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The iconic restaurant Café del Oriente, owned by CIMEX and located in Plaza San Francisco de Asís, is promoting a "grand New Year's Eve dinner" on social media, priced at 15,000 pesos per person.
In the midst of an economic crisis, one of the most severe in six decades, the Facebook page “Restaurantes Centro Histórico” ironically promotes this offer as a way to “celebrate a different New Year's Eve.”
The offer includes a curated menu, an open bar, and live music, a proposal that stands in stark contrast to the economic realities faced by the majority of the Cuban population.
The experience begins with a welcome cocktail, where guests can enjoy a classic Cuba Libre. This is followed by a “castle of breads and assorted skewers,” featuring options of garlic, onion, basil, and herbs, accompanied by a house-made pâté.
The appetizers promise to be exquisite, featuring a trio of Cuban tapas and a root vegetable cream.
As the main course, attendees have several options, ranging from beef tenderloin with mushroom sauce and lobster Maitre Hotel style to slices of roasted pork, fried pork chunks, or a grilled fish fillet, all served with black rice and boiled root vegetables with mojo sauce.
The dessert also aims to be a highlight of the evening, featuring a trio of sweet creations: brownie, cheesecake, and Dobosh, while the toast to the New Year includes a basket filled with nougat, preserves, apples, and cava to celebrate.
In addition, the open bar offers a variety of drinks, ranging from Cuban beers and rums to wines, natural juices, and soft drinks, completing a night designed for the exclusive enjoyment of those who can afford the high price.
In the comments section, the profile highlighted that there is a "more economical" option available for only 10,000 pesos per person, apparently with restrictions on drinks.
Among the images shared in the post, there are Christmas decorations, including a Christmas tree and the face of Santa Claus—details that "contradict" the recent statements made by former Minister of Culture, Abel Prieto, who recently criticized Santa Claus for being "responsible" for erasing Cuban traditions.
While Cuban state-owned restaurants promote their offerings for New Year's, in contrast, Cuban activists are developing solidarity initiatives to support people in need.
For example, Bar K5 in Guanabo, Havana, will make a beautiful gesture of solidarity this year-end by providing food to vulnerable children and elderly individuals during a special dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions about the New Year's Eve Dinner at Café del Oriente and the Economic Situation in Cuba
How much does the New Year's Eve dinner cost at Café del Oriente in Havana?
The New Year's Eve dinner at Café del Oriente costs 15,000 pesos per person. This offer includes a curated menu, an open bar, and live music, highlighting the economic reality faced by the majority of the Cuban population.
What does the New Year's Eve dinner menu at Café del Oriente include?
The dinner menu at Café del Oriente includes a welcome cocktail, a variety of breads and breadsticks, appetizers such as a trio of Cuban tapas and a root vegetable cream, main courses like beef tenderloin, lobster, pork, or fish, and desserts like brownie, cheesecake, and Dobosh cake. In addition, they offer an open bar featuring beers, Cuban rums, wines, juices, and soft drinks.
How does the price of the New Year's Eve dinner compare to the average salary in Cuba?
The price of the New Year's Eve dinner at Café del Oriente, which is 15,000 pesos per person, is extremely high compared to the average salary in Cuba. Many Cubans can barely meet their daily basic needs with their income, making this dinner inaccessible for most.
What alternatives are available for those who cannot afford dinner at Café del Oriente?
For those who cannot afford dinner at Café del Oriente, there are supportive initiatives such as the one organized by Bar K5 in Guanabo, which offers free meals for vulnerable children and the elderly. These initiatives aim to provide a dignified celebration for those facing financial difficulties.
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