. I wasn't too fond of the soupy texture of it. The coconut flan was amazing and the cafecito was made to perfection. The restaurant was big with lots of tables and lots of people. I personally like the smaller more personable places. Overall they were okay and I'm glad I got to experience it.
Food tastes awesome I can't deny that the service is not bad.but I do have a complaint and is that the table attendant rook my plate before I even finish that is so unprofessional they should wait until the costumer tell them is done. Sorry but I is not nice when you like what you eating and some just come and take your food away like that.
Came here on a weekday afternoon around 3. Was planning on going to Versailles but the line was too long so came here instead. They were out of plantain chips, which we were really looking forward to. We got the yucca fries, pan con lechon (pork sandwich), and churrasco dishes as well as a mojito. The churrasco was hands down the best dish, the meat was cooked perfectly and the chimichurri sauce was great too. The pan con lechon was pretty dry and we wished they had cooked onions inside instead of raw ones. The mojito also just tasted like straight rum after a few sips. Afterwards we also picked up some guava pastries from outside at the pastry counter, which were good, would recommend to anyone who hasn't tried it before.
The food was good here and this location came highly recommended by my hotel since it’s the OG location on Felipe Valls road named after the founder of Versailles and La Carreta. Next time I’d like to try Versailles and it’s conjoined bakery and famous espresso. Onion soup was served warm and it was still quite good, the sampler items were a bit dry and very bland so I had to keep adding hot sauce to my preference. Staff is friendly and genuinely look like they enjoy working here, and there is also free wifi and free parking out front. Non-Spanish speakers will feel a bit out of place here. The interior is your average diner with long counter and barstools, and has lots of character.
The Daiquiri was small. The Tostones filled with shrimp weren't flavorful. The Arros Moros was also dry. The music was definitely not Cuban. This was my first time at La Carreta after being told that it was actually better than Versalles across the street, which I know well. I think that I'll go back to Versalles. Nice pictures of Cuba on the walls.
Palomilla bistec was thick and small, the roast pork (lechon asado) was old, the shrimp on my salad smelled very strong, unpleasant, the salad it self was stale. Friend couple said they had trouble sleeping that night. On the positive side, our waitress was very sweet and attentive.
I had the arrow con pollo. It was rather dry. My company had the steak sandwich they said it was OK. The server was a bit rude when speaking with us. She got a little sweeter when it was time to tip though. I've been going to this place since I was just a small boy. The quality of the food has been going down slowly over the years. A lot of places in Miami have been going down hill for the past decade or so especially ones that franchise out. I will say the mojito was pretty good good.
It’s sad to come from so far and find mediocre service. Sorry Victor but you need to work on your customer service skills. It was a total disaster. As for the food the pastelitos de carne are a must and the croquet’s de bacalao also. Chicharon de pollo and bistec de palomilla really good as well. Food runner (blond kid) super sweet and respectful.
I was there for dinner and the place was pretty empty. I had to wait a while for the waiter to come to me. And she had a bad attitude towards me the whole time! I asked for some fries and they were not fresh but saggy and cold! I called the lady and told her what happened and she brought me the same French fries just tried to make them look like they were a different order! Horrible food and service that night!
The restaurant has a lot of sitting so we didn’t have to wait in the line up although it was a Sunday afternoon. It took us a long time to be served and orders be taken. I liked trying the plantain soup, sweet plantain and green plantain sides. The fish and french fries weren’t tasty but I liked the breaded steak and Maros Rice! In general, the food was greasy but the drinks are all good, especially the mango drink from fresh fruits.The tables were clean but not the restrooms, the restroom I used didn’t have toilette papers. They also charge 18% service charge if you are a group of 6 or more!
So disappointing! I have visited almost all La Carreta so far , this one has to be the worst one ! And is so sad , being in front of Versailles(which i love) and on a location so key to cubans. I don’t always like food at la carreta but at all other locations i have absolutely enjoyed the ambiance and decoration, here floors are dirty , chairs are broken, ac is not working on a HOT SUMMER DAY ! Please fix the AC. They lady server we got dedicated her self to bring down cuban culture and to make look like hospitality cubans are famous for is a fake statement, again so heart breaking to act like that around your own people. Food was far from edible , fish one of the worst things i had tried and the boliche … simply not words, i didn’t even finished. Coffee is always great and the flan was on point. Overall i will still recommend La Carreta but I DO NOT RECOMMEND THIS LOCATION nor will i be back
The croquetas were frozen in the middle. The beans were room temp, not warm or hot. The fries were cold and stale. This is not the Carreta of the 1980s and 90s when it was in it's prime. The food quality has gone down the drain. I've tried it various times in the past three years and it only keeps getting worst. Sorry to write this of what used to be one of the best Cuban restaurants in Miami but it's no longer. Wish the old cooks and their original recipes would come back. :(
My wife ordered Arroz imperial and they gave her some yellow rice with some chicken with some melted mozzarella dried out and I ordered two traditional Cuban sandwiches and all I got was one slice of what look tobe one thin slice of pork and one slice of ham and a slice of swiss cheese mostly bread no good , I have been goin to that restaurant since the 70 s Definitely not going back
After 35 Years of coming to this retaurant, tonight was my last time. The food was first delivered raw and then when I ordered something else and told them I did not eat ham, they placed ham hidden within the sandwhich. Finally, I was told they would remove the sandwhich from my bill but when the bill came they still charged me for it. When I brought it to the waitress attention, the manager came out and then proceeded to lie to me, by telling me they never said they would remove the sandwhich from my bill. After getting into an argument, the manager removed the sandwhich. Never again will I walk into any of the Carretta or Versailles restaurants. Receipt 908 Table 32 11/11/25 8:39pm
The food we ordered was 2 Cuban 2 pastelitos empanadas tequeño and other items the most disgusting food the meats amount in the sandwich was minimal and the quality tasted like old meat we ended up throwing everything away is even about the money but quality lost a customer and will make sure people know not to eat at this place ever .the two sandwiches and everything else trash not worth good poisoning I bought it at the walk up window.
