Best Restaurants in Havana

Best Restaurants in Havana

Beautiful Havana is a sight to behold. Everything attracts visitors to explore, from its vintage cars to gigantic neo-classical architecture. Moreover, the city’s charm lies in its vibrant culture, music, and dance. Cuban music has dominated the world with its catchy beats and mesmerizing performances. Visitors can also enjoy many cabaret performances in nightclubs.

Another great thing about this town is its rich culinary scenario. From crispy chicharrones to succulent roast pork and delicious Moros y Cristianos, you will be left licking your plates clean after every meal. These mouthwatering dishes are served in paladares and family-run establishments. While there are many eateries in the city, let us help you by picking out the best restaurants in Havana.

La Guarida

La Guarida
Find out why La Guarida is one of the best restaurants in Havana. (Source: La Guarida Facebook)

We are starting our list with La Guarida in Havana Center. It is a renowned upscale establishment named the Best Restaurant in Cuba by the prestigious World Culinary Awards 2023. In addition, CNBC, The New York Times, Esquire, and Lonely Planet featured it in their publications. The Oscar-nominated movie Strawberries and Chocolate was also filmed in this building.

La Guarida serves delicious contemporary Cuban dishes in its three dining rooms. Its classic dishes are Smoked Marlin Tacos, Caimanero-Style Grouper, and Provincial Rabbit with Caponata. Likewise, the restaurant offers personalized wine a la carte menu that caters to the diners’ tastes.

Habana 61

Habana 61
Visit the cozy Habana 61 in Havana.
(Source: Habana 61 Facebook)

Located in the heart of Old Havana, Habana 61 is a local favorite and one of the city’s best places to eat and drink. Its white and black shades might seem contrasting in the historical city, but it only adds to the eatery’s charm. You will enjoy having lunch or dinner in this cozy place’s relaxing ambiance.

Habana 61 serves delicious traditional Cuban dishes. Its specialty is Octopus Salad a la Cubanita, a combination of fresh lettuce leaves, pickled radishes, and tropical fruits. Many former diners highly rated its Ropa Vieja, calling it succulent and flavorful. Also, don’t forget to try the coconut pudding after your meal.

O’Reilly 304

Ceviche
Try the delicious ceviche of O’Reilly 304.

We can’t miss the legendary O’Reilly 304 from our list. This hippest bar-cum-restaurant is famous for its sublime gin-based cocktails and ceviche. You won’t find a better cocktail anywhere in Havana. Wedged between two dilapidated buildings in Old Havana, tourists often miss this place. However, those who know will come here more than once.

O’Reilly 304 offers an unassuming ambiance where you can’t help but relax. In addition to an extended cocktail menu, it serves delicious seafood and local dishes. Its ceviche is the must-have food on the menu. Likewise, tacos filled with onions, red peppers, beef, and cilantro are another highly-demanded item. Don’t forget to try the mango daiquiri, known for its exotic taste.

El del Frente

El Del Frente
See how El Del Frente’s cocktails differentiate from its older brother’s. (Source: El Del Frente Facebook)

If you like O’Reilly 304, you will also be impressed with its twin brother, El del Frente. It is located opposite its older brother and is popular in the area. One thing that differentiates it from O’Reilly 304 is that it allows smoking on its terrace. It also hosts live Jazz performances every day.

El del Frente also boasts delicious cocktails. Many people love its food, primarily its tacos. Likewise, lobster tacos, tuna tataki, and empanadas are must-order items on the menu. Pasta and tapas are other specialties of the house. Diners often eat on a spacious rooftop terrace with a Cuban cigar. It will be a nice experience with gorgeous views.

Topoly

Topoly
Check out Topoly and its Iranian dishes.
(Source: Topoly Facebook)

Are you interested in visiting an Iranian restaurant in Havana? Topoly means The Fatty One and is also the title of a famous Iranian movie. This restaurant has been in the business for over three decades and remains a notable name in the Cuban gastronomic world. It serves delicious Iranian dishes using spices like turmeric, saffron, cardamom, and cinnamon.

Topoly offers lamb, seafood, and chicken specialties. It also offers several vegetarian dishes, such as Falafel, Sambouse, Vegetarian Nan, Vegetarian Hamburger, and Gourmet + Nan. Furthermore, this restaurant hosts Iranian and Cuban dance performances. These shows will entertain you throughout your meal and stay in the establishment.

