Paladar San Cristóbal, Havana, Cuba

'Paladar' San Cristóbal is one of the privately owned restaurants that have popped up in recent years in Havana, Cuba. The most famous one is of course La Guarida, but San Cristóbal is gaining fame in its own right. The restaurant is named after its owner and chef, Cristóbal Márquez Valdés. The place really feels like you're having dinner in someone's (his) home.

You won't believe your eyes when you walk into the various dining rooms....! Time has stood still. There are chandeliers, antiques, a vintage zebra skin rug (...) on the wall, statues, paintings, baseball memorabilia, vintage photos of famous Cubans; anything that was part of Cuban history, you'll find it at San Cristóbal.

The menu is officially Cuban-Creole, however they also serve a wide variety of international dishes, such as steak, grilled chicken, lobster, salads and more. Even vegetarians will find something to their liking. I would definitely recommend the mixed appetizer platter.

The service was exquisite, the waiters were extremely kind and the menu offered something to fit everyone’s taste. The heavily decorated interiors however might be a little overwhelming for some people (more is definitely more), but that’s a matter of personal taste. In case you’re a minimalist, you should probably opt for a table in the garden area.

Last but not least, after dinner ladies are given a vintage brooch.... and the gents can choose a cigar! This was such a lovely surprise, I won't forget it anytime soon.

San Cristóbal
San Rafael No 469 (between Lealtad and Campanario),
Havana, Cuba
Tel. +537 860 1705