La Vaca Rosada

Dining

Although most restaurants in Varadero cater to an international clientele, classics of Cuban cuisine (many of which are a variation on the theme of rice and beans) are still served at local "paladares" (family-run businesses). One menu item that features prominently on local restaurants' menus is lobster, a marine product reserved primarily for export and foreign visitors, and one whose capture still remains a controversial topic in Cuba. Some local specialities include ajiaco stew, meat empanadas, as well as chicken and pork dishes.

Copyright: Joshua Resnick/Shutterstock.com

Varadero 60

With its well thought-out, sixties-themed interior and impeccable service, Varadero 60 is undeniably one of the finest dining establishments on the peninsula. The menu prominently features Italian flavours, with lobster and sirloin steak as the house specialties. Seating available indoors and out on the airy …

Read more

Copyright: Azeriartvector/Shutterstock.com

Paladar Nonna Tina

Italian-run Paladar Nonna Tina serves pizzas done the right way (thin-crusted, baked in a wood oven), with personal and family-sized servings available. Other Italian delights include a whole range of pasta dishes, a couple of meat varieties, and a selection of entrees and appetizers, all at reasonable …

Read more

Copyright: Wasant/Shutterstock.com

Paladar Salsa Suarez

Paladar Salsa Suarez tops the list of Varadero's finest - the fine dining restaurant is known for its impeccable service and varied menu, incorporating well-crafted dishes from cuisines the world over, from sushi to traditional Cuban …

Read more

Copyright: Andrey Bayda/Shutterstock.com

Xanadu

The marble-floored Xanadu occupies the insides of an opulent mansion commissioned by an American millionaire several decades ago. Prices bite, but an evening here is worth the experience. Views over the ocean unfold from the top-floor cocktail …

Read more

Copyright: stockyimages/Shutterstock.com

La Vaca Rosada

The pleasant rooftop terrace of La Vaca Rosada is a great choice for dining in Varadero. The restaurant serves a wide selection of meat and seafood dishes, all in a relaxed atmosphere of an airy outdoor seating space. Located in the peninsula's …

Read more

Copyright: mythja/Shutterstock.com

Dante

One of Varadero's several excellent Italian restaurants, Dante enjoys an idyllic lake setting in the lush Josone Park. The establishment serves up a wide variety of Italian specialties such as pizza, pasta, appetizers and dessert. The wine selection is one of the best in …

Read more

Copyright: Tatiana Volgutova/Shutterstock.com

La Barbacoa

The excellent BBQ restaurant is favoured by vacationers looking to break the routine of all-inclusive hotel dining. La Barbacoa serves a selection of prime cuts of meat and fresh seafood, including lobster. All orders include a side of flavoured bread, rice, vegetables, and …

Read more

Copyright: Denis Tabler/Shutterstock.com

Kiki's

Kiki's reportedly serves some of the best Italian in Varadero, with pizzas topping the list of menu items most favoured by return customers. The menu features a selection of great value Italian and international dishes (with local specialties such as lobster tail present, …

Read more