Havana Cuba Travel Guide
Cuban cuisine, "Comida Criolla," is a fusion of Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences. It comes from the island's colonial history and local ingredients. Staples like rice, beans, pork, and tubers show Spanish and African traditions. Creative cooking also comes from times of scarcity.
Dining in Cuba is a relatively informal and social experience. Cubans are hospitable.
Dining out in Cuba is usually a relaxed, social event. Cubans are generally very welcoming.
Tipping is expected and appreciated. For detailed guidelines, refer to general travel tipping advice.
Breakfast is often light (coffee, bread, fruit), though Casa particulares serve substantial options. Lunch and dinner are full food with a main dish, rice, and beans.
Shredded beef stewed in a tomato-based sauce with peppers and onions. A national dish.
Found in most Paladares.
Roast pork, often marinated in citrus and garlic. Popular for celebrations. Pan con Lechón is a pork sandwich.
Widely available in restaurants and as street food.
White rice featuring black beans. A staple side dish. Ajiaco is a hearty stew with types of meat plus tubers.
Moros y Cristianos with nearly every meal. Ajiaco found in classic restaurants.
Roasted pork (Lechón asado) is especially well-liked during Christmas and New Year's Eve celebrations across Cuba.
Rum-based cocktails and local beers are standard festive drinks throughout the year.
La Guarida, San Cristóbal Paladar, El Cocinero (at Fábrica de Arte Cubano). These offer refined Cuban and international cuisine in memorable settings.
Numerous excellent private restaurants (Paladares) throughout Old Havana and Vedado carry authentic Cuban and international dishes at reasonable prices.
Local cafeterias serving simple, cheap meals. Look for "peso food" signs. Street vendors offer pizza and sandwiches.
Agricultural markets (Agro-mercados) carry fresh fruits, vegetables, and some meats (CUP prices). Smaller Tiendas (stores) possess basic groceries. Selection varies.
Good for self-catering if your Casa has kitchen access.
International cuisine is increasingly common, especially in Old Havana and Vedado. Italian, Spanish, and some Asian restaurants can be found, typically with a Cuban twist.
Explore Paladares for varied menus.
Some Paladares source directly from local farms.
Explore bustling streets for quick, tasty local snacks.
Fresh catch often found on coastal menus.
Many with city views, serving drinks plus airy bites.
Extremely limited. Havana has small Jewish and Muslim communities, but no dedicated Halal or Kosher restaurants for tourists. Plan to self-cater or adapt meals.
Learn Spanish phrases for your dietary needs: "*soy vegetariano/vegano*", "*sin gluten*", "*alergiá a...*" (allergy to...).
Some Casa particulares may accommodate dietary requests if communicated in advance, even offering to cook specific meals.
Consider carrying some specialized light bites or essential ingredients, especially for rare allergies or strict diets.
Always carry small denominations of local currency for street vendors and small eateries.
