Trace the Steps of Hemingway Around Havana

Things To do

Trace the Steps of Hemingway Around Havana

Statue of Hemingway at Floridita Bar in Havana

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Eat, party, and drink like Ernest Hemingway at his favorite spots in Havana.

Writer Ernest Hemingway’s life was full of adventure, intrigue, and eccentricity – leaving behind a trail of colorfully detailed memories all around Cuba.

 

Hemingway - better known by his close friends as ‘Papa’ - spent over twenty years in Cuba, and loved it deeply. Here, he created his most significant works like “The Old Man and the Sea” and “For Whom the Bell Tolls.” His interviews are full of references to the island, its landscapes, and its nightlife.

 

Although Papa lived it up in Havana, most of his inspiration came from his longtime residence Finca Vigía in San Francisco de Paula - which now serves as the Earnest Hemingway Museum. This is outside the city and therefore, a bit remote. His brighter times in Havana leave a much easier imprint to follow.

 

So gather some traveling buddies and follow the steps of Hemingway around Havana. With this guide you can be sure to hit all the author's hotspots while sampling a menu of traditional cocktails and dishes along the route. A great way to pay homage to a figure Cubans still loves and admire.

La Bodeguita del Medio in Havana

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La Bodeguita del Medio

We’ll start our tour at one of the most renowned eateries in Havana, as well as one of Hemingway’s favorites. La Bodeguita del Medio (the small shop in the middle), easily recognizable with its bright blue walls, claims to have invented Cuba’s most famous cocktail, the Mojito. It’s located on Empedrado street, just a block from the Cathedral, and four blocks from the Museum of the Revolution.

 

This small and cozy lounge still looks much like it did in the 1940s when it first opened. The old-school wooden furniture gives it an unpretentious “fisherman’s wharf” appeal. There is little space between the bar and tables and even less room left on its walls: they’re almost completely covered in portraits and signatures from past visitors.

 

And what a list of autographs it is! Mainstream artists such as Nat King Cole, Martin Scorsese, and Sting are all among the autographs of prominent Latin American personalities, such as Chilean writers Gabriela Mistral and Pablo Neruda, singer Agustín Lara, and, naturally, Hemingway himself.

 

The author went as far as carving the following inscription on one of the bar’s walls: “my mojito at the Bodeguita and my daiquiri from the Floridita.”

 

This mojito's fresh tinge of spearmint and lime juice creates the perfect antidote against the tropical heat. Make sure to order one at the bar while listening to live music, or have one with their famous frejoles negros dormidos (sleepy black beans).

 

Then, help your digestion with a short walk down Empedrado street, and turn left on Belgica street to reach the next stop.

El Floridita Bar in Havana

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El Floridita Bar

El Floridita (little florida) is located on the corner of Belgica and Obispo streets, and remains one of the busiest bars in Old Havana.

 

This iconic spot has been attracting Havana’s intellectuals for over 100 years, and naturally, Ernest Hemingway made daily appearances. His drink of choice? A modified daiquiri, which substitutes the sugar ring for pink grapefruit juice and adds a second shot of liquor, as the writer was diabetic.

 

The interior is decorated in an intimate, modest style. Its shadowy atmosphere sharply contrasts with the outside noise, creating the perfect Havana street corner for a good drink in the company of new friends, or discussing the remaining links between Cuban and American cultures.

 

After your post-lunch drinks at the Floridita, follow Obispo street for a couple of blocks until you reach our last stop: the Ambos Mundos (both worlds) hotel.

Ambos Mundos Hotel in Havana

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Ambos Mundos Hotel

Now, it’s time to step into Hemingway’s creative process – or at least, into the room he used when he felt he was ready to ramp up his productivity: room 511 of the Ambos Mundos hotel.

 

The room has been left largely just as it was when Hemingway would lock himself up in it, burning the midnight oil and working on Green Hills of Africa or To Have and Have Not. You can visit the room, which now acts as a miniature museum where you can sink further into the author’s psyche. Get up close and personal with his old typewriter and take a picture next to his framed Pulitzer Prize.

 

On the way out, end the tour at the hotel’s restaurant, the Plaza de Armas. It's not just one of the city's best but also serves some of the writer’s favorite dishes. Plus, its terrace offers a superb view of the Havana. From here, you’ll see the entire historical city center. You can order some coffee or their juicy barbecue special, and watch Cuban people as they stroll to their next appointment and share the latest news around town.

 

Hemingway lived, cried, and created literary masterpieces in Havana’s streets. Despite the decades in between, you can still find traces of the author’s soul spread around us.

The tour takes approximately 3 hours, if you stop along the way for lunch and sample the flavors of Hemingway’s favorite cocktails like “Death in the Afternoon” (or papa doble), and of course his signature “Hemingway Daiquiri.”

 

True to the writer’s spirit, all the places listed here follow an informal, bohemian vibe. You’ll just need some comfortable shoes, cool clothes, and your best Cuban ‘Sombrero’  to get started.


Written by Gabriela Rey.

 

Published December 2022.


Explore Top Things to Do in Havana

Where to Eat in Varadero

guests seated at wooden tables in small restaurant

Food & Drink

Where to Eat in Varadero

La Bodeguita del Medio in Varadero

Photo: Alamy

Ready to pick your favorite Cuban restaurant in Varadero?

There's really no better place to take a trip than to the famously gorgeous city of Varadero. This magnetic tourist destination caters to all of its visitors with your absolute comfort and relaxation in mind. And not only does Varadero offer ocean-view luxury resorts with prime beach access, but it also has some of the finest selections of restaurants in Cuba.

 

You'll be able to savor the island's traditional cuisine, surprise your palate with signature dishes, and pick up the latest trends in the Caribbean culinary world. Ready to see which restaurant in Varadero will be your favorite? We've put together the best options available to begin your gastronomic journey.

1. Varadero 60

Take the night out you deserve as you delight yourself with a plate of Risotto Cubano - ideally accompanied by a Piña Colada, made with 100% natural fruit juice. Varadero 60 is also known for its ample selection of oceanic platters - so if you're a seafood lover - don't hesitate to try the Pescado Entero (grilled fish) or the succulent Shrimp Enchilada. To top off your flavorful dinner, Cuban pastries like their crepes and flambes are always the better alternative for a perfect ending.

 

At Varadero 60, music is a major part of the restaurant's appeal, and if you're feeling like listening to your favorite jam, you can ask to have it played as you're having the most unforgettable night. And, with a price range of US $25 to US $30, you'll have the chance to savor the delicacies of a fine Cuban menu - located on the corner of Calle 60 and 3rd Avenue.

 

We recommend: For an unforgettable experience, the Piquillos with Lobster Pimentier (lobster stuffed peppers) will add that punch of excitement you’re looking for in a dish.

 

2. La Bodeguita del Medio de Varadero

Many recognize this emblematic locale in Havana, and make it a priority to get a table during their stay in Cuba. However, those visiting Varadero will also have close proximity to the famed restaurant. La Bodeguita del Medio (the store in the middle) is best characterized by its effective service, with an attentive staff that'll meet your desires and needs. A chill environment by the sea, where delicious platters of traditional origin are served as you inhale the pure Caribbean breeze.

 

Mouth-watering Tamales, Moros y Cristianos (rice and black bean dish), Yuca con Mojo (garlic marinated casava), and Ropa vieja (braised beef) are some of the specialties you'll find at the Bodeguita.

 

What's great is that La Bodeguita opens at noon, so you won't have to wait long to get a seat at this awesome spot on Calle 40 (40th street), between the Primera Avenida and playa. And before you go, don't forget to leave your signature on the wall!

 

We recommend: At La Bodeguita, it’s always the right time for their signature house Mojito to commemorate your visit to this legendary locale.

 

3. Salsa Suárez Restaurant-Bar

Salsa Suárez is an innovative space for every taste - with vegan creations, gluten-free food, Cuban dishes, and international fusion recipes. You’ll savor local and tourist favorites like the pork fajitas, the cheddar chicken, or any fresh sushi readily available on the menu.

 

Acting in the capacity of a bar-restaurant, classic Cuban drinks are elaborated by professional mixologists with expert knowledge. Feel free to choose from a wide array of special offers at reasonable prices - around US $8 to US12 right on Calle 31 #103, between 1st and 3rd Avenue.

 

We recommend: For some natural Cuban sweetness, try the orange mousse with chocolate and coconut trouves - a genuinely refreshing dessert, great for any season of the year.

 

4. Bistro Bar Atlántida

The perfect place to chill and relax in a climatized open-air environment, where you'll experience the best of both worlds. Exciting Caribbean cooking and local Cuban flavors. But of course, the Atlantida offers other alternatives for travelers wanting to keep it simple, like the classic American cheeseburger. Now, you can't go without trying the house tostones (plantain chips) and an ice-cold Cuban beer - for starters.

