Caja Caliente Review - Nothing Says 'Miami' Like Cuban and Gator Tacos

Caja Caliente Review – Nothing Says ‘Miami’ Like Cuban and Gator Tacos

Just three years ago, Monika “Mika” Leon opened her first food truck, Caja Caliente. Inspired by the Cuban and Latin flavors she grew up with, she set out to sprinkle some imagination on one of Miami’s favorite cuisines. Fast forward from 2016 to 2019, she’s opened a 2nd location in Coral Gables. In addition to a highly craved one in Wynwood. Though it stays true to original recipes, the small food truck has now transformed into a 1,500 SQ Feet space, complete with a beer and wine bar.

Caja Caliente

Greeted by eye-catching tropical decor using pieces from various islands and playful colors, it’s no wonder why this place keeps popping up on my Instagram. I obviously had to see what all the hype’s about. But I’ll admit I’m a lil’ biased after noticing that a lot of these places that put their full attention into being “trendy”, sometimes lack focus on food quality. Caja Caliente puts its money (or tacos?) where its mouth is, looking absolutely fresh, and tasting it too.

The menu is mainly comprised of tacos, bowls, and sandwiches. Fairly simple, but with so many different (and enticing) options! The taco’s protein choices range anywhere from Steak, Tuna Poke, Pulpo (Octopus), even Fresh Florida Gator. And they pretty much have every flavor of Jarritos, the famous Mexican soft-drink, imaginable. If you’re daring, mix the Mandarin and Tamarind flavors. You’ll thank me later. They also have smaller bites like the Mahi Mahi Empanada that manage to pack huge flavor.

Our Faves

Whatever you order, start your meal off with the freshly homemade Mariquitas (Plantain Chips) & Herb Aioli. If I could buy tubs of the sauce I would.

Tamal Cubano

(Mami’s Homemade Tamal, topped with Black Bean Pico, Avocado, Queso & Spicy Mayo) is even worthy of my Cuban grandma’s approval. The dough was soft but had enough firmness not to crumble all over. The toppings perfectly contrasting the sweetness of corn with savory. They also some textural fun to each bite! The cherry on top in this case is a Huevo Frito (Fried Egg).

Mahi Mahi Bowl

(Choice of protein on a bed of organic Quinoa, Cucumbers, Black Bean Pico De Gallo, Cotija Cheese, and your choice of Caja or Herb Aioli). Mahi Mahi was our choice of protein, and boy was it a good one. The grilled fish was seasoned well enough not to taste, well fishy. Yet lightly enough to bring out its own delicious flavor. I’m not a huge fan of quinoa but this mix was excellent. Though I’m convinced the Herb Aioli could have that effect on any dish.

Mika’s Pan Con Minuta

(Fresh Yellowtail Snapper, Black Bean Pico, Lettuce, Tartar Sauce). I’ve had this classic many times before but never as ‘Instagramable’. With the tail of the fish protruding from the warm and crusty buns.

Hungry for more? To check out our review of one of our fave new Brickell lunch and gelato spots click here.

“The Fave-est”

Red Bean Cream

It’s no coincidence the Red Bean Cream falls under “Especiales Calientes” being something truly special. This is one of those dishes I’m going to be thinking about until the next time I have it. And then dreaming about the following visit as soon as I’m done with that one. I’m warning you, it’s addictive. I can’t even pinpoint what it is, but this bean puree style dish is one of the most flavorful I’ve ever had.

Caja Caliente may be one of Miami’s “most Miami spot”. With alligator tacos, Cuban-fusion cuisine, tropical vibes, cultural and artsy influence, this new spot reminds us to be proud of our flavors.