Wondering where to eat in Havana, Cuba? Discover six great spots to eat as recommended by locals and visitors alike in Havana.
There are dozens of incredible things to do in Havana, and one of those is to eat. The best restaurants in Havana serve a variety of international cuisine, although you will most commonly find restaurants that specialize in local Caribbean food. Cuban cuisine is known for staples like white rice, black beans, plantains, and pork.
The next thing you need to know about eating out in Cuba is that some restaurants are state owned while some are not. To avoid your money going towards support for the Cuban government, do your best to eat at privately owned restaurants known as paladares. Below, you can find some of the best paladares in Havana.
Related: Attractions in Havana
1. El Cocinero
Complete with an open-air rooftop patio, El Cocinero has an excellent atmosphere and is one of the best restaurants in Havana, Cuba. Built in an old peanut oil factory, the building is completely unique. There are two main spaces, the rooftop and the interior. Each spot has their own menu. The interior dining is fancier, while an evening on the rooftop is more relaxed.
Related: Things to Know About Cuba
2. El del Frente
This colorful spot serves up large, photo-worthy craft cocktails and a variety of plates inspired by a variety of international cuisines. The menu makes you want to try a little bit of everything. The atmosphere is bright and airy upstairs, while offering both a rooftop and comfortable indoor dining.
3. O’Reilly 304
This little spot became so popular they opened a second restaurant right across the street, El del Frente. You can find everything from steak with grilled okra to seafood dishes with plantain chips. There is a mix of typical Caribbean food, as well the tacos and pasta.
This was one of my favorite spots in Havana during my last visit.
4. Restaurante Jama
While you probably want to sample Cuban food when visiting Cuba, don’t discount opportunities to try the excellence of Cuban and international chefs in Havana. Serving up mostly Japanese inspired food, you can find sushi at Jama. You can also sample Cuban takes on popular seafood dishes such as fried octopus. While it’s not purely Japanese nor purely Cuban, it is a unique fusion at a stylish restaurant.
Related: How do Americans get a visa to Cuba?
5. La Guarida
La Guarida is one of the most famous restaurants in Havana, Cuba. It is also a bit Instagram famous for its old sweeping staircase. It’s also the location of a famous Cuban 90s film called Fresa y Chocolate. After climbing the stairs all the way to top, you’ll find cozy decor with art and photographs adorning the walls. There’s also an outdoor patio with views of the city.
6. Paladar Doña Eutimia
If you’re looking for more typical Cuban food, this may be one of your best bets. In the words of one Cuban, “food here is like eating your grandmother’s food.” The bar area has several sofas and comfortable chairs for lounging while the dining area has antique, sturdy tables in a cozy space. You can find this place across from an artist’s workshop in Cathedral Square. This place is often packed so don’t plan to eat in a rush.
Related: What currency do I need in Cuba?
Helpful Spanish Phrases
Here are some quick reference Spanish phrases, perfect for screenshots!
On the Menu
- Pan – Bread
- Queso – Cheese
- Pollo -Chicken
- Res – Beef
- Bistec – Steak
- Pez – Fish
- Pulpo – Octopus
- Gambas/Camarón – Shrimp
- Bebidas – Drinks
- Champiñones – Mushrooms
- Cebolla – Onion
- Tomate – Tomato
- Mantequilla – Butter
- Aceite de Oliva – Olive Oil
- Aceituna – Olives
- Huevos – Eggs
Conversation
- Hola, como estas? – Hello, how are you?
- Estoy bien, gracias – I’m good, thank you.
- Muchas gracias – Thanks so much.
- Puedes ayudarme? – Can you help me?
- Donde está el baño? – Where is the bathroom?
- Soy de Los Estados Unidos. – I’m from the United States.
- Hablas inglés? – Do you speak English?
Whether you’re spending one day in Havana or a whole week in Havana, you’ll have plenty to eat and sample. The hospitality at the paladares is especially great.
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