La Habana has a new gastronomic gem that is generating a lot of buzz. It is Pan de La Habana, an artisanal bakery opened on December 19, which has drawn attention for the quality of its products and also for its prices that position it as the most expensive in the capital and possibly the country.
A recent video from actress Laura Delgado (@laura_delgadoactriz) on Instagram sparked the debate about this exclusive venue located at Calle Calzada #709, between Paseo and A.
"I couldn’t resist and went for a second time to Pan de La Habana. They have a wide variety of breads and pastries, but the almond croissants are my favorites," the actress commented.
Los precios reflejan el carácter exclusivo del negocio. Un croissant puede costar entre 400 y 850 pesos cubanos, dependiendo del tipo de relleno e ingredientes. Por su parte, un simple caracol con pasas alcanza los 450 pesos.
Despite these figures, the demand is so high that the bakery has had to adjust its hours of operation. Currently, it opens from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with the promise of returning to its regular hours of 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. once the improvements to optimize service and increase production are completed.
High-end artisanal bread in a country without flour
What sets Pan de La Habana apart is not just the price, but the philosophy behind its production. They specialize in artisanal breads made with naturally cultivated sourdough, which makes them more nutritious and easier to digest, but also more expensive due to the quality of the ingredients they use.
The flour crisis in Cuba is being endured by the population. Bringing a piece of bread to the table is becoming increasingly difficult for families with basic salaries.
Famous master bakers behind Pan de La Habana
This bakery is a private establishment in Havana, and a prestigious team of master bakers is in charge of the ovens.
Josep Pascual, winner of the European Cup Louis Lessaffre, judge at the World Bakery Cup, and professor in schools across Europe, Asia, and America. His work has received the Timeout Award for the Most Innovative Project and notable accolades along the Good Bread Route in Barcelona and Catalonia.
Abdeslam Zebroun, a graduate of the prestigious Maison Kayser Academy, with nine years of experience in natural fermentation and baking, combining techniques from French bakery with the richness of special Spanish breads.
Josep Antoni, with over 40 years of experience, has led international projects and transformed artisanal bread into a true work of art.
The public's opinion has also reflected the impact of Pan de La Habana. On social media, comments highlight its "good taste, top-notch service, and exclusivity," despite the high prices. One user remarked: “This bakery is upscale, something very exclusive that should be a national reference.”
This private business is redefining the concept of bakeries in Cuba, offering a gourmet experience that has mysteriously found a loyal audience in a country in crisis, where eating bread with butter is a luxury.
Frequently Asked Questions about Pan de La Habana and the Economic Crisis in Cuba
Why does Pan de La Habana have such high prices?
Pan de La Habana stands out for its focus on high-quality artisanal breads, made with naturally cultivated sourdough. This process, along with the involvement of prestigious master bakers, justifies the high prices of their products, which can reach up to 850 Cuban pesos for a croissant.
How does the flour crisis in Cuba affect businesses like Pan de La Habana?
The flour crisis in Cuba has intensified the challenge for bakeries, but businesses like Pan de La Habana are managing to maintain their production thanks to a focus on high-end products and possibly alternative supply sources, although this contributes to their high prices.
What impact does inflation have on the cost of food in Havana?
Inflation has caused food prices in Havana to become alarming, severely affecting the ability of Cuban families to access basic products such as rice and pork, whose costs have risen considerably.
What role do exclusive bakeries play in the current Cuban economy?
In a context of economic crisis, exclusive bakeries like Pan de La Habana represent a market niche for consumers with greater purchasing power, offering gourmet products that stand out in a country where access to basic food is becoming increasingly limited.
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