Walking down 8th Street in Little Havana here in Miami (or Calle Ocho how it is more locally known) while enjoying the wonderful culinary and cultural delights of the city, my memory goes back to 2 years ago when I left behind everything that had surrounded me for 50 years. This is when I left Cuba and my beautiful and beloved Havana, with its warm people, vast religions, its dynamic historical/cultural heritage and the dreams of every Cuban.
Despite the difficulties of leaving all of those memories in the past, I brought with me the desire to find my roots here too. In this new place I have also been able to feel at home, where each space and corner is often able to transport me back in time to my days in Havana.
I found that Cuban food is also enhanced and fused with the customs of Miami and its people. The traditions have lived on from generation to generation, despite the separation that many families have had between them over the years between the two countries (for a number of intricate reasons). The fusion of unique flavors, both Cuban and local, can even be perceived in the smells as you walk down Calle 8. It is not common to get a sniff of sofrito (stir-fried onions, garlic, peppers, tomatoes, and spices used to start off many Cuban dishes) from the many restaurants or of Cuban coffee (strong espresso) and delicious pastries as you walk down Calle 8 between the crowds of tourists and locals. Then the sounds kick in with the clattering of dominoes at the famous Domino Park where you can hear laughter and playful yelling by the residents that frequent the place on a daily basis. This little Cuban corner is a taste of Cuba for me, where it is also common to see tourists attracted by the noise and then opposing into a nearby bar or café to enjoy a Daiquiri or Mojito with the backdrop of Cuban music to complete the experience!
This contagious atmosphere has many layers to it, evoking both the aromas and flavors that we hope to share with you through one of our many experiences at Flavors of Miami. The Cuban culture is present throughout the city and has truly made Miami one of the most unique places in the US. So, despite me leaving Cuba over 2 years ago, every time I step outside my doorstep, I know that I am still “home”!
(Here you will find a picture of myself in the middle with my two daughters on each side.)