Doug G.
Yelp
There are a couple of Havana 1957 locations in South Beach with this particular spot being at the corner of Espanola Way and Ocean Drive.
As I walking down Ocean Drive, I was trying to find a spot where I could take in the Miami vibe, while also getting a taste of some quality Cuban food. A quick search on Yelp and a happened walk-by, and I found myself at Havana 1957!
I was quickly welcomed in and sat on the covered patio. While the day was not blazing, it was a typical overcast day in Miami, so hot. I am usually not an outside sitter, but given the coverage, the fans and of course he people watching, I just had to today. Waitress came by and I tossed in a Mango Mojito to start while I browsed the menu. I knew I wanted either some form of Ropa Vieja and/or an empanada as part of my meal, and to my surprise they had Ropa Vieja Empanadas! The app came with two good sized, perfectly fried empanadas that were filled with shredded beef and sided with a sweet pineapple dipping sauce. The pineapple sauce was a bit thin, so I did not capture much while eating, but the steak and sauce in the empanadas was enough.
For my main I decided to go with the Shredded Crispy Chicken with white rice and black beans. The chicken was crispy from being pan fried, while still juicy from the sizing of the pieces along with being topped with sliced onions and lightly covered in a citrus onion sauce. The white rice and black beans, while simple, were pure perfection. Getting a full bite of rice, beans, chicken and onion was delish!
Keeping theme with great, service was stellar as well. My waitress was kind, accommodating, friendly and attentive. Hostesses were friendly and welcoming without being obnoxious on the sidewalk.
As with most places on Ocean Drive, Havana 1957 has a clear Cuban vibe that can be felt through décor, lighting, art and furniture and also heard through the speakers playing traditional Cuban music inside and out.
Overall, very happy I stumbled upon Havana 1957 on my last day in Miami. Enjoyed my time and meal, and of course that mango mojito!