The 10 Best Restaurants in Cuba

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burger | © stevepb
Jack Guy

Cuba is now home to a vibrant culinary scene after years in the wilderness, and we have picked out ten of the best spots for you to visit on your next trip to the island.

D’Giovanni

Pizzeria, Italian

Nestled in Old Havana is this pizza joint housed in an 18th century mansion. It’s oozing with character and widely acclaimed as the best pizzeria in Cuba. Word has got out on the quality of the food, so book ahead to make sure you get a table.

El Cocinero

Restaurant, Cuban

The courtyard of the restaurant El Cocinero in the multicultural Center la Fabrica de Arte Cubano in Havana, Cuba
© Hemis / Alamy Stock Photo

Hang out with the hip Havana set at this trendy spot in the Vedado neighborhood. Experienced bar staff whip up a range of delightful cocktails, and grilled lobster features heavily on the menu. It’s also an ideal spot for people-watching.

O’Reilly304

Bar, Cocktail Bar, Tapas, Pub Grub, Cuban

After years of struggling to source ingredients, Cuban chefs are reveling in the new possibilities that have opened up in recent years. This Havana spot prides itself on using fresh produce in all its food, and the juices and cocktails are also well worth a try.

Atelier

Restaurant, Restaurant with Rooms, Contemporary, Cuban

Atelier Restaurante, La Habana

Vedado is becoming a major player on the Havana restaurant scene, and Atelier is a major reason why. The spacious mansion is perfect for large parties, and you can sample a long list of delicious dishes while marveling at the stunning interior design. Check out the extensive cocktail list before, or indeed after, you eat.

St Pauli

Restaurant, Cuban

Visitors to Santiago de Cuba should make a point of stopping at St Pauli, a breath of fresh air in the city’s otherwise uneventful culinary scene. Try the octopus with garlic as you soak up the atmosphere and watch the chefs go about their business in the glass-walled kitchen.

La Redaccion Cuba

Restaurant, Cuban

It hasn’t been open long, but La Redaccion Cuba has quickly become popular in Trinidad thanks to its international comfort food. There are burgers, pasta and other classics, served up on a big shared table – perfect for solo travelers looking to meet people.

Restaurant Florida Center

Restaurant, Cuban

If you’re in Santa Clara to visit the Che Guevara memorial, be sure to have a meal at this atmospheric joint. Tables are arranged in a colonial courtyard stuffed with antiques, and attentive staff add to a truly memorable dining experience.

Balcon del Valle

Restaurant, Cuban

Slightly outside town on the winding road to Hotel los Jazmines, Balcon del Valle offers a spectacular setting on wooden decks overlooking the valley. There is no menu, just a choice between chicken, pork and fish with traditional trimmings. It’s well worth the trip.

Salsa Suarez

Restaurant, Fusion, Cuban

While many visitors to Varadero will be on all-inclusive package deals, Cuba’s most popular beach town is also home to a growing number of privately-run restaurants. Salsa Suarez has something for every palate thanks to a wide-ranging international menu, and the plant-filled patio adds to its relaxed atmosphere. The service is excellent, and you’ll even be able to get a decent cup of coffee after you’ve finished your food.

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