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Food & drink in Cuba
Cuban food is rich, tasty and deliciously homely. The portions also tend to be on the heavy side - you will never be left hungry in Cuba! Delicious street food stalls to decadent high end restaurants, the choices are ample so you can be sure to find something you like.
The food in Cuba is an eclectic mix of Spanish, African, Caribbean and Native American influences, with elements from each often combined to create intriguing flavours unique to Cuba. Cuban food is typically not spicy but if you like a bit of heat, look around for some salsa picante!
What is Cuba's national dish?
Ropa Vieja
Ropa Vieja is one of the most popular dishes in Cuba, and with good reason too. It’s a braised, skirt beef steak, brisket or shredded flank, drenched in a rich tomato and pepper sauce. Served with fluffy rice and fried plantain, it’s quite a large meal so make sure you're hungry!
Top Tip!
Cubans believe their ice cream is the best in the world - the national manufacturer ‘Copella’ is supposed to be the finest!
Vegetarian & vegan food in Cuba
Much of the traditional Cuban food is centred around meat, but that doesn’t mean that vegetarians will starve. Breakfasts are often a buffet style which includes a variety of elements so you can always find something suited to your diet. As for main meals, most of the vegetarian dishes don’t include dairy or eggs so is usually vegan friendly. The majority of main meals include meat, but there are usually a delicious selection of sides which you could pair together as Cuban tapas!
Drinks in Cuba
Cuban Coffee
Coffee is a big part of Cuban culture and must be tried on your holiday to Cuba. Usually grown in the mountains it’s sweet, smokey and strong. Do it like a local and dip toast into your morning cup!
Cocktails
Cuba is the land of cocktails and there are so many to try, you will never run out. Some of the favourites are cuba libre, mojito, daiquiri, cubanito, pina coladas, saoco, el presidente and havana loco.
Where's good to eat in Havana?
On a Budget
Won’t Break the Bank
Treat Yourself!
*Please note that these are only current recommendations. Restaurants can change and close down fairly quickly so this list should only be used as a guide to start you off on your own research. If you are planning any fancy dinners during you holiday to Cuba, make sure you book well in advance as these often get booked up quickly. Mid range restuarants can often get very busy during peak hours, so make sure you turn up early!*
What food should I try in Cuba?
Pernil Relleno De Moros Y Cristianos
Pernil Relleno De Moros Y Cristianos is as Cuban as it gets. It is essentially a pork shoulder which has been marinated in a rich orange, garlic and oregano sauce, and stuffed with beans and rice.
View tours to Cuba
Tamales
Tamales are all over Central America but the Cubans put their own spin on things. The pork meat is mixed into the dough instead of used as a filling and the overall taste is savoury rather than sweet.
Tostones
Cubans love their plantain and you’ll find that it will accompany almost every main dish you order. But they are also a popular snack. Tostones are squashed, fried plantain - perfect served with dips.
Churros
There is no better place to try Churros than Cuba. These sweet snacks are crispy, warming and dusted in powdery sugar. They are absolutely delicious and are a popular street food with tourists and locals.
Vaca Frita
Vaca frita is one of the few dishes in Cuba which is full of spice. This mouthwatering steak is marinated in fresh herbs and spices, with lemon, onions and peppers often added to give it extra flavour.
Yuca Con Mojo
Yuca Con Mojo is one of Cuba’s national dishes and should not be missed out on. It’s cassava or yuca, cooked in a bitter orange juice. It is often added as a side to roasted pork.
Black Bean Soup
One of the most traditional dishes in Cuba is black bean soup. It’s made by stewing a heap of black beans with avocado, oregano and spices and served with some delicious crispy bacon.
Picadillo
Picadillo is one of the best dishes to try in Cuba. Made from a mix of ground beef, raisins, olives, potatoes and wine. This dish has been around for years and is definitely not one to miss.
Medianoche
Medianoche (meaning midnight) is a Cuban sandwich which is served in nightclubs. It’s the perfect meal to follow those cocktails! Made with sweet, eggy bread and filled with pork, ham and cheese.
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