Habana-Cuba   

238 Race St
San Jose, CA 95126
408-998-2822
www.998cuba.com

Directions   Email   Send to Cell   Make a Reservation

Owners Don and Edina Ciro left Cuba in 1981 with the dream of opening a restaurant in the United States, and the result is Habana Cuba. Don Ciro was the head chef for two presidents in Cuba and still spends time in the kitchen. The formal-yet-inviting dining room is flanked by stairways to the mezzanine overlook, lending an open, airy feel to the restaurant. The atmosphere is festive, but it's the heaping servings of authentic Cuban food that draws the crowds. The menu includes a variety of traditional bean soups and appetizers as well as slow-cooked and expertly prepared entrees such as Lechon a la Cubana -- a traditional Cuban dish of tender roasted pork -- and Arroz con Pollo a la Valenciana. Prices are moderate, but servings are large and hearty, so bring your appetite and be prepared to take home leftovers. -- Sean Coffey