It seems like stylish cafés in Havana start to pop-up. We found quite some pretty places throughout whole Havana Vieja. In this blog post, I’ll show you the most stylish and best cafés in Havanna and where to get the best coffee.
And did you know that there are some super delicious ice cream parlours in Havanna? Read on!
Always keep in mind that famous places are not equal with good places. What I want to tell you is that all the famous places where Ernest Hemingway used to drink or eat or sleep are usually very touristic, not authentic at all – nor is the food or drinks better than anywhere else. So choose wisely! (…better choose one of these stylish cafés in Havana)
Best cafés in Havana? Café Habana – what else?!
Recently opened and located in the newly renovated Mercaderes street, which also hosts quite some interesting art galleries and museums and you will definitely stroll through on your tour through Havana Vieja. The place is very spacious and you can either enjoy coffee or breakfast there. The coffee was outstanding good and breakfast seemed versatile – even if we didn’t eat there.
How to get there:
Address: Mercaderes, La Habana
El Dandy – the backpacker spot
This is the coolest and hippest backpacker spot to be and definitely one of the most stylish cafés in Havana. You’ll find many like-minded people reading their lonely planet or searching for company. El Dandy is located at a very interesting square called Plaza del Cristo which represents the authentic Havanna – in-love couples having a date, kids playing on the square, guys preparing their cars of friends hanging out. The buildings at this square are more shabby than chic and represent the average home of the inhabitants of Havana I guess. Choose one of the tables close to the entrance door and you can observe the happenings on the square. El Dandy serves good coffee, strong cocktails and international snacks. Besides bar and café this place also serves as little foto gallery which includes authentic shots of the street life of Havana.
How to get there:
Address: Plaza del Cristo, La Habana
Not stylish enough? Then what about this one:
Stylish “El Chanchullero “
„Hemingway was never here,“ says the sign at the entrance of this little, stylish place. This is one of the places which focus on good quality food and drinks and target Cubans as well as authentic travellers over tourists who are hunting Ernest Hemingway. Big recommendation for this tiny, alternative place among the best cafés in Havana.
How to get there:
Address: Plaza del Cristo, La Habana
Don Eduardo Alegre
Even if it is more a restaurant than a café, it is still a great place to enjoy a good coffee and one of my favourite places in Havana. This little stylish café or lounge bar is located on the upper floor of a Colonial building of Plaza Vieja. The shady little balcony is great for a coffee stop. And great for observing the happenings on the square and enjoying the view at Plaza Vieja.
How to get there:
Address: Muralla, La Habana
in the southern blue building of Plaza Vieja (Old Square)
Ice Cream on wheels
This little ice cream stand has no address but we discovered it every day at Plaza Vieja (Old Square) at the corner of the streets Brazil and Cuba. The friendly owner sells home-made ice cream in coconut bowls in different flavours.
How to get there:
Possibly at the Old Square, crossing Brazil and Cuba.
Al Pirata Heladeria
Another fancy place which seemed as if it just popped up from nowhere. In Al Pirata they serve mainly home-made ice cream and healthy smoothie, but also more bio products, such as fresh coconuts. A very delightful place which makes really really good idea cream – maybe even the best of Havana (there is not much competition though).
How to get there:
Address: San Ignacio 76, La Habana
El Escorial
A quite touristy, but good place to be. This café is located under a shady passage at Plaza Vieja (Old Square) and offers plenty of space to sit for a (good coffee break). The big advantage of this place is that it is located centrally and great for observing people at the Old Square. Plus great coffee of course!
How to get there:
Address: Mercaderes 317, La Habana
at Plaza Vieja
Also looking for a good restaurant in Havana? Read my blog post about the best (and vegetarian suitable) restaurants in Havana.
Never stop exploring!
