A Culinary Journey Through Kendall
Kendall, Florida, a vibrant and bustling community nestled in the heart of Miami-Dade County, is more than just a residential haven. It’s a culinary melting pot, a place where diverse cultures and flavors collide to create a truly exceptional dining experience. From the intoxicating aroma of authentic Cuban sandwiches to the delicate artistry of Japanese sushi, Kendall’s food scene offers something for every palate. Whether you’re a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, navigating the sheer volume of dining options can be overwhelming. That’s where this guide comes in. We’re here to take you on a gastronomic journey through Kendall, highlighting the very best restaurants and dishes this dynamic area has to offer. Prepare to discover hidden gems, savor unforgettable flavors, and unlock the secrets to experiencing the best food Kendall has available. This article will be your comprehensive guide, leading you to culinary delights ranging from traditional Cuban fare and innovative Latin American cuisine to international favorites and decadent desserts.
A Taste of Cuba in Kendall
It’s impossible to talk about the best food Kendall offers without acknowledging the profound influence of Cuban cuisine. The echoes of Little Havana resonate strongly here, with numerous restaurants dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rich culinary heritage of Cuba. These establishments are more than just places to eat; they’re cultural institutions, offering a taste of home to the Cuban diaspora and an authentic experience to those eager to explore the flavors of the island nation.
Versailles Restaurant
One standout destination is “Versailles Restaurant,” a Kendall staple known for its vibrant atmosphere and traditional Cuban dishes. Stepping inside is like stepping into a piece of Havana. The lively chatter, the aroma of roasting pork, and the constant stream of customers create an atmosphere that’s both welcoming and exhilarating. The undisputed star of the menu is their Cubano, a pressed sandwich piled high with roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard. The bread is perfectly crusty, the pork is succulent and flavorful, and the combination of ingredients is simply divine. It’s a true testament to the simple yet satisfying nature of Cuban comfort food. Expect to pay a reasonable price, reflecting the restaurant’s commitment to providing authentic cuisine at an accessible cost. You can find Versailles Restaurant on Southwest Eighth Street.
La Carreta
Another must-visit for Cuban food enthusiasts is “La Carreta,” a local favorite that has been serving up authentic flavors for decades. La Carreta is a true icon of the Cuban culinary experience. While they offer a wide array of traditional dishes, their ropa vieja is particularly noteworthy. This slow-cooked shredded beef dish, simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce with peppers and onions, is a masterpiece of flavor and texture. The beef is incredibly tender, melting in your mouth with each bite. Served with white rice, black beans, and sweet plantains, it’s a complete and utterly satisfying meal. La Carreta is another affordable option, making it a great choice for families and those looking for a delicious and authentic Cuban meal without breaking the bank. Locate them on Bird Road.
Beyond these two iconic restaurants, make sure to explore other Cuban delicacies like croquetas (crispy fried ham fritters), lechon asado (roasted pig), and platanos maduros (sweet plantains). These dishes, often found in smaller, family-run establishments, offer a glimpse into the heart and soul of Cuban cooking and are essential for truly understanding the best food Kendall has to offer.
Exploring Latin American Flavors
While Cuban cuisine undoubtedly holds a prominent place in Kendall’s culinary landscape, the area’s diversity extends far beyond the island nation. A rich tapestry of Latin American flavors can be found throughout the community, offering a tantalizing array of tastes and textures from across the continent.
Divino Ceviche
“Divino Ceviche” is a Peruvian gem that showcases the vibrant and fresh flavors of Peruvian cuisine. As the name suggests, ceviche is the star of the show here, and they offer an impressive selection of variations. Their ceviche mixto, a medley of fresh seafood marinated in lime juice, cilantro, and aji amarillo peppers, is an absolute must-try. The seafood is incredibly fresh, the lime juice is perfectly balanced, and the aji amarillo adds a delightful kick of heat. Divino Ceviche offers a slightly more upscale dining experience, reflected in its price range, but the quality and freshness of the ingredients make it well worth the investment. You can find this restaurant on Kendall Drive.
Doggi’s Arepa Bar
For a taste of Venezuelan cuisine, look no further than “Doggi’s Arepa Bar.” This popular spot specializes in arepas, grilled cornmeal cakes filled with a variety of savory fillings. The reina pepiada arepa, filled with shredded chicken salad with avocado and mayonnaise, is a customer favorite. The arepas are perfectly grilled, the fillings are flavorful and generous, and the entire experience is a delightful taste of Venezuela. Doggi’s Arepa Bar is a casual and affordable option, making it a great choice for a quick and satisfying meal. You can find it on Southwest One Hundred Seventh Avenue.
Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the diverse culinary offerings of Colombia, Mexico, and other Latin American countries represented in Kendall. Each offers unique dishes and flavors that contribute to the area’s vibrant and exciting food scene. These diverse flavors make Kendall a treasure for those seeking the best food Kendall can provide.
Beyond Latin American: International Delights
Kendall’s culinary scene is not limited to Latin American flavors. The area boasts a diverse range of international restaurants, catering to a wide variety of tastes and preferences.
Graziano’s Restaurant
For Italian cuisine, “Graziano’s Restaurant” is a longstanding favorite. This family-owned establishment is known for its classic Italian dishes, warm atmosphere, and impeccable service. Their homemade pasta dishes are particularly noteworthy, especially the fettuccine alfredo, prepared with a rich and creamy parmesan sauce. Graziano’s offers a more upscale dining experience, reflected in its price range, but the quality of the food and the attentive service make it a worthwhile splurge. They are located on Southwest Eightyeighth Street.
BurgerFi
If you’re craving a juicy burger or a perfectly cooked steak, “BurgerFi” is a popular choice. This modern burger chain uses high-quality ingredients and offers a variety of creative burger combinations. Their CEO Burger, featuring double wagyu and brisket blend patties, truffle aioli, aged Swiss cheese, and tomato confit, is a truly indulgent experience. BurgerFi is a more casual and affordable option, making it a great choice for a quick and satisfying meal. Find them on Southwest One Hundred Seventeenth Avenue.
Sushi Maki
For Asian cuisine, “Sushi Maki” is a go-to spot for fresh and creative sushi rolls. With multiple locations throughout Kendall, Sushi Maki offers a wide variety of classic and innovative sushi rolls, as well as other Japanese dishes like teriyaki and tempura. The spicy tuna roll is a popular choice, featuring fresh tuna, spicy mayo, and avocado. Sushi Maki is a mid-range option, offering a good balance of quality and affordability. Multiple locations are available, ensuring convenience.
The presence of these international cuisines, and many others, solidifies Kendall’s position as a true culinary destination, further cementing its claim to having the best food Kendall can muster.
Sweet Endings: Dessert Delights
No culinary journey is complete without indulging in a sweet treat. Kendall boasts a variety of dessert shops and bakeries, offering everything from creamy ice cream to decadent cakes.
Azucar Ice Cream Company
“Azucar Ice Cream Company” is a must-visit for ice cream lovers. This popular spot offers a wide variety of unique and flavorful ice cream flavors, inspired by the owner’s Cuban heritage. The mantecado cubano, a vanilla ice cream with a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg, is a particularly popular choice. Azucar Ice Cream Company is a mid-range option, offering a delightful treat at a reasonable price. They are known for their creative combinations and high quality ingredients. Find them on Southwest Eighth Street in nearby Little Havana (a short drive).
Pastelmania Bakery
For a taste of traditional pastries and cakes, “Pastelmania Bakery” is a great option. This popular bakery offers a wide variety of Cuban pastries, including pastelitos de guayaba (guava pastries) and croqueticas (ham croquettes). They also offer a variety of cakes, including custom-made creations for special occasions. Pastelmania Bakery is an affordable option, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without breaking the bank. Visit them on Southwest Eighty-eighth Street.
These sweet destinations are a necessary part of any complete exploration of the best food Kendall has available.
Kendall: A Culinary Gem
Kendall, Florida, is a true culinary gem, offering a diverse and exciting food scene that caters to a wide variety of tastes and preferences. From the authentic flavors of Cuban cuisine to the innovative creations of Latin American chefs and the international delights offered by restaurants from around the world, Kendall has something for everyone.
The quality and diversity of the food in Kendall are truly remarkable, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers. Whether you’re a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, be sure to explore the area’s many restaurants and discover your own favorite spots. There’s no doubt that Kendall offers some of the best food Kendall has to offer anywhere in South Florida. Don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path and try something new – you might just discover your next favorite meal.
Share your favorite Kendall eats in the comments below! We’d love to hear about your personal culinary adventures in this dynamic community.
