When asking yourself about something to do near me in Miami with a group of friends or family, consider
Hoy Como Ayer
Why Hoy Como Ayer is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Hoy Como Ayer is a celebrated Latin cultural and dining destination with locations that capture distinct but equally rich experiences. In Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico, it is a family-owned restaurant known for its diverse menu including fresh seafood, Caribbean and Puerto Rican specialties, and hearty breakfast and brunch options. Located in the scenic Joyuda sector with a great front ocean view, it welcomes visitors with friendly staff, reasonable prices, and a welcoming atmosphere featuring free parking and accessibility features. Meanwhile, in Miami’s Little Havana, Hoy Como Ayer shines as a legendary music and social venue. Established in 1999, it has been a cornerstone of the Latin music scene, hosting icons like Celia Cruz and the Fania All Stars. Reimagined in 2024, this lively spot offers guests an immersive experience with live salsa music, cocktails honoring Latin cantinero traditions, and an elevated Latin street food menu by Pico E Gallo BBQ. Its versatile spaces — from the main music room to an outdoor patio and an intimate late-night lounge — provide a vibrant, multi-dimensional party atmosphere where music, dance, and community thrive. Both locations make Hoy Como Ayer a fantastic meeting place for friends seeking authentic Latin flavors, spirited nightlife, and a cultural immersion into Caribbean and Cuban heritage.
Here's what people think of Hoy Como Ayer
As of recent, Hoy Como Ayer holds a 4.2-star rating based on 242 reviews.
Reviews highlight Hoy Como Ayer's appeal as a dynamic venue blending food, music, and culture in both Cabo Rojo and Miami. Positive reviews from the Cabo Rojo restaurant praise the high-quality ingredients, generous menu variety covering seafood, meats, and vegetarian options, and the beautiful oceanfront setting with attentive service. Its reputation as a top Caribbean eatery is supported by a Travelers’ Choice award from Tripadvisor. In Miami, patrons celebrate Hoy Como Ayer for sustaining Little Havana’s salsa tradition with energetic live music, stylish ambiance, and innovative cocktails. Guests appreciate the venue’s ability to balance intimate spaces for conversation with lively dance floors, continuing its legacy as a cultural landmark since 1999. However, some negative feedback includes organizational issues, such as delayed show times and unclear group reservation pricing in Miami, which caused dissatisfaction among certain visitors. A few customers noted that cover charges and wait times could be improved for better overall experience. Despite these critiques, the consensus remains that Hoy Como Ayer captivates visitors with its authentic atmosphere and commitment to Latin music and cuisine. It is regarded as a must-visit spot for anyone seeking vibrant social engagement and cultural richness tied deeply to Caribbean and Cuban heritage.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Estefany Olivo
Best place in miami!!!The food, the music, the ambiance everything is just wow. They have latin music, house music and a patio to chill from dancing, and well of course, the cocktails out of this world; Chan-Chan and Patria & Son were my favorite. Oh and the chicharrooonesssss…. So if you’re looking for a gem in miami this is the place.
Siulyram Balza
The food and service are amazing, I had the soup and it was OMG… the chicharrón so good, and the parrilla with the Cachapa was amazing too. Food was great, service was awesome. The place needs some love, better lighting during the day, but it was a great time.
Cristina Amaro
This is such a hidden gem in Miami. The food is so freaking goood and the ambient is chill but kind of funky, there’s different kind of rooms but my favorite was la sala, the dj that was playing that night was so fireee
Daniel Mazorra
I had a great time at Hoy Como Ayer! The drinks were delicious and the music was amazing—definitely one of the highlights of the night. My only observation is that, for a place known for dancing, it’s a bit uncomfortable since the tables take up most of the space. The dance floor feels very crowded and limited. Still, it’s a fun spot with a great vibe!
Angelica Brito
Absolutely loved this place! The ambiance is warm and vibrant, with Latin sounds that instantly set the mood. The food? Incredible — every dish was full of flavor and beautifully presented. One of my favorite parts was the different music environments throughout the venue, giving you a unique vibe depending on where you sit. And the service was truly outstanding — friendly, attentive, and made the experience even more enjoyable. Highly recommend for a night out with great energy, music, and unforgettable food!
How to reach Hoy Como Ayer
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Why Hoy Como Ayer may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Hoy Como Ayer with your friends? This vibrant establishment, boasting a solid 4.2 rating from over 240 reviews, is the quintessential spot to gather with friends and family for an unforgettable night. Located in the heart of Miami’s Little Havana, it offers a unique and authentic Cuban experience that is hard to find elsewhere, blending rich Latin heritage with an inviting atmosphere that caters perfectly to groups. Whether you are looking to unwind over great cocktails, share delicious bites, or dance the night away, Hoy Como Ayer delivers all this with warmth and energy that makes every guest feel like part of a close-knit community. The cozy yet lively environment encourages socializing, laughter, and fun memories, making it the perfect rallying point for any celebration or casual get-together. Friends can enjoy an effortlessly immersive cultural experience, engage with live music or a DJ, and savor thoughtfully crafted drinks while relaxing in comfortable seating areas designed to facilitate conversation and camaraderie.
What makes Hoy Como Ayer perfect for group meetups and social gatherings?
