Las Olas Cafe is a beloved authentic Cuban cafeteria and hidden gem in South Beach, serving homemade-style Latin and Cuban favorites with generous portions, fresh ingredients, and a casual, neighborhood vibe right off Washington Avenue. This laid-back spot features indoor/outdoor seating (including a dog-friendly patio for people-watching), a walk-up window for quick grabs, strong café con leche, and that classic Miami Cuban comfort food feel—perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a quick bite any day.
Phone: (305) 534-9333
Address: 644 6th St, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Hours: Open daily 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM (or until 9:00 PM some days; check for updates)
Savor standout items like the famous Cuban sandwich (voted #1 on the beach in past accolades), pan con lechon, steak sandwich, homemade beef empanadas, croquetas, fresh-squeezed natural juices, café con leche or cortadito (some of the best value in South Beach), avocado toast, vegan breakfast burrito, breakfast potatoes, and popsicles. Portions are huge, with hearty all-day options including lechon dishes and fresh sides for that authentic, home-cooked taste. Our go to order is the scrambled egg sandwich with ham that is big enough for two.
Averaging 4.3–4.4 stars across platforms (including 4.3/5 on Yelp from over 1,265 reviews and 4.4/5 on Tripadvisor from 605+ reviews with Travelers’ Choice status in the top 10%), guests rave about the authentic Cuban flavors, generous portions, flavorful signatures (especially the Cubano, empanadas, lechon, and unbeatable coffee/juices), friendly staff, great value (especially for coffee and sandwiches), casual patio vibe, and convenient location for quick, satisfying eats. It's often called a local favorite with that "taste from home" quality amid South Beach's scene.
Common complaints include recent price increases (not as cheap as before), occasional slow service or long waits (especially at peak times or for made-to-order items), inconsistencies in preparation (missing ingredients or not always fresh/hot), minor sanitation concerns (e.g., bathroom issues in some 2025 reviews), and variable experiences with bowls or fish dishes. Recent 2025–2026 feedback shows sustained praise for core items like sandwiches and coffee but notes some service and price gripes.
A longtime South Beach staple voted Best Cuban Sandwich by Miami New Times in 2006 and featured in guides like Jane & Michael Stern's '500 Things to Eat Before It's Too Late,' Las Olas Cafe holds strong as a top quick-bite spot (#2 of 75 Quick Bites on Tripadvisor) in Miami Beach's vibrant food landscape. Whether for the legendary Cubano, strong café con leche, fresh juices, or a casual patio hang, it's a reliable go-to for authentic Cuban food and best Cuban sandwich in South Beach without the tourist hype.
Plan your visit today—great for takeout, delivery, outdoor seating, or a quick window order! Discover why Las Olas Cafe remains one of Miami Beach's most cherished spots for Cuban sandwiches, café con leche, and hearty Latin comfort.
We cut through the hype and break down food and vibe — so you know what’s worth your time and what isn’t.
