Miami vs. Tampa: Which City Makes the Best Cuban Sandwich?

Miami's ever-evolving culinary landscape over the last few decades has made supporting landmark restaurants more critical than ever before. As a local food writer known as Burger Beast since 2008, and now a New Times contributor, I've made it my mission to share the history of these iconic institutions and, in this case, something near and dear to me: a Florida story about the Cuban sandwich.

In Florida, the Cuban sandwich, or cubano, is a universal symbol of comfort food. Its essence takes on different forms in Miami and Tampa, with each city claiming to have a definitive version.

The rivalry between Tampa and Miami can get as heated as the planchas that press their sandwiches, but at the heart of this rivalry are the legendary restaurants and bakeries that make them, and the devoted locals who champion their favorites.

The Tampa Cuban Sandwich

In Tampa, the Cuban sandwich reflects the city's rich multicultural history. The inclusion of salami — a nod to the Italian immigrants who worked in Ybor City's cigar factories alongside Cuban and Spanish laborers — is Tampa's most significant mark of distinction.

At the heart of this tradition is Columbia Restaurant, Florida's oldest restaurant, established in 1905. Columbia proudly serves a Tampa-style Cuban sandwich that embodies its multi-ethnic roots. "The addition of Genoa salami is what sets us apart," says Richard Gonzmart, a descendant of the restaurant's founders. "It's not just a sandwich — it's a story on bread."

La Segunda Bakery has been synonymous with Cuban bread in Tampa since 1915 and continues to uphold its bread traditions. Adding a fresh palmetto leaf on top of the dough to create the signature split is a nod to Old World techniques, giving the bread its signature look and feel.

A shining star of Tampa's Cuban sandwich scene is Las Palmas Latin Grill, a five-time winner of the Cuban Sandwich Festival. Las Palmas' sandwich layers roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, mustard, and salami on Cuban bread. "We use the best ingredients and give it all the love it deserves," says Ramses Garcia, chef and owner at Las Palmas.

The sandwich partly owes its texture and flavor to the bread, sourced daily from Casino Bakery, a Tampa institution celebrated for its airy interior and crisp crust. Casino Bakery's Cuban bread ensures the sandwich retains its integrity when pressed. Casino Bakery's history can be traced back to mid-1800s Cuba, later Key West (1918), with its eventual opening in 1946 in Tampa.

The Miami Cubano

In Miami, the Cuban sandwich takes a more minimalist approach, focusing on honoring traditional Cuban flavors. The emphasis is on simplicity — no salami, just the essentials.

The Cuban sandwich is a masterpiece of straightforward perfection at Versailles, the "World's Most Famous Cuban Restaurant," in Little Havana. Roast pork marinated in mojo, sweet ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, mustard, and crusty Cuban bread come together in a pressed delight that speaks to Miami's Cuban-American heritage.

Another Miami gem is Luis Galindo Latin American (898 SW 57th Ave.), where the Cuban sandwich is a cornerstone of the menu. Its version showcases perfectly seasoned pork served on bread from the Latin American Bakery and Cafe right next door. The bakery is known for its dedication to quality, ensuring each sandwich is served on authentic, flavorful Cuban bread.

Who Does It Better?

As I mentioned, the rivalry between Tampa and Miami can get as heated as the planchas that press their sandwiches. Tampa locals argue their version captures the city's diverse cultural influences. "It's the story of Tampa in every bite," says Gina Lopez, a lifelong Tampa resident.

Miamians, on the other hand, insist that the simplicity of their version speaks to Cuban culinary tradition. "The Miami Cuban sandwich is all about authenticity — no distractions, just the essentials. There's no need for salami," says Eddie Ulloa, a West Miami native.

Luis Galindo's owner, Alberto Elias, adds, "In Miami, we let the ingredients shine. There's no need for extras when you've got the right balance of flavors."

I Highly Recommend a Florida Cuban Sandwich Road Trip

A culinary journey across Florida is necessary for those who want to experience both versions. Begin in Tampa at Las Palma Cafe Grill to sample their award-winning Cuban sandwich. Be sure to pick up a loaf from Casino Bakery or La Segunda Bakery to enjoy later. Then, visit Columbia Restaurant to immerse yourself in the city's rich culinary history.

After hitting up Tampa, make the drive down south to Miami to taste the offerings at Versailles, where the sandwich is a cultural icon, and Luis Galindo Latin American, where every bite speaks to tradition. Then, stop by Latin American Bakery and Cafe to grab Cuban bread.

Is It a Draw?

Whether Tampa's multicultural medley or Miami's purist perfection is your favorite, the Cuban sandwich is more than just an afternoon snack. The Cubano symbolizes Florida's diverse culinary heritage.

Both versions have their merits, telling the story of two cities united by their love for this iconic sandwich. And while you won't catch me picking a favorite... Tampa's Cuban bread has a leg up on Miami's version. Sorry, not sorry.