La Carreta; The Miami Celebration Spot

"Only in Miami" is a phrase that we often hear in the humid melting pot that is the Magic City. There are just certain customs and traditions that you would never witness past Broward County. Things that are truly unique to the Latin-infused culture that Miami has to offer.

Well, only in Miami would people fleece their kitchens of their pots and pans and wooden spoons, and congregate around a restaurant to celebrate the Miami Heat's amazing championship victory into the wee hours of the night. When something big happens such as the Florida Marlins winning the World Series or when the universally detested Fidel Castro gave up power to his brother Raul, La Carreta Restaurant in Westchester is the gathering spot for the local Miami community. Walk in past La Carreta's coffee window on a busy Saturday night and there's always a lively crowd talking, arguing and sharing stories! It is a microcosm of Miami culture; older people discussing politics, police officers on break, young men and woman sharing an authentic Cuban meal, middle-aged bikers on Harleys, and the full spectrum of Miami characters: Cuban, Latin American, and American alike.

The restaurant itself is surely unique, but what we wondered was what draws a large community of people to celebrate at the same spot (especially since it's a chain) for these big moments?

Throughout the Heat's playoff run, the city has been on edge. Miamians wanted a championship so bad they could taste it. This was our year, and we were all confident that our team could do it. But the one thing we could be sure of was that if and when they won, La Carreta on Bird Road would be flooded with people celebrating. The sounds of banging pots, honking horns and Spanish music blasting from cars would fill the streets and impromptu parades and conga lines would jam the sidewalks.

Last night, Miami did not disappoint! The Heat ended their glorious Finals run against OKC 4-1, and the Miami community did what it does best: jubilant unapologetic celebration. Being born and raised in Miami, I know firsthand what this is all about. And this is only the first of many celebrations to come this summer. LOL. GO HEAT!!! 2012 NBA CHAMPIONS!!!!

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