Havana Harry’s, a renowned Cuban eatery located in Coral Gables, was forced to close its doors in August following an order from local authorities after a failed inspection. In an official Instagram post, the restaurant stated: “Havana Harry’s is temporarily closed as we undertake significant interior improvements. These include plumbing and kitchen upgrades, along with other renovations aimed at ensuring the highest standards of comfort, safety, and experience for our patrons and staff.” They further mentioned that they are working “closely with the city and local authorities to expedite this process as quickly as possible.”
The restaurant also expressed gratitude for customer support and called for patience: “Thank you for your patience and continued support! Stay tuned for updates on our reopening.” However, the official statement contrasts with reports from other local media.
According to Telemundo 51, visitors to the establishment located at Southwest 8th Street and 14th Avenue in Miami are greeted with a temporary closure sign, as well as a prominent red notice from the city detailing numerous violations, including electrical issues, unauthorized gas leak repairs, and unapproved internal renovations. Miami New Times corroborated that the closure was mandated by the Coral Gables Development Services Department on August 21.
A spokesperson for the restaurant’s owning group, Centurion Restaurant Group (CRG), confirmed the shutdown to the media, although specific reasons were not disclosed.
The closure has had an immediate impact on employees. According to Miami New Times, CRG filed a WARN notice with the state of Florida indicating that 28 of its 77 employees would face permanent layoffs, in two phases scheduled for August 24 and 31. The remaining staff would be relocated to other group establishments, such as Bulla Gastrobar, Beehive Kitchen, or Pisco y Nazca.
Coral Gables Commissioner Melissa Castro stated that the new owners—who purchased the restaurant in 2022—had inherited structural issues and have been working with city officials to address them. This is not the first time Havana Harry’s has faced similar challenges. In June, the restaurant was temporarily closed by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) after an inspection found a cockroach infestation. Although the restaurant reopened after passing two subsequent inspections, the closure was not clearly communicated to the public.
Since its founding in 1995, Havana Harry’s has been more than a restaurant: it has served as a gathering spot for generations of Miami families and tourists, celebrated for dishes like vaca frita, ropa vieja, and its Michelin-praised flan. Currently, there is no official reopening date.
Havana Harry's Closure: Key Questions Answered
Why was Havana Harry's closed?
Havana Harry's was closed due to multiple violations found during an inspection, including electrical issues, unauthorized gas leak repairs, and unapproved renovations.
How is Havana Harry's addressing the problems?
The restaurant is working closely with the city and local authorities to complete significant internal improvements, including plumbing and kitchen upgrades, to meet safety and quality standards.
What impact has the closure had on employees?
The closure has led to the permanent layoff of 28 employees, while the remaining staff are being transferred to other restaurants owned by the same group.
When will Havana Harry's reopen?
As of now, there is no official date set for Havana Harry's reopening. The restaurant has promised to update patrons on the progress of renovations and the reopening timeline.