Coral Gables Cuban Staple Reopens

Havana Harry's has reopened at 4612 S. Le Jeune Road in Coral Gables, ending a closure that lasted more than 12 months.

The restaurant has operated in Miami for over three decades. During the shutdown, the establishment underwent a full renovation. Diners entering the space this week can see the physical changes, though the kitchen output remains consistent with the menu served before the closure.

Felix Palencia, who spoke regarding the reopening, stated that the business prioritizes Cuban flavors. He credited these specific tastes for the restaurant’s established status in the neighborhood. "We have a very good-looking restaurant right now, and now we're back!" he said.

Palencia confirmed that the cooking methods have not shifted during the renovation. "We brought back our flavors. We brought back our generous portions, and our recipes are the same," he said.

The menu features vaca frita as a primary dish. This item consists of slow-cooked meat that is shredded and sautéed with onions and Cuban mojo. The ham milanesa is another standard offering. It involves a breaded steak topped with ham, cheese, and milanesa sauce. The establishment also serves mojitos and desserts, including the Nutella Overdose. This dessert combines vanilla ice cream, Nutella, brownie, chocolate crumble, ganache, and whipped cream.

Patrons expressed satisfaction upon the reopening. One customer who dined there noted the immediate visual impact of the new interior. "I thought, 'Wow, they've redone the whole place; it looks beautiful,'" the customer said. The diner added that the food is "great, like it's always been."

Palencia invited the public to visit, describing the location as a spot for "the best Cuban food in Miami" in the heart of Coral Gables.