When asking yourself about something to do near me in Kendall with a group of friends or family, consider
Islas Canarias Cuban Express
Why Islas Canarias Cuban Express is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Islas Canarias Cuban Express stands out as a vibrant and beloved Cuban eatery that has become a premier meeting spot for friends and families in Miami. Originating from a family business founded in 1977 by Raul and Amelia Garcia, it has cultivated a rich culinary legacy for over four decades. Its newest location in the Dadeland Mall food court offers a fresh and modern ambiance while preserving the authenticity and quality that customers have cherished over the years. The eatery is best known for its exquisite, homemade croquettes, a traditional Cuban specialty that has earned them a renowned reputation city-wide. Besides their signature croquettes, the menu now includes diverse Cuban classics such as sandwiches, Cuban burritos, and bowls, all crafted to suit contemporary tastes without sacrificing tradition. The atmosphere is casual and inviting, perfect for gatherings whether for a quick bite or a leisurely meal. With ample seating, drive-thru options, and accessibility features, Islas Canarias Cuban Express caters to a wide range of guests seeking hearty, authentic Cuban cuisine served with familiarity and warmth. Its blend of time-honored recipes and new culinary innovations creates an ideal setting for locals and visitors to connect over delicious food and Cuban culture.
Here's what people think of Islas Canarias Cuban Express
As of recent, Islas Canarias Cuban Express holds a 4.4-star rating based on 48 reviews.
Customer feedback for Islas Canarias Cuban Express and its original locations reflects a strong appreciation for its authentic Cuban flavors and consistent quality. Positive reviews frequently highlight the restaurant’s outstanding croquettes, praised for their distinct taste and fresh ingredients that set them apart from other versions. Patrons also commend the well-seasoned dishes such as vaca frita, oxtail stew, and fried whole snapper, describing the food as hearty, flavorful, and reminiscent of traditional Cuban home cooking. The casual and family-friendly atmosphere combined with attentive service adds to the welcoming experience that many customers cherish. Additionally, the convenience of the newer Express location at Dadeland Mall with its expanded menu options has been viewed as a beneficial evolution, making these beloved Cuban dishes even more accessible. Some negative comments mention the small size of the dining space at the original locations, which can get crowded during peak hours. A few reviews note that the casual setting might feel a bit no-frills for those seeking a more formal dining experience, and there can occasionally be longer wait times. Nevertheless, the general consensus affirms that Islas Canarias Cuban Express provides an authentic and satisfying Cuban dining experience that justifies a visit, especially for fans of quality croquettes and Cuban staples. The blend of tradition with modern convenience positions it as a lasting favorite in Miami’s diverse culinary scene.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Alexandra
LITERALLY THE BEST ISLAS CANARIAS IN MIAMI!!!! Big thanks to Jonathan, Joely and Humberto for the most amazing customer service, patience and positive attitude when we went to purchase our food. 5 stars for really delicious food and undoubtedly top notch customer service Recommend 10/10 to anyone looking to have delicious healthy food
Lauren Campos
Great addition to the Dadeland food court. Delicious high quality Cuban food!!! I’m Cuban & appreciate a well made croqueta and pan con bistec. Absolutely recommend this place! Laz was very nice & helpful! We will be returning 😊
Janet Diaz-Pujol
Amazing Cuban food with unbeatable service! The food is delicious, and the croquetas are the best in Miami. The OG croqueta and the Serrano Manchego croqueta are amazing!! The staff is so friendly and treats you like family, making every visit feel like a piece of home. It’s my go to place when at Dadeland mall.
Luis Hernandez
It was my first time trying Islas Canarias and now I totally get the hype. I went with my family so we were able to sample a little bit of everything on the menu. But the croquetas were hands down the best part, especially the mojo chicken ones. Definitely worth a stop if you're at Dadeland Mall
Teresita Grifol
Excellent service, very well-prepared food. if you're on a dairy-free diet, you can eat there. There's little wait time. Highly recommended. Don’t miss out on trying their excellent croquettes.
How to reach Islas Canarias Cuban Express
None
Website: None
Why Islas Canarias Cuban Express may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Islas Canarias Cuban Express with your friends?
