El Floridita

Habana Vieja


El Floridita was a favorite of expat Americans long before Hemingway dropped by in the 1930s, hence the name (which means 'Little Florida'). Bartender Constante Ribalaigua invented the daiquiri here soon after WWI, but it was Hemingway who popularized it and ultimately the bar christened a drink in his honor: the Papa Hemingway Special (a grapefruit-flavored daiquiri).

Hemingway's record – legend has it – was 13 doubles in one sitting. Any attempt to equal it at current prices (CUC$6 for a shot) will cost you a small fortune – and a huge hangover.

Inside there's a statue of the sage, usually commandeered by bevies of daiquiri-sinking tourists taking selfies.


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