When you first think of Cuba, you might not straight away associate it with great vegan food options, or even any vegan options at all (hello rice ‘n beans?) But don’t be fooled! Havana is changing quickly and although there are some real limitations (don’t expect the variety that you are used to at home!), Cuba’s capital really does have some great eateries offering tasty vegan options.
Top Tip: We suggest you supplement your diet while in Cuba by bringing your own nut butters, nuts, seeds, oats and other snacks just in case!
In this blog, you’ll find out our top eateries in Cuba where we’re sure you’ll be able to grab some tasty vegan bites to eat at very reasonable prices!
El Shamuskiao
314 Consulado (downstairs), between Neptuno and Virtudes, Havana
Cash only, closed on Mondays
⌛️Tues – Sun 10:00 h – 21:00 h
Shamuskiao offers a delicious mix of vegan and vegetarian dishes at reasonable prices. This cosy place is known for their vegan meatballs, vegetable stews, pizzas and sandwiches. Their generous portions can be paired with refreshing fresh juices – we recommend the pineapple one! If you’re lucky, you might be able to sign up for one of their vegan and veggie tasting sessions – the perfect way to learn all the secret tips from their chef!
Ama
Between L y M, Calle 19, Havana
⌛️Mon – Sun 9:00 h – 19:00 h
Get a taste of the New Cuba when you visit the trendy Ama. Located in Vedado, this cafe meets jewellery boutique is a real quirky gem. Not only you’ll find the tastiest, fresh juices and artisan lemonade, but also delicious tapas, salads, pasta dishes, tacos, waffles and a fair share of cocktails too! The best? You can also shop their colourful designs and accessories and support local designers.
Camino al Sol
Calle 3 (at Paseo, behind Melia Hotel), Havana
Cash only
⌛️Mon – Fri 09:00 h – 17:00 h (closed during weekends)
Camino al Sol will do just the trick if you want a break from the classic beans and rice! This vegetarian restaurant offers plenty of vegan options – from scrumptious empanadas to red-vegetable cannelloni or fresh homemade pasta. They also do incredible vegan desserts and vitamin-packed natural juices. Don’t forget to try their croquettes, they’re incredibly moorish!
Azúcar Lounge
Plaza Vieja, Mercaderes 315, Habana Vieja, Havana
Closed on Tuesdays
⌛️11:00am – 12:00am
Located in a charismatic building that overlooks the Plaza Vieja, Azúcar Lounge is a minimalist vegetarian bar-restaurant serving delicious cocktails and tapas in a scenic location. With some vegan options, their vegetarian menu includes popular dishes like falafel, pasta, grilled veggies or pizza.
Doña Eutimia
Callejón del Chorro 60C Plaza de La Catedral Habana Vieja, Havana
⌛️Mon-Sun 12:00pm-10:00pm
Doña Eutimia is an authentic Havana institution! Located next to the Plaza de la Catedral, this paladar doesn’t offer a huge variety of vegan food, but a real taste of traditional Creole cuisine. Don’t miss their mojito frappe! It’s a popular place so we strongly recommend you book in advance.
El Dandy
Teniente Rey 401, esquina Villegas, Parque Cristo, La Habana Vieja
⌛️Mon-Sun 8am-12am
If you love great tacos and mojitos, Bar El Dandy is the place for you. This cocktail and tapas bar offers a mix of Cuban, Mexican and Spanish cuisine. They do breakfast, lunch and dinners together with delicious homemade juices, cocktails and micheladas. With fast service and super friendly staff, the vibe here is just as young and fresh as the food! It’s also a great little spot if you are into people-watching – it overlooks a really nice square where you can watch the locals go by.
Crêperie Oasis Nelva
Habana corner with Muralla, La Habana Vieja
⌛️Tuesday – Sun 12:00am – 9:00pm
Whether you like your crepes sweet or savoury, this place has all the options for you. With a laid-back atmosphere and friendly staff, this creperia offers plenty of vegetarian and vegan options in a quiet spot decorated with recycled materials. They also offer some handcrafts (perfect for a present) and advice on how to look after your plants.
California Cafe
Calle 19 between N y O, Havana
⌛️Mon – Sat 08:00am – 11:00pm (closed Sun)
California Cafe is a great spot in Vedado, situated on a quaint little patio. It’s a great place for brunch, all with flavourful options at a reasonable price. Some of their vegan dishes include sandwiches, bruschettas, salads or really yummy vegan kebabs. Staff are super helpful and friendly, and if you go there for dinner, you can also do rum tasting sessions and savour over 10 different types of rum!
El Café
358, Amargura, Havana
⌛️Mon – Sun 09:00am – 06:00pm
El Café is one of our favourite spots in Havana. They do great strong Cuban espressos, delicious sourdough bread, and lovely vegan chickpea and spinach salads. If you fancy a kick in the morning we recommend trying their homemade ginger juice – you won’t be disappointed!
Discover the New Cuba
Experience a different side to Cuba with our New Cuba tours! Meet local artists and DJs, explore the colourful streets of Havana, learn how to roll cigars in Viñales, party at the hottest nightclubs, and relax on stunning beaches sipping on mojitos!