 

Their menu also tends to vary, so whatever your preference, this will be the place to satisfy your culinary and cocktail needs. And what's great is that it's open all day, so if you're done partying, and the sun comes up, they'll be waiting to serve you with that same attentiveness that sets them apart. They're open from 7:00 am to 5 am on 1ra Avenida, between 6th and 7th street.

 

We recommend: Although not originally a Cuban dish, the Bistro Bar prepares an amazing pasta carbonara, with your choice of wine from their diverse selections.

 

5. Waco's Club

Waco's Club never ceases to amaze with the quality of its menu every time. For starters, you can go for the Caribbean salad or the tropical fruit salad - a healthy, organic, and refreshing choice for the hot Cuban summers. Among their most notable plates is the client's favorite Masa de Pescado (fish meat).

 

This Cuban restaurant will keep you coming back for more, with median prices of US $15 to US $20 per dish. They're waiting to serve you every day from noon and 11:00 pm on 3rd Avenue, #212, close to Josone Park. So keep this spot in mind, and don't miss out on the feast on your next trip to Cuba!

 

We recommend: For a flavor-packed dinner, the flamed rum-marinated shrimps, along with their coveted house Paella will leave you speechless.

 


Written by Teresita Padrón.

 

Published October 2022.


Top things to see in Cuba

The Top Five Best Bakeries in Havana

people seated by tables on cobblestone street outside bakery cafe

Food & Drink

The Top Five Best Bakeries in Havana

People seated outside bakery in Havana

Photo: Alamy

Savor the Cuban Pastries and Desserts That will teleport your taste buds to the Caribbean!

 

 

After delighting yourself with a signature dish of exotic Cuban food, you can't help but want more. And what better way to finish your culinary experience than to add a touch of sweetness you can only find at a Cuban Bakery.

 

Come and sweeten up your life with gelatos, sweets, and cakes containing the signature Cuban recipes representing the island. So, let's grab a spoon and dive right in!

01. El Biky

Quality Guaranteed 

El Biky delights the public with their Cuban flan, delicious Guavaberry pastries, and the smooth taste of sweet Meringue. If you have a deeper understanding of the culinary culture of Cuba, you most likely know that Guavaberry sweets are always present in every islander's home.

 

Whoever has visited the island, has undoubtedly heard the street seller's cry pastelito de Guayaba a peso (Guavaberry pastries for a Peso). Guavaberry tarts tell the story of Cuban abuelas (grandma's) that ensured this treat was in every grandchild's lunch box.

 

We also recommend their Piña Colada tart, consisting of a vanilla sponge cake filled with a mix of pineapple and coconut, topped with a meringue garnish. If you've had the drink, you'll love the dessert!

 

 

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02. El Gelato

Delightful treats at your fingertips

If you're enjoying a Cuban summer to its fullest, do it like a local - with a permanent ice-cream cone in your hand. El Gelato is an ice cream/pastry Cuban bakery with lots of flavors to choose from and plenty of assorted candy for your sweet tooth. This is one of the preferred hangout spots for Havana's youth since they can freely enjoy custom Gelato, accompanied by tropical fan-favorite mango and Guavaberry fruits.

 

Did we get your mouth watering by now? Wait until you go down the menu at El Gelato and find strawberry, chocolate, and vanilla tarts - with in-house creations like the Flor Habana (Havana Flower) - a passion fruit appetizer. You can even think up your very own personalized mixes. Ready to upload new and exciting memories at this beloved location?

 

03. La Habanera de Aguacate

The authentic flavor of Cuban pastries.

With exclusive handmade candy and pastries, La Habanera de Aguacate brings a world of culinary innovation to the Cuban people. This candy store and bakery is a recent addition to the capital city area where everyone wants to go. Apart from an efficient and friendly staff, they have an excellent Instagram worth design - adding to the experience.

 

La Habanera is characterized by its take on appetizing mini dessert recipes, like the toasted milk mini tartelette.  Cuban style, of course. Prepared with pre-cooked condensed milk, as in the case of many Caribbean islands, which have different names to describe this tartelette, like El Fanguito.

 

04. Montefreddo

A place you simply must go back to. 

