When planning my trip to Havana I did extensive research on the best Paladares in Havana because I was going to be traveling under the visa Support of the Cuba People and dining at Paladares was part of the requirement. I made a few reservations at places that peaked my interest and figured I would leave the rest to spontaneity. What I found when I arrived, was that it was actually A LOT harder than I thought it would be to find QUALITY Paladares to just walk into. Everyone I spoke to who had previously visited Cuba said the food scene was just not there due to the limited resources and limited imports that Havana has. Being the true foodie that I am I set off to prove this predisposition wrong. It turned out that finding a great spot to eat in Havana proved to be challenging, but not impossible. Below are my top picks for Best Paladares in Havana, and Best Restaurants in Havana.
What is a Paladar?
What is a Paladar you ask? A Paladar is a privately owned restaurant that has typically been converted from a home to into a restaurant space. If you’ve never heard of this concept, your first thought might be no way, I’d rather just eat at a normal restaurant than in someones home when traveling. When visiting Cuba you are actually going to want to dine at Paladares over restaurants. The menus are typically more creative and not bound to government imposed rations
Besides being even tastier than government owned restaurants, you will also be directly supporting Cubans instead of their government which is a really great thing considering the history and culture of this country.
Best Paladares In Havana
La Guarida
La Guarida has the reputation of being the best Paladar in Havana. Dining at this dilapidated mansion should be on everyone’s Havana itinerary because it was truly a very special experience from the moment you enter the property. Upon entering you will find a beautiful mural and rugged looking grand staircase. As you make your way up to the main dining on the third floor you will encounter an empty ballroom with another gorgeous staircase. Both are great places to grab some photos. The restaurant itself does require advance reservation as it is Havana’s best Paladar. If you can, request to be seated on the rooftop make sure to take advantage since it is a great view for sunset. The meal I had La Guarida was the most elevated in terms of preparation and presentation. The menu offered traditional Cuban classics such as Ropa Vieja (shredded and seasoned beef stew) and Arroz con Pollo (chicken and rice stew) along with seaside favorites. If you can’t sang a reservation for dinner you can always Enjoy a mojito or Sangria on their rooftop bar for sunset!
Al Carbon
Al Carbon has the reputation of serving the best BBQ in Havana. The presentation of the meals coming out of the kitchen are quite creative as well! The restaurant itself is decorated with mismatched table clothes and chairs, eclectic decor, and older knickknacks from a mix of decades.
Casa Mia
Casa Mia was one of my favorite dining experiences in Havana! Since Casa Mia was not located in downtown Havana there were significantly less tourists which made it feel like a local’s favorite. This charming converted home overlooks the water and gives you the feel that you are a guest in someones home.
They serve Cuban classics along with seafood pasta dishes that were very delicious and fresh! Be sure to leave room for dessert! The tres leches cake that I had at Casa Mia is hands down the best thing I ate in Havana.
El Dandy
El Dandy served up some of the best cocktails I had on my trip to Havana! Stop in for a mojito and stay for lunch! The pulled pork tacos are a favorite among visitors, as well as the ribs. This restaurant also host a mixology class that teaches you how to recreate your favorite Cuban cocktails. It is available to book through airbnb experiences!
304 O’Reilly
This gin bar and restaurant is a very popular lunch spot since it is located in the heart of Old Habana. Cozy and welcoming you can visit 304 O’ Reilly for a creative cocktail or some really great seafood!
Best Restaurants in Havana
Lo De Monik
Lo De Monik was located just steps away from my Casa Particular so I found myself coming back to this youthful and fun spot every morning for breakfast. Their breakfast special included crapes with fresh fruit and a smoothie, or your favorite style eggs with sausage and a fresh fruit smoothie. The value was certainly there for the price! This was one of the least expensive meals I had in Havana and the standard of quality was not compromised.
Jibaro
Located on a quieter street of Old Habana you will step through Jibaro’s beautiful and bright mural to find a simple restaurant serving very delicious classic Spanish style tapas and excellent cocktails!
Café O’Reilly
Cafe O’Reilly is an interesting concept and a can’t miss! They offer spiked frozen coffee drinks that are just perfect on a hot and humid Havana day. Be sure to purchase a bag of coffee beans to take back home with you! This is one of the only places that offers the beans rather than the coffee grounds for purchase.
El Surtidor
El Surtidor is located on the rooftop of Grand Hotel Manzana, Havana’s only 5 star hotel. Dine poolside with panoramic views of Old Habana. This restaurant provided excellent service and felt like the american standard you are likely accustom to,so don’t come here expecting culture. Dining at El Surtidor you will find really great Spanish dishes to indulge in, and a great view of Havana to enjoy.
