Cuban Dinner: Havana's Cuisine!
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Can you believe that in the entire history of this group, we've never had a Cuban dinner? Of course, St Louis doesn't have a wealth of that particular cuisine, but I stumbled across a great little restaurant that only serves Cuban food, and after trying it out, decided it was time to finally add Cuban to our list of wonderful cuisines we've enjoyed!
Cuisine - Cuban food bears some resemblance to other Latin American and Caribbean food, but has its own unique flavors. Two particular items are virtually synonymous with Cuba: Ropa Vieja (practically the national dish - shredded beef in a tomato-based sauce with garlic, onions, and peppers, along with lots of spices) and the Cuban sandwich (roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard served on pressed Cuban bread). You will find both here, and I can vouch for how awesome they are! My favorite appetizers (which to be fair aren't unique to Cuba) are the empanadas, which are available in several varieties. I've tried a couple and they are as good as I've had anywhere! Another traditional favorite is the lechon asado (citrus-marinated roast pork served with moro rice (Cuban spiced rice) and maduros (plantains). This is just a few of the authentic Cuban dishes available here; you'll find quite a selection of appetizers, sandwiches, entrees, sides, and desserts here, all authentic and, if my experience is any indication, all delicious as well!
Price - The prices here are nothing short of amazing. The appetizers and sides start at under $5, and the entire menu tops out well under $20. While these aren't huge portions, I can vouch that one appetizer and one sandwich left me stuffed, so for my money this is a value that's hard to beat!
Other Info - Havana's Cuisine is located on Euclid right in the heart of the Central West End, between Forest Park and Laclede. Parking is always a pain around here, but if you don't see a spot on the street right away, I recommend just parking in the Laclede Garage on Laclede just west of Euclid and just ponying up the couple dollars it costs.
I'm looking forward to seeing lots of my foodie friends at Havana's Cuisine on Tuesday the 31st for some awesome and authentic Cuban cuisine!