Why Coffee & Cigars?

Cuban coffee traces its roots to the 18th century, when coffee plants were introduced to the island during Spanish colonial rule. By the early 1800s, Cuba had become one of the world’s leading coffee exporters, with plantations flourishing in the Sierra Maestra mountains. Over time, European espresso traditions blended with Caribbean character, creating a darker roast profile and sweeter preparation style that became central to daily life. When Cuban families immigrated to South Florida, they carried these traditions with them, making Cuban coffee a defining ritual in places like Miami’s Little Havana.

What distinguishes Cuban coffee is not a specific bean, but a precise method. The base is a dark, finely ground espresso It is traditionally brewed in a stovetop Moka pot, where steam pressure pushes hot water upward through compacted grounds to create a concentrated shot. The dark roast produces bold, slightly smoky notes that stand up beautifully to sugar, which is essential to the Cuban style.

The hallmark of Cuban coffee is the espuma—the creamy, caramel-colored foam that forms on top. As the coffee begins to brew, the first few drops are spooned into a small cup of sugar and whipped vigorously. This creates a thick, glossy paste. When the remaining espresso is poured over it, the mixture transforms into a velvety layer that sweetens the entire drink evenly. The result is cafecito, or Café Cubano: served in a small demitasse cup, powerful in flavor, and meant to be sipped slowly.

In cigar shops throughout Little Havana, Cuban coffee is served as naturally as a hand-rolled cigar is cut and lit. Behind glass humidors filled with toros and robustos, a small stovetop pot often simmers in the back, filling the room with the scent of dark roast espresso mingled with rich tobacco leaf. A cafecito is poured into tiny cups and passed across counters between conversations about baseball, politics, and family. The sweetness of the espuma balances the earthy, peppery notes of a freshly lit cigar, creating a pairing that feels timeless. In these shops, coffee isn’t just a beverage—it’s part of the rhythm of the lounge, fueling long talks, slow draws, and the unmistakable character of Little Havana.