USA TODAY 10Best
Michelle Faedo's On The Go Wins Best Cuban in Florida Crown
Best Cuban Sandwich in Florida (2016)
There may be as many versions of the Cuban sandwich in Florida as there are Cuban sandwich shops — a lot of them! Depending on where you land in Florida this sandwich might take a different shape. Most agree on the basics: roast pork and sweet ham, Swiss cheese, pickles and mustard on Cuban bread.
From there things vary. Tampa — who claims the Cuban as their city sandwich — adds salami, but if you told a Miami Cuban purist you wanted salami you would be thrown out of the joint. Mayo, a big no-no to some purists, is widely used in Miami and Ybor City. Key West says Cubans were first made there for the cigar factories, and lettuce, tomato and red onion are often added.
USA TODAY 10Best and Sandwich America asked readers to help crown the best Cuban sandwiches in the state of Florida. Voting took place over the course of four weeks, and now the results are in.
The top 10 winners in the category Best Cuban Sandwich in Florida are as follows:
- Sandy's Café - Key West
- Bodega - St. Petersburg
- Zaza New Cuban Diner - Orlando
- The Floridian - Tampa
- Havana Cuban Food - West Palm Beach
- Columbia Restaurant - Tampa
- El Meson de Pepe - Key West
- Horsin Around Deli - North Fort Myers
- Fernandez the Bull - Naples
- Michelle Faedo's On The Go - Tampa
Photo courtesy of Claudia Miller
No. 10:
Housed at the end of a laundromat in Key West, Sandy's Cafe serves authentic Cuban food through an unassuming takeout window. Don't let appearances fool you! This sandwich keeps locals (including a loyal group of Cuban expats) coming back again and again. This massive sandwich comes stuffed with pork, ham, mustard, mayo, lettuce and tomato.
Photo courtesy of Visit St. Petersburg/Clearwater
No. 9:
Located in the beautiful beachfront town of St. Petersburg just outside of Tampa, Bodega prepares "Latin Street Food" using the best, freshest ingredients. Their Cuban sandwich includes roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles and mayo. Not the traditional Tampa Cuban (no salami) but a simple and delicious version in a beautiful setting.
Photo courtesy of Zaza New Cuban Diner
No. 8:
From Cuba to New York to Orlando, this restaurant is result of the great American dream. Zaza New Cuban Diner offers more than just traditional recipes, they pride themselves on their friendly neighborhood feel and the philosophy that “Cubans Don’t Skip Meals” and neither should you! Their classic variation of the Cubano comes with fresh roast pork, deli ham, Swiss cheese, mustard and pickles on toasted Cuban bread.
Photo courtesy of The Floridian
No. 7:
This Tampa spot claims to have the “Finest Cuban Sandwich on the Planet.” Although it hasn’t won that particular title, it has received plenty of accolades for the Best Cuban in Tampa, and given the density of Cuban restaurants in the city, that just might make it the best on the planet. This sandwich is a Tampa classic loaded with ham, mojo-spiced pork, Genoa Salami, imported Swiss cheese, dill pickle and a spread of mayo/mustard mix.
Photo courtesy of Havana Cuban Food
No. 6:
Founded by Robert Reyes, his daughter Martha and her husband Rafael Perez in 1993, Havana Cuban Food strives to serve the “Best Cuban Food in Town!” Their Sandwich Cubano is billed as a classic variation with ham, pork and Swiss cheese, steamed and hot pressed to perfection on Cuban bread. The pickles and mustard are optional. A truly simplistic, purist version of the Cuban. Simple, perfect, delicious.
Photo courtesy of Columbia Restaurant
No. 5:
Columbia Restaurant was founded by Cuban immigrant Casimiro Hernandez, Sr. and stands today as Florida’s oldest. The most detailed item on the menu is “The Original Cuban Sandwich - A Tampa treasure!" Today they still use the original 1915 recipe of the Columbia founder with the same proportions of meat and each ingredient layered on top of one another, placed on Cuban bread brushed with butter and pressed to a crispy finish.
Photo courtesy of El Meson de Pepe
No. 4:
Opened more than 30 years ago by Chef Pepe Diaz and family, El Meson de Pepe celebrates the great quality food and Cuban heritage of Key West. Their Cayo Hueso Cuban Mix epitomizes the Key West version of the traditional Cuban sandwich and is served with all the trimmings: sugar-glazed ham, roast pork, Swiss cheese, lettuce, mustard, tomatoes and mayo on crispy pressed Cuban bread.
