Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Havana, La Habana, Cuba
1. Cuban Sandwich (Mi Cuba),
A classic Cuban sandwich made with ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard. Try it at Mi Cuba in Vedado.
- Authenticity: Offers a true taste of classic Cuban cuisine.
- Convenient Location: Centrally located in Vedado for easy accessibility.
- Variety: Offers a selection of other Cuban dishes alongside the sandwich.
2. Croquetas de Pollo (La Guarida),
Delicious chicken croquettes served in a charming palace-turned-restaurant. Visit La Guarida in Centro Habana.
- Unique Atmosphere: Dining in a historic building offers an unforgettable experience.
- Gourmet Croquettes: Made with premium ingredients, these croquettes are a must-try.
- Famous Film Location: Filmed in the popular movie Fresa y Chocolate.
3. Congri (Paladar San Cristobal),
A traditional Cuban black bean and rice dish served with fried plantains. Visit Paladar San Cristobal in Old Havana.
- Authentic Cuban Cuisine: Enjoy a true taste of traditional Cuban dishes.
- Old Town Setting: Dine in the heart of historic Old Havana.
- Excellent Service: Known for friendly and attentive service.
4. Ropa Vieja (San Jose y El Paladar La Moderna),
Shredded beef in a rich tomato sauce served with white rice and black beans. Visit San Jose y El Paladar La Moderna in Vedado.
- Lovely Setting: A tranquil outdoor terrace provides a peaceful dining experience.
- Authentic Cuban Dish: Experience the popular Ropa Vieja dish in its original form.
- Great Value: Reasonable prices for delicious meals.
5. Churros (La Bodeguita del Medio),
Fried dough pastries covered in sugar and cinnamon. Enjoy them at the famous La Bodeguita del Medio in Old Havana.
- Historic Landmark: Dine where legendary figures like Hemingway once did.
- Delicious Dessert: Sweet, crispy churros are the perfect treat.
- Live Music: Enjoy live music while you dine and explore the venue's history.
6. Picadillo (La Cocina de Lilliam),
Ground beef cooked in a flavorful sauce with olives, peppers, and spices. Visit La Cocina de Lilliam in Vedado.
- Authentic Cuban Cuisine: Experience a traditional Cuban dish prepared with care.
- Home-cooked Style: Homemade meals, served in a cozy family setting.
- Affordable Prices: Reasonable prices for delicious dishes.
7. Cocido Montunas (El Templete),
A hearty Cuban stew made with vegetables, pork, and chicken. Try it at El Templete in Old Havana.
- Historical Setting: Dine near the monument where Cuba's national anthem was first sung.
- Hearty Meal: Perfect for a filling lunch or dinner.
- Local Favorite: A popular dish among Havana locals.
8. Frituras (Le Chanson),
Assorted fried seafood dishes like shrimp, fish, and conch. Visit Le Chanson in Vedado.
- Seafood Variety: A great selection of fried seafood dishes.
- Friendly Service: Known for their friendly and welcoming staff.
- Convenient Location: Centrally located in Vedado, making it easily accessible.
9. Flan (San Cristobal Paladar),
Rich and creamy caramel custard dessert. Enjoy it at San Cristobal Paladar in Old Havana.
- Traditional Dessert: A must-try Cuban dessert.
- Authentic Flavor: Prepared with genuine Cuban flavors.
- Great Value: Reasonable prices for delicious desserts.
10. Pescado con Coco (Paladar La Marquésa),
Fish cooked in coconut milk served with rice and plantains. Visit Paladar La Marquésa in Vedado.
- Unique Flavor Combination: Combines traditional Cuban flavors with tropical coconut.
- Friendly Service: Known for their friendly and welcoming staff.
- Excellent View: Enjoy the beautiful view of Havana from the rooftop terrace.
11. Tostones con Mojo (El Dandy),
Fried green plantains served with a garlic-and-oil sauce. Visit El Dandy in Vedado.
- Authentic Cuban Snack: Experience a traditional Cuban side dish.
- Convenient Location: Centrally located in Vedado, making it easily accessible.
- Great Value: Reasonable prices for delicious snacks.
12. Arroz con Gandules (San Jose y El Paladar La Moderna),
Rice with pigeon peas served with fried plantains. Visit San Jose y El Paladar La Moderna in Vedado.
- Authentic Cuban Dish: Experience a traditional Cuban dish prepared with care.
- Lovely Setting: A tranquil outdoor terrace provides a peaceful dining experience.
- Excellent Service: Known for friendly and attentive service.
13. Sopa de Frijoles (La Guarida),
Black bean soup served with Cuban bread. Visit La Guarida in Centro Habana.
- Unique Atmosphere: Dining in a historic building offers an unforgettable experience.
- Comfort Food: A warming, hearty soup perfect for cooler days.
- Gourmet Version: Offers a gourmet twist on the classic Cuban dish.
14. Tostones rellenos de bacalao (San Cristobal Paladar),
Fried green plantains filled with codfish served with a garlic sauce. Visit San Cristobal Paladar in Old Havana.
- Authentic Cuban Dish: Experience a traditional Cuban dish prepared with care.
- Great Value: Reasonable prices for delicious dishes.
- Old Town Setting: Dine in the heart of historic Old Havana.
15. Papaya con Piña (El Dandy),
Fresh papaya and pineapple served with lime juice. Visit El Dandy in Vedado.
- Healthy Choice: A refreshing, fruit-based dessert.
- Convenient Location: Centrally located in Vedado, making it easily accessible.
- Great Value: Reasonable prices for delicious desserts.