Best Places to Eat in Havana

Havana’s Hidden Gems: 10 Must-Try Street Food Spots

Havana’s culinary scene is a fusion of Spanish, African, and Caribbean flavors, with a focus on fresh seafood, meats, and tropical fruits. While the city has plenty of high-end restaurants, its street food scene is where you’ll find the most authentic and delicious eats. Here are 10 must-try spots to add to your Havana food tour:

1. El Aljibe

Located in the heart of Old Havana (Habana Vieja), El Aljibe is a small eatery serving mouth-watering Cuban sandwiches, including the classic “Cubano” with ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard.

2. La Guarida’s Street Food

This famous restaurant has a casual street food section where you can enjoy classic Cuban dishes like arroz con pollo (chicken and rice) and ropa vieja (shredded beef in tomato sauce), both for a fraction of the cost of dining indoors.

3. Café El Mares

For a taste of traditional Cuban cuisine, head to Café El Mares in Old Havana, where you can find delicious street food like chicken or pork with rice and vegetables, as well as snacks like fried plantains (tostones).

4. El Tocororo

This popular street food spot offers fresh seafood dishes like grilled fish and shrimp, often served with a side of tostones or yuca frita (fried cassava).

5. Los Tejaderos

For an authentic Cuban breakfast experience, try Los Tejaderos, where you can enjoy traditional dishes like arroz con pollo for breakfast.

6. El Cocinero

Located near the Malecón, a scenic seafront promenade in Havana, El Cocinero serves modern Cuban cuisine with a focus on seafood and local ingredients.

7. Café La Moraleja

This small café in Miramar offers a variety of street food options, including sandwiches, snacks, and light meals like tostones or yuca frita.

8. El Diners

For a classic diner experience, visit El Diners, where you can find Cuban comfort food like burgers, milkshakes, and traditional dishes like arroz con pollo.

9. La Casa de la Abuela

This popular eatery in the Vedado neighborhood serves delicious street food, including sandwiches, snacks, and light meals like tostones or yuca frita.

10. El Bodegón

Located in the heart of Havana, El Bodegón is a small eatery offering traditional Cuban cuisine with a focus on local ingredients and fresh seafood dishes.

These spots offer a taste of authentic Cuban street food, from classic sandwiches to fresh seafood and local specialties. Be sure to try some of these hidden gems during your visit to Havana!