Savoring the Flavors: A Cuban Culinary Journey in Brooklyn's Best Spots

Key West, Florida, USA - Exploring the culinary landscape of Brooklyn can be quite an adventure, especially when it leads you to the heart of a beloved comfort food: the Cuban sandwich. As I navigate through charming streets and seek out local delicacies, I am eager to indulge in this sandwich that has stirred both passion and debate among food lovers. My next stop? The Cuban Shack, just a short twelve-minute walk from my hotel.

I’ve arrived at this delightful eatery with a profound appreciation for Cuban cuisine. After perusing the menu, I opt for the signature Cuban sandwich, a culinary creation that’s a mash-up of flavors anchored by a staple American ham and cheese sandwich. The roots of the Cuban sandwich stretch back to the late 19th century, with origins believed to be in Key West or Tampa, Florida, where Cuban cigar factory workers sought a hearty meal during their lunch breaks. Why Evolution is True reports that my choice includes the golden trifecta of ham, mojo, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard—minus salami—served alongside a generous helping of plantain chips and garlic sauce.

A Taste of History

The journey of the Cuban sandwich is as rich as its ingredients. Though it bears a Cuban name, it is an American invention, a fact that might surprise some. Matador Network notes that the concept of sandwiches is far from traditional in Cuba; rather, they originated from the practical needs of workers in the burgeoning cigar factories of Florida. Cigar worker Vicente Martinez Ybor played a pivotal role in spreading this sandwich to Tampa, which led Italian immigrants to introduce elements like Genoa salami into the mix, especially in dishes served around the charming streets of Ybor City. By the 1930s, the Cuban sandwich had made its way to Miami, gaining popularity among new immigrants who added their own twists. This culinary cross-pollination set the stage for the fierce competition between Tampa and Miami over who makes the definitive Cuban sandwich.

The traditional assembly of this sandwich involves Cuban bread, which hails from a recipe first created by Francisco Ferlita in the late 19th century, layered with all the essential ingredients. Despite the variations, the Miami version often omits salami, a subject for lively debate among aficionados. The Wikipedia entry details how the beloved sandwich has become central to identity for different Cuban communities, fostering a rivalry that extends beyond mere ingredients to matters of pride and authenticity.

A Culinary Delight

As I take my first bite, the culinary history behind the Cuban sandwich unfurls. The well-melded flavors dance across my palate, although I can’t help but wish for a bit more melted cheese. Alongside my hefty sandwich, I indulge in a large portion of fried plantains—so generous that I decide to save half for later. The balance of savory and tangy, the bite of pickles against the richness of pork, and that signature Cuban bread create an experience that feels both comforting and novel, perhaps a testament to the diverse influences that shaped its evolution.

The Cuban sandwich is not only a meal; it reflects a shared heritage fueled by ingredients, history, and a good deal of passion. Whether enjoyed in Tampa, Miami, or a local Brooklyn eatery, every bite tells a story of resilience, adaptation, and the unyielding desire for a good meal. There’s nothing quite like falling in love with a Cuban sandwich, and as I savor this culinary gem, I can’t help but feel grateful for the flavors of the culture and community it represents.

So, whether you’re visiting from afar or diving into the local food scene, don’t miss out on the chance to experience this unique dish that embodies both tradition and innovation. After all, there’s something to be said for treating your taste buds to an authentic Cuban sandwich!