I spent 6 months in Havana as a college senior and I grew up in Florida. I've been to Las Palmeras and Papis, but listen up: THIS IS REAL CUBAN FOOD! They've got by far the best black beans. Their masitas are killer and their lunch specials rival any restaurant, cuban or not. For under $10 you can get black beans and rice, the meat special (e.g., ropa vieja), and fried plantains. True, it would be better with a small salad, but that can be added for $2. It's not the most convenient location for us in-towners, but the drive is worth it, and if you work on the top of the perimeter, this is definitely your lunch spot, well this and Casa Vieja. Try their batidos (milkshakes). I like the mamey batido. Go during lunch and get the Ethel #1 or #2. You get plenty of food, enough for the next day too!
Pros: Great value, great food, authentic cuban
Cons: Top of the perimter
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