If you want to tick off two of Cuba’s most famous pastimes at once (we’re talking about sipping rum cocktails and dancing to traditional music, of course), then you’ll want to head straight for the capital’s most popular bar, La Bodeguita del Medio.
The History of La Bodeguita Del Medio
First established in 1942, this unassuming haunt has climbed the ladder from a bohemian hub in the 1950s to a local restaurant in the 1980s and is now one of the capital’s most sought-after places to grab an evening cocktail.
This atmospheric hub started out as a convenience store in Empedrado Street (hence its unique name, which translates as “the small store in the middle”) mainly selling snacks and drinks to locals in Havana, and as its clientele began to grow, so did its offerings.
It’s a well-known fact that celebrated novelist Ernest Hemingway frequented many of Havana’s bars when he lived in Hotel Ambos Mundos – but El Floridita and La Bodeguita Del Medio were two of his favourite local spots. He continued his regular visits even after he famously relocated to San Francisco de Paula’s Finca Vigia, situated on the outskirts of Havana – you can admire a framed autograph of the talent proudly displayed in the bar to this day.
He wasn’t the only famous visitor though, legend has it that journalist Leandro Garcia signed his name on the restaurant walls one day, which bucked the trend among other high-profile customers, including Ernest himself. Today, the walls are peppered with signature-like scribbles from a medley of star-studded guests – it’s worth a visit for this alone.
La Bodeguita Del Medio’s success has long surpassed the bustling cobbles of Havana, with replicas operating in 14 other countries around the world, namely the US, Germany, Mexico, Australia and beyond.
A Tourist Hub
A hit with the locals, this atmospheric bar is a causal spot that welcomes everyone and anyone to unwind after a busy day in the city. From the outside, the venue is somewhat nondescript, in fact you’d probably walk right past it – which is a far cry from the truth, whereby celebrities, intellectuals, and artists alike waltz inside for a mid-week aperitif. It’s interior, however, is wonderfully authentic and full of character, housing décor including photos of iconic film stars, signatures from creative luminaries such as Nat King Cole, unique trinkets, and other interesting Cuban paraphernalia.
Head for the well-stocked bar and you’ll be met by a wide variety of Havana Rum and a list of spirit-based cocktails – the old classic Mojito holding the crown as most popular, naturally. The friendly staff are all smiles as they cheerfully mix your favourite tipple, while traditional Cuban music is played by a live band in the background – which is perfect for dancing to, especially when you’re a Mojito or two down! With delicious cuisine to match, it’s no wonder this quaint bar is as successful as it is.
A must-visit during your time in Havana.
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