Imagine a cozy and warm old mansion just a few meters from the sea in the Caribbean. Now imagine that, in this space, you are overwhelmed by an unforgettable aroma, accompanied by the most emblematic flavors of Europe. In particular, those from that ancestral land where cooking meat is an art: Spain.
That almost magical place is real and it's in Cuba, an island that shares blood ties, history, and various cultures with the Motherland, to the extent that the Tapería-Bar-Restaurante Toros & Tapas has been established here, a genuine space to enjoy the most authentic Spanish cuisine.
Under the slogan –more than just a slogan, a work philosophy– "Eat in Cuba as in Spain," Toros & Tapas not only specializes exquisitely in crafting delicious Iberian dishes, but also strives to bring each diner a piece of true Spain, the kind that can only be truly known by visiting it.
Located just a few steps from the northern coast of Havana, on Calle Seis between 1st and 3rd Avenues in the Miramar neighborhood, this restaurant mesón captivates each of its customers for a lifetime, whether it's due to the bold Caribbean twist it gives to traditional Spanish cuisine in each of its creations, or its unique decor inspired by bullfighting, an ancient characteristic of Hispanic culture.
A classic neocolonial mansion—subtly modernized—will welcome you with the rhythm of the most authentic Spanish posters, those that celebrated the bravery of gallant bullfighters and announced bullfights, fairs, and other traditional festivities of the nation. All of this is perfectly in tune with the concept to be savored.
One can almost hear the iconic "Olé" as they pass through the entrance gate, where several things quickly capture the visitor's attention: Heads of fighting bulls, fought by famous matadors, coexist with a sea of fans, decorative porcelain, and, of course, the banderillas, traditional garments, and costumes from the bullfights, not to mention the classic red muleta used for the fight.
Recognized worldwide as a premier culinary culture, contemporary Spanish cuisine is showcased at Toros & Tapas through special dishes such as Cochinillo al estilo Segoviano, Paletilla de Cabrito al horno, Callos a la Madrileña, Berenjenas Rellenas, and Fideuá, as well as Carrillada de Cerdo en Salsa de Zanahoria con Vino Tinto, the traditional Huevos Rotos with Chistorra or Jamón, Manitas de Cerdo, and Pimientos del Piquillo stuffed with seafood, among other unique and diverse dishes whose preparation is influenced by the offerings available in the Cuban market.
The experience in every bite can be seamlessly enhanced with delicious wines or other imported beverages.
The purely Spanish term "ir de tapas" also holds a strategically privileged place on the menu, as it stands out as a novelty in the island's culinary scene. At Toros & Tapas, as promised by the name itself, there's no shortage of a complimentary tapa with every drink, creating a unique and harmonious experience for even the most discerning palate.
Delightful dishes such as oyster shots, chorizos al Infierno, Catalan butifarra with alioli, stewed chickpeas with kid, Andalusian calamari, and Asturian fabada, among many others, will ensure that your visit is an unforgettable experience for the senses.
For adventurous diners, this restaurant takes pride in the uniqueness of changing its menu daily, delivering a striking blow against the predictable and the routine. Dining here two nights in a row doesn’t guarantee the same dish; instead, you will be surprised each day with diverse and new offerings, all subject to the chef's creativity.
The authenticity of this exotic yet familiar tavern is undeniable, not only because it has been endorsed by prestigious specialized publications, such as The Washington Post through one of its recent covers, but also because it is the realization of a dream for two Cuban brothers, one of whom has an extensive professional background of over a decade in Spain.
Mauricio Estrada, the chef and main host of this unique restaurant, has traveled extensively throughout Spain, allowing him to acquire a significant wealth of knowledge about the Spanish culinary landscape, from its most regional dishes.
The guarantee exists; the flavors of Spain are unveiled at Toros & Tapas, majestically unfolding and taking on new life in the hands of a Cuban. All that remains is to take the bull by the horns and enjoy this unparalleled experience firsthand.
Address: 6th Street #124 between 1st and 3rd Avenues. Miramar, Havana, Cuba.
Phone: 537 202 15 48
Email: torostapas@gmail.com
Facebook: torostapashavana
Perhaps the only place in Havana where you can have a drink with free tapas
Image Gallery
Related videos:
Filed under: