For those of you planning to go to Cuba expecting to experience delicious Latin eats, full of flavor and heat, try again. I was prepared as I enjoy food and snacking. I brought a bag full of snacks, crackers, olives, Kind bars, trail mix, etc. This was all in consideration of my travel partners as me and hangry are a poor combination.
The first day my travel team and I were led astray by a local who advised he knew of a great place for us to eat. After walking four blocks in a circle, I did not want to eat nor partake in anything going on. *Side note do not follow the guidance of random local people as many if them receive kickbacks from the establishments where they lead you to spend your money.* We should have followed the advice of our Air BnB staff.
I sat out the experience and they advised to food was nothing to write home about.
That evening out of near starvation (not really, but we were really needing a meal) a few of us ventured out to a local restaurant on the water. While it sounds lovely, the service was awful (unless you just wanted to a beer) and the food was okay. I ordered sliced chicken (fajitas) and was expected to eat them with a toothpick instead of a fork. Getting a fork was a different issue altogether.
We finally found decent food at two places, Cocinero – a high-end restaurant where we had rooftop seating. This restaurant is also attached to the Fábrica de Arte Cubano which has art music and more. Restaurant reservations do not guarantee entry into the Fabrica De Arte Cubano. I enjoyed the grilled snapper served with white rice and grilled veggies. The service was okay, it seems everyone is on Cuban time which is very laid back.
Now Tablazo, good food, good service, great price. For less than $10 CUC you can get a full meal with two sides, dessert, and coffee. They were very attentive and if you take the outdoor seating, there is a view of the Malecon wall. We patronized Tablazo on two different days. The lamb is delicious, the chicken with garlic and butter, tasty.