What to Eat in Cuba: Traditional Dishes You Have to Try

Food brings people together on many different levels. It’s nourishment of the soul and body; it’s truly love.

Giada De Laurentiis

Cuban cuisine is a vibrant fusion of cultures and flavours, shaped by Spanish, African, Caribbean, and indigenous influences. From slow-roasted pork to savoury black beans and sweet plantains, every dish tells a story of history, resilience, and celebration. Whether you’re strolling the streets of Havana or eating from a locals house in Trinidad, Cuban food invites you to savour life.

The Roots of Cuban Cuisine:

Cuba’s culinary identity is deeply rooted in its multicultural heritage. Spanish colonisers brought garlic, onions, citrus, and meats; African slaves contributed spices and cooking techniques like frying and stewing; indigenous Taíno people added tropical fruits, cassava, and corn. The result is a cuisine that balances bold flavours with comfort and simplicity.

Must-Try Cuban Dishes:

Ropa Vieja

Literally meaning “old clothes,” this national dish is anything but tired. Shredded beef stewed in a rich tomato-based sauce with bell peppers, onions, and garlic, it’s traditionally served with rice, black beans, and fried plantains.

Lechón Asado

A Cuban celebration isn’t complete without this marinated, slow-roasted pork. The meat is bathed in mojo criollo—a garlicky citrus marinade—and roasted until tender and caramelized. It’s a holiday staple and a street food favourite. You will can exposure to this dish and more on our Full Board Tours

Moros y Cristianos

Translating to “Moors and Christians,” this dish of black beans and white rice is a flavourful symbol of Cuba’s colonial history. Cooked together with spices and sometimes pork, it’s both hearty and symbolic.

Tostones & Maduros

Plantains appear in two beloved forms: tostones (fried green plantains) are crisp and savoury, while maduros (ripe sweet plantains) are caramelized and soft. Both are irresistible sides to any meal.

The Role of Food in Cuban Culture:

Cuban meals are more than nourishment – they’re about family, hospitality, and rhythm. Meals are often long, lively affairs, filled with laughter, music, and storytelling.