Continuing on our Cuban theme, today we are going to talk about our favorite Cubano / Cuban sandwich. There is some controversy as to where the Cubano sandwich originated, though it is not in Cuba, despite the name. Currently, the disputed home of the Cubano is likely either Key West or Tampa, FL. The typical composition of a Cuban sandwich is roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, mustard, and pickles on Cuban Bread. Despite murkiness around its origins, we can safely say we have found our favorite Cubano in Miami (and probably the US) at Sanguich (various locations in Miami, we have visited the Calle Ocho location multiple times).
Sanguich’s menu – true to name – includes only selected classic sandwiches. All are on perfectly crusty Cuban bread, with a soft interior. Along with the Cubano ($13.49) you can get a medianoche ($11.59), which is similar to a Cubano but on sweeter bread, or a pan con bistec ($14.59) topped with mojo rojo, Swiss cheese, and sous vide beef. All of the sandwiches are slight spins on classics, topped with unique sauces and only top-notch ingredients. The whole of each sandwich is definitely more than the sum of its parts, and they are truly memorable.
Of all of the options, our favorites all involve the amazing slow roasted pork! This special ingredient completely makes the Cubano (seen above), and you can also just get a roast pork sandwich with mojo onions and garlic-cilantro aioli (L’s favorite, $11.99). While the menu is primarily sandwiches, you can also get milkshakes (batidos), including the unique trigo flavor, made with condensed milk and puffed wheat, apparently a Cuban classic. Of course, there is also made-to-order cafecito on offer.
The restaurant itself is tiny, so expect to wait for your sandwich (probably outside), and there is always a danger of them selling out. Whenever you visit (last time we went was a Sunday at 4 PM), there will likely be a bit of a line, and you will have to wait to receive your order, even if you are picking up. We usually just get our sandwiches to go, and once even brought them to the beach – highly recommend the lighthouse at Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park – as a picnic lunch spot. The next time you are in Miami, be sure to make a beeline for Sanguich for the best Cubano of your life!
Eating The World 