Miami

When dictator Fidel Castro rose to power in Cuba in 1959, hundreds of thousands of Cubans fled to Miami, Florida, and the city’s population seemingly expanded overnight. The years that followed brought more Cubans and Haitians and Nicaraguans and other immigrants from the Caribbean and Latin America who grew Miami into a cultural anomaly. Nicknamed the “Magic City” for its swift growth, Miami became a place where cultures were preserved, native languages were spoken, and new lives were built. Today, the city is one of the most culturally rich places in the country and the ultimate destination for food-lovers.

Little Havana is the epicenter of Cuban culture in Miami, and you’ll quickly see why. Colorful, and you’ll find a swath of Latin restaurants for sublime eats. Local legend restaurant is at the center of the vibrant neighborhood, located on Calle Ocho, the main thoroughfare of Little Havana. For 50 years, at the helm of the Valls family, Versailles has been the heartbeat of the Cuban community. Variations of beef served with rice and fried, sweet plantains are solid choices in the main restaurant, but get your caffeine fix from their coffee window . A strong and sweet  (Cuban espresso with a shot of milk) is perfect paired with a guava (pastry).