Planning a Cuban holiday? This fascinating country has so much to offer; since the recent restoration of diplomatic ties between the US and Cuba, we have seen a wave of travel interest. Is it any wonder? This country has, for so long, been devoid of Western influences and therefore, oozes authentic charm. With relations restored, we have to wonder how long Cuba will avoid westernisation? Now is the time to visit.
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When all is said and done what’s more important than enjoying the here and now? Who can blame us for wanting our go at sitting in the street playing dominoes and sipping a Cuba Libre, whilst puffing on a locally produced cigar to the distant hum of a street band, of course… the simple life! It is a hugely appealing culture; one that values quality time with family and friends over all else. Where better to catch up with loved ones than around a table of delicious local food?
In the past gastronomy in Cuba has been a struggle, and a severe lack of ingredients has meant pretty uninspired dishes. With restored relations between Cuba and the US this shortage will inevitably change this, making eating on the island much richer experience for all. Even before ties were restored, a new generation of restaurants began cropping up; paladares.
Privately owned, and often family-run, paladares offer authentic Cuban cuisine. This is not your standard dining experience… what should you expect? More often than not, they are located in people’s homes – a chance to get behind the walls of that beautiful crumbling architecture and experience Cuba as the locals do. You will often be seated in a cosy courtyard or on a small roof terrace, under the beautiful starry Caribbean sky.
So, it’s reputation for bland food is being challenged as new chefs are beginning to experiment with new ingredients and cooking methods and put exciting twists on the local cuisine. For a taste of authentic Cuba at its best, these are ones to try:
El Atelier, Vedado – Calle 5, between Paseo y Calle 2, Vedado, +537 836 2025
La Guarida, Havana – Calle Concordia, No. 418, Centro Habana; 53-7-866-9047
Le Chansonnier, Vedado – Calle J No 257, between Calles 13 and 15, Vedado, +537 832 1576
Doña Eutimia, Old Havana – Callejón del Chorro No 60c, Plaza de la Catedral,+535 270 6433
Vistamar, Havana – Avenida 1ra, No. 2206, Playa, 53-7-203-8328
Café Laurent, Vedado – Calle M No 257, between Calles 19 and 21, Vedado, +537 831 2090
La Carboncita – Italian inspired – Calle 3a No 3804 between Calles 38 and 40, Miramar, +537 203 0261
La Galeria; Calle 19 No 1010, Esquina 12, Vedado, +537 836 3603
San Cristobal, Calle San Rafael No 469, between Lealtad and Campanario, central Havana, +537 860 1705
Nao Bar, Havana – Obispo No 1 e/San Pedro y Baratillo | Old Havana, +537 5295 8209
La Campana – Calle 212 No 2904, between Calles 29 and 31, La Lisa, +537 271 1073
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