What should I order at El Cocinero?
El Cocinero
Ceviche
Mentioned as fresh, perfectly balanced, and the highlight of the night, paired well with wine, making it a standout dish.
Crab Tacos
Recommended for their bursting flavor and noted as a standout dish along with curry fish.
Curry Fish
Highlighted alongside crab tacos as flavorful and a must-try dish.
Dumplings
Praised for great taste, contributing to the overall excellent food experience.
Lobster with Risotto
Described as original tasting and highly enjoyable.
Freshly Baked Bread with Basil Butter
Called 'to die for' and the best part of the meal experience by a reviewer.
Chocolate Pie
Noted as super tasty and a must-have dessert.
Octopus
Recommended as part of the amazing food selection and highlighted by a reviewer.
Croquetas
Described as outstanding and part of an innovative and delicious meal.
Tuna Tartare Bites
Mentioned as part of a beautiful and delicious meal experience.
Rabbit
Included in a praised meal for being innovative and delicious.
Red Snapper in Tikka Masala Sauce
Called sublime and one of the best dishes experienced by a reviewer.
Blue Cheese Tart
Highlighted as one of the best desserts ever had by a reviewer.
Ribs
Highly recommended for their quality, compared to Tennessee BBQ, and considered definitely worth trying.
Grilled Fish
Described as unbelievable, flaky, delicious, and a must-try dish.
Fish Tacos
Mentioned as one of the best dishes had in Havana and highly recommended.
Black Pasta in Squid Ink
Praised as superb and so delicious that a reviewer did not want to stop eating it.
Lobster
Mentioned as a probable best dish along with tuna special.
Tuna Special
Recommended alongside lobster as one of the best dishes.
Chicken Mushroom Pasta
Noted among top-notch dishes enjoyed by a reviewer.
Pork Steak
Listed as part of the very good quality food.
Filet
Mentioned as top-notch food by a reviewer.
Duck
Included in the list of excellent dishes tried by a reviewer.
Cucumber Pasta with Meatballs
Described as very good and part of a great meal.
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 & services
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 questions
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.
Restaurants like El Cocinero in Havana
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