Cienfuegos Cuban Restaurant / Rum Bar

East Village, New York –

Patrons looking for a taste of pre-Castro Havana need venture no farther than Cienfuegos (“one hundred fires”), an upbeat rum bar with a speakeasy vibe popular with foodies and fashionable creatives alike.

Guests hoping to snag a table in this carefree cocktail house must first pass through Carteles – its bright little sandwich shop known for delicious Cuban sandwiches and deceptively strong beer margaritas – then past a painting of nationalist leader José Martí, up a utilitarian metal staircase, and finally into a charming series of rooms sporting a sea foam and pink décor set off by gold metal scrollwork gates.

Color-washed walls, slatted shutters, and white porcelain knickknacks lend an authentic air, while communal tables, white studded leather chairs, and a roomy pink banquette provide plenty of space for the stylish crowd of artists, actors, and creative types to huddle around their shared punch bowls of booze and rum cocktails with names like Hotel Nacional.

Although a few playful patrons may attempt their best merengue moves after a few ladles of punch, the place is just too small and too packed to really get down, and would-be dancers risk the gentle scolding of the wait staff.

Always lively and abuzz with conversation, Cienfuegos offers an evening of signature cocktails, good company, and an inviting atmosphere that allows patrons to truly feel the Latin vibe in the heart of the city. Viva la Revolución!