I recently visited this restaurant during a trip to Miami for my sister’s 21st birthday and unfortunately had a disappointing experience with the service. Upon arrival, we were greeted by an older lady who kindly told us to take a seat anywhere. We chose a table that was less crowded, as there were several open spots available. Shortly after, a younger waiter approached us and told us “no,” insisting we sit in a different area near other guests. We didn’t mind and moved without complaint. However, after we sat down, the same waiter continued to stare at us and offered no greeting or acknowledgment. After a couple of minutes, he dropped off a drink menu and three food menus without saying a single word before walking away. At that point, we decided to leave. While I understand busy environments can be challenging, the lack of communication and hospitality made us feel unwelcome. I hope the management takes this feedback into consideration to ensure guests have a more positive experience in the future.
I had a very disappointing experience at this restaurant. The cashiers handling the take-out orders provide very poor customer service. They make delivery drivers wait around 30 minutes because they refuse to bring out individual orders from the kitchen. Instead, they wait until they have 10 orders at once and then start calling them out all together, as if they were giving food away for free. The attitude is unacceptable, especially toward humble delivery workers who are simply trying to do their jobs. The two cashiers spend most of their time talking to each other, not paying attention, and when you politely ask about your order, they give you a rude look as if you’re bothering them. Customer service should be respectful and professional. Unfortunately, this place fails badly in that area.
Food didn't taste so good how it used taste before like 10 years ago.. I ordered a breadedhicken steak and it was soggy oily and the taste was pure grease. The rice looked gross too, sticky and old. It was really a shame to have gotten back after so many years away and not flavoring the same taste.
A white man, black man, and Latino walk in togethor. Hostess was the only nice one. The waitresses were none existent after our order was taken. Never came back to check how we were doing. No refills. Everyone else around us they were using words on endearment while we got silence. Never again coming here.
This restaurant is absolutely one of the worst experiences I’ve ever had. We waited over 45 minutes just for someone to take our order, and the restaurant was not even busy. There was absolutely no excuse for this kind of neglect. We are patient people, but patience has limits. What made the situation even more upsetting was noticing that a family of three with a baby was immediately given bread while they waited, and a gentleman at another table was also served bread and had his order taken quickly. My daughter politely asked the gentleman and a lady at that table if they had ordered the bread, and both said no. They explained that bread is normally brought out before the meal. Clearly, this courtesy did not apply to us. The service from both the waitress and the manager was disappointing and unprofessional. After waiting an hour and a half, our order was finally taken, and then we waited even longer for the food to arrive. By the time it came, the experience was already ruined. I have eaten Cuban food at the restaurant across the street, and there is simply no comparison. The food there is far better, and the service is respectful and attentive, everything this place failed to provide. I will never return. And if the way we were treated was influenced by racism, then that speaks volumes about the ignorance behind this establishment.
The food was honestly not good. I had the yellow rice with chicken. It was quite bland. It came with plantains, which was the best tasting item I had. The service was awful, our waitress did not stop by once to check up on us. She checked up on every other customer multiple times while we were there for over 40 minutes. Probably because we were the only table with a black person. The only person that was somewhat nice was the greeter at the front. Flee out of town and this place was recommended to us. I recommend to stay away especially if you're a person of darker complexion.
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3632 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33135
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3632 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33135
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What people say about La Carreta Cuban Cuisine
La Carreta: Miami's Enduring Cuban Comfort
When you talk about Cuban food in Miami, La Carreta is a name that always comes up. It’s one of those spots that feels like it’s been here forever, a true pillar of the local culinary scene. For many, it’s a go-to for an authentic taste of home, whether it’s for a quick breakfast, a hearty lunch, or a satisfying dinner.The draw here is undeniably the food that often evokes the feeling of home-cooked meals from a seasoned abuela. Patrons consistently rave about the genuine flavors. Start your
La Carreta: Miami's Heartbeat, Served on a Plate in Little Havana
Alright, listen up. If you're serious about eating your way through Miami, there's one spot that isn't just a restaurant; it's a pilgrimage. We're talking about La Carreta, a true institution planted firmly on Calle Ocho in Little Havana. Forget the glossy tourist traps; this is where Miami’s Cuban soul beats loudest, and it’s been serving up authentic flavors since the 1970s.Stepping inside La Carreta feels like being instantly transported. The vibe is unapologetically old-school Cuban – dar...
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