La Gruta el Vino — Restaurant in Cárdenas

Make sure you book reservations before showing up here. The grotto is pretty small and seats about 2 dozen people outside. The inside tables disappear the quickest! We passed by in mid afternoon on a Tuesday and got the earliest rezo which was for 7:30pm. We were sitting outside and as the sun went down, the moths started to come out. Another thing about sitting outside is occasionally, you may get a whiff of "drain" smell. I suspect it comes from the stale artificial pond in the park. So if you're picky about environment, make sure you book really early to secure indoor seating!

That being said, the grilled langoustine with salad and rice made it worth the minor discomfort! The price comes to 15CUC. It's nicely grilled, and you can add garlic oil for extra oomph. The salad is simple just drizzle oil and vinegar on it. Water is 1CUC. I would come back again and try the steak. I had run out of CUC so I went with the less expensive dish. A couple at the neighboring table ordered the steak and thoroughly enjoyed it.

Bathroom is just to the right of the grotto outside of the restaurant....

We went there last year and was an amazing experience and food. This year on our return, we attempted to goto the restaurant twice. 1st time they were not ready at 430pm, 2nd time ( the next day ) we were told we require a reservation or come back at 8pm. ( when only 2 tables were in use ). We found a better restaurant later after being refused service and we now have a new varedero goto restaurant on our next trip. Too bad the father and son were not there when we went back this time as they were always friendly, served us and made us proud to sing the...

First of all,, I'm not a Local Guide. I'm from Canada and this place was recommended to me about 9 years ago.. it's just of the main "drag" in Varadero, tucked inside Jasone park. Both Wilfredo the Chef and his right hand man :) Liodel are wonderful people.. and the place itself is quite unique,, a cave naturally carved into an air conditioned room where some of the "delicious" meals are served. Fresh Lobster and the steak is imported from Argentina.. correct, Argentina. You heard is said before,, but you have to eat here... Tell them...