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What to order
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🥇
Fish Tacos
Recommended multiple times as one of the standout dishes, praised for being especially flavorful and among the best food items at the restaurant.
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🥈
Lobster
Frequently highlighted as a special item, including lobster with risotto and lobster specials, with reviewers noting it as original and memorable.
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Ceviche
Called fresh and perfectly balanced, and described as the highlight of one diner’s night.
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4
Black Pasta In Squid Ink
Strongly recommended for its rich flavor, with one reviewer saying they did not want to stop eating it.
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5
Bread With Basil Butter
Praised as exceptionally good and memorable, with one reviewer calling it 'to die for.'
Details
Hours
| Monday | 12 PM to 12 AM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 12 PM to 12 AM |
| Wednesday | 12 PM to 12 AM |
| Thursday | 12 PM to 12 AM |
| Friday | 12 PM to 12 AM |
| Saturday | 12 PM to 12 AM |
| Sunday | 12 PM to 12 AM |
About El Cocinero
El Cocinero is a restaurant in Havana, Cuba serving Cuban and international dishes with a strong focus on cocktails, wine, and outdoor dining. Reviews consistently praise the rooftop and terrace setting, the atmosphere, and the service. Guests also frequently mention the food quality, with standout dishes including octopus, ceviche, seafood, vegetarian options, and desserts. It is popular for lunch and dinner, and accepts reservations.
Amenities
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Great cocktails
- Great coffee
- Great dessert
- Great wine list
- Rooftop seating
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Hard liquor
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Historic
- Romantic
- Trendy
Crowd
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Frequently asked
What is El Cocinero known for?
El Cocinero is best known for its rooftop terrace, cocktails, and dishes like octopus, ceviche, and crab tacos. Reviewers also repeatedly mention the atmosphere and the fact that it is a strong choice near the Cuban Art Factory in Havana.
What dishes are most recommended at El Cocinero?
Reviewers most often highlight the octopus, ceviche, crab tacos, red snapper in tikka masala sauce, and the freshly baked bread with basil butter. Other frequently praised plates include croquetas, tuna tartare bites, rabbit, and the chocolate pie or blue cheese tart for dessert.
What is the atmosphere like at El Cocinero?
The vibe is an open-air rooftop and terrace setting that many describe as romantic, trendy, and cozy, with a garden-like feel. It works well for couples, groups of friends, and solo diners who want a scenic dinner or drinks at the bar before eating.
What should I know about timing a visit to El Cocinero?
Guests recommend booking a table, with one review specifically suggesting 7:45 pm for the sunset and terrace experience. Another review says arriving early or coming back around 6:30 pm worked well, and the bar on the top floor is a popular place to start with drinks before dinner.
Does El Cocinero have vegetarian options?
Yes, El Cocinero offers vegetarian options.
