Paladares — The Culinary Revolution
What is a Paladar?
A Paladar is a private restaurant — usually in an apartment, on a rooftop terrace, or in a courtyard. Since the economic liberalization in the 2010s, paladares have been the culinary salvation of Cuba: creative, fresh, personal, and with a quality that state restaurants have never achieved. The best paladares in Havana operate at an international level — and at a fraction of European prices.
State Restaurants vs. Paladares
The rule of thumb is simple: State restaurants (recognizable by the lack of enthusiasm from the staff) usually offer mediocre food at inflated prices. Paladares offer excellent food at fair prices because the chef is also the owner — and puts his heart into every dish.
Top Paladares in Havana
- La Guarida (Centro Habana): Havana's most famous paladar — in a decaying palace with a grand staircase. Modern Creole cuisine on a rooftop terrace. Reservation required.
- San Cristóbal (Centro Habana): Obama dined here. Packed with kitsch and memorabilia, but the Ropa Vieja is legendary.
- Doña Eutimia (Habana Vieja): Right on the Plaza de la Catedral. Traditional Creole cuisine, the best Ropa Vieja in the old town.
- O'Reilly 304 (Habana Vieja): Hip, young, creative. Excellent cocktails and fusion cuisine.
- El Cocinero (Vedado): In a former cooking oil tank — rooftop bar and restaurant with a modern approach.
