What is a Minuta Sandwich?
A Minuta Sandwich is a delicious Cuban sandwich or “Pan con Minuta” as the locals refer to it. It’s a fish sandwich that consists of a butterflied filet Snapper fish with the tail still in place.
It's deep fried in light batter until golden brown; topped with chopped tomatoes and onions, served on Cuban bread roll with a rich, tangy tarter sauce.
You can find a beautiful, crispy and delicious Minuta Sandwich throughout Miami, including the vibrant Old's Havana in the Calle Ocho (8th Street) stretch of Little Havana.
While plenty of 8th Street's vendors offer their version of the sandwich, I am going to refer you to a favorite spot for me and my wife. This is also a favorite spot where the locals go to enjoy a great Minuta Sandwich among other fresh seafood.
In fact the restaurant's Minuta Sandwich is so good, that the world famous chef Guy Fieri from Diners, Drive-in’s and Dives put it on the map as a must go spot to enjoy the food.
It's a family owned restaurant called “La Camaronera” (The Shrimper), there's a fish market where you'll find fresh seafood and the restaurant itself - but not a lot of parking! Try to avoid the rush hour traffic if you're on a self-drive vacation.
It's a popular place with limited seating as you might expect of a small restaurant, but they do offer counter service. Just be prepared to wait if you are there during peak times.
Its important to know that they only take cash and sell no alcoholic drinks. They do sell soda and water, but you're usually OK to bring your own wine or beer in from the mini-supermarket next door if you've ordered a meal from the restaurant.
While there why not try the lobster roll? It’s my favorite! What's your favorite Cuban sandwich?