Day three in Louisville, Kentucky and we’re getting my friend settled into her new city. I’m still processing how amazing our road trip was, so much so that I may have to recant my “I hate road trips” statements. I’ve been working remotely, so there hasn’t been much time to explore the city but you know I’m going to squeeze in a food moment wherever I can. Today, we made our way to Highlands neighborhood for a taste of Cuba at Havana Rumba and Tapas Bar.
| Website: | Havana Rumba – https://www.havanarumbaonline.com/ |
| Pricing: | $ – Moderately Priced |
| Cuisine: | Cuban Cuisine |
| Good to Know: | Outdoor seating available |
| BGMW Faves: | Beef Empanadas; Original Cuban Mojito |
I previously shared that I’m over eating out of to-go containers, so we opted to dine al fresco. Havana Rumba has four restaurants in Louisville, the Highlands location is a tapas style restaurant with Cuban and Brazilian menu offerings.
Havana Rumba Drinks
Original Cuban Mojito
A Mojito is one of my favorite classic cocktails. Havana Rumba’s original Cuban mojito is made of Cruzan Light Rum, fresh lime juice, a splash of soda, then garnished with fresh spearmint and a stalk of sugar cane.
Caipirinha
The first time I had a Caipirinha, Brazilian’s national cocktail, was at the speakeasy near Tahona Bar. Made with cachaça Brazilian rum that’s muddled with lime and sugar cubes, this refreshing cocktail is perfect for a hot weather day.
The Tapas Calientes (Hot Bites)
Empanadas
The empanadas offered are a choice of chicken, beef, or spinach and cheese. I ordered one chicken and one beef. The crust is thick and flaky and the fillings are generous and flavorful. It’s served with a side of a peppery sour cream.
Entrees
Lechon Puerco
Lechon Puerco is a famous slow roasted Cuban pork dish marinated in citrus juices, garlic, and Cuban spices. It’s served with congri rice, a rice and black beans mixture, with a side of boiled cassava root with mojo sauce. While the flavor was good, I recommend getting the house hot sauce to spice it.
Final Thoughts on Havana Rumba
This is a charming casual dining Cuban influenced restaurant. No, I didn’t feel like I was back on the Malecón on a Friday night in Habana, but Havana Rumba brings a bit of Cuba to Louisville. When I come back to Louisville, I’d return to try more of their tapas offerings and maybe check out the other Havana Rumba locations in the city.
BGMWeats Rating:
