Ayestaran Restaurant

Full of vivacity and charm, Ayestarán features homemade, authentic, fresh Cuban, Spanish, and international cuisine at reasonable prices. But don't be fooled: The prices are no reflection of the large portions of high-quality meat. Open since 1975, this family-style Cuban restaurant features classic dishes like vaca frita ("fried cow"), combining shredded beef with garlic, fresh lemon juice, lime juice, and seasonings prepared on a skillet with sautéed onions; and ropa vieja ("old clothes"), which is similar to vaca frita but stewed in a tomato sauce. Both are fresh dishes packed with flavor. There's no better place in Miami to have your meat, vegetables, and potatoes and still come home with a good portion of leftovers. If a New York strip steak is your meal of choice, you'll be pleased with the taste and the price. The secret is ordering the riñonada steak (the same as the strip) at half the price. You will also find red snapper, king fish, jumbo shrimp, and lobster. The talented chefs know exactly how to prepare these meals with enough citrus, onion, garlic, and pepper to make your mouth tingle. Weekly lunch specials keep the regulars coming back for more. But the real treasures, besides the desserts, are the Spanish-speaking waitresses and Cuban chefs. ¡Bienvenido a Ayestarán!