“Winter” in Miami is a secret locals keep from the rest of the world. While others are scraping ice off their windshields, Miami is entering its most magical season. The humidity pauses , the air turns crisp, and the city opens up. It is the season for walking, exploring, and being outdoors.
For those searching for a Miami winter guide or wondering what to do in Miami winter, the answer always begins with how the morning starts. You don’t start it huddled indoors; you start it at the window. Your perfect winter day begins at a Cortadito Coffee House location. Whether on Lincoln Road, Washington Ave, or in Brickell, the air is finally cool enough to truly enjoy a hot drink. This makes December the prime season for our signature Cortadito: the rich, strong espresso cut with steamed milk that serves as the city’s official fuel.
The Ritual of the Morning
In Miami, coffee is not just a beverage; it is an activation switch. The “winter” mornings offer a rare opportunity to enjoy a hot coffee comfortably outside. At Cortadito Coffee House, we honor this ritual with precision. Our Cortadito is crafted with a double shot of espresso, sweetened to perfection and topped with the essential foam. It provides the warmth and sustained energy needed to seize the day.
For those who prefer a longer sip to enjoy the weather, the Café con Leche pairs a strong espresso shot with steamed milk, creating a creamy, comforting companion for a morning of people-watching on the patio.
The “Winter” Walk: A Local’s Itinerary
With your cup in hand, you are ready to start your day in Miami. The lower temperatures make the city walkable in a way it isn’t during the summer.
- From Lincoln Road: Take your Cortadito and stroll down the pedestrian promenade before the crowds arrive. The winter light hitting the Art Deco facades creates a golden glow that is unparalleled for photography.
- From Washington Ave: You are just blocks from the beach. There is nothing like a morning walk on the sand in December, coffee in hand, watching the ocean without breaking a sweat.
- From Brickell: Walk the Underline or the Miami River. The city energy is high, but the weather makes it a pleasure to explore on foot, turning a commute into a scenic route.
Fuel for Exploration
A Miami winter day is active. You might be heading to an art fair, a boat show, or just a long bike ride along the beach. Don’t start on an empty stomach. Pair your coffee with a hearty, authentic breakfast from our menu to keep you fueled until sunset.
- The Cuban Breakfast: For a complete start, this platter features eggs, choice of meat (like ham or bacon), authentic Cuban toast, and a side of café con leche. It’s the breakfast of champions.
- The Cuban Sandwich: If your morning starts a bit later, a hot-pressed Cuban Sandwich layered with roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard—is the ultimate savory comfort food to carry you through a day of exploration.
- Empanadas: For those on the move, a warm beef or chicken empanada offers a savory, handheld boost that fits perfectly in one hand while you hold your coffee in the other.
This season, embrace the best weather in the world.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is a “Cortadito”? A: A Cortadito is a staple of Cuban coffee culture. It consists of a specific ratio: a double shot of espresso “cut” (hence the name) with a small amount of steamed milk. It is stronger than a latte but smoother than a straight espresso.
Q: Is Cortadito Coffee House open early for winter walks? A: Yes. Our locations are open early, ready to serve the morning crowd of walkers, runners, and early risers looking to enjoy the cool morning air with a hot drink.
Q: What is the best hot drink for a cool Miami morning? A: We recommend the Café con Leche for a creamy, warming experience, or our Cortadito for a stronger energy boost. Both are served hot and are perfect for the season.
Q: Do you have outdoor seating? A: Yes. Our locations, particularly on Lincoln Road and Washington Ave, offer outdoor seating where you can soak up the winter sun and enjoy the vibrant street energy of Miami Beach.
Start at our ventanita with a hot Cortadito. Feel the energy of the city waking up. Use that energy to go for a walk, hit the beach, or explore.