Photo courtesy of Horsin Around Deli
No. 3:
Perfectly pressed and delicious, the "world famous" Cuban sandwich at Horsin Around Deli is considered by many to be among the best variations in South Florida. One Facebook reviewer regularly drives 40 minutes just for their Cuban, which comes with roast pork, ham, salami, Swiss cheese, mayo, mustard and pickles.
Photo courtesy of Fernandez the Bull
No. 2:
There are two offerings of the Cuban sandwich at Fernandez the Bull in Naples, the “Traditional Cuban” with a thin layer of the house roasted pork or the “Fernandez Cuban,” which is overflowing with roast pork. With a 29-year history, this is one Cuban you don't want to miss.
Photo courtesy of Michelle Faedo's On The Go / Facebook
No. 1:
Tampa native Michelle and her husband Robert say Cubans are in their blood. Given the humble origins and working man appeal of the Cuban, it's only fitting that a food truck is known for serving one of the best Cuban sandwiches in Florida. Michelle is lauded by her followers (literally they follow her truck around) for putting love and attention into every aspect of her Cuban creation, which includes honey ham, pork roasted in house, handmade pickles and La Segunda bread — considered the best in Tampa. She has been awarded the best Cuban several times at the Cuban Sandwich Festival held every year in the Tampa area, and anyone who has tried it agrees.
A panel of experts picked the initial 20 nominees, and the top 10 winners were determined by popular vote. Experts Gina Birch (The Birch Beat), Kara Franker (10Best Local Expert), Krayl Funch (An Appealing Plan), Claudia Miller (KeysClaudia), Kristopher Neild (10Best Local Expert) Skye Rodgers (10Best Local Expert) and Chelle Koster Walton (10Best Local Expert) were selected based on their knowledge of the Florida Cuban food scene.
Other restaurants nominated in this category included Aguila Sandwich Shop in Tampa, Carmine's in Tampa, Casa Rojas Cuban Bakery in Cape Coral, El Siboney Restaurant in Key West, Enriqueta's in Miami, Gaspar's Grotto in Tampa, JR's Old Packinghouse Cafe in Sarasota, Martha's Cuban Cafe in Fort Myers, Versailles in Miami and West Tampa Sandwich Shop in Tampa.
10Best and Sandwich America extend a big congratulations to all our winning sandwich spots n Florida!
About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards
Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best.
The Experts
Chelle Koster Walton
Chelle Koster Walton — the Local Expert for... Read More
Chelle Koster Walton — the Local Expert for Naples, Florida and the Caribbean — has been covering the destination for 30 years. Her top-selling Sarasota, Sanibel Island, and Naples guidebook (Countryman Press) is in its sixth edition. She was contributing editor for Caribbean Travel & Life for 12 years and has written guidebooks on the Bahamas. A veteran travel writer, Chelle has published thousands of articles for Miami Herald, USA TODAY, Latitudes; has written/contributed to a dozen guidebooks, and produces travel shows for the local PBS station.
Chelle Koster Walton
Chelle Koster Walton — the Local Expert for Naples, Florida and the Caribbean — has been covering the destination for 30 years. Her top-selling Sarasota, Sanibel Island, and Naples guidebook (Countryman Press) is in its sixth edition. She was contributing editor for Caribbean Travel & Life for 12 years and has written guidebooks on the Bahamas. A veteran travel writer, Chelle has published thousands of articles for Miami Herald, USA TODAY, Latitudes; has written/contributed to a dozen guidebooks, and produces travel shows for the local PBS station.
Claudia Miller
Claudia Miller has been writing about South... Read More
Claudia Miller has been writing about South Florida for over 17 years--seven from Key Largo. A budding photographer, she can usually be found stalking a sunset. Despite being a tad uncoordinated, she tries new adventures like parasailing for the sake of her readers. Passionate about sharing the Florida Keys, she hosts the monthly #flkeys Twitter chat and was the Keys Contributor for Florida Travel + Life magazine for six years. Other publications include: Keynoter, Key Largo Visitors Guide and Time Out Guide to Miami & the Florida Keys. Join Claudia as she plays tourist in her own backyard at KeysClaudia.com.
