One of the things that has impressed me most about Bilzin Sumberg‘s summer program is that it doesn’t just introduce us to the firm’s practice—it introduces us to Miami itself. Last week, the firm’s Government Relations and Land Development Practice Group organized one of my favorite summer associate events of the summer: a guided walking tour through the heart of Little Havana.
The Guayabera and the Garage
Our afternoon began on the iconic Calle Ocho, where our guide introduced us to one of Cuba’s most recognizable traditions: the guayabera. At the Havana Shirt Store, we learned about the history of the shirt, from its origins in Cuba to the practical inspiration behind its signature four-pocket design, which was created so workers could carry freshly picked guavas while harvesting. The real surprise came when our guide took us around the back of the store, where the owner keeps a personal collection of antique vehicles, the kind you’d expect to see cruising down the streets of Havana.
Fuel for the Walk
No visit to Little Havana would be complete without experiencing its food, and our next stop delivered exactly that. At Party Cake Bakery, we enjoyed a classic Miami pairing: a crispy croqueta alongside a sweet guava pastry, all accompanied by a strong cafecito. It was the perfect mid-tour pick-me-up and a reminder of how deeply Cuban culture has shaped Miami’s culinary identity.
Cigars, History, and Art
We continued on to Cuban Style Cigars, where we learned about the painstaking craftsmanship behind hand-rolled cigars. Before the tour, I had never considered how much time and precision goes into producing a single cigar. From selecting and aging the tobacco to rolling, pressing, and curing, the process can take months before a cigar is finally ready to enjoy.
As we explored Calle Ocho, it became clear that Little Havana is far more than its restaurants and storefronts. Colorful murals, public art, and the neighborhood’s iconic rooster sculptures lined the streets, celebrating the culture, resilience, and creativity of the Cuban community. We also visited the Bay of Pigs monument, where we learned about an important chapter in Cuban history and discussed the political and religious traditions that continue to shape the Cuban-American community today.
One phrase appeared throughout the neighborhood on murals and artwork: Patria y Vida—”Homeland and Life.” More than just a slogan, it has become a powerful symbol of hope, freedom, and the aspirations of the Cuban people for a brighter future. Seeing those words woven throughout Little Havana was a reminder that the neighborhood is not simply a place to experience Cuban culture—it is a community that preserves its history while continuing to shape its future.
The Grand Finale: Food (and More Food)
For lunch, we stopped at Old’s Havana Cuban Bar & Cocina, where we sampled several Cuban favorites. Between the ropa vieja, congri, sweet plantains, and the iconic Cuban sandwich, there was no shortage of incredible food. To complete the experience, we toasted with two equally classic Cuban cocktails: a mojito and a Cuba Libre.
Of course, no food tour would be complete without dessert. We wrapped up our culinary adventure at Azúcar!, one of Little Havana’s most beloved ice cream shops. Named after the famous catchphrase of Cuban music legend Celia Cruz, the shop celebrates Cuban culture through both its name and its creative flavors, making it a fitting final stop on the tour.
More Than a Tour
Our afternoon in Little Havana offered much more than great food and memorable sights. It provided a deeper appreciation for the history, traditions, and people that have made Miami the vibrant, multicultural city it is today. Experiences like these are one of the many reasons this summer has been so rewarding, and I am grateful to Bilzin Sumberg for creating opportunities to connect with both my colleagues and the community we serve.
