Fort Myers historic home now serves Cuban coffee and Latin bites

FORT MYERS, Fla. (WINK) — A historic home in Fort Myers is brewing up something new, inviting the community in for a taste of Latin culture and a place to slow down.

The Hibiscus House, located right on McGregor Road, is a restored property along McGregor Boulevard, is now home to Hibiscus Latin Café, a new spot designed to feel like a “third space” where people can gather, relax, and connect over coffee.

Inside what was once one of the home’s guest rooms, the café brings Cuban-inspired flavors to Southwest Florida. The menu features traditional Latin bites like empanadas, tequeños, and pan de bono, alongside a full lineup of coffee favorites. From iced coffee to cafecito, cortaditos, and café con leche, the café blends familiar staples with cultural tradition.

Co-owner Lisette Puebla said the goal is to create a space that feels welcoming to everyone, whether they grew up with these flavors or are trying them for the first time.

“We wanted to bring our Cuban heritage to Southwest Florida. There have been plenty of people who are Latino who are so happy about a space with familiar foods and drinks,” Puebla said. “But there are also people who have never experienced Latino culture who are excited to try it.”

The idea for the café came naturally. After Puebla and her mother purchased the Hibiscus House in 2023 and transformed it into a boutique inn, they noticed a steady stream of people walking by the property. That foot traffic sparked the vision to open the space beyond overnight guests.

“A lot of people don’t realize that this café is open for everyone, not just guests,” Puebla said. “One of the best parts is the windows and the views you get.”

Now, the café adds a new layer to the Hibiscus House experience. What was once simply a place to stay has evolved into a bright, welcoming oasis where locals and visitors alike can stop in, sip a cafecito, and feel at home.

The boutique inn features five rooms and is designed to feel like a home away from home, giving guests a comfortable stay with a unique, cultural touch right on site.