Yamilka Lafita, a Cuban activist known on social media as Lara Crofs, recently shared her experience at El Bleco, one of the elite's trendy bars in Havana. Lara was invited by a friend living abroad who covered the "exorbitant" bill for a dinner for seven people. The meal included pizzas, carpaccio, and French fries, along with domestic and imported drinks and cigars.
"There's nothing exclusive or extraordinary on offer. It's the same as any other bar, but with prices quadrupled," she lamented. In total, the bill came to 118,870 pesos, but that wasn't the end of it. "Afterwards, the bar 'suggests' you should tip 10, 15, or 20%. Even though the products are priced four times higher than on the black market, service is not included," she explained on Facebook.
Lara, who spent many years living outside of Cuba, admits that the ambiance, food, and service at El Bleco are top-notch "by the island's standards," but she clarifies that compared to South America or Europe, they are average. "No doubt, the owners of this establishment have cleverly managed to keep this place afloat in a country full of hardships. The issue is precisely that it's a trendy spot. The prices are irrational, four times higher than other bars," she noted.
After paying the "suggested" tip by the waiter, the total cost of the meal rose to 142,644 pesos, equivalent to 445.76 USD. "This is possibly the amount of money more than one family could survive on in this planet called Cuba," she emphasized.
In a country where the government-set minimum wage is 2,100 pesos, about 87 dollars at the 24x1 exchange rate, only a tiny fraction of the population can afford to pay 3,500 pesos for a pizza or 1,000 for a Cristal beer. "It's literally a white-collar robbery," affirmed a resident from Palmira, Cienfuegos.
"I wouldn't give that satisfaction to any bar owner in Cuba. It costs the same as the terrace of the Hotel RIU on Madrid's Gran Vía," questioned a young man from Spain.
"It's very sad, the reality of the Cuban people. I think I would feel sick from the food and drink if I had to pay that price," said a doctor.
"They've made a habit of this 15 percent tip. That's where they get the employees' salaries from, which is disrespectful because the owners should pay that. It means consumers are paying even for the service," commented another man.
"That's why international tourists, when they come to Cuba and see these prices and the ordinary bar offerings, choose other destinations," emphasized another person.
Common Questions About Dining Costs in Havana's Trendy Bars
Dining out in Havana, especially in trendy spots, can be an eye-opening experience. Here are some frequently asked questions about the costs and realities of eating at elite bars and restaurants in the Cuban capital.
How much does a typical meal cost at a trendy bar in Havana?
A typical meal at a trendy bar in Havana can be extremely expensive, with prices significantly higher than those in regular establishments. For example, a dinner for seven people at El Bleco amounted to 118,870 pesos.
Are tips included in the bill at Havana’s elite bars?
No, tips are not included. Bars often suggest a tip of 10, 15, or 20%, which can significantly increase the total cost of the meal.
How do the prices at trendy bars in Havana compare to those in other countries?
Compared to South America or Europe, the prices at trendy bars in Havana are irrationally high. The cost is about four times higher than at other bars on the island.