It can be one of the city’s best experiences: walking through the narrow streets of Old Havana, meeting its people, admiring its charms, photographing its beauty. In just a few square kilometers much of the history and culture of the city is concentrated: museums, theaters, colonial architecture, restaurants, hotels.
But these walks can be exhausting, especially during the summer when the sun becomes intense and finding a shady spot can be tricky.
In this scenario, Lo de Monik is a saving oasis.
Casual, modern and youthful, this all white space with high ceilings and large windows overlooks the busy corner of Chacón and Compostela. The staff are always efficient and friendly, with one particularly charismatic guy at the entrance pulling in customers (a tough competition between the many businesses settled in the area).
The cocktails are spectacular, and if you need to quench a thirst we suggest the mango daiquiri and the cucumber and basil lemonade. The piña colada also stands out, the mixture (horchata) is sublime, perfectly balanced.
The menu is simple and light, with a breakfast offering that’s just right: at only 5 cuc, the eggs with bacon are to die for. They also offer a handmade cheeseburger and excellent sandwiches. Indeed, the Cuban sandwich may be the best dish in the house. It has pork, lettuce, onions, homemade mayonnaise with a touch of garlic, cheese and pickles. You can also choose from a selection of stylized tapas. We recommend the sardine toast served with guacamole, sesame, tomato and onion. The fish tacos are delicious and an excellent option to share with big portions (three tacos each). The downside is that the tortillas are made of flour, not corn. They also offer pastas, salads and some dishes off menu, all exquisite.
This charming little restaurant is exactly the kind of place that Old Havana needs.
Food: Cuban and International
Schedule: Every Day 08:00 – 21:30 hrs
Cost: 10 – 15 cuc
Address: Compostela #201 esq. Chacón Contact: +53 78644029, lodemonik85@gmail.com