On this scrumptious journey, we would now like to take you to one of our favorite local spots of Havana, the Montefreddo Bakery. This location produces large amounts of varied craft cakes - adding their own versions of international delectables like the chocolate Eclair, with surprising and elaborate Cuban fruit creations.

 

There's really nothing better than to savor the exclusive flavors of the island. So, come on down to Montefreddo's, and don't take our word for it. You've got to try it yourself.

 

05. El Arca de Noe

The most enjoyable desserts for any taste. 

Let's close on a high note! If you enjoy trying new and mixed flavors, and perhaps have some select Cuban coffee with your cake or tart, you've found your place in Arca de Noe. This attractive bakery in Vedado is known to set itself apart by its experience and elaborate national and international recipes.

 

The Arca's prestige dates back to the 1950s when it first opened its doors in Havana. Now in modern Cuba, the bakery has evolved to offer a special menu that no palette can escape - from the famous Señoritas de Chocolate o Vainilla (flaky chocolate or vanilla custard pastry) to the desirable tropical Fruit Pizzas.

 

 

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Written by Teresita Padrón.

 

Published October 2022.


Top Destinations to Visit in Cuba

Fábrica de Arte Cubano: A Unique Experience for Art Lovers

concert venue with seating and bar

Art & Culture

Fábrica de Arte Cubano: A Unique Experience for Art Lovers

Fábrica de Arte Cubano in Havana

Photo: Alamy

Music, art, and craftsmanship combine in this top-rated “factory”. Let it enhance your experience of Havana nightlife!

First opened in 2014, under the direction of legendary local musician X Alfonso, the Fábrica de Arte Cubano (Cuban Art Factory) quickly turned into one of the trendiest venues in Havana. Originally built as a cooking oil factory, a group of artists turned the near-decrepit building (and its distinct tall chimney, visible from around the town) into one of the engines that would transform the city’s alternative nightlife scene.

 

Even the prestigious Time magazine chose it as one of the 100 Greatest Places in the World! Ever since the Fábrica de Arte is now a focal point of pride for locals and an atypical opportunity for tourists seeking a different type of party experience.

What Makes the Fábrica de Arte Cubano unique?

The Fábrica de Arte resists a simple classification. It’s not a factory anymore, and it refuses to act as a simple art gallery. There’s good food and catchy tunes, but it isn’t a nightclub or restaurant. Instead, the project aims to be a center for Cuban artistic expression and thought, combining the best contemporary art installations, live concerts, movie screenings, and spontaneous impromptu dance sessions, all categorized in separate lounges.

 

Each corner within the massive warehouse follows a distinct theme, and yet it transitions into the next one without the need for walls or signs. Is the party feeling too boisterous? Then you’re just a few steps away from a relaxing lounge, ideal for deep conversation or people-watching.

 

Need a bite while you see the latest trends in Cuban art as they’re made? Not a problem! Just take a small detour during your visit and get both experiences at once.

couple walking inside an art exhibition venue

Fábrica de Arte Cubano, Havana

Photo: Alamy

What to do inside the Factory

Such a non-conformist space would feel constrained by regular schedules and timetables. Yet, the creative ecosystem it hosts has developed its own rhythms, so you can partially predict what you’ll find.

 

From Thursdays to Sundays, visitors can window-shop while surrounded by dance troupes, listen to freestyle rap battles, place votes on imaginary architectural projects, and witness (or partake!) in improv sketches or flash mobs. Any form of art can be experienced or created inside this diverse factory – especially those that are outside the academic circles.

 

During the summer, the venue’s beating heart moves onto the terraces. The building has two: one on the ground floor, which opens into the backyard and is permanently scented by the surrounding ferns and orchids; and one on the second floor, which houses an outdoor bar. Here, you can sample new rum-based creations that haven’t made their way into the city’s mainstream bars, surrounded by brutalist or recycled sculptures. This is the perfect corner to get away from the dance floor, which often gets hectic late at night.

 

Finally, the Fábrica de Arte also takes part in many of the city’s larger cultural events and hosts a couple of its own. During the Havana World Music or the city’s Latin American Indie Film Festival, the factory loans its lounges for side concerts and screenings. They also host their own Jazz Plaza festival, and a few themed parties every season. The Factory stays open until dawn whenever this happens, so you can catch them from the terrace above.

rooftop bar with guests seated

Terrace bar and dining area at Fábrica de Arte

Photo: Alamy

Don't miss the culinary highlights

Any non-artistic cravings you may experience during your visit can be soothed by the Factory’s food stalls or its terrace bars. The menu at any of them rotates periodically, and always making sure to include a handful of different culinary styles.