El Idilio

El Idilio
Try these stuffed piquillos rellenos at El Idilio.
(Source: El Idilio Facebook)

Paladar El Idilio is known for serving the best charcoal-grilled cuisine in town. Its house specialty, Idilo Grill, comes in two versions: land and sea. The first includes chicken, beef brochette, Catalan sausage, chorizo sausage, and pork chop. On the other hand, the sea version includes fish fillet, lobster skewer, octopus skewer, and shrimp skewer. It also serves pasta, pizzas, tacos, salads, and side dishes.

Surprisingly, El Idilio received its name from the farm of patriot and El Mayor Ignacio Agramonte y Loynaz. The ranch was also mentioned in a romantic tale about the Cuban War of Independence. In addition to dishes, this restaurant has a large cocktail menu. It includes sparkling water, soft drinks, Red Bull, national beer, mojito, Cuba libre, pina colada, and gin tonic.

Otramanera

Otramanera
Sip on a delicious Bloody Mary at Otramanera. (Source: Otramanera Facebook)

Next on our list is Otramanera, a fine dining restaurant in Havana. Sommelier Álvaro Díez Fernández and his wife, Amy Torralbas, relocated from Costa Brava, Catalonia, to launch this cozy establishment. Álvaro is an experienced man who has worked with many renowned names in the culinary world, such as Jordi Vila and Nacho Manzano. Together, the couple’s efforts have made Otramanera one of the best restaurants in Latin America.

This establishment serves delicious Spanish-Cuban dishes and offers a relaxing ambiance. Its minimalist interior is complemented by a tropical garden outside, where diners can enjoy their meals. Some of its dishes are Fish ceviche, beef carpaccio, Taro fritters, Lobster salad, Suquet fish of the day, Chicken Pitu Caleya, eggplant lasagna, sticky pork ribs, and Otramanera chicken casserole.

Finca Agroecológica El Paraiso

Finca Agroecológica El Paraíso
Enjoy your meal with views at Finca Agroecológica El Paraíso. (Source: Finca Agroecológica El Paraíso Facebook)

If you want to travel farther from Havana, we have Finca Agroecológica El Paraiso in Viñales. It is more of an organic farm overlooking the beautiful landscapes of the valley. This is a family-run establishment of patriarch Wilfredo Garcia Correa and his daughters Rosalba and Rachel. The ladies are also the main chefs in the restaurant.

Each dish is prepared using the freshest organic ingredients from the farm. The huge farm is spread over 8.9 hectares and has 200 vegetable beds. Diners can see terraces and the entire land while dining at the rooftop venue. They must have the signature anti-stress concoction, which consists of mint, pineapple juice, lemongrass, cinnamon, and coconut milk. The restaurant also offers vegetarian and vegan dishes.

La Esquina de Cuba

La Esquina De Cuba
You must try the shrimp enchiladas of La Esquina De Cuba. (Source: La Esquina De Cuba Facebook)

You won’t find a better Cuban restaurant than La Esquina de Cuba in Old Havana. It serves the best Cuban and International dishes with traditional music and impressive views. One thing that makes this restaurant stand out is its homey ambiance. You can relax and have your meal leisurely while listening to music.

This cozy establishment serves Tamale in Casserole, ceviche, house taquitos, and guajiro tostones as starters. The main dish is Habanero-flavored Ropa Vieja with white rice and fried ripe plantain. Its sea casserole and peasant lunch are also must-try items on the menu. You should also check out its dessert and cocktail options.

El Cocinero

El Cocinero
Savor your meal with wine at El Cocinero.
(Source: El Cocinero Facebook)

Have a candlelit dinner with your loved one at El Cocinero. It offers a wonderful rooftop terrace and watch tower dining spaces. This restaurant hosts important events on its rooftop terrace, such as business meetings, birthdays, weddings, and private parties. Its contemporary decoration, with an imposing chimney, sets it apart.

This restaurant’s menu changes every season, and the prices are reasonable for its generous portions. Some of its famous dishes are chopped chicken salad with pineapple and roast lamb with pasta in Creole Sauce. Likewise, it serves classic and innovative cocktails you won’t find anywhere else.

La Bodega Vedado

La Bodega Vedado
Would you like to try Pumpkin Cream of La Bodega Vedado? (Source: La Bodega Vedado Facebook)

We are halfway on our list of the best restaurants in Havana, and it’s time for La Bodega Vedado. It is a garden restaurant in La Reserva Vedado. It is open for guests and diners from 12 PM to 11 PM. Moreover, this restaurant is known for its delicious Cuban dishes and tropical theme.

La Bodega serves many specialties, including Pulpo a la Cubana, Pesca del dia, Sopa de langosta, Arroz con Pollo a la chorrera, and Jarerte de Cordero al vino y Romero. To enhance your experience, you should order cocktails or wines. The restaurant’s menu evolves with the seasons, so you will have something new to try every time you visit.

