The Municipal Administration Council of Las Tunas celebrated the reopening of UEB "II Palmas," an ice cream parlor and restaurant in the Buena Vista neighborhood, as "a step forward in the well-being of our people." However, comments from residents on social media revealed a much less optimistic reality.
In a post on Facebook, the authorities showcased the newly renovated establishment, featuring a freshly painted façade, tables with white tablecloths, refurbished chairs, and a long line of people outside.
The local government presented the reopening as "the result of collective effort, the dedication of those who invested their time, hands, and hearts to bring this space back to life."
However, for many people in Tunero, the problem has never been about having nice tables, but rather about obtaining food, water, electricity, and prices they can afford.
"Very beautiful the tables and chairs without customers, no water, no food, in short, a postcard," a woman remarked sarcastically.
"Very well. Now what we need is supply," commented another user. This sentiment was joined by others that were much shorter but revealing: "Without water" and "And without electricity."
"Did they really open, or was it just a one-day announcement?"
Distrust was also fueled by previous experiences with state-run establishments that are revamped and soon after deteriorate again or are left with virtually no services.
“We're embarrassed; they've reopened the same place countless times and can't maintain it,” questioned a resident. Another was even more pessimistic: “A few days, and it will be the same crap again.”
There were even those who doubted how long the reopening would last. "Did they really open, or was it just today to make an announcement?" asked one commenter.
The prices, absent from the official publication, were another source of criticism. "We continue to publish changes and renovations but with incomplete news. Why omit the prices? Is there some fear?" questioned a user.
The concern is particularly acute in the context of the food crisis and the loss of purchasing power affecting Cubans. "What is needed is for it to be at an affordable price for that people who are being asked to endure," demanded another neighbor.
State gastronomy in crisis
Criticism comes at a challenging time for state gastronomy. The government itself acknowledged in January that keeping these establishments running “has become a heroic feat”, due to the lack of supplies and their increasing reliance on agreements with private businesses.
In Las Tunas, furthermore, the authorities recently launched a crackdown on the private sector that resulted in 22 establishments being closed, eight licenses revoked, and fines exceeding 1.2 million pesos in just one week.
The neighbors also took the opportunity to inquire about other abandoned or closed establishments, including the restaurant La Parrillada and the candy and bakery Doñanelli.
A user succinctly captured the prevailing sentiment in the comments: "It looks very nice; now whether it works is another matter."
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