Until the United States lifts its restrictions on travel to Cuba, most Americans can’t dine in Havana. Fortunately, East Valley residents can experience the next best thing: Havana Cafe.

The three-year-old Ahwatukee Foothills restaurant, one of three locations in the Valley, is the most recent from husband-and-wife owners Gilbert and B.J. Hernandez. (He’s from Cuba, she runs day-to-day operations.)

Although it may look like a neighborhood sports bar from the outside, what with its neon-painted windows advertising drink specials and live music, there’s a whole different vibe once you step inside.

Soft yellow and frothy green walls contrast the hard, reddish-brown floor. Plantation shutters and artificial greenery extend the illusion of a tropical hideaway. Latin-inflected jazz plays softly.

It’s a relaxing and casual atmosphere, one where you can take your time perusing Havana Café’s voluminous menu, which features not just Cuban food, but branches out into Spanish, Argentine and Chilean as well.

• Check out the lunch menu for Havana Cafe (pdf)
• Check out the dinner menu for Havana Cafe (pdf)

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