Vegan Cuban Cuisine, Miami’s first entirely vegan Cuban restaurant, is making waves in Kendall by serving plant-based versions of beloved Cuban classics, including croquetas, picadillo, and Cubanos. This innovative spot, founded by Steven Rodriguez and Lismeilyn “Liz” Machado, offers a unique twist on traditional Cuban food without the use of dairy, meat, or animal products, creating dishes that are surprisingly authentic and full of flavor.
A Family Affair: From Home Kitchen to Restaurant
The journey of Vegan Cuban Cuisine began in 2018 when Steven and Liz, a Cuban couple, started preparing plant-based Cuban dishes in their home kitchen. Initially, they sold their famous croquetas to local vegan-friendly spots like Aguacate Sanctuary of Love and Ali’s Sweets and Treats. As demand for their food grew, they began popping up at farmers’ markets across Miami, offering a range of plant-based Cuban dishes.
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, they pivoted to delivery, making their Cuban comfort food available to customers across Miami. Their success led to the opening of their first storefront on September 15, 2020, where they introduced their plant-based ventanita, a Cuban-style walk-up window serving customers.
Not Your Abuela’s Cuban Food (But She Might Approve)
Vegan Cuban Cuisine’s menu features vegan versions of Cuban classics, each crafted to trick the taste buds while maintaining the rich flavors of traditional Cuban dishes. Breakfast options include a gluten-free “Tortilla Española Slice” made with Just Egg, Cuban spices, potatoes, onions, and peppers. The pastelitos in guava and cheese varieties are also a hit among breakfast lovers.
For appetizers, the “Cheeze Tequeños Trio” is a standout — three hand-rolled tequeños filled with creamy plant-based cashew cheese, wrapped in crispy dough. The customizable Empanada Trio offers a variety of options such as “Beef,” “Ham” & Cheeze, or “Egg,” all served with sauces like garlic cilantro.
Sandwich lovers will appreciate the “Medianoche” with chips, which features jackfruit lechon asado, organic soy ham, vegan cheese, organic pickles, Follow Your Heart mayo, and mustard, all pressed on house-made sweet Cuban rolls. The “VCC Masitas Shroomwich” serves gluten-free mushroom masitas, melted cheese, lettuce, and tomatoes on Cuban bread with a special “saucy sauce.” The “Croqueta Preparada” features crispy ham croquetas made from cashew cream, organic soy-based ham, and Cuban spices, all pressed hot on freshly made bread.
The popular “Papa Rellena,” fried potato balls stuffed with soy picadillo and breaded in panko crumbs, and the picadillo bowl have become customer favorites, drawing crowds to the restaurant. Their croquetas, offered in “ham” and chickpea varieties, offer a familiar texture and flavor, all without animal products.
From Family Gatherings to Restaurant Reality
Vegan Cuban Cuisine’s story began at a family gathering when the founders realized their plant-based dishes were indistinguishable from their traditional meat counterparts. According to Steven and Liz, “Our true origin was a revelation at a family gathering when omnivores couldn’t distinguish between our plant and animal dishes.” This moment sparked the birth of Vegan Cuban Cuisine, offering a solution to Miami’s lack of plant-based Cuban food options.
A Unique Approach to Cuban Cuisine
What sets Vegan Cuban Cuisine apart from other restaurants is its commitment to authenticity and quality. The kitchen uses homemade bread, olive oil instead of butter, and dedicated gluten-free prep areas to ensure their dishes cater to various dietary needs. They even serve vegan Cuban bread and specialty house-made beans. Their sweeteners come from natural sources, avoiding refined sugars altogether.
Vegan Cuban Cuisine is redefining Cuban food in Miami, offering an innovative, plant-based alternative that maintains the soul and flavor of the island’s rich culinary traditions. Whether you’re vegan or just looking for a healthier take on Cuban comfort food, this new restaurant is a must-try.
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