Havana for Foodies

It can't be said that Cuba has distinguished itself gastronomically in the past. But the truth is that this unfortunate reputation doesn't stem from a lack of culinary culture; quite the opposite, it's due to a commercial import law that prevents them from obtaining quality ingredients, thus limiting the variety and freshness of the food offered to their visitors. But be warned, all of this is now a thing of the past. Thanks to a change in policy, all-inclusive hotels are transforming their menus to the great delight of vacationers. But in this article, we'll shine a spotlight on the famous Cuban capital, because the captivating city of Havana has brilliantly evolved in the culinary field in recent years, proving that it has everything it takes to tantalize our taste buds!

Here is a delightful selection of gourmet stops not to be missed during your next trip to this captivating city…

Waking up in Havana is a bit like stepping out of a DeLorean after a little trip back in time that landed you in the 1950s... the city is frozen in time, truly. And that's what makes it so rich and absolutely unique and fascinating. Of course, you'll be reassured to learn that the cuisine has modernized, first by perfectly adapting to the demands of all types of diets today and by creating a cuisine that satisfies even the most discerning palates.

I therefore suggest you start your day at El Café , to recharge your batteries with what would be the best lunch in town, accompanied by a delicious coffee or one of their magnificent fresh and vitamin-rich fruit juices.

At lunchtime, if the walk has worked up your appetite, but the heat doesn't make you want a rich and heavy meal, stop by Café Bohemia where they offer a fresh and healthy menu.

And when it's 5 a.m. (or 5 a.m. elsewhere in the world), you can start thinking about happy hour, and at that point, I suggest you head to O'Reilly 304 , where they serve incredibly creative cocktails in a super lively atmosphere. Apparently, they also make delicious tacos and a ceviche voted the best in Havana.

And across the street, you'll find its little brother, El Del Frente , much appreciated for its rooftop terrace, where you can observe the wildlife bustling about before your eyes while enjoying small fusion-style dishes or simply sipping one of their cocktails, which are just as flamboyant as those at its neighbor across the street.

For a top-quality gourmet dinner served in an almost romantic atmosphere, since it is located in a former private house, I suggest the elegant restaurant L'Atelier .

For those who, like me, enjoy experiencing local cuisine to better understand the history of the country they're visiting, I recommend La Guarida . The restaurant describes its Cuban cuisine as modern, but connoisseurs claim it's the best traditional restaurant in town.

Then there is La Imprenta , highly regarded for its interior garden and perfectly executed international cuisine.

And because we are not yet satiated with fresh fish and we love to eat outside, there is El Cocinero in the Vedado district, with its lovely terrace and refined cuisine, like this exquisite bluefin tuna carpaccio.

And finally, if you are a fan of creative and organic Spanish cuisine, you will want to go to the Otramanara restaurant to discover the cuisine of Catalan chef Alvaro Diez Fernandez, who trained at El Bulli, a gastronomic emblem throughout the world.