Claudia Miller
Claudia Miller has been writing about South Florida for over 17 years--seven from Key Largo. A budding photographer, she can usually be found stalking a sunset. Despite being a tad uncoordinated, she tries new adventures like parasailing for the sake of her readers. Passionate about sharing the Florida Keys, she hosts the monthly #flkeys Twitter chat and was the Keys Contributor for Florida Travel + Life magazine for six years. Other publications include: Keynoter, Key Largo Visitors Guide and Time Out Guide to Miami & the Florida Keys. Join Claudia as she plays tourist in her own backyard at KeysClaudia.com.
Gina Birch
Gina carries the rare title of "Native Floridian".... Read More
Gina carries the rare title of "Native Floridian". Living in Southwest Florida for more than 20 years, she is a well known, award winning radio and TV personality. She also writes for a number of regional publications and is the former publisher of a restaurant guide. A self-proclaimed Oenophile, she travels to wine regions all over the world. She also co-hosts a wine themed podcast on NPR1 called Grape Minds. Having a passion for travel in general she also loves exploring beaches, new cities and new restaurants. You can find more of her musings in her blog "The Birch Beat" (www.thebirchbeat.blogspot.com)
Gina Birch
Gina carries the rare title of "Native Floridian". Living in Southwest Florida for more than 20 years, she is a well known, award winning radio and TV personality. She also writes for a number of regional publications and is the former publisher of a restaurant guide. A self-proclaimed Oenophile, she travels to wine regions all over the world. She also co-hosts a wine themed podcast on NPR1 called Grape Minds. Having a passion for travel in general she also loves exploring beaches, new cities and new restaurants. You can find more of her musings in her blog "The Birch Beat" (www.thebirchbeat.blogspot.com)
Jennifer Daskevich
After winning the World Sandwich Championships,... Read More
After winning the World Sandwich Championships, Jennifer took her love of America’s first and still favorite “hand held device” better known as the sandwich, and founded Sandwich America, America’s comprehensive sandwich driven meal occasion platform. Jennifer believes that “a sandwich is the only food genre that is good for breakfast, lunch, dinner, dessert, or a snack.” Jennifer has won numerous cooking competitions and is a restaurateur, wine sommelier, award winning food photographer, TV food personality with NBC Affiliate WFLA in Tampa and appeared on FYI’s original series World Food Championships. She looks forward to embarking on The Great American Sandwich Trail this summer. Socialize with Sandwich America on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
Jennifer Daskevich
After winning the World Sandwich Championships, Jennifer took her love of America’s first and still favorite “hand held device” better known as the sandwich, and founded Sandwich America, America’s comprehensive sandwich driven meal occasion platform. Jennifer believes that “a sandwich is the only food genre that is good for breakfast, lunch, dinner, dessert, or a snack.” Jennifer has won numerous cooking competitions and is a restaurateur, wine sommelier, award winning food photographer, TV food personality with NBC Affiliate WFLA in Tampa and appeared on FYI’s original series World Food Championships. She looks forward to embarking on The Great American Sandwich Trail this summer. Socialize with Sandwich America on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
Kara Franker
A purveyor of the coastal life and a self-admitted... Read More
A purveyor of the coastal life and a self-admitted beach addict, Kara is a travel writer obsessed with all things Florida. A former NFL cheerleader turned lawyer, Kara ditched the courtroom for the opportunity to write and travel.
Kara Franker
A purveyor of the coastal life and a self-admitted beach addict, Kara is a travel writer obsessed with all things Florida. A former NFL cheerleader turned lawyer, Kara ditched the courtroom for the opportunity to write and travel.
Krayl Funch
An accomplished Food Media and Lifestyle Expert,... Read More
An accomplished Food Media and Lifestyle Expert, Krayl was raised in Connecticut, growing up in a family that regularly hosted family gatherings. Currently residing in Tampa Bay, she is a passionate entertainer who easily blends her New England roots with her new appreciation of Southern hospitality. Krayl’s passions include creating seasonally inspired features for her blog AnAppealingPlan.com, as well as publishing her first full color book, An Appealing Plan: A Year of Everyday Celebrations. Both are filled with seasonal decorating inspiration, tempting recipes and creative tablescapes designed to encourage others to celebrate everyday and each season to its fullest. Krayl has been featured on several national TV, radio and print mediums, including ABC News, DaytimeTV Show, Tampa Bay METRO Magazine, HFN, The St Petersburg Times, and her own YouTube Channel. You can follow Krayl on Instagram and Twitter and at An Appealing Plan.
