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Havana
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Havana
8.3
The East Bay's destination for California-Cuban cuisine features over a dozen flavored mojitos and South Beach Miami-inspired decor. Mojito Mondays offer half-price cocktails all day, while weekend brunch includes bottomless mimosas and mojitos alongside Cuban breakfast favorites.
Must-Try Dishes:
Paella, Chimichurri Skirt Steak, Plantain Crusted Pacific Cod
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Over a dozen mojito flavors and authentic Cuban atmosphere
Who should go: Cocktail enthusiasts, groups seeking lively atmosphere
When to visit: Mojito Monday for half-price drinks, weekend brunch
What to order: Paella, chimichurri steak, guava mojito
Insider tip: Mojito Monday means half-price on all mojito flavors all day
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Two covered garages within 2 blocks - Locust St garage (next to Lark Creek) and Locust/Civic garage (by Lesher Center), first hour free then $0.50/hour
Dress code: Casual to smart casual - the South Beach vibe invites colorful, relaxed attire. Sundresses and linen shirts fit perfectly, no need to dress up
Noise level: Moderate to loud - Cuban music plays throughout, lively atmosphere especially on weekends, outdoor patio slightly quieter for conversation
Weekend wait: 30-45 min without reservation on Friday/Saturday, call ahead recommended
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait, usually seated within 10 minutes
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Moderate - vegetable empanadas, Cuban black beans, plantains, salads available but menu centers on meat and seafood
Vegan options: Limited - black beans, rice, some salads can be modified, but Cuban cuisine relies heavily on pork and dairy
Gluten-free options: Moderate - many dishes naturally gluten-free including grilled proteins, rice plates, and plantains, staff can guide
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Fun choice for casual, energetic dates - the mojito selection gives you something to explore together, the tropical atmosphere keeps things lively, and sharing paella creates a natural bonding moment. Not quiet-romantic, but great for getting-to-know-you dates where you want conversation to flow easily.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday lunch and early dinner seat walk-ins readily. Friday and Saturday evenings get busy - 30-45 minute waits common. Mojito Mondays can be surprisingly packed despite being a weekday. The outdoor patio often has faster availability than indoor tables.
Is it kid-friendly? Reasonably so - no dedicated kids menu but Cuban food offers approachable options like rice, beans, and plantains that kids enjoy. The lively atmosphere means kid noise blends in. Better for families during lunch or early dinner; later evenings skew adult cocktail crowd.
What's the bottomless brunch deal? Weekend brunch (Saturday and Sunday 10am-2:30pm) features bottomless mimosas AND bottomless mojitos - rare to find both options. Pairs with Cuban breakfast favorites like empanadas and breakfast plates. Arrives at a pace that keeps the party going without overdoing it.
How does Mojito Monday work? All mojitos are half-price all day and night - every flavor from classic to guava to passion fruit. Starting at 5pm they add $5 tapas specials. It's the best cocktail deal in downtown Walnut Creek and draws a loyal Monday crowd.
Best For
Better for: Best mojito program in the East Bay - no one else offers a dozen+ flavors with a dedicated Monday deal. The Cuban atmosphere and South Beach vibes are unique to downtown Walnut Creek. Bottomless brunch with mojito option sets it apart from mimosa-only spots.
Skip if: You want quiet intimate dining - the Cuban music and lively crowd create energy that doesn't suit romantic whispers. For a quieter date try Va de Vi, for more refined atmosphere go to ELIA, for serious food-focused dining choose Limón.
Havana
8.0
Lively Cuban spot offering “Little Havana,” a fully private side room with its own entrance and restroom. Cocktails and shareable tapas (ropa vieja empanadas, day-boat scallops) make it a fun, non-stuffy option for smaller private dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Ropa Vieja Empanadas, Day-Boat Scallops, Mojo Chicken Wings
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Private side room with separate entrance, restroom, and screen.
Who should go: Social groups and cocktail-forward dinners
When to visit: Weeknights after 7 pm for calmer energy
What to order: Ropa vieja empanadas; day-boat scallops; mojo wings
Insider tip: Pre-order mojito pitchers and a tapas spread to start fast.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Locust and Bonanza is available but fills quickly after 6 pm; nearby public garages at Locust Street or Cypress Street are the best bets.
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans and nice tops are fine; many guests dress up a bit for cocktails or group dinners.
Noise level: Lively and energetic; conversations are easy in the private 'Little Havana' room but the main bar area can get loud on weekends.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, especially for patio or lounge seating.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; service is prompt and tables turn quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – several options like plantain chips, salads, and veggie empanadas.
Vegan options: Limited – 2–3 adaptable plates; best to ask for modifications on tapas.
Gluten-free options: Yes – many dishes are naturally gluten-free, and the kitchen is accommodating on request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you prefer energy and flavor over formality—great cocktails, upbeat music, and plenty of shareables make it a lively choice for breaking the ice.
Can I get a table without a reservation? You can usually grab bar or patio seats on weeknights, but reservations are highly recommended for weekends or private-room events.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat—kids are welcome at lunch or early dinner, but the vibe shifts to adult cocktails and music later in the evening.
Best For
Better for: More personality and energy than most private-dining options downtown; perfect when you want fun over formality.
Skip if: You’re seeking a quiet, white-tablecloth atmosphere—this is a lively, social setting built for celebration.
Hours
Monday4pm - 10pm
Tuesday4pm - 9pm
Wednesday4pm - 9pm
Thursday4pm - 9pm
Friday4pm - 10pm
Saturday10am - 10pm
Sunday10am - 9pm