Best Coffee Houses in Havana: A Local's Guide

Introduction:

Cuba’s capital, Havana, is a city renowned for its rich culture, vibrant music, and of course, its world-class coffee. The city is speckled with numerous coffee houses, each with its unique charm, offering a distinct brew of the country’s most cherished commodity. This article will take you on a tour of the top coffee houses in Havana, providing an insider’s guide to the best spots to enjoy a cup of the finest Cuban coffee.

Historical Insights:

Coffee was first introduced to Cuba by the French colonists in the mid-18th century. The ideal climate and fertile soil of the island made it the perfect environment for growing coffee beans, leading to a flourishing coffee industry. Havana, the country’s capital and commercial hub, became a focal point for coffee trade and consumption. Over the years, this rich coffee culture has been nurtured in the city’s coffee houses, which have become integral to Havana’s social fabric. They are not just places to enjoy a cup of coffee but also spaces where people gather to socialize, discuss politics, and appreciate art and music.

FAQ:

1. What makes Cuban coffee unique?
Cuban coffee is renowned for its strong, sweet taste which is achieved by mixing sugar with the coffee grounds during the brewing process. This creates a sweet foamy layer, known as ‘espumita’, which is characteristic of Cuban coffee.

2. Which coffee house in Havana is the oldest?
El Escorial in Plaza Vieja is one of the oldest coffee houses in Havana. It’s known for its traditional brewing methods and offers a unique experience of watching the coffee beans being roasted on site.

3. What types of coffee can I expect in Havana’s coffee houses?
Most coffee houses in Havana serve Café Cubano (Cuban coffee), Café con Leche (coffee with milk), and Cortadito (espresso shot topped with steamed milk), among other varieties.

4. Are there any coffee houses in Havana that also serve food?
Yes, many coffee houses in Havana also serve light meals and local delicacies. Café Arcángel, for instance, is known for its delicious breakfast menu.

5. Can I buy coffee beans in Havana’s coffee houses?
Absolutely. Many coffee houses such as Café de los Artistas and El Escorial sell locally sourced coffee beans that you can take home as a souvenir.

TOP 5 Local Businesses: :

1. Suite Habana Cafe
Type: Coffee shop
Address: 2609 N Miami Ave
Hours:

2. La Colada Gourmet “THE HOUSE OF CUBAN COFFEE”
Type: Coffee shop
Address: 1518 SW 8th St
Hours:

3. Guantanamera Cafe and Lounge
Type: Cafe
Address: 1465 SW 8th St #105
Hours:

4. American & Cuban Coffee
Type: Coffee shop
Address: 500 SW 1st St
Hours:

5. Grand Havana Coffee
Type: Corporate office
Address: Virginia Gardens, FL
Hours:

FAQ:

Conclusion:

Havana’s coffee houses are more than just places to get your caffeine fix. They are cultural institutions that offer a window into the city’s history, lifestyle, and the unique coffee traditions of Cuba. As Havana continues to charm visitors from around the world, its coffee houses remain steadfast, brewing the city’s stories one cup at a time. Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or a casual drinker, exploring Havana’s top coffee houses should be on your to-do list when visiting this vibrant city.