Dining in Cuba

Overview

Like everything else in Cuba, the dining scene here is regulated by the government.  You will be perplexed at the limited availability of fresh sea food on your medical tourism sojourn, until you learn that premier marine specialties are reserved for exports or are restricted to state-run tourist restaurants.  Beef production is also regulated, and you'll have to stick with state-run diners as well.  Needless to say, such establishments are not exactly the best place to sample the island’s cooking.  The food is unexciting, the ambience is dour, and the service borders on the surly.  The best food in the country, without exception, is found in private restaurants run inside homes, known as paladares.

Local Cuisine

The cuisine in this medical tourism island has a somewhat unfair reputation for being insipid, and this is to a large extent, due to the limited availability and use of the fiery spices and herbs that are so much a part of the traditional Caribbean gastronomical experience.  The truth however, is that the country’s chefs are extraordinarily creative, although you won’t find many of them in government run bistros. Look to paladares for vibrant local cuisine, and if you are lucky, you might even find yourself staring at an illegal lobster or a succulent steak on your dining table.  Local specialties include rice with pork or chicken, black beans, fried plantains, and stuffed omelets.

Paladares

These private restaurants are probably the only bright spot on the country’s dining scene.  In theory, seating is restricted to 12, and no beef or lobster can be served.  However, enterprising owners have found a way to accommodate more than the stipulated number in hidden backyards or patios.  Always look for a paladare that has a printed menu.  You’ll often find two or more menus featuring different prices for Spanish and non Spanish-speaking people.  Capitalism is not dead.

Drinks of choice are strong coffee and weak beer.  Although not mandatory, tipping is highly appreciated in this medical tourism destination.   And if your doctor "okays" it, finish off your meal with a Cuban cigar (which are also government-regulated).

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