HAVANA VANCOUVER || Local Hangout to Enjoy Latin Fare and Caribbean Cocktails
Put your name on the wall.
Inspired by Bodequita del Medio, where the mojito first became popular in Old Havana, Cuba, celebrities and guests alike have been signing their names on the walls of the restaurant for nearly 70 years. Havana Vancouver has a similar vibe - guests are encouraged to carve their names into the walls and create collective memories with the community.
Havana Vancouver opened its doors 22 years ago and is a mainstay on the Commercial Drive strip. The current owners purchased the location, renovated the local hangout an updated look and feel, and re-opened its doors in April of 2018 with a hybrid of authentic Latin flavors combined with fresh, local Pacific Northwest ingredients; the revamped cocktail menu is also popular amongst locals, from sweet and spicy to tangy and citrusy, the drinks add an element of fun and funk to the restaurant’s offerings.
You can clearly see the names of visitors who have etched their names into the wall.
Inspired by the culture, sights, and sounds of Old Havana, Cuba, the team wanted to capture the vibrant colors and unique style in our Vancouver space. You will find pastel pinks and greens, plenty of plants, Spanish tile, wicker lanterns and of course, several walls with names and signatures carved into them.
Havana Vancouver is not just a restaurant but has a 60-seat theatre as well. Havana actually started out as more of a theatre than a restaurant and has evolved over the years to become a combination of both. Through the carved palm front door next to the bar, you will find yourself part of the fabric of the local theatre community, whether it be stand-up comedy, improv, theatre, live music or magic, there is sure to be something for everyone. Where else in Vancouver can one enjoy dinner, drinks and a show at the same venue?
While the main dining room features a great setting for a bustling social scene with large windows drawing in natural sunlight onto the bold wallpaper and hand-written walls, the brightly decorated lounge area is available for those who want a quieter spot to enjoy one of the bartender’s creative cocktails. Vibrant yellow leather seating and Spanish tiles decorate this section of the restaurant and characteristic wicker lighting fixtures paired with colorful paintings and prints serve to brighten up the space.
Now that we have shared the history and evolution of Havana Vancouver, let’s take a look at the authentic Cuban fare available on the menu. Be prepared for mouth-watering spices and hearty flavours, whether you are sharing a meal with a date or a group of eight, there’s something on the menu for everyone.
AVOCADO TOSTONES
Tostones are twice-fried, smashed plantains. In Vancouver, there is definitely an affection for avocado toast as the team was bouncing around ideas, they wondered what the Cuban equivalent of avocado toast could be and Avocado Tostones were born. Each of these tasty bites contain smashed avocado, pico de gallo, and cotija cheese. Simple, fresh and vibrant, it’s perfect for sharing and a popular item on our menu.
THE CUBANO
The buns are made in-house three to four times a week. We do a traditional mojo marinated pork shoulder but then wrap it in a pork belly to effectively make Cuban-flavored porchetta, which is then sous vide for 24 hours and then roasted and sliced. The pork is all sourced locally through Two Rivers Meats. Eat this while it’s hot! The buns are crispy and melts into the flavorful meats, pickles, cheese, and sauces - need we say more?
The delicious Cubano is made with locally-sourced pork from Two Rivers Meats.
The Cubano needs no introduction.
MUSSELS ESPANA
This dish serves up a hearty serving of one pound of fresh Salt Spring Island mussels from one of the team’s favourite suppliers, Coastline Market, that has created an online marketplace connecting fishermen and harvesters with restaurant directly. The mussels are served with Two Rivers ground chorizo, white wine and a housemade smoked tomato sauce accompanied by grilled, thick-cut, local organic sourdough bread. While the dish is made to share, we recommend asking your server for more bread to dip into the tasty sauce!
Mussels Espana.
GRILLED OCTOPUS
Little did we know that aside from the featured signature items, the team also prepared a grilled octopus dish, with marinated octopus, braised white beans, grilled cherry tomatoes, twice-fried kennebec potatoes, salsa verde and picadillo. The octopus is an Oceanwise product caught using certified pot traps in the waters between Spain and Morocco. It is brined and marinated for 24 hours in an achiote and smoked paprika mixture before going on the grill to embody that firm texture and smoky finish. Savour the traditional and robust flavours of this surprisingly beautiful dish!
Grilled Octopus.
Havana Vancouver holds a special place in the hearts of locals not only because of its history, but also because of its welcoming vibe and its year-round patio perfect for appreciating the beautiful views of Grandview Park (and to people watch!) Rain or shine, you can grab a seat on the patio, enjoy tasty share plates and refreshing cocktails.