Doña Alicia

Doña Alicia
Enjoy a delicious lunch at Doña Alicia. (Source: Doña Alicia Facebook)

Next, we have Doña Alicia of La Habana. It differs from other restaurants because it uses the latest technology to take orders. Each table has a tablet where the menu of the day and its prices are displayed. Diners can select the items whose prices will be immediately calculated. In addition, the rates are reasonable, with spaghetti costing from $1,105 onwards.

Doña Alicia serves delicious Cuban dishes, pasta, and pizzas. You must try Doña Alicia Prick, Serrano Ham Starter, Yam Fryings, Filled Avocado with Shrimp in Guacamo Sauce, Pork and Beef Taco, and Shepherd Taco. This restaurant also serves unique and never-before-heard cocktails, such as Shrimp Cocktails. Also, don’t forget to try its mojitos and Cuba libres.

Al Carbon

Al Carbon
Try Al Carbon’s Crema Catalana. (Source: Al Carbon Facebook)

Al Carbon is your destination if you prefer a restaurant with live entertainment. Its live jazz music adds to the already charming establishment. You can enjoy your meal while listening to the music. Also, did you know this place’s owner is the legendary Ivan Rodriguez Lopez, who launched the popular Ivan Chef Justo? You can expect similar decor and ambiance here.

Diners’ favorite item on the menu is suckling pig tacos. This charcoal-grilled dish is golden, crispy, and crunchy and will melt in your mouth. Other dishes are chicken wings, roasted pumpkin salad, grilled provolone and tomatoes, crab empanadas, ceviche, and ropa vieja. You can dine indoors or relax on the outdoor terrace with a Cuban cigar. Don’t forget to order wines, especially German Pinot Noir.

Paladar Los Amigos

Paladar Los Amigos
You must order tasty tostones at Paladar Los Amigos.

Havana residents have many favorite restaurants, including the iconic Los Amigos. American chef Anthony Bourdain visited this paladar during his Havana trip and ate Masas de Cerdo, a pan-fried marinated pork with a trinity of rice, yucca, and beans. In addition, former US President Barack Obama visited this establishment with his family during his visit.

Owner Elizabeth Espinoza and her team serve delicious Cuban dishes and beverages daily from 12 PM to 12 AM. In addition to Masas de Cerdo, diners love crispy tostones. Other dishes include lobster, baby prawns sause, fried green plantain, ham and cheese interlude, chicken salad, and meat croquettes. It also serves Cuban cocktails, rum, whisky, vodka, wines, and tequila.

Amigos del Mar

Amigos del Mar
Have your meal with gorgeous views at Amigos del Mar. (Source: Amigos del Mar Instagram)

What is better than a seafood restaurant? It’s a seafood establishment offering breathtaking views of the marina. Amigos del Mar is located across Fábrica de Arte Cubano and is a perfect place to have dinner after visiting the factory. You can dine outdoors on its patio, watching sunsets and bustling environment. You can also hop on its yacht and go fishing.

Amigos del Mar creates seafood using the freshest ingredients. Its ceviche and fish stew are must-recommended items on the menu. You should also try its tasty tostones and other dishes. Moreover, the staff are friendly and will cater to your every need. You can also request a recommendation from owner Fernando, who has good taste in rums.

Restaurante Yarini Habana

Restaurante Yarini Habana
Relax at Restaurante Yarini Habana with a refreshing drink. (Source: Restaurante Yarini Habana Facebook)

Nestled in the San Isidro neighborhood, Restaurante Yarini Habana is a hidden gem only a few know about. It is best known for its rooftop location, which offers beautiful city views and sunset. You must climb 55 steps to reach the restaurant, ensuring better endurance. Furthermore, this establishment offers impeccable service and a relaxing ambiance. You can dine alone or have a group dinner with friends and family.

Former diners loved ropa vieja, mixed seafood with sepia pasta, fried octopus, and Cuban lemonade. This place also serves excellent Cesar Church salads and tacos. It also has extended menus for vegetarian dishes and beverages. Its signature drinks are The King, Gin Love, The Rooster, To Caesar What Is Caesar’s, Red Passion, Tomasa, and Yarini Mule.

La Corte del Principe

La Corte del Principe
Order delicious food at affordable rates at La Corte del Principe. (Source: La Corte del Principe Facebook)

Havana’s La Corte del Principe is establishing its name as one of the top Italian restaurants in the city. It faces Parque Monte Barreco and is just behind the Hotel Occidental Miramar. This restaurant also offers private parking, a smoking area, catering service, and takeaway. You can even reserve a private room for intimate dinners.

