Coral Gables: Cuban kitchen back on the map

Havana Harry's has resumed operations in Coral Gables, ending a closure that lasted more than a year. The restaurant, which has served Miami's dining scene for over three decades, reopened its doors to the public on Oct. 23.

Owner Felix Palencia stated that the establishment's core identity remains focused on traditional Cuban flavors. While the interior underwent a complete transformation during the renovation, Palencia said the cooking methods and ingredients have not been altered. "We brought back our flavors. We brought back our generous portions, and our recipes are the same," he said.

The menu features specific dishes that defined the restaurant's reputation before the closure. Vaca frita remains the signature item, prepared by slow-cooking meat, shredding it, and sautéing it with onions and Cuban mojo. Ham milanesa is also on the menu, consisting of a breaded steak topped with ham, cheese, and milanesa sauce.

Beverage and dessert options include the standard mojito and a dish called the Nutella Overdose. Palencia described the dessert as vanilla ice cream mixed with Nutella and a piece of brownie. The final presentation includes additional ice cream, chocolate crumble, chocolate ganache, and whipped cream.

Diners visiting the reopened location noted the physical changes immediately. One customer who came for dinner said the redesign was striking upon entry. "I thought, 'Wow, they've redone the whole place; it looks beautiful,'" the customer said. They added that the food is "great, like it's always been."

Palencia emphasized the restaurant's goal of providing "the best Cuban food in Miami" in the heart of Coral Gables. The location is situated at 4612 S. Le Jeune Road.