Hoy Como Ayer is distinctly designed to cater to groups of all sizes, making it an ideal venue for meetups with friends or family. The layout features two main spaces that balance social needs: a lounge area known as “la sala” furnished with living-room-style seating for intimate chats and relaxation, and a lively dance floor with a large DJ booth pumping eclectic Latin beats for those ready to move. This dual setup provides groups the flexibility to mingle, talk, and dance all within the same venue, ensuring no one has to miss out on the fun. The music selection honors classic Cuban salsa while also embracing modern Latin rhythms, giving everyone a chance to enjoy something familiar or venture into new genres together. The venue regularly hosts live music acts and DJs, which energizes the space and encourages shared experiences among friends.
Beyond music, the staff plays a key role in enhancing group outings by providing warm, attentive service that helps parties feel well taken care of. From managing reservations efficiently to offering excellent food and drink recommendations, the team creates a seamless environment where guests can relax and focus on enjoying each other’s company. Groups can reserve tables, ensuring space to congregate comfortably without crowding or disruption. With its respectful yet lively atmosphere, Hoy Como Ayer accommodates everything from casual catch-ups to special celebrations, making it a go-to spot for those who value good food, rich culture, and a welcoming vibe.
What activities can you enjoy at Hoy Como Ayer?
At Hoy Como Ayer, the activities are tailored to maximize enjoyment and foster connection within your group. First and foremost, dancing is a major draw. The expansive dance floor and DJ booth invite guests to move to classic Cuban salsa, mambo, and other Latin dance styles that are part of the venue’s heritage. Whether you are a seasoned dancer or new to the steps, the music’s infectious rhythms provide a joyful and engaging experience that encourages participation. Couples often twirl and dip to the timeless tunes, while larger groups enjoy dancing together and cheering each other on.
If dancing is not your main interest, the lounge space offers a perfect setting for relaxed conversation and people-watching. The cozy living-room style furnishing with plush seating invites guests to sit back and savor the ambiance. This division of space makes it easy for groups to split between those who want to dance and others who prefer a more subdued environment without missing out on the overall excitement.
Of course, a significant part of the experience involves tasting authentic Cuban cuisine and creative cocktails. The menu features a variety of shareable appetizers like mini arepitas, tequeños, and chicken wings, which are perfect for groups to try a bit of everything and spark culinary conversation. The cocktail list includes expertly crafted mojitos and an extensive wine selection, supporting a festive mood for toasts and celebrations. This culinary offering makes the venue more than just a nightclub or music bar — it’s a place for a full evening of enjoyment.
The venue’s dedication to Latin heritage extends to the decor and ambiance. Black-and-white portraits of salsa legends such as Joe Arroyo adorn the walls, creating a cultural immersion that adds depth and authenticity to your gathering. This artsy touch gives guests something to admire and discuss, enriching the overall meetup experience.
How is the atmosphere suited for both casual and special occasions?
Hoy Como Ayer balances a lively party vibe with a welcoming atmosphere that works beautifully for a variety of social occasions. The venue’s ambiance is frequently described as cozy and elegant, offering a sense of intimacy despite its energetic music and dancing. This makes it adaptable for groups ranging from casual friend reunions to milestone celebrations like birthdays or family gatherings. The attentive service staff adds to the comfortable setting by making sure everyone is well served, from drink refills to food delivery, ensuring that nothing distracts from the group’s enjoyment.
The cultural richness embedded in the venue invites guests to appreciate and celebrate Latin music and traditions, which heightens the sense of occasion and makes even ordinary nights feel special. Whether you are there to dance spiritedly or simply to share a memorable meal, the environment supports and enhances social interactions without overwhelming guests.
Moreover, the venue’s history as a longstanding Cuban music venue renewed under new management means it retains a beloved authenticity while offering modern conveniences and improvements. This blend of old-world charm and current trends means everyone in your group will find something that resonates with them, fostering shared appreciation and creating a cohesive social experience.
Why choose Hoy Como Ayer for authentic Latin culture experiences?
Hoy Como Ayer stands out as a cultural hub in Miami’s Little Havana by showcasing Latin heritage through music, food, and ambiance. This is far more than just a place to drink; it is a living testament to Cuban musical traditions and social customs that have been sustained and celebrated for decades. The venue invites guests to "dance and drink like a local," immersing themselves in rhythms, recipes, and memories that echo the Cuban community’s vibrant spirit.
For those unfamiliar with Latin culture, Hoy Como Ayer offers an accessible yet deep introduction, encouraging guests to engage with salsa music, savor classic Cuban flavors, and embrace the joyful socializing that defines the culture. For Latin guests, it is a touchstone that reconnects them to heritage and tradition in a joyful and contemporary setting.
The venue's authenticity is supported by its history and the palpable passion of the staff and performers who bring the experience to life nightly. This makes it uniquely suited to groups who want a meetup that is both entertaining and culturally enriching, offering much more than a typical night out.
Overall, Hoy Como Ayer is the perfect destination for groups seeking a stylish yet relaxed environment where the best of Latin music, cuisine, and friendly service come together. Its mix of dancing, dining, and cultural immersion makes it an outstanding choice for anyone wanting to host a memorable meetup with friends or family.