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Have you ever tried authentic Cuban coffee? If not, you’re in for a treat. Cuban coffee, also known as cafecito or Cuban espresso, is renowned for its robust taste and unique brewing method.
But here’s a question that might pique your curiosity – is it actually legal to get Cuban coffee in the United States? Well, the good news is that it is. Here you will find the top 3 available Cuban coffee brands.
💡 Learn how to make authentic Cuban coffee at your home.
A quick overview of the best Cuban coffee brands
| Product | Name | Price |
|---|---|---|
  | Cafe La Llave | Check price |
  | Mayorga Organics Café | Check price |
  | Kahwa Cuban Coffee | Check price |
3 best Cuban coffee brands
Before we delve into those, let’s address a common misconception. You may have heard of popular brands like Bustelo and Pilon, which are often associated with Cuban coffee. While these brands have gained recognition over the years, they can be difficult to find.
There’s nothing more frustrating than falling in love with a particular coffee brand only to discover that it’s not widely available. For that reason, we will focus on brands that you can easily get, no matter where.
Cafe La Llave – Best Cuban coffee brand
Seeking the ultimate Cuban coffee experience? Meet Cafe La Llave. With 143 years of unmatched Latin coffee tradition, every sip promises dark-roasted, aromatic perfection.
Why is it a favorite? Its robust, intense flavor speaks for itself. And with each vacuum-sealed can preserving that freshness, you’re guaranteed a perfect brew every time, whether you prefer stove-top or drip.
The name ‘Llave’ means ‘Key’ in Spanish. Just as Cuba is the key to the Caribbean, Cafe La Llave is your key to coffee excellence. The vibrant green? A nod to hope and the heartfelt connection to the homeland.
Mayorga Organics Cafe Cubano – Sweet and syrupy Cuban coffee brand
Mayorga Organics Cafe Cubano is actually from Peru, Honduras, and Nicaragua. This Cuban-style roast boasts a smooth, dark profile with hints of vanilla and a sweet, syrupy smokiness, culminating in a bold, low-acidity finish.
The difference? 100% Arabica whole beans. Handpicked from Latin America’s finest small farms, they’re perfect for those who value freshness and grinding at home.
With a signature slow-roasting process, Mayorga Organics Cafe Cubano ensures distinct, high-quality flavors in every cup. They are all about organic, sustainable sourcing, ensuring the products respect the planet, consumers, and hardworking farmers.
Kahwa Cuban Coffee Beans – The most original Cuban coffee brand
Kahwa Cuban Coffee is a traditional Cuban blend dark roast that promises a robust flavor with a delightful, sweet finish. Its unique packaging features a one-way valve, ensuring every brew is as fresh as the first.
Kahwa caters to every palate. Made from 100% premium beans sourced globally, each cup unveils a complex flavor profile, letting you explore distinct notes with every sip. Versatile at its best, Kahwa is compatible with all brewing methods – from espresso makers to French presses.
How to choose the best brand for you?
There are two things you should consider when choosing the next Cuban coffee brand.
Go for the right roast level
If you prefer a more intense and robust flavor, opt for a dark roast. This roast level brings out the rich and smoky notes, giving you that classic Cuban coffee experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly milder taste with a touch of sweetness, a medium roast might be your best bet. It strikes a balance between boldness and smoothness.
Look out for the price
Price is always a factor to consider when choosing the best Cuban coffee brands. While we all want a high-quality cup of coffee, it’s important to find a brand that fits within your budget.
The good news is that all these Cuban coffee brands are available at affordable price points.
History of Cuban coffee
The history of Cuban coffee dates back to the 18th century when French people fled the Haitian Revolution. The favorable climate and ideal growing conditions made Cuba a perfect place for cultivating coffee beans. The industry flourished, and by the 20th century, coffee had become a significant export for the country.
Not only is Cuban coffee known for its taste, but it also holds a special place in Cuban culture and social gatherings.
However, the history of Cuban coffee took a turn in the 1960s with the Cuban Revolution and the subsequent trade embargo imposed by the United States. This embargo limited the availability of Cuban coffee in the U.S., making it a rare and sought-after commodity.
Today, as diplomatic relations between Cuba and the U.S. have improved, Cuban coffee has gradually made its way back into the hands of coffee enthusiasts in America. While the embargo is not entirely lifted, there are legal avenues to enjoy the flavorsome Cuban coffee experience.
Different ways to make Cuban coffee
One of the most iconic ways to enjoy Cuban coffee is through a traditional cafecito. This concentrated shot of espresso-like coffee is brewed using a moka pot and served in small cups.
If you’re looking to share the Cuban coffee experience with friends or family, a colada might be just what you need. A colada is a larger serving of cafecito, typically served in a communal cup with small demitasse cups for sharing.
For those who prefer a milder taste, a cortadito might be the ideal choice. This delightful concoction combines equal parts of coffee and steamed milk.
Cafe con leche is another beloved Cuban coffee preparation that combines the richness of Cuban coffee with the creaminess of hot milk.
But wait, there’s more! Cuban coffee can be enjoyed in various other ways too. Some prefer it over ice, creating a refreshing iced coffee that’s perfect for hot summer days. Others like to add a touch of sweetness by using condensed milk, creating a velvety and decadent cup of coffee.
Make sure to check out this article for detailed recipes for each of these Cuban coffee types.
How to brew Cuban coffee?
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to brew Cuban coffee at your home.
- Gather your equipment: To brew Cuban coffee, you’ll need a moka pot (also known as a cafetera), finely ground Cuban coffee beans, filtered water, and a heat source.
- Measure the water: Fill the bottom chamber of the moka pot with filtered water. Be sure not to exceed the safety valve. The amount of water will depend on the size of your Moka pot and the desired strength of your coffee.
- Add the coffee: Place the metal filter basket inside the bottom chamber of the moka pot. Fill it with finely ground Cuban coffee, leveling it off without packing it down. The coffee should be finely ground but not powdery.
- Assemble the moka pot: Screw the top chamber onto the bottom chamber, ensuring a tight seal.
- Heat it up: Place the moka pot on a heat source, such as a stovetop burner, and set it to medium heat. Make sure the handle is not directly over the flame or heat source.
- Brew time: As the water heats up, it will create pressure, forcing it through the coffee grounds and into the top chamber. You’ll start to hear a gurgling sound, indicating that the coffee is brewing. Keep an eye on the process to prevent over-extraction or burning.
- Remove from heat: Once the top chamber is filled with brewed coffee, carefully remove the moka pot from the heat source. Be cautious, as it will be hot.
- Serve and enjoy: Give the coffee a gentle stir to ensure it is well-mixed. Pour the rich and aromatic Cuban coffee into small cups or demitasse cups, and savor the moment. You can enjoy it as is or add sugar to taste.
Final thoughts
While some popular Cuban coffee brands may be harder to find, there are still exceptional options available that will keep you happily caffeinated without the frustration of constantly switching brands.
My journey through renowned bars and coffee shops over five years, as a barista, coffee aficionado, and former bartender, has honed my pursuit for the perfect cup. My passion for coffee isn’t just about the brew—it’s about sharing the knowledge and insights I’ve gleaned along the way.
