Versailles: The Cafecito Stop
A Miami institution sits right on the road to the Everglades. Here’s why so many people stop.
If you take Calle Ocho west, you’ll pass one of the most famous restaurants in Miami: Versailles, at 3555 SW 8th St. It’s an easy place to stop for coffee and a pastry on the way to an airboat tour.
A little history
Felipe Valls Sr., who came from Santiago de Cuba, opened Versailles in 1971. With its mirrored walls and chandeliers it quickly became a gathering place for Miami’s Cuban community. For decades it’s been called the unofficial town square of the exile community. When big news breaks about Cuba, reporters often set up outside to hear people’s reactions.
La ventanita
The quickest stop is the walk-up window on the side of the building, known as la ventanita. Order a cafecito (strong, sweet Cuban espresso) or a cortadito (espresso with a bit of steamed milk), and add a pastelito or a croqueta. You can be back on the road in minutes.
What to order if you sit down
- A Cuban sandwich, pressed and hot.
- Croquetas, the small fried rolls often filled with ham.
- A guava pastelito for the road.
Timing it right
Versailles is about 14 miles from our dock at Dade Corners. A quick stop at the window fits easily into the morning drive. Allow more time if you want to sit down. Afterward, keep heading west on Calle Ocho through West Miami-Dade until the city ends at Krome Avenue.
Skip the drive. We pick you up.
Every private airboat tour includes round-trip private transportation from your Miami Beach hotel or rental. Call with your address and group size to book.