Surprisingly, there are no pizzas on the menu. However, you will find homemade Italian pasta, such as Tagliatelle with porcini mushrooms, gamberetti e zucchini, and spaghetti. Dishes come in sizeable proportions, and the prices are reasonable. You can leisurely savor your meal, smoke a cigar, and relax in the restaurant.

Jama

Jama
Try Jama’s corn tortillas with hot chili sauce. (Source: Jama Facebook)

Asian-inspired Jama restaurant is a one-of-a-kind establishment in Old Havana. It perfectly blends Japanese cuisine with Cuban flavor and serves delicious dishes. Moreover, the restaurant has combined these two cultures in its interior decor. You will see Japanese artistic styles combined with colorful Cuban traces.

Jama is known for its innovative menu and creative fusion. For instance, it serves sushi with breaded shrimp, which locals prefer over eating raw fish only. It also serves pork belly tacos, Japanese-style Bloody Marys, fried plantains, and pork heart fajitas. You should also try its seafood and sushi with fried rice. Once you taste their food, you will keep coming back for more.

Casa Miglis

Casa Miglis
Michel Miglis’ Casa Miglis is a one-of-a-kind restaurant in Havana. (Source: Casa Miglis Facebook)

Casa Miglis has made it to the list of the Top Restaurants of Havana, and for fair reasons. It is one of the few Swedish restaurants in the city and offers a combined menu of Swedish and Cuban specialties. In addition, its proverbial meatballs with mashed potatoes are must-have food on the menu. You should also try its ceviche, lamb stew, and Michelada.

Another vouching point of this restaurant is its chic design with cinematic elements. Owner Michel Miglis is a Swedish film director and music producer who created El Medico – Cubaton. He launched Casa Miglis to create a global meeting point for artists and creative people. In addition, this establishment hosts Havana Queens, an exclusive 1.5-hour dinner show daily.

El Cafe

El Cafe
You will find the best pumpkin omelet in El Cafe. (Source: El Cafe Facebook)

Nestled in Old Havana, El Cafe is easy to miss if you don’t know about it. In addition, it doesn’t have a sign, making it a hidden gem in the city. However, once you visit this place, you will return for more. Their crispy bacon sandwiches are delicious and worth trying. You can enjoy your breakfast with a perfectly brewed cup of coffee.

This restaurant serves tasty breakfast meals, including homemade bread, eggs, and bacon. If you don’t like your eggs scrambled, we suggest you try their pumpkin omelet, which is tasty and healthy. Moreover, this cafe serves excellent coffee, killer mojitos, and natural fresh juices. It perfectly combines European and Cuban flavors to create its delicacies.

Sibarita Habana

Sibarita Habana
Try exotic cocktails at Sibarita Habana. (Source: Sibarita Habana Facebook)

If you want a restaurant with a rooftop bar, Sibarita Habana is your destination. It is a perfect place to relax, hang out with friends, and celebrate your special days. The rooftop bar serves tasty and unique cocktails and beverages. For instance, the picture above is a Polynesian-styled Tiki Cocktail with a rum base, tropical ingredients, and extravagant garnishment.

This restaurant also doesn’t lack quality food. It serves delicious appetizers, main course dishes, and reasonably priced desserts. Customers can choose to dine outdoors or indoors. Furthermore, the hospitable and friendly staff will meet their requirements throughout their stay. This place is worth a visit.

El Floridita

El Floridita
See why El Floridita stands out from other bars in Havana. (Source: El Floridita Facebook)

You might be surprised to see the infamous El Floridita on our list of the best restaurants in Havana. In addition to its famed frozen daiquiris, it serves delicious food. This bar opened in 1817 under the name La Pina de Plata and has had many renowned patrons, including novelist Ernest Hemingway. He first visited the establishment in 1932 and remained a loyal customer for over twenty years.

El Floridita has created a golden statue in Hemingway’s honor. It also serves a cocktail in his name, Papa Hemingway, a combination of Havana Club rum, maraschino, and grapefruit juice. Furthermore, this bar regularly hosts live music performances. Quinteto D’Amore has been performing traditional Cuban music here since 2007.

Havana is a paradise for food lovers, and our handpicked restaurants barely cover the surface of its rich cultural tapestry. They serve mouthwatering dishes that will keep visitors coming back for more. Each local dish is a delicious fusion of African, Spanish, and Caribbean influences whose story dates back several decades. Most of all, these establishments offer relaxed, laid-back, elegant, and comfortable ambiance, making them stand out.

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