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“The outdoor space, with its two patios and tiered porch, is an architectural beauty, offering stunning views and a laid-back holiday feel.”
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Nestled in an old building in Qingdao’s historic old town, the newly opened Cuba restaurant offers a delightful escape into the heart of Cuban culture. Set inside the Qingdao Cuba Cultural Exchange Center, this restaurant perfectly captures the vibrant and colorful spirit of Cuba, starting with the bright pink vintage car parked in front. As soon as you approach, the rhythmic beats of Cuban music transport you to the streets of Havana, setting the tone for what’s to come.
Walking through the entrance, you're greeted by a charming courtyard, complete with a quaint fountain and a massive poster brimming with authentic Cuban vibes. The outdoor space, with its two patios and tiered porch, is an architectural beauty, offering stunning views and a laid-back holiday feel. The best time to visit? Just before sunset. The golden hour brings out the beauty of the old town, and as night falls, the restaurant transforms into a dazzling, intimate spot that’s equally captivating in its evening glow.
The building itself spans three floors. The first floor is home to both a restaurant room and a cozy bar, while the second floor hosts a spacious bar room. The third floor, still under construction, will soon open as a cigar room, adding to the authentic Cuban experience. For now, the patios offer a perfect spot to enjoy the fresh air and ambiance.
The menu features around 40 dishes, offering Western fusion cuisine with a Cuban twist. Out of everything we tried, my top three recommendations are the classic Cuban sandwich, the deep-fried plantain, and the Cuban-style cheese balls. The Cuban sandwich, made with tender, juicy pork and perfectly roasted bread, is bursting with exotic flavors. The deep-fried plantains, a local Cuban fruit similar to bananas but with a unique taste, were delightfully crunchy. As for the cheese balls, they were an unexpected highlight—cutting into them revealed a cascade of molten cheese, making them nearly impossible to resist.
In addition to these standout dishes, the menu also includes pizzas, pastas, salads, and other familiar Western options, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
When it comes to drinks, the Cuban influence shines through. Their signature Cuban cocktails, infused with refreshing mint, are a must-try, and for those who prefer non-alcoholic options, they offer an array of mocktails as well.
To top it all off, every Sunday, the restaurant hosts salsa dancing events—perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the lively Cuban spirit. Whether you're planning a romantic evening, a fun night out with friends, or simply treating yourself to a meal, this spot delivers on all fronts. With its reasonable prices, authentic atmosphere, and delicious food, it’s hard to ask for more.
Tradiciones Cuban Restaurant
青岛古巴文化交流中心
Opening hours: 10:00-24:00
Phone: 175 6165-6795; 0532-80868677
Address: 9 Boshan Road, Shinan District. 市南区博山路9号
