My Visit to La Carreta
I've always heard how La Carreta is a must-visit spot for all homemade Cuban dishes cravings. Trust me when I say, they truly do know how to please! What really stood out for me is the freshness and love put into everything from the appetizers, main courses, daily specials, sides to the desserts. They are right when they say it's a full foodie delight experience!
You always know you are in for a treat when they say "save room for dessert", which I did. But obviously, not before savoring their authentic Cuban coffee, Café La Carreta. Prepared from a family's secret recipe passed down through generations, this coffee really is something to talk about. It's unique and has a distinctive flavor that sends you into pure bliss. What's amazing is how accessible it is. I found out it's available online, at any of their 9 restaurants in Miami, or through selected retailers.
But let me give you a quick history lesson on why I'm so taken by all this. When I say "La Carreta", I don't merely refer to it being the name of this charming restaurant. It means 'oxcart' in Cuban, a term used for the vehicles responsible for transporting sugar canes across the Sugar Plantations in Cuba back in the day. Here's an interesting anecdote that really made this place special for me. Post Cuba's political take-over at the end of the '60s, Cuban families looked for refuge in the USA, with many setting up home base in Miami. A growing community yearning for a taste of home led to the birth of La Carreta in the heart of Little Havana, on the famous Calle Ocho, in 1976.
Every Day At La Carreta
History and nostalgia aside, a day at La Carreta is quite an experience. Just imagine, from 8 AM to 12 AM, floods of people pour into one of the 9 outlets for some authentic Cuban food and coffee. "Abuela style" food, as they like to call it, has become a favorite not just for Cuban families but locals and tourists alike. It means "grandma-style", paying homage to true homemade, Cuban dishes. Just like I imagined, it's exactly what I was served at La Carreta.
{pros}
Incredible meals with authentic Cuban flavors.
Extensive menu covering everything from appetizers to desserts.
One of the best Cubans coffee I've ever tasted.
Very conveniently located with 9 different outlets.
Very inclusive with a special menu for kids.
{cons}
Can be crowded during peak times.
Outdoor seating could be improved.
A Culinary Adventure at La Carreta
The menu at La Carreta is nothing short of a culinary adventure. Packed with the most famous Cuban dishes, it has everything from appetizers to a long list of chicken, seafood, pork, or meat main dishes (which they call entrees), soups, salads, sandwiches and desserts. If you are ever visiting on a Tuesday like me, take my advice and opt for the Daily Special. You get a soup, main dish, two sides, and a Cuban expresso for just $12. It's a steal for the quanity and quality of food you get. All fresh, all homemade daily!
Speaking about something special, don't even get me started on Cafe la Carreta. This coffee blend is produced using a secret family recipe and the best beans from Brazil, Colombia, and Honduras. I can still taste the freshness and exceptional quality. With options to purchase it online, at the restaurant or at various retail stores, it's clear to see why it's beloved by many.
Getting access to all this yummy goodness is easy. You can order online directly from their website or opt for the pick-up option. Regardless of where you are, what time it is, you can always find a little corner of Cuba in Miami.
Did I Mention The Salads?
Yes, salads at a Cuban restaurant! La Carreta has a seperate menu just for their range of innovative salads. I recommend the La Carreta Salad and Stuffed Avocado. So trust me, there's something for everyone here.
What's On The Side?
With a whopping 14 side dishes to choose from, you can go an extra mile to compliment your meal. I particularly enjoyed the Fried Green Plantains “Tostones” and the Homemade Mashed Potatoes.
So what’s the verdict? La Carreta delivers on all fronts. The food is superb, the atmosphere is cozy and the service impeccable. A night at La Carreta provided me with a glimpse into the vibrant Cuban culture and the rich, savory flavors I’ve been missing out on. It’s undoubtedly a place I wish to return.