La Leonesa Fritanga

1 SW 12th Ave, Miami, FL 33130, United States
+1 305-547-2622
$$$ Nicaraguan restaurant , Restaurant
(776 Reviews)
Price Range $10–20

La Leonesa Fritanga is a no-frills Nicaraguan restaurant tucked into the urban bustle of Miami’s Brickell area, offering a snapshot of traditional flavors that feel more local market than polished dining room. The space is compact, with only a handful of seats—mostly catering to takeout—so it’s ideal for grabbing a substantial, flavor-packed meal to go or settling in briefly if you can snag a spot during weekday lunch hours.

The menu homestays the heart of Nicaraguan comfort food, with hearty selections like Carne Asada, Salpicón, and traditional nacatamales that provide generous portions and straightforward, well-seasoned plates. Dishes like the grilled chicken with rice or beef ribs show up with bold, authentic flavors that speak to careful seasoning and traditional preparation, though some items like the meat can veer toward the more cooked side. Sides tend to be classic, including plantains and fried rice, though a few local preferences—such as having green plantain chips included as a side—aren’t part of the standard offering.

The informal, market-like atmosphere inside reflects a focus on the food itself rather than ambiance. It's common to find busy locals stepping in for a quick, filling lunch, drawn by the real taste of Nicaragua amid Miami’s diverse Food scene. While the seating is limited, the sense of a small, bustling spot where food is the main event is palpable, accompanied by lively chatter and the aroma of slow-cooked meats and traditional spices.

For someone craving genuine Nicaraguan dishes served in unpretentious surroundings, especially during weekday lunch breaks or early evenings, La Leonesa Fritanga delivers a distinctly local experience. It suits visitors comfortable in a casual, tight-knit setting where the kitchen is the star and large portions ensure you won’t leave hungry. Those coming with groups or looking for spacious seating might find the limited chairs a challenge, but takeout offers a reliable way to enjoy its flavors while exploring Brickell’s busy streets.

Popular for
Popular for breakfast
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
What they serve
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Serves late-night food
Quick bite
Serves small plates
Best for
Serves breakfast
Serves brunch
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Serves dessert
Has seating
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Parking
Free parking lot
Plenty of parking

Openings Hours

Checking

Monday

06:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Tuesday

06:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Wednesday

06:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Thursday

06:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Friday

06:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Saturday

06:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Sunday

06:00 AM - 10:00 PM

776 Reviews
Ramiah Spencer

22 Dec 2025

Popped in for a quick lunch during the day. The appearance of a local market, however, the food options and portions inside are massive. Enjoyed the flavor of the chicken and rice. It was too much for one person to eat. And that's a good thing.

JUAN CARLOS TORRES PEREZ

16 Dec 2025

Always several choices of fresh nicaraguan dishes. Carne asada, salpicón, naca tamales, quesillos, and much more!

Michael Johnson

15 Dec 2025

Although not the best neighborhood, the food easily makes up for it. If all Nicaraguan food is this delicious, I will need to visit that country. The beef ribs were massive and perfectly charred Mango line BBQ sauce was pretty unforgettable. The meat my have been a touch on the over done side, but this is a $$$$ taste with a $ price tag. Would definitely go again.

Claver Nicolas

31 Oct 2025

Food is good. Very limited seating. Just like 6 chairs. Mostly take out. Only real complain is you cant have the green plantain chips as any of your two sides that come with most dishes. You have to buy the extra side order. Lots of other places around let you have it included as a side dish.

Muhammad Mazhar Hussain

24 Sep 2025

Stepping into La Leonesa Fritanga felt like discovering a true culinary gem, a little piece of Nicaragua right here. I was immediately struck by the authentic, local market vibe, and while seating is limited to just a few chairs, it adds to the cozy, bustling charm of a place focused entirely on incredible food. I popped in for a quick lunch, and the experience was truly wonderful, offering a genuine taste of the culture. The staff were incredibly friendly and respectful, making me feel welcome from the moment I walked in. It's clear they pride themselves on their service, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. And the food? Absolutely fantastic! I opted for the chicken and rice, and the flavors were rich, deeply authentic, and wonderfully satisfying, truly bringing me back to the vibrant tastes of Nicaragua. The food options are massive, and the portions were incredibly generous – definitely more than enough for one person, which is always a good thing and ensures great value! While it's primarily a takeout spot, the sheer quality and deliciousness of the food make it worth every visit. This isn't a fancy sit-down restaurant, but for an authentic, hearty, and truly delicious meal with genuinely friendly service, La Leonesa Fritanga absolutely rocks. I highly recommend it for anyone craving a taste of real Nicaraguan cuisine and a respectful, welcoming environment.

Dennis

24 Sep 2025

This place rocks. The little restaurant is owned by a Nicaraguan. I like the service, the staff is respectful and friendly, Food is wonderful. It brings me back to my loved Nicaragua. I highly recommend to come here. They never shout at you like it's common here in the little Havana culture. I have gone to other places where people are in the front line of service but they are rude

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