Cafe La Trova
Open
Cafe La Trova
OpenUntil 12:00 AM·$$$·$31-50 per person·Cuban
Retro Cuban cocktails, live Trova music, and James Beard-winning cuisine on Calle Ocho
CubanCasual Dining$$$Calle OchoMichelin RecommendedTravelers' Choice 2025 2025Diners' Choice – Best Ambiance Miami+3 moreView Menu
About Cafe La Trova
Highlights
Group Celebrations
Date Night
Late Night
Signature Lechon
Signature Crispy Fried Snapper
Live Entertainment
Private Events
Reservations Recommended
Dining Essentials
Dress Code
Smart Casual
Typical Visit
2-3 hours
Chef
Michelle Bernstein
Verified
9.1
/10Service
9.0
Ambience
10.0
Food Quality
9.0
Value for Money
8.0
Location
9.0
Score derived from 500+ public reviews
Scored on published criteria from real guest data. Ranks are never for sale. How we rank →
Buzzing
DaysFriday and Saturday
Times7:00 PM–midnight
Relaxed
DaysWeeknights
Times4:00–6:00 PM
Reservations are recommended. They offer a happy hour — ask about current specials. A typical dinner runs $31-50 per person. Valet parking is available.
Open Until 12:00 AM
Monday4:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Tuesday4:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Wednesday4:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Thursday4:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Friday4:00 PM – 2:00 AM
Saturday4:00 PM – 2:00 AM
Sunday4:00 PM – 12:00 AM
The Experience
Category
Amenities
Live EntertainmentPrivate EventsReservations RecommendedLive MusicLivelyWheelchair AccessibleTrendyWine ListPet-FriendlyAccessible RestroomCredit Cards AcceptedBeer Selection
Signature Dishes
View full menu →Lechon
Slow-roasted pork served with steamed yuca and tangerine mojo.
Crispy Fried Snapper
Whole crispy fried snapper over puréed malanga, topped with warm soy broth.
Arroz Con Pollo
Bomba rice with saffron, cerveza, and free-range chicken braised in its own juices.
Cuban Sandwich Empanadas
A creative Cuban-inspired twist on the classic empanada.
Jamón Serrano Croquetas
Classic Spanish-Cuban croquetas filled with jamón serrano.
Hotel Nacional
Signature digestif cocktail made with pineapple rum and apricot liqueur.
What People Love
Live Music & Atmosphere: Reviewers consistently describe the atmosphere as vibrant, festive, and energetic, with the live Trova music frequently cited as a highlight that encourages guests to get up and dance.
Cocktails: The handcrafted cocktails are repeatedly called 'amazing' and 'outstanding,' with multiple reviewers noting they are unlike anything found elsewhere in Miami.
Food Quality: Dishes like arroz con pollo, crispy fried snapper, and lechon receive strong praise for their authentic Cuban flavors and creative presentation.
Authentic Cuban Experience: Multiple reviewers highlight Café La Trova as the go-to spot to share an authentic Cuban cultural experience with out-of-town guests, calling it unlike anything found in other cities.
Know Before You Go
- Reservations are strongly recommended — the venue books up quickly, especially on Friday and Saturday nights.
- Valet and street parking are both available on-site.
- Happy hour runs daily from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM — a great window to enjoy cocktails before the dinner rush.
- On select late nights, the venue transitions to an '80s music party from midnight to 2 AM after live music ends.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Listing details verified February 2026.Report a closure or change