 

The Fábrica de Arte closes for a couple of days every year, in order to refurbish its lounges, adjust its layout, and rotate its culinary offers  – so no room for boredom! These often include traditional Cuban street foods, Spanish-style tapas, and international creations by visiting cooks from Asia or Africa.

 

You don’t need to be afraid to lose track of your bill. As you move throughout the building, your tab will be written on a small wrist card. You can carry it around just like a Bridgerton at a ball, although the layout and font copy that of old-school rationing coupons.

 

Thanks to its dynamic, ever-changing layout and willingness to take risks, the Fábrica de Arte has become an ever-growing project. Visit now and return next year, and you’ll be gifted with a completely different experience, with its presentations turning into a blueprint for what’s hot and trending in Havana.

Opening Hours: Thursdays through Sundays, from 6:00 PM to 2:00 AM

Door fee: 200 CUP - $8.00 USD

Dress code: casual

Pro tip: On Fridays and Saturdays, the Fábrica de Arte usually fills to capacity, so go early!


Written by Gabriela Rey.

 

Published October 2022.


Find Fábrica de Arte Cubano

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Five of the Best Beaches in Cuba

Looking for a quick getaway or an island escape? We’ve rounded up a list of the best beaches for you to kick your feet up, relax, and enjoy the best Cuba’s coasts have to offer!

Playa Ancón beach near Trinidad

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Things to Do in Havana

LGBTQ+ Nightlife: Six Gay-Friendly Venues to Visit in Havana

man carrying a rainbow flag at a protest

Things To Do

LGBTQ+ Nightlife: Six Gay-Friendly Venues to Visit in Havana

LGBTQ+ Pride Parade, Havana

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Check out these 6 gay-friendly venues in Havana that offers great music, drinks and an inclusive atmosphere.

 

 

The LGBTQ+ community in Cuba has undoubtedly gone through harsh times, especially during the 1960s and 1970s. However, things have changed radically since the times of overt persecution and repression.

 

Perhaps a driver of this change was “Fresa y Chocolate” (Strawberry and Chocolate), the 1993 Oscar-nominated movie which brought international attention to the island’s prevailing homophobia.

 

Perhaps it was the ruling party that softened its official position or the ease with which we could come into contact with changing mentalities overseas – but fortunately, LGBTQ+ visibility and acceptance have advanced in long strides around Cuba, and specifically in Havana.

 

Granted, there is still much room to cover for LGBTQ+ rights: marriage equality is still pending, there is no legal recognition for non-cisgender identities, and many locals still experience discrimination in the workplace. Yet, LGBTQ+ visitors can now find places to relax, party, and express themselves safely in an inclusive and diverse atmosphere.

 

But why waste time hunting for these places? In this guide, we've rounded up the six hottest LGBTQ-friendly venues around the city. Make sure to visit them!

01. Malecón 663 Boutique Hotel

The Malecón 663 Boutique Hotel has fully embraced its title as one of Havana's most inclusive and pro-LGBTQ+ lodgings. Every other Tuesday, “Sunset Rainbow” parties offer an unmatched opportunity for queer youth to showcase their artistic side and let loose. At these parties, Drag shows, exotic dancers, impromptu catwalks, and live music combine to create a tantalizing atmosphere that remains hard to find in regular bars.

 

With that said, the hotel’s bar is open every day of the week, and you can always find a safe space here. They offer the full gamut of traditional mojitos and daiquiris, alongside a signature menu with bolder alcoholic experiments. The venue’s alt and rebellious spirit can also be seen in its musical choices.

 

While the occasional salsa hit will still make its way into the playlist, the ambiance will be dominated by more daring alt-rock hits. They merge surprisingly well with the beautiful view, as the bar’s main balconies all open into Havana’s sea-front boardwalk – you will probably want a few pictures, so make sure you pack a club-worthy outfit.

 

Where? At 663 Malecón Avenue, between Gervasio and Belascoin streets

 

02. PaZillo Bar

This famous El Vedado bar hosts LGBTQ+-themed parties regularly. Every Wednesday, they host glam for “PaZillo Pride” events. Each one celebrates a different subgroup of Cuba’s queer community – from ladies-only dating events to drag queen parties.

