Cuba may not have culinary fame compared to some of its neighbors, but that doesn’t mean you’ll be missing out on some great food during your time here. Cuba typically doesn’t have access to a wide range of ingredients, so your dining experience may not be as varied as you’d expect from some other nearby destinations. Regardless, there are some Central American favorites that are definitely worth trying.
What to eat in Cuba
Pastelitos
These small pastries can be either sweet or savory. Cream cheese, guava, and beef are the most popular fillings and make for a cheap, tasty meal on the run. Think empanadas, Cuban style.
Cuban sandwich
Otherwise known as a mixto, this sandwich is a simple snack that has made its way north into Florida and has become one of the quintessential images of Cuban food beyond its borders. Ham, pork, cheese, mustard, and sometimes salami layered between bread and grilled – what’s not to like?
Ropa vieja
Not only is this one of the national dishes of Cuba, but it’s also found all over the Caribbean, in Spain, and even the Philippines! It may literally translate to ‘old clothes’, but that’s definitely not what it tastes like – slow-cooked pulled beef with vegetables, usually served with maduros (fried plantains), black beans, and rice.
Fritura de maiz
These deep-fried cheese and cornmeal fritters are popular street food snacks in Cuba. A great choice for vegetarians; throw a couple of these back and you’ll be feeling the Cuban spirit.
Moros y cristianos
Rice and beans is ot just rice and beans. Black beans and white rice are added to a base of peppers, garlic, and onion and simmered with herbs, creating a flavorful addition to any meal and served up at virtually every Cuban restaurant you'll come across.
Tostones
If you're a little bit peckish and are on the go, seek out some tostones. These twice-fried plantain chips are very popular in a lot of Latin America countries and are an easy (and often cheap) snack.
Flan
Although flan is known all around Central and South America as an essential dessert, Cuban flan has a slightly different spin. It's made with evaporated and sweetened condensed milk, giving it a thicker and creamier caramel custard finish than fresh milk varities. Get ready for a seriously delicious sugar high.
Coppelia ice cream
Line up with locals to savor a sweet scoop from Coppelia ice cream parlor. This Cuban institution serves tried and true flavors like chocolate and vanilla as well as exotic favorites like mango and coconut.
What to drink in Cuba
Rum
The tipple of choice in Cuba is rum, obviously. Savour some Havana Club straight up, have it mixed in a minty mojito, or sip on a Cuba Libre – rum, cola, and lime.
Coffee
Cuban coffee is of legendary quality, so be sure to get your caffeine hit with a small but rich cup of liquid gold. Drink it like the locals do, as a cafecito or Cafe Cubano. This type of espresso-style coffee is usually sweetened with raw cane sugar and stirred in with the first drips of espresso to get the best result.