Krayl Funch
An accomplished Food Media and Lifestyle Expert, Krayl was raised in Connecticut, growing up in a family that regularly hosted family gatherings. Currently residing in Tampa Bay, she is a passionate entertainer who easily blends her New England roots with her new appreciation of Southern hospitality. Krayl’s passions include creating seasonally inspired features for her blog AnAppealingPlan.com, as well as publishing her first full color book, An Appealing Plan: A Year of Everyday Celebrations. Both are filled with seasonal decorating inspiration, tempting recipes and creative tablescapes designed to encourage others to celebrate everyday and each season to its fullest. Krayl has been featured on several national TV, radio and print mediums, including ABC News, DaytimeTV Show, Tampa Bay METRO Magazine, HFN, The St Petersburg Times, and her own YouTube Channel. You can follow Krayl on Instagram and Twitter and at An Appealing Plan.
Kristopher Neild
Kris is a South Florida resident, living close to the coast in West Palm Beach.
Kris is a South Florida resident, living close to the coast in West Palm Beach.
Kristopher Neild
Kris is a South Florida resident, living close to the coast in West Palm Beach.
Skye Rodgers
Skye Rodgers is a seasoned travel writer who fell... Read More
Skye Rodgers is a seasoned travel writer who fell in love with Tampa, Florida over a decade ago and has since made it her home base. Originally from Canada, Skye traded snowy winters for sunny beaches and now enjoys sharing her adventures with readers worldwide. Whether she's uncovering hidden gems in Tampa Bay or jetting off to exotic destinations, Skye's passion for exploration shines through in her engaging travel narratives. Follow her journeys and discover the best of Tampa and beyond on her Facebook page @BestofTampa.
Skye Rodgers
Skye Rodgers is a seasoned travel writer who fell in love with Tampa, Florida over a decade ago and has since made it her home base. Originally from Canada, Skye traded snowy winters for sunny beaches and now enjoys sharing her adventures with readers worldwide. Whether she's uncovering hidden gems in Tampa Bay or jetting off to exotic destinations, Skye's passion for exploration shines through in her engaging travel narratives. Follow her journeys and discover the best of Tampa and beyond on her Facebook page @BestofTampa.
Terry French
Terry French, The World’s Extreme Chef, has cooked... Read More
Terry French, The World’s Extreme Chef, has cooked in 86 countries and traveled around the world 8 times. His global-to-local cuisine perspective and belief that “ hand-held ” food is the carrier of food culture may seem in stark contrast to his being born and raised in Evansville, Indiana. But diversity and uncommon is Terry defined. Winning Food Network’s World Extreme Chef in 2012 celebrated his amazing and adventurous life and his “French’s KISS” belief to food – Keeping it simple and sustainable. From Ice fishing with his father and cooking with his mother as a boy to hosting Taste Asia in Times Square, Terry French makes every meal a cuisine adventure. Terry believes that “Hand-held foods and sandwiches are the global cuisine language. From Thai street food to Philly cheese steaks – the world eats with our hands for centuries and now more than ever”. Follow Terry’s Extreme Chef adventures on Facebook and Instagram .
Terry French
Terry French, The World’s Extreme Chef, has cooked in 86 countries and traveled around the world 8 times. His global-to-local cuisine perspective and belief that “ hand-held ” food is the carrier of food culture may seem in stark contrast to his being born and raised in Evansville, Indiana. But diversity and uncommon is Terry defined. Winning Food Network’s World Extreme Chef in 2012 celebrated his amazing and adventurous life and his “French’s KISS” belief to food – Keeping it simple and sustainable. From Ice fishing with his father and cooking with his mother as a boy to hosting Taste Asia in Times Square, Terry French makes every meal a cuisine adventure. Terry believes that “Hand-held foods and sandwiches are the global cuisine language. From Thai street food to Philly cheese steaks – the world eats with our hands for centuries and now more than ever”. Follow Terry’s Extreme Chef adventures on Facebook and Instagram .
