8th Street in Little Havana Miami is a plain low lying neighborhood of simple 1920's-1940's architecture without the art deco design - boxy storefronts, stark sidewalks, and a wide boulevard. There is almost no shade to offer the visitor a place of respite from the hot southern sun.
The simple shop exteriors hide a world of Cuban treasures. Stepping behind the storefront doors you are transported into another world. At the corner of 8th and 15th El Pub Restaurant provides the weary traveler with the best in Cuban sandwiches, and cafe con leche.
A short walk down the block, brings you to one of the many cigar shops - in this case the home to Moore and Bode. Sharon Bode Moore who has been dubbed the queen of the Miami cigar world may even be there to greet you, and discuss her degree in theology, the significance of the butterfly and sword of St. George logo, or the organic tobaccos they use for their cigars.
Been there – done that. This was worth being on my list of 1,000 things to do before I die. A return trip to visit the other cigar shops may make my list as well. Calle Ocho in Little Havana is without a doubt my favorite neighborhood in Miami. This actually makes for a pretty cheap Florida holiday.
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