The Soul of Havana: Historic Charm, World-Class Dining, and Hemingway’s Haunts

Before heading to dinner, we relaxed at the rooftop terrace of our hotel. The view was stunning, offering a panoramic look at the city, including a glimpse of the "White House of Habana." We were fortunate to catch a breathtaking sunset while sipping cocktails, setting a serene and picturesque tone for the evening.

After our aperitif, our driver arrived to pick us up in a gorgeous turquoise blue classic car—a color that happens to be one of my favorites! The car, which would be ours for the rest of the week, was impeccably maintained, radiating vintage elegance. Its timeless charm immediately caught our attention, and my husband, equally captivated, couldn’t resist asking the driver questions about its history and restoration. The short ride through Havana in this iconic beauty was both nostalgic and exhilarating.

Our destination for the evening was La Guarida, one of Havana's most celebrated restaurants and a key filming location for the Oscar-nominated Cuban film Strawberry and Chocolate. The journey began as we ascended a grand yet weathered marble staircase in a former tenement building.

Halfway up, we passed through a courtyard steeped in history, known to host glamorous events like pop icon Madonna’s birthday party and Beyoncé’s visit. The venue exuded an air of elegance juxtaposed with Havana’s raw charm.

The intimate dining rooms on the top floor were cozy and inviting, making it difficult to choose where to settle. The menu offered inventive dishes that skillfully combined traditional Cuban flavors with international influences. Both of us opted for the fish, and each bite was an explosion of flavor, perfectly balancing tradition and creativity.

To end the evening on a high note, we made our way to one of the world’s most iconic bars—El Floridita. Known as the birthplace of the daiquiri and a favorite haunt of Ernest Hemingway, this legendary spot radiates old Hollywood glamour. The lively atmosphere was heightened by live Cuban music, making it impossible not to tap our feet as we sipped on the signature cocktail. The daiquiri, perfected over decades, was every bit as refreshing and delightful as promised.

Live music :  https://youtu.be/ewER4ZqmJ5w

With hearts full and spirits high, we returned to the hotel, ready for a restful night’s sleep and the adventures that awaited us the next day.