Popular eateries, from cafeterias to cocktail bars

By Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon
CJ Travel Editor

Sometimes the craving for Caribbean food strikes when you’re nowhere near the Caribbean. But if you live in South Florida (or you’re cruising out of Port Miami or Port Everglades), you’re in luck, because there are plenty of places to indulge in island eats (and drinks!) without leaving Broward or Miami-Dade county. Here are four of our favorite go-to’s for Caribbean fare.

Tap Tap Open since 1994 (an eternity by South Beach standards), this colorful Haitian spot (named for the country’s shared taxis) serves classic fare such as whole fried fish, stewed goat and griyo (spicy chunks of fried pork). Chase your meal with a potent Barbancourt rum cocktail and you’re good to go.

819 5th St, Miami Beach

Enriqueta’s Amid the rapidly high-rise condos of Miami’s Midtown neighborhood is this unpretentious family-run Cuban diner where locals flock for an energy-boosting cortadito from the always-busy walk-up window, or a tortilla especial (omelet with chorizo sausage, cheese, onions and ham) in the cafeteria-like air-conditioned dining room.

186 NE 29th St, Midtown

Havana 1957 This Cuban-themed restaurant has five locations between both counties and is a popular tourist spot. But don’t let that put you off. The hot pressed sandwiches are delicious and filling enough for two, and the impressive selection of mojitos (try the Red Bull mojito with yerba buena) has something for everyone.

Pembroke Pines, Brickell and South Beach

Punch Miami Open only since this summer, this Morningside spot has become a quick hit with its $1 mojitos until 8pm; yummy Cuban sliders; and live salsa and reggaeton until the wee hours.