Las Ruinas

Style of food: Cuban/Creole

Cost: Cheap

Type of place: State

Food
Ambience
Service
Value

Best for: Eclectic and interesting architecture in the park

Worst for: Basic décor and condiments

Calle 100 y Cortina de la Presa, Parque Lenin

(+53)7643 - 8286

Open 11am-midnight Tue-Sun

Las Ruinas melds offbeat modern architecture–including some eye-catching stained glass by Cuban artist René Portocarrero and immaculately decayed stonewalls–onto the ruins of an old sugar mill, giving the place an arty and elegant atmosphere. This is located within the overall Parque Lenin complex on the southeast side and at first glance is something of a revelation in the fact that it is not another ranchón. This is a place with a history and a vibe, which makes a distinctive statement.

So far so good. The problem really comes with the décor, the toilets, the table clothes, the chairs, the cutlery, the glasses, and the plates and on and on. This could be a very classy and stylish place. It simply isn’t, however arty the surroundings. It has though found a niche serving reasonably big portions of standard food to mostly Cuban families.

This is a place to get chicken or pork and rice for CUC 5. It is definitely edible and offers reasonable value (don’t bother with the upstairs part). The outdoor terrace is pleasant and opens up onto some nice open space where (if you have them) kids will enjoy, although watch out for the entrance which can be something of a death trap for toddlers!

Definitely worth checking out but manage your expectations before you go in.