Three Guys from Miami:Airport Cuban

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La Carreta offers a full-service menu for busy airport travelers.

Glenn: Although we don't recommend it, many people come to Miami and only see the airport.

Jorge: Yes, for many people, Miami is nothing more than a transit hub, and the only time spent in Miami is the time spent between flights or before or after a cruise.

Glenn: Although we know this happens, we do want to encourage everyone to spend a few days -- and nights -- in Miami.

Raúl: You're missing out on a LOT of fun!

Jorge: However, if we only have you here for an hour or two and you have never tried Cuban food, there is a way to get a small taste of Cuban cuisine without leaving the airport.

Glenn: There are two places at the airport where you can try a Cuban coffee, eat a delicious Cuban pastry, and even try a decent Cuban sandwich.

Raúl: One of these places serves entire Cuban meals so you can get a taste of real Miami Cuban food.

Jorge: For coffee, pastries and snacks the place to go is Café Versailles. They have several locations throughout the airport.

Glenn: Café Versailles is the airport version of the walk-up coffee windows you'll see all over Miami. Cuban coffee is their mainstay, but they also serve pastelitos -- a great, flaky Cuban pastry filled with sweet fillings like guava, cream cheese, and coconut.

Raúl: Versailles also sells empanadas, croquetas, and papas rellenas.

Glenn: So if your time is limited, this is the best place to pick up a quick snack.

Raúl: Why not buy a box of snacks and desserts to eat on the plane?

Jorge: Now, if you have a longer layover and you have time for lunch or dinner, check out La Carreta.

Raúl: In addition to the walk up window for coffee and snacks, La Carreta has a full-service restaurant.

Glenn: Specials change daily, but on a recent visit they were serving caldo gallego a hearty white bean soup, masas de puerco fritas, small pieces of pork seasoned with mojo and fried until they are crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside.

Jorge: The other day they had a very nice pollo al ajillo -- chicken in garlic sauce.

Glenn: Even if you're in a hurry, you can pick up a good Cuban sandwich or a pan con bistec (steak sandwich Cuban style) at the walk-up window to go.

Raúl: Don't miss out on a fresh glass of guarapo -- sugar cane juice. You can't leave Miami without tasting this tropical treat.

Jorge: La Carreta also makes some wonderful batidos -- Cuban milkshakes -- in all the tropical flavors: mango, banana, mamey, pineapple, papaya, guanabana.

Glenn: They also have the American favorites: chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry.

Jorge: One word of caution. Most of the Versailles locations and the La Carreta are located outside the security zones. You will have to go back through security if you go to these locations.

Glenn: So check the security lines before you leave the secured area and make sure you'll have enough time to get back through security and make your flight.

Jorge: If you were just dropped off at the airport by your cruise line, make sure you are all checked in and then if you have time, have a Cuban meal before you board your flight.

Raúl: Next time, plan on spending a few days IN Miami!