6 US Cuban Sandwich Shops Reviewers Say Are Truly The Best

Few sandwiches pack as much flavor and history into each bite as the Cuban sandwich.

Born from the meeting of Cuban, Spanish, and Italian immigrant cultures, this pressed masterpiece has become an American favorite.

1. Versailles Restaurant (Miami, Florida)

Versailles Restaurant (Miami, Florida)
Image Credit: Phillip Pessar, licensed under CC BY 2.0. Via Wikimedia Commons.

Since 1971, this Little Havana landmark has served as Miami’s unofficial Cuban community center.

Their Cubano arrives golden-pressed with layers of roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on authentic Cuban bread.

Locals call it “The World’s Most Famous Cuban Restaurant” for good reason. Every bite tastes like tradition, served with a side of nostalgia.

2. La Segunda Bakery & Café (Tampa, Florida)

La Segunda Bakery & Café (Tampa, Florida)
Image Credit: LittleT889, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. Via Wikimedia Commons.

Operating since 1915, La Segunda bakes the bread that defines Tampa’s Cuban sandwich scene. Their café serves Cubanos made with loaves still warm from century-old brick ovens.

Here’s the secret: Tampa-style Cubanos add salami, making them distinctly different from Miami versions. One bite explains why this family bakery has survived five generations of changing tastes.

3. Columbia Restaurant (Tampa/Ybor City, Florida)

Columbia Restaurant (Tampa/Ybor City, Florida)
Image Credit: Infrogmation of New Orleans, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0. Via Wikimedia Commons.

Florida’s oldest restaurant opened in 1905 and still draws crowds for its legendary pressed Cubano. The atmosphere alone – think hand-painted tiles and flamenco dancers – makes every meal feel like a celebration.

Their sandwich features that Tampa-style salami twist alongside perfectly seasoned pork. Reviewers consistently praise the balance of flavors and that addictive garlic-butter finish on the bread.

4. Cubano’s (Silver Spring, Maryland)

Cubano's (Silver Spring, Maryland)
Image Credit: Farragutful, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. Via Wikimedia Commons.

Way up in Maryland, this family-owned gem brings authentic Cuban flavors to the Mid-Atlantic. Their Cubano gets pressed until the cheese melts into every crevice and the bread achieves that signature crackle.

Reviewers frequently mention the generous portions and reasonable prices. It’s proof that you don’t need to be in Florida to experience a truly outstanding Cuban sandwich.

5. Cuba Cuba Café & Bar (Denver, Colorado)

Cuba Cuba Café & Bar (Denver, Colorado)
Image Credit: Graham Hogg , licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0. Via Wikimedia Commons.

Mile-high city meets island flavors at this lively spot that’s been Denver’s Cuban headquarters since 2003. Their traditional Cubano stays true to the original recipe, no Rocky Mountain fusion nonsense here.

The pork gets slow-roasted for hours until it practically melts. Pair it with their famous mojito, and suddenly Colorado feels a whole lot closer to Havana.

6. El Palacio de los Jugos (Miami, Florida)

El Palacio de los Jugos (Miami, Florida)
Image Credit: Phillip Pessar, licensed under CC BY 2.0. Via Wikimedia Commons.

Part farmers market, part restaurant, all delicious chaos. This sprawling Miami institution serves authentic Cubanos alongside whole roasted pigs, tropical fruits, and fresh-squeezed juices.

The sandwich here tastes like Sunday dinner at your Cuban grandmother’s house.

Everything’s made from scratch daily, and the cafeteria-style service keeps prices wonderfully low despite the exceptional quality and generous portions.

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