Aguacate 11 is now the only Mexican restaurant in Havana. It doesn’t have a single competitor. But even if other Mexican restaurants were around, we doubt they could capture the same magic that we found at Aguacate 11.
The décor alone is worth the visit. Colorful and full of life, with Mexican hats and typical catrinas hanging on the crayon painted walls, there is an incredible vibe in this place created by the fun mix of Mexican rancheras, tequila and the warming smell of corn tortillas. The service is fast, casual and efficient, but not excessively attentive. The bar has at least 10 types of tequilas and mezcal and several Mexican cocktails, in addition to the usual Cuban cocktails and several premium rums. We tried the Mexican mojito with mezcal, cucumber and mint. It was a little sweet for my taste but still very enjoyable. A powerful and balanced margarita and the michelada with Cristal beer, fresh tomato juice and salt, were much more to my taste.
The cuisine is exceptional, with a Mexican chef faithful to the culinary traditions of his home. Nothing Cubanized here! For entrees, focus on the tacos—like juicy lechon with pickled onions, sour orange and achiote—and the quesadillas, which come with warm corn flour tortillas made fresh in house. Chilaquiles with frayed chicken bathed in red sauce are a mandatory order, with a strong flavor and a perfect crunchy texture. The dishes are accompanied by delicious refried black beans and with a zingy guacamole of an incredible natural sweetness, probably due to the incomparable Cuban avocado. Cubans don’t get along very well with spicy food, so their handmade spicy sauce comes on the side to be added yourself. This is one of the most exciting restaurants in Havana right now.
Food: Mexican
Average Price: 7.00 cuc – 10.00 cuc
Opening hours: Every Day 12:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m.
Address: Aguacate #11, e/ Chacón y Tejadillo, Old Havana
Contact: +53 7866 3197
