Cuban broadcaster and presenter Laritza Camacho recently paid a visit to the iconic Coppelia ice cream parlor, which had just reopened after a three-month closure for renovations. Camacho went there with a friend on a Wednesday afternoon, encouraged by the absence of long lines. Upon arrival, they chose a table, only to be asked by a server to move because the cash register was being tallied, and service had shifted to another area.
Despite large signs boasting a variety of offerings, the menu was disappointingly limited to two flavors: vanilla and chocolate swirl, along with a specialty called "ensalada." "The ice cream wasn't bad," Camacho admitted on her Facebook page.
While waiting for their order, they noted that contrary to official media reports, nothing appeared shiny, repaired, or renewed. "The awnings were filthy, the chairs were chipped, the same old plastic dishes," Camacho described. "When clearing tables, the water from glasses is dumped on plants (which is fine) but almost over the heads of customers, whom they address as family, sweetie, honey, girl..." she added.
Camacho, who is also an actress and radio producer, recounted a scene where two employees were arguing nearby because two others were not working. A couple, consisting of a Cuban woman and a foreigner, entered the parlor. "The woman was embarrassed, and the man was demanding service, puzzled by the wobbly chair, the single flavor, and the bickering employees who ignored him. The woman tried to explain the inexplicable, and I overheard him say, 'I don't want to be treated like Maradona, but I deserve basic respect. You Cubans don't respect yourselves,'" she narrated.
For Laritza, the conclusion was clear: nothing had changed at Coppelia except the prices. "If you thought Coppelia was bad, you can keep thinking so. If you believed it was good, you can keep believing that too," she stated.
Her experience echoed that of customer Pedro Gandara, who visited the parlor shortly after its reopening on February 12. "Life is the same or worse; 150 pesos for an ensalada with melted ice cream scoops, and I think they don't give change anymore, or there are no 10-peso bills. (If you ask for 'africanas,' bring your hammer)," he commented.
Recently, the Ministry of Domestic Trade (MINCIN) celebrated the parlor's reopening, claiming that after three months of renovations, the awnings and signage were new and that the parlor offered "a variety of specialty items at reasonable prices compared to other private establishments."
Coppelia reopened in February with limitations on flavor availability and payment methods following a remodeling process that began in November. Prices have risen sharply. A mixed salad costs 155 pesos, while other specialties like Super Twins and Tres Gracias are priced at 130 and 105 pesos, respectively. The sundae, one of the simplest menu items, is 60 pesos, and a Vaca Negra, which combines soda with ice cream, costs 31 pesos. Besides the ice cream's high prices, a 550 ml bottle of water costs 160 pesos, and a slice of coffee cake reaches 170 pesos, triggering reactions among the parlor's patrons.
Understanding the Current State of Coppelia Ice Cream Parlor
What changes were made to Coppelia after its renovation?
According to official statements, new awnings and signage were installed. However, customers have reported little to no visible improvement in the establishment's condition.
How do customers feel about the current prices at Coppelia?
Many customers are dissatisfied with the significantly increased prices, finding them unreasonable compared to the quality and service offered.
Are there any new flavors available at Coppelia?
Currently, only two flavors, vanilla and chocolate swirl, are available, which is a limitation compared to previous offerings.