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Havana Harry’s, one of the most iconic Cuban restaurants in Coral Gables, was forced to close in August following an order issued by local authorities after a failed inspection.
In an official post on Instagram, the restaurant explained: “Havana Harry’s is temporarily closed while we complete significant interior improvements. These include plumbing work and enhancements to the kitchen, along with other facility renovations, all designed to ensure the highest standards of comfort, safety, and experience for our customers and our team.”
They added that they are working "closely with the city and local authorities to advance this process as quickly as possible."
In addition, they expressed gratitude for the support from their customers and requested patience: “Thank you for your patience and continued support! Stay tuned for updates on our reopening.”
But the official version contrasts with the reality reported by other local media.
According to Telemundo 51, those visiting the location at 8th Street and 14th Avenue in southwest Miami find a temporary closure sign, but also an official red notice issued by the city, detailing multiple violations, including electrical issues, gas leak corrections made without permits, and unauthorized internal renovations.
Miami New Times confirmed that the closure was ordered by the Coral Gables Department of Development Services on August 21.
In statements to that outlet, a spokesperson for the restaurant's owner, Centurion Restaurant Group (CRG), confirmed the closure, although no specific reasons were provided.
The impact on the workers has been immediate. According to the Miami New Times, CRG submitted a notice of layoffs to the state of Florida (WARN notice) stating that 28 of its 77 employees would be permanently laid off, in two rounds scheduled for August 24 and August 31.
The rest of the staff would be transferred to other locations of the group, such as Bulla Gastrobar, Beehive Kitchen, or Pisco y Nazca.
The Coral Gables commissioner, Melissa Castro, stated that the new owners —who acquired the restaurant in 2022— inherited structural problems and have been working with the city hall to resolve them.
This is not the first time that Havana Harry's has faced a similar situation. Last June, the restaurant was temporarily closed by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) after an inspection discovered a cockroach infestation.
Although the restaurant reopened after passing two new inspections, the closure was not clearly communicated to the public.
Since its founding in 1995, Havana Harry’s has been more than just a restaurant: it’s a gathering place for generations of Miami families and tourists, known for dishes like vaca frita, ropa vieja, and its flan, which has even been praised by the Michelin Guide.
At the moment, there is no official reopening date.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Closure of Havana Harry's in Miami
Why did the restaurant Havana Harry’s in Miami temporarily close?
Havana Harry’s was temporarily closed by order of local authorities due to multiple violations detected during an inspection. Among the infractions are electrical issues, gas leak repairs made without permits, and unauthorized internal renovations.
What measures are the owners of Havana Harry’s taking to solve the issues?
The owners of Havana Harry’s are working closely with the city and local authorities to make significant interior improvements, including plumbing work and kitchen upgrades, in order to meet safety and comfort standards.
How many employees were affected by the closure of Havana Harry’s?
The closure of Havana Harry's affected 28 of its 77 employees, who were permanently laid off, while the rest of the staff was transferred to other establishments owned by Centurion Restaurant Group.
What impact does the closure of restaurants in South Florida have?
The closure of restaurants in South Florida, such as Havana Harry’s, reflects a pattern of economic and regulatory issues impacting the industry, including inflation, high operating costs, and strict health regulations.
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