Gathering with friends at Islas Canarias Cuban Express is an exceptional idea because this place perfectly balances authentic Cuban flavors and a casual, welcoming atmosphere, ideal for socializing. Known for its long-standing reputation since 1977, it carries a deep family legacy of Cuban cuisine excellence that resonates in every dish. The Express location, nestled in the Dadeland Mall food court, makes it convenient yet distinctively vibrant with a modern twist while preserving the traditional culinary roots cherished by locals for decades. Whether you're craving the best croquetas in Miami or craving freshly made Cuban coffee, sharing these specialties with friends creates a memorable communal experience. Beyond the food, the lively ambiance and friendly service foster an environment where conversations flow easily, laughter is abundant, and everyone feels part of a unique Cuban cultural celebration. This blend of authentic taste and an inviting social setting makes Islas Canarias Cuban Express more than just a meal; it’s a gathering place for connection and joy with friends.
What activities and experiences make Islas Canarias Cuban Express perfect for group meetups?
Islas Canarias Cuban Express is designed to accommodate groups who want more than just a meal; it offers a lively, interactive dining experience with multiple activities and features ideal for social gatherings. First, the food itself is an activity — sharing plates of their famous ham croquetas, ropa vieja, and avocado salad turns eating into a communal event. Groups love trying various items, sparking conversation about flavor and family recipes that date back decades. The quick and modish service allows friends to enjoy their time without long waits, which is essential for full-day mall outings. Additionally, its location within the bustling Dadeland Mall provides natural opportunities to combine dining with shopping, movies, or casual strolls, making the meetup versatile and dynamic. The Express setting encourages easy group movement, allowing friends to stop by for a quick bite or linger comfortably for extended chats. Altogether, the blend of authentic Cuban culinary delights and the adaptable space makes it a perfect, activity-rich destination for friends’ meetups.
How authentic and diverse is the food selection at Islas Canarias Cuban Express?
Islas Canarias Cuban Express prides itself on representing authentic Cuban cuisine with a contemporary quick-service twist that appeals to all ages within a group. Their menu includes classic Cuban staples like ropa vieja, home-made chicken soup, and some of the best croquetas in Miami. The croquetas come in a variety of flavors, including ham, buffalo chicken, and manchego cheese with Serrano ham, offering diversity and excitement in every bite. Their recipes have been passed down through generations since Raul Garcia opened the original Islas Canarias Restaurant in 1977, ensuring authenticity. The Cuban coffee here is another crowd favorite, perfectly complementing the savory dishes and keeping energy high for socializing. This dedication to authentic tastes, combined with some well-curated modern additions, satisfies everyone’s palates, making group dining enjoyable and inclusive.
What kind of atmosphere and service can groups expect at this location?
The atmosphere at Islas Canarias Cuban Express is casual, bright, and bustling, an excellent fit for a group meetup that values good food and lively conversation without formalities. With seating conveniently arranged in the food court of Dadeland Mall, it encourages a relaxed vibe where everyone can feel at ease. The service is known to be warm and attentive, reflecting the family-owned spirit of the business. Customers frequently praise the staff for making them feel welcome and well taken care of, which adds a personal touch to the dining experience. Whether your meetup is a casual catch-up or a celebratory gathering, the approachable and friendly service ensures that groups feel valued, supported, and comfortable throughout their visit.
What additional benefits does Islas Canarias Cuban Express offer for group gatherings?
Islas Canarias Cuban Express offers several additional benefits that enhance its appeal as a group meetup spot. Its location inside a major mall like Dadeland provides convenient parking, easy accessibility, and the option to combine dining with other social activities like shopping or watching a movie afterward. The quick service style is particularly advantageous for groups, minimizing wait times and allowing flexibility in meal pacing. For those who want to extend their social time, the menu variety and large portions encourage sharing, making it feel less like a rushed meal and more like a communal feast. Plus, with positive reviews highlighting its consistent food quality and affordability, groups can enjoy a satisfying feast that’s also budget-friendly. The possibility of enjoying authentic Cuban flavors in a fresh, modern environment with family recipes passed down for over 40 years adds a unique cultural dimension to your meetup.
How do the food quality and reviews reflect on Islas Canarias Cuban Express as a meetup spot?
The food quality at Islas Canarias Cuban Express consistently earns high praise, reinforcing its status as a great meetup spot. Reviewers repeatedly mention the outstanding croquetas, calling them the best in Miami, alongside delicious traditional Cuban dishes served fresh and flavorful. Many highlight how the food is both authentic and affordable, making it accessible for group outings. The restaurant's commitment to quality over four decades translates into dependable, satisfying meals that encourage repeat visits. Positive customer experiences often note not only the taste but also the friendly service and inviting atmosphere, elements crucial for comfortable and enjoyable group gatherings. This strong reputation reflected in its 4.4-star rating combined with nearly 50 reviews from satisfied customers indicates that Islas Canarias Cuban Express reliably delivers an excellent blend of flavor, value, and conviviality — ideal ingredients for hosting memorable meetups with friends and family.