Craving a taste of authentic Cuban coffee bliss in the heart of Key West? Look no further than the renowned Cuban Coffee Queen! Nestled in the vibrant streets of this charming island paradise, the Cuban Coffee Queen is a beloved gem among locals and travelers alike. Join us on a flavorful journey as we uncover why this quaint café reigns supreme as the go-to destination for the best Cuban coffee in Key West. From its rich heritage to its irresistible brews, get ready to sip, savor, and indulge in the ultimate caffeine fix at the Cuban Coffee Queen: Key West’s best brew in paradise!
As the sun rises over this island paradise, locals and travelers flock to this hidden gem to taste the finest brew in town and get their morning coffee fix. With its rich aroma and unparalleled flavor, the Cuban Coffee Queen stands as a beacon of excellence, offering an unforgettable experience for coffee enthusiasts. Boasting a motto, “Drink More Cuban Coffee and Do Stupid Things Faster,” you know THEY know a thing or two about a great morning cup of coffee. JUST our kinda place for a travel blog!
Cuban Coffee’s Java Journey To Key West.
Let’s dive into why the Cuban Coffee Queen is Key West’s best brew in paradise. We will discover their delicious Cuban coffee and food and have a brief history lesson. Coffee has been grown in Cuba since the mid-18th century when José Antonio Gelabert planted the first coffee plant. French farmers fleeing the Haitian Revolution also introduced more complex brewing methods that are still used today. By the 19th and 20th centuries, Cuba was a major exporter of coffee to Spain. Coffee production became a key part of the country’s economy and a symbol of national pride.
Café Cubano originated in Cuba when espresso machines were first imported from Italy. Cuba has copious sugar cane fields and Cuban coffee baristas were quick to reinvent the Italian espresso. They accomplished this by sweetening it with their own concoction using demerara sugar as it was being brewed. Drinking Cuban coffee remains a prominent social and cultural activity.
So, Cuban coffee in Key West, Florida!? Ummm…YES!
Cubans have been coming here for generations and Cuba is closer to Key West than Miami. Cuban Fishermen sailed our waters when we still belonged to Spain. However, once Florida and Key West became part of the United States many Cubans moved here to trade. By this time, the cigar trade had been established in Key West. Many Cuban’s made Key West, Florida their home and introduced the rich culture of Cuba.
Island Coffee Bliss.
Established in 2009, with their motto, “One day in Cuba, I met a lady who made the best coffee and Cuban toast. She told us stories and showed me how to make a real cafe. I will never forget the Cuban Coffee Queen.” The Cuban Coffee Queen quickly became a local favorite rich in Cuban culture and a sought-after hot spot while visiting the Florida Keys. This isn’t JUST one of the many Key West Cuban coffee shops that populate the island. It’s the CUBAN COFFEE QUEEN!
On a recent 36-hour, whirlwind trip down to Key West, we knew Cuban Coffee Queen was a local favorite and one we didn’t want to pass up. This quirky and funky shack epitomizes all the fun of Key West. Located in the Key West historic seaport on 284 Margaret Street you’ll find one of our new favorite places. This Key West classic serves Cuban flavor with a great cup of coffee and delicious food.
A Foodies Perfect Destination.
This lovely place invites you to embark on a Cuban culinary adventure as you devour their Cuban sandwiches with the BEST mojo pork and sip their VOODOO iced coffee made with espresso-coffee ice cubes. This Cuban cafe wants to delight you with island favorites and great prices. Grab a Buchi for $2 and get the party started! Had a late night partying and listening to live music on Duval Street!? Head to the walk-up window the next morning and order a Cafe con Leche and a pan cubano. The world will look much brighter!
Schlepping ALL over the island will wear you out quickly! ESPECIALLY when the temperatures are soaring! Jump on the trolley and head over here, (stop #3), and order the Re-Hydrator Smoothie. Made with mixed berries, mangos, bananas, coconut water, and an Electomix, this little gem will have you refreshed and ready to go check out the 6-toed cats at the Hemingway House.
The Perfect Key West Instagram Pic!
A trip to Cuban Coffee Queen, Key West’s best brew in paradise would NOT be complete without snapping a pic. Grab your drink and head to the side of the coffee shack. Capture the moment in front of the iconic Key West postcard sign. It’s the perfect spot to grab that Instagrammable shot!
Great news for all our plant-based friends and the dairy-intolerant…Cuban Coffee Queen can make all their drinks using soy or almond milk! Pure heaven! Craving a lighter meal!? Grab one of the delicious salads and some toasted Cuban bread with guava! Cuban Coffee Queen has a second location at 5 Key Lime Square, at Southard and Duval. They also offer delivery. Check out their website for more details!
Want to order like a pro!? Here is a quick rundown of the basic coffee drinks at Cuban Coffee Queen: Key West’s Best Brew in Paradise.
- The “Buchi,” a Cuban espresso shot, is equal parts demerara sugar and espresso. Make a double Bucci, add steamed milk, and a splash of sugar and you have a Cortadito. Made popular in the 1960s when it was brought to Miami by the Cuban-Americans, is now a Florida favorite.
- Moving along is the Colada. Considered the most unique of the Cuban coffees, it consists of 4 Cuban espresso shots served in a large cup. It will usually come with a plastic shot cup. Perfect for sharing with all your new local friends!
- Lastly, and my personal favorite, the Cafe con Leche. This delightful brew is a larger Cortadito with more steamed milk and is closer to an Italian latte. Those in the know ask for their sugar and steamed milk to be served on the side to compose their own “crack juice!”
MORE CUBAN COFFEE LOVE.
- HISTORY OF CUBAN COFFEE
- COMPLETE GUIDE TO CUBAN COFFEE IN KEY WEST
- CUBAN COFFEE HISTORY JUST AS LONG AND RICH
Cuban Coffee in Paradise.
So, my fellow FOODIE LOVERS, come Indulge in a taste of the tropics and discover the unparalleled allure of Cuban Coffee Queen. With each sip, immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Key West and savor the rich flavors that define this island paradise. Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado or a curious traveler, the brews at Cuban Coffee Queen promise an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Caribbean. Join us at Cuban Coffee Queen, where every cup is a celebration of tradition, passion, and the pure joy of coffee. Welcome to paradise Friends!
Thanks for stopping by! Come along for the adventure as we explore Florida & beyond. Discovering off-the-beaten-path destinations, testing out cool gear, eating & creating fantastic food along the way. Happy wandering!
Always great tips to get the best out of your travelling! Thanks for sharing your secrets!
PS, What is ‘schlepping’? This is not a word I have heard used. haha!
Thanks Jen! In this particular instance, “schlepping” is when you realize you are not 20 anymore and you are dragging yourself across the face of hell or Key West, in a 36-hour window! We looked like zombies lol!
As a die hard coffee lover, I’m always scoping out new coffee shops. Next time I’m in Key West I’ll be at the CUBAN COFFEE QUEEN!
Kristine, it was AMAZING! We just did a quick trip to Key West over the holiday weekend and Cuban Coffee Queen became our new BFF!