 

No matter when you go, you will run into a welcoming and trendy atmosphere. The food menu is relatively basic and limited to burgers and standard appetizers that will help you prolong the night.

 

Meanwhile, the drinks menu is constantly changing as they come up with new signature blends. Still, their specialty remains creamy, rum-infused blends with unorthodox fruit juices – from tropical berries to coconut milk or guava extract.

 

This is a boisterous, dance-oriented place, so expect the music to include the years’ Billboard hits, and to gravitate strongly towards salsa, reggaeton, and other tropical rhythms.  The dress code is flexible, but comfy shoes are recommended.

 

One last pro tip: The door fee for any of their parties doubles as an entry for a nightly raffle. You’ll be given a numbered sticker, which you should immediately stick to your clothes or purse. At the end of the party, one lucky number will win something (usually drinks or tickets for a future event), but during it, the sticker will help you score a few extra phone numbers. Just write down a provocative message on a piece of paper, and ask the bar staff to pass the note to your chosen number.

 

Where? 5th Street, between 4th and 6th Streets

 

03. Cabaret Las Vegas

Known for its drag queen shows, the Cabaret Las Vegas is also a historical landmark for Cuba’s LGBTQ+ movement. This was once the only place where queer Cubans could party in peace, even when facing overt persecution.

 

Nowadays, it is frequented by people of all ages, although the crowd is undoubtedly slightly older than at PaZillo. They prefer live music, but they don’t shy away from any top English and Spanish language queer anthems.

 

An old-school, slightly nostalgic vibe is augmented by their menu, which features all the Cuban cocktail classics. The mojitos don’t try to reinvent the wheel but are always blended to perfection. Finally, their dress code can be best described as formal kitsch: nicer pants and dressy accessories sprinkled with glitter and shiny beads.

04. The Singing Café at the National Theatre

Granted, an established and mainstream place such as the National Theatre rarely pops into our minds when we think of the city’s queer scene. However, every Saturday, the Theatre’s singing café is taken over by the El Divino (The Divine) LGBTQ+ project, turning it into one of the most widely-attended queer parties in the city.

 

Action usually begins at around 11 PM and lasts until the first few rays of dawn. The DJ’s selection will include an eclectic mixture of international hits, reggaeton, salsa, and merengue – but keep in mind that the audience will be expected to sing along as much as possible.

 

However, the drinks and food selection is a bit limited. This is mainly a café, so when it comes to cocktails, they stick to the classics. After eating somewhere else, show up to enjoy the show, wearing something fancy but comfortable enough to last until the following day.

 

Where? 104 Calzada de la Infanta Street, near the corner with 25th Street

 

05. XY Bar

The XY Bar is a relatively new place, and one of the latest additions to the city’s LGBTQ+ scene. Unlike most of the other names on this list, the XY’s goal was to cater to queer folk from the very beginning, and any day of the week – no need to wait for a special event here. As it is still new, it is also less crowded than many other places, making it an ideal venue for a quieter date on a weekday.

 

Their music list and cocktail menu are equally varied, and they usually carry a wide array of beers. The dress code is relatively relaxed: while they prefer patrons to make an effort, you won’t need to raid your hosts’ closet or think too much about it.

 

Where? Corner of Marina and Jovelar streets, Cayo Hueso

06. Rylac Bar

The Rylac Bar is likely the latest hotspot for Havana’s younger LGBTQ+ crowd. During the week, they rotate between different themed parties – from “bridal showers” to costume contests.

 

Head to the terrace if you’re looking for a place to hang out or catch up with friends. It has comfy puff seats, fairy lights, and overall less noise. The nearby garden is a terrific option to relax during a warm early evening.

 

The dress code and music are equally casual. The staff will easily switch between Louis Armstrong and Rihanna, and are quick to accommodate requests. Cocktails are tasty and strong, but don’t expect anything unique.

 

Where? 358 17th Street, between G and H streets, El Vedado

 


Written by Neus Pechero.

 

Published October 2022.


Top Destinations to Visit in Cuba

Five of the Most Instagrammable Cafes in Havana

narrow city street lined with restaurants and outside seating

Food & Drink

Five of the Most Instagrammable Cafes in Havana

Cafes in Havana

Photo: Shutterstock

We've rounded up the five most quaint, unique and Insta-worthy Havana cafés for you!

 

 

Can’t face the day without a coffee? Eager to give your Instagram a boost of intrigue, originality, and sophistication? Havana is the spot for you!

