"They deceived us": This was the disappointing experience of some Cubans at Coppelia in Havana

Cubans share their disappointment at the Coppelia ice cream parlor in Havana due to poor service and shortages, a reflection of the economic crisis affecting basic services in the country.


"It's really hot, and we were in the mood for some ice cream, so we went to Coppelia," begins a Cuban woman in a video posted on TikTok, where she documents her recent experience at the popular ice cream parlor Coppelia, located in Havana's Vedado district. What was supposed to be a refreshing break ended in frustration and complaints about the service received.

In the recording shared on the account @zol.arias, the user shows the menu with the available prices and flavors, and reports that upon entering, there was only one flavor of ice cream: orange.

"They deceived us because when we entered, there was only one flavor. The flavor was orange, and the ice cream was brought to us melted, with those three cookies. Supposedly, there were three scoops, but it already came melted like that. The bill was 300 Cuban pesos," he explained.

The video has sparked reactions among social media users, many of whom acknowledge having had similar experiences at the iconic ice cream shop, a symbol of the Cuban capital since its establishment in the 1960s.

In addition to the condition of the ice cream and the limited selection of flavors, customers expressed outrage at the price paid, 300 Cuban pesos, for a service that did not meet what was promised on the menu.

The situation depicted reflects the decline in service quality and the shortages affecting even iconic institutions like Coppelia, amid the deep economic crisis the country is experiencing.

As temperatures rise and the heat intensifies, Cubans continue to look for relief in options that often end up being a new disappointment.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Coppelia Ice Cream Parlor Situation in Havana

What was the recent experience of customers at Coppelia?

The recent experience of customers at Coppelia has been disappointing, with complaints about the quality of the ice cream, which is served melted and with a limited variety of flavors. Additionally, prices are considered high for the service received, which has generated dissatisfaction among visitors.

What problems is Coppelia facing after its reopening?

Coppelia faces issues of supply shortages and poor quality of service following its reopening. Despite promises of improvements, the variety of flavors remains limited and the service falls short of customer expectations. Criticism also focuses on a lack of hygiene and adequate attention.

Why are prices at Coppelia high?

The prices at Coppelia are high due to the elevated cost of raw materials, according to the authorities. However, many customers believe that the prices are not justified by the quality of the product and the service provided, which has led to widespread dissatisfaction among consumers.

How has the economic crisis affected Coppelia?

The economic crisis has severely affected Coppelia, resulting in shortages and poor service. Although the ice cream shop has attempted to reopen with improvements, the lack of supplies and instability in the product offering reflect the economic difficulties faced by Cuba.

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Yare Grau

Originally from Cuba, but living in Spain. I studied Social Communication at the University of Havana and later graduated in Audiovisual Communication from the University of Valencia. I am currently part of the CiberCuba team as an editor in the Entertainment section.