There’s nothing quite like your first visit to Miami—especially when it happens to start on New Year’s Eve. Jenny and I landed after a couple of long flights, full of anticipation to explore the Magic City. But after taking stock of our travel-weary selves, we decided to stay in and recharge. The next morning, refreshed and ready for adventure, we hit the vibrant streets of South Beach. While I expected the city to be quiet for the holiday, I couldn’t have been more wrong. The streets pulsed with energy—music, laughter, and celebration spilling out from every corner. The atmosphere was electric, a perfect start to the New Year. And for us, that meant one thing: seeking out authentic Cuban food.

The Quest for Authenticity

Cuban cuisine had always intrigued me. Back home in Omaha, I’d dabbled with the occasional Cubano sandwich, but I knew there was much more to discover. That morning at breakfast, I asked our server for recommendations. While he wasn’t Cuban, he consulted a manager who delivered a glowing endorsement for Puerto Sagua, a restaurant just a block away from where we sat. Coincidence? Perhaps. Fate? Definitely.

A Second Wind and a Short Walk

Despite my legs protesting from the miles walked and biked the day before, the promise of an authentic Cuban feast propelled me forward. A quick stroll through South Beach—guided by trusty Google Maps—brought us to Puerto Sagua, a humble diner-like spot brimming with character. The colorful murals of Cuban street life on the walls and the laid-back service instantly made it clear: this was a place that valued substance over flash.

I kicked things off with my first-ever Cuban beer, a Hatuey. Light, crisp, and refreshingly simple, it was the perfect prelude to the meal. Jenny ordered and loved her Cuban sangria drink.

The Meal: Oxtail, Plantains, and More

Jenny and I are firm believers in server recommendations, and our waiter enthusiastically pointed us to the oxtail stew, a house specialty. Curious and eager, we added it to our order alongside the restaurant’s classic Cubano sandwich and a side of fried plantains.

When the food arrived, we divided and conquered, sharing each dish to savor the full range of flavors. The Cubano sandwich? A solid, classic rendition with all the right textures—crispy bread, tender pork, and gooey cheese. But for me, it didn’t steal the show. That honor belonged to the oxtail. While it wasn’t a visual stunner, its deep, rich flavor was mesmerizing. The tender meat practically fell off the bone, leaving us both marveling at its authenticity and savoriness.

And then there were the fried plantains. I had never tried them before, and what a revelation they were! Sweet, salty, and perfectly caramelized on the edges, they added a delightful contrast to the rest of the meal. They were so good that I wondered how I’d gone this long without them.

South Beach Spectacle

As we enjoyed our meal, the sights and sounds of South Beach buzzed around us. The city’s energy was palpable, even on a holiday when most places might have shut their doors. Puerto Sagua, however, was a welcoming oasis—a place for locals and tourists alike to come together over food that felt both nostalgic and timeless.

After dinner, we strolled back to our Airbnb, stopping at a Walgreens for breakfast supplies (yes, I treated myself to strawberry Pop-Tarts). Back at the Airbnb, we capped off the night with a quiet toast and turned in early, ready to board our cruise the next morning.

A Lasting Impression

Puerto Sagua isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a slice of Cuban culture tucked into the heart of South Beach. Since 1962, it has weathered the ever-changing trends of the area, offering an authentic experience that remains a steady favorite. Whether it’s your first visit to Miami or your fiftieth, this spot is a must-try. The oxtail stew, the fried plantains, and the unpretentious charm of the place make it an unforgettable culinary adventure.

So, if you find yourself wandering the lively streets of South Beach, take a detour to Puerto Sagua. Let the murals transport you to Cuba, let the flavors surprise you, and let the magic of Miami make it all the more special.