 

Foodie culture across Cuba’s capital is booming, with the emergence of cozy cafes and other elegant daytime eateries where you can indulge in breakfast or brunch while grabbing enviable photos.

 

If you’re unsure where to head, here's our guide to the most Instagrammable cafes in Havana.

01. El Café

Located at Amargura #358 between Villegas and Aguacate in Old Havana, El Café is one of those intimate, almost secret places you'd never expect to find while walking down the street. Popular among locals for having the most varied options of healthy breakfasts and brunches, including vegetarian and vegan meals, it is a simple yet charming place that you simply must drop by.

 

The cafe provides a beautiful juxtaposition thanks to its rustic features alongside the natural prestige of Havana's colonial houses with high ceilings and sunkissed private courtyard. Drinks and dishes are not only completely Instagrammable, but fresh, flavorful and sure to satisfy.

 

We recommend: the iced latte and banana pancakes!

 

El Café is open everyday from 9am to 6pm.

 

02. Cafetalex

Of all the places included on our list, Cafetalex is, without doubt, the best spot if you're looking to explore beyond the tourist areas, try traditional aromatic Cuban coffee, and catch a glimpse of day-to-day life in Havana.

 

Our recommendation is to order Café Mambi, the most authentic Cuban coffee you'll taste on the island. Although nowadays Cubans drink coffee made in Italian coffee pots, in the old days, it was made differently: Café Mambi is brewed the way only campesinos brew it today, by pouring boiling water over the ground coffee beans placed on a piece of cloth; a sight you simply have to capture.

 

For the best Instagram profile shot, take a seat at the bar beneath the low-hanging, dimly lit bar lights. Make sure you get the right angle to capture the bar's wallpaper made from old newspapers that speak of iconic moments from Cuba's post-revolution history.

 

We recommend: the café mambi, obviously.

 

03. Café Bohemia

Whether you're looking for a coffee or a bite to eat, Café Bohemia in Plaza Vieja is one of the best options you'll find in Old Havana. The cafe has outdoor tables that look onto a prestigious public square in the heart of the old city, from where you'll have a privileged setting for a photo shoot that your Instagram followers will love. That said, if you prefer a bit more privacy, you can sit in the equally beautiful and Instagrammable inner courtyard of Café Bohemia's colonial house and fall in love with its exquisite neoclassical features.

 

Open every day from 8am to 10pm, Café Bohemia has options for you to have breakfast and soak up the city's energy as it comes to life. In addition to the breakfast offerings, the cafe offers seafood, vegan and vegetarian options, and a menu of traditional Cuban drinks such as Guarapo and Batido de trigo.

 

We recommend: a fresh flask of Guarapo.

 

04. Café del Ángel

Café del Ángel opens its doors every day at 9am and is named after the Plaza del Angel, where the café is located, and one of the settings of the most famous Cuban novel's of the 19th century, Cecilia Valdés by Cirilo Villaverde.

 

Being able to eat or drink while observing the Plaza del Ángel, an intimate public square dotted with statues and potted plants, is a privilege that is only possible at this cafe, an experience you'll undoubtedly want to treasure on your Instagram.

 

The café offers breakfasts with tropical fruits, picaderas, pasta, salads, and seafood. If you are looking for lunch with a more local sabor, try the "Cuban platter" which consists of rice, black beans, and chicken on a tray reminiscent of those used in Cuban schools.

 

We recommend: the Cuban platter

 

05. Ecléctico Paseo 206

El Ecléctico, an Italian and international food restaurant that is part of the Paseo 206 Boutique Hotel, is an excellent spot to enjoy breakfasts, brunches, cocktails, and main courses. Its eclectic architecture combines the modern touch of 20th century Cuban houses with exquisite Baroque sculptures and grand glass windows with semicircular arches.

 

Both the terrace and the indoor area of the building are ideal for taking photos for Instagram. To add a local twist to your Insta-snap, grab yourself a daiquiri and take a casual stroll across the terrace. Your Instagram reel will never look more sophisticated!

 

We also recommend keeping an eye on Paseo 206's Instagram profile to find out about their Jazz afternoons and get to know the best contemporary Cuban Jazz players in town.

 

We recommend: a freshly made daiquiri.

 

El Ecléctico can be found in Vedado and is open daily from 8am to 11:30am.

 


Written by Neus Pechero.

 

Published October 2022.


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