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The Coppelia ice cream parlor, one of the most iconic gastronomic symbols of Havana, will reopen this week following a renovation process that began last November.
However, the reopening comes with restrictions on the availability of flavors and payment methods, which will surely cause dissatisfaction among customers, according to the official Tribuna de La Habana.
Yeny González Ortiz, head of services at the Base Business Unit (UEB) of the Recreatur company, informed the cited media that the ice cream parlor will operate from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 a.m. to 9:15 p.m., and the offerings will be by specialties.
In addition, he noted that traditional ice cream options such as salad, tres gracias, super twins, the three varieties of "vacas" (white, dark, speckled), jimaguas, arlequín, and sundae will be maintained, along with the introduction of new creations like "Las 4 Joyas."
However, the management clarified that the stability in the availability of specialties and flavors will depend on the suppliers' deliveries, which is why the sale will be limited to a maximum of two specialties per person.
The measure aims to ensure that products last throughout the entire day, although it highlights the difficulties of the system in providing a stable supply.
The ice cream that will be sold will be from the Coppelia brand, made at the eponymous factory in Boyeros, while the candies will be supplied by UEB Confitera Gamby.
One of the most notable changes will be the mandatory use of electronic payments in several areas of the establishment.
According to the management, in areas A and C, as well as in Las 4 Joyas, payments can only be made through the EnZona and Transfermóvil platforms. In area B, La Cancha and La Torre, customers can choose between electronic payment or cash.
As part of its social responsibility policy, a weekly space will be reserved at La Torre for children from psychopedagogical centers, foster care homes, and special education programs, where they will be able to enjoy recreational activities and culinary offerings.
Additionally, members of the University Student Federation (FEU) will have a space at Las 4 Joyas, with prices lower than the usual rates, he explained.
During the renovation process, the plumbing and electrical systems were upgraded, all areas were painted, and new awnings were installed.
Despite the renovation and efforts to improve service, the limitations in supply and payment restrictions will be a source of criticism among regular customers, as they also highlight the economic crisis facing the establishment and the sector in general.
The lack of stability in the supply of flavors and the requirement for digital payments in various areas reflect the challenges that state trade in Cuba faces in maintaining an efficient and accessible service for all.
In January, the news portal CubaNet reported that the iconic ice cream parlor Coppelia, known as the “Cathedral of Ice Cream,” would be reopening its doors, but with the new price of 25 Cuban pesos for a scoop of ice cream, a "justified" increase due to the high cost of raw materials.
According to the website, this information was communicated to the workers during a meeting with the president of the Business Group of Domestic Trade in Havana.
In addition to the price increase, efforts are being made to regain the accompaniment of treats such as cookies and chocolates, following negotiations with related companies. There are also plans to renew the staff uniforms and make aesthetic improvements to the establishment.
All these measures are intended to prevent a new closure of the facility, as has happened in the past due to a lack of raw materials.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Reopening of the Coppelia Ice Cream Parlor in Havana
When will the Coppelia ice cream shop reopen in Havana?
The Coppelia ice cream parlor reopens this week after a renovation process that began last November. It will be open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 a.m. to 9:15 p.m.
What are the limitations in the ice cream offerings at Coppelia?
The ice cream selection at Coppelia will be limited to a maximum of two specialties per person due to the instability in flavor supply, which reflects the challenges faced by the system to provide a stable offering.
What payment methods are accepted at the Coppelia ice cream parlor?
In areas A and C and in "The 4 Gems," only electronic payments will be accepted through the EnZona and Transfermóvil gateways. In area B, La Cancha and La Torre, payments can be made both in cash and electronically.
What is the price of the ice cream scoop at Coppelia after the renovation?
The price of a scoop of ice cream at Coppelia will be 25 Cuban pesos, an increase justified by the high cost of raw materials, according to the authorities of the ice cream parlor.
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