A Cuban woman named Shey Reyes took to TikTok to share her experience of celebrating her mother’s birthday at a restaurant in Havana. Initially, she thought the bill would be around $200, but to her surprise, it was much less expensive, totaling just $64.
In a video posted on her account @sheyreyes032, Shey recounted how she made a special reservation so her mother wouldn’t have to cook on her birthday. “It was my mom’s birthday, and I booked a reservation for dinner because she wasn’t going to cook that day,” she explained.
Before heading out, the family encountered a common challenge in Cuba: a power outage. “Of course, there was no electricity,” Shey noted, adding that the restaurant was quite far from their home, necessitating a car ride.
The establishment, recommended by a friend, had a generator, which was highly appreciated given the frequent blackouts plaguing the island. “We were served very quickly as soon as we arrived,” she shared.
The family ordered piña coladas, chicken fingers, croquettes, and stuffed plantains. “Everything was delicious, I liked the place; it has a great atmosphere and is wonderful for family visits,” commented Shey.
During the meal, the restaurant staff made the occasion special by singing happy birthday to her mother and offering a small complimentary dish. “They brought a plate with three croquettes and everything,” Reyes highlighted, expressing gratitude for the staff’s kindness.
As for the main courses, Shey mentioned her cousin chose a modest dish priced at 10, while she went for “the Uruguayan,” her favorite. The meal concluded perfectly with a homemade flan she described as “life itself.”
When the bill arrived, the family was pleasantly surprised: “It wasn’t $200 but $64, and for everything we ate, it was a great deal,” the content creator affirmed.
Her post, which has garnered thousands of views, sparked discussions on social media. Many users pointed out how such prices are beyond reach for most Cubans, whose state salaries often equate to less than $20 a month.
While some applauded the family’s ability to enjoy a special moment, others criticized the stark contrast between this dinner and the severe economic and energy crises facing the country.
Understanding the Challenges of Dining Out in Cuba
Why are power outages common in Cuba?
Cuba frequently experiences power outages due to outdated infrastructure, insufficient energy resources, and economic challenges that hinder maintenance and improvements in the power sector.
How do restaurant prices compare to average Cuban salaries?
Restaurant prices in Cuba can be quite high compared to the average salary, which is often less than $20 a month. This makes dining out a luxury that many Cubans cannot afford regularly.
What are some common strategies to mitigate blackouts in Cuba?
Many businesses and households in Cuba use generators to counteract the effects of frequent power cuts. However, the cost of fuel and maintenance can be prohibitive for many people.