Last Updated on August 8, 2023
Have you ever craved a Cuban sandwich book? How about one that showcases how a symbol for displaced people won the hearts (and bellies) of America, and claimed a spot on menus around the world?
Well, now you can learn everything you ever wanted to know about the social history of the infamous Cuban sandwich. Thanks to three devoted fans — Andrew T. Huse, Bárbara C. Cruz, and Jeff Houck — this book is now a reality.
The Cuban Sandwich Book
The odyssey of the Cubano (i.e., the Cuban sandwich) begins with its hazy origins in the midnight cafés of Havana.
From there it evolved into a dainty high-class hors d’oeuvre and eventually became a hearty street snack devoured by cigar factory workers.
In “The Cuban Sandwich,” the authors sort through improbable vintage recipes and gossip from Florida old-timers. They also tackle the great Tampa vs. Miami Cuban sandwich debate.
NOTE: Key West likes to have some skin in the game as well since they are geographically the closest to Cuba.
The final result is a historic, behind-the-scenes Cuban sandwich book that looks at how this delicacy became a lunch-counter staple in the United States and eventually worldwide.
WARNING: Do not read this book on an empty stomach!
The authors also interviewed artisans. Learn the high arts of creating and combining expertly baked Cuban bread, sweet ham, roast pork, melted Swiss cheese, crunchy dill pickles, and yellow mustard.
Tips and expert insight for making Cuban sandwiches at home will have you savoring the history of the traditional Cuban sandwich. Plus, there’s a story behind each perfect bite.
The book is available via the University Press of Florida website or on Amazon.
Don’t miss the list of our 10 favorite and best Cuban sandwiches in Florida.
We also recommend watching or rewatching the movie, Chef, from 2014.
Get to Know the Authors
Andrew Huse is the curator of Florida Studies at the University of South Florida Libraries and the author of From Saloons to Steak Houses: A History of Tampa.
Dr. Bárbara Cruz is a professor of social science education and co-director of the InsideART project at the University of South Florida.
Jeff Houck is vice president of marketing for the Columbia Restaurant Group and previously worked as a food editor, writer, and blogger for the Tampa Tribune.
More detailed bios are available at www.cubansandwichbook.com/. They also have a fun Twitter page.
If you are a fan of Cuban culture, we recommend checking out these articles:
- 6 Authentic Things to Do in Little Havana
- Top 10 Authentic Things to Do in Tampa, Florida
- Historic La Segunda Bakery Opens Third Location
- 5 Historical Facts About Columbia Restaurant
- Our 10 Favorite Authentic Cuban Sandwiches in Florida
Don’t miss National Cuban Sandwich Day on August 23!
Additionally, there are also annual Cuban Sandwich Festivals in Florida you’ll definitely want to check out. We have them earmarked for future articles.
Feel free to use the comments below to let us know if you enjoyed this book and learned anything new about Cuban sandwiches.