Spanish cultural societies have long had special legal status in Cuba, meaning that their restaurants (even in tougher times) have been able to offer decent food at good prices. Castropol, run by the Asturianos, was once one of the few quality eating joints in Havana and it continues to impress from its pretty perch on the Malecón.
The food, not surprisingly, displays Spanish influences. House paella and Galician octopus star but are backed up by Cuban-style lobster and chicken, both served with plenty of rice and beans. It’s private-restaurant quality at state-restaurant prices – the perfect combo.