🍴 Cuban Culinary Exploration ①: Hotel Nacional de Cuba

🏨 The State Hotel with Historic Aura Known as Cuba's "state guesthouse," Hotel Nacional de Cuba (1930 ) stands as one of Latin America's first steel-structured hotels. Its Andalusian architecture features Moorish arcades, echoing Spain's colonial legacy. 🌟 Legends in Its Walls Notoriety points: ✅ Site of the 1946 Mafia summit and Santa Clara Battery overlook ✅ Ava Gardner's honeymoon anecdote: Sneaking out for drinks while avoiding her new husband Celebrity hall: The backyard bar displays photos of visiting dignitaries, including a Maradona exhibit (with his ordered dishes listed)—a soccer fan's delight! 🥢 Restaurant "Comedor de Aguiar": Style Over Substance Dress code: No shorts/singlets/sandals; locals often dress up Currency quirk: Some dishes require EUR payment, reflecting Cuba's economic reality Service anecdote: During a China-77 Group summit, staff mistook us for delegates—pianist played Chinese melodies, and service shifted to "VIP mode"! 🌆 Scenic Perks & Practical Notes Location: Hillside with ocean views; terrace tables offer sunset panoramas Cost: €€ (cheaper than Havana's private restaurants but ~$30/main) Verdict: Go for the 1950s glamour and historic vibes, not the food (think: restaurant standard). Perfect for a photo op with a mojito in hand! #TimosMundo #CubaTravel #HavanaHeritage #HistoricHotels #CulinaryExploration