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Actually they don't make it from scratch, they use mixes from their distribution centers. But they do mix the dough from the mixes, proof/rise/bake at the stores. A step up from other stores that just bakes frozen doughs.
And Publix has two versions of Cuban breads. A water cuban bread type that's sold here in NC. Then there's a traditional cuban that uses lard and starter (real cuban bread) which they don't make up here . At least not in Indian Land or the one on Johnston. Huge difference between the two versions.
Discovered that my self, I have since discovered that the paper wrapped Cuban is the one with lard, can be hit or miss as to if they have it but both near me at Steele creek carry it.
Publix has good guayava pastelitos, masarreales and Cuban bread. Also their "pork roast", with some additional seasoning and onions comes close to our Cuban roasted pork. Give them a try.
I'm here in Tampa, huge Cuban and Spanish restaurants and bakeries, etc. here. Mostly, you need an "ethnic community" to support the businesses and have ingredients needed. Tampa invented the Cuban sandwich and I like the bread here better than Miami style. Here they make it crusty on the outside by putting palm frond leaves in the bread and bake it. Makes it airy and great on the inside, too. I had a Miami type bread and disliked it. It was "smooth" on the outside, no palm leaves, and too light of bread in middle, much less substantial. IMHO. Don't want to start a Miami/Tampa war here !! Had a Miami style Cuban sandwich and it was not good. Thick slices of cheaper meats, not the same. Now, Miami has great food and their own style, so I know it is good.
I can make some Cuban food, but the bread is a big deal. Publix had a cuban loaf, it wasn't proper, but they did change it and maybe it's good. They also HAD a commercial loaf made by Casino brand, not sure they have it in NC.
Well, now I want Cuban food !!
These may have opened since the OP, but in downtown Concord (11 Union St.) there is Havana Carolina Restaurant & Bar, and in Kannapolis, at the Cloverleaf Shopping Center on Cannon Blvd, right off of I-85, there is the Havana Carolina Bakery.
It has been mentioned earlier in the thread, but I'll second the suggestion for Mambos in Salisbury. I've found it to be the best Cuban I've found outside of Florida.
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