Aguiar Restaurante, Hotel Nacional, Havana, Cuba.
I think that we all like to know the stories that surround cities, both our own and thoe that we visit. Every corner, building, or even city block has something interesting to tell us. This is certainly the case with Hotel Nacional and its famous restaurant, the Aguiar. I always wondered where that name came from, since the word is not used much in Cuba.
The Hotel Nacional, built in 1930, sits on a promontory where, in 1762, a battery of cannons under the command of Luise Jose de Guiar was located. The powerful British fleet, with thousands of men and potent artillery, attacked the city from several points. Luis Aguiar and his brave artillerymen withheld a sustained attack, and they suffered many casualties and setbacks, though they defended their position with courage. And this is where the name of the restaurant comes from.
The Aguiar is elegant, cordial and with beautifully appointed tables, in accordance with its formal atmosphere. The interior is serious, combining Spanish-Arab colonial styles with art deco and neoclassical elements, as well as modern tendencies of neoclassicism.
The Aguiar is a great a la carte restaurant that serves delicious food, the best Cuban and International food, including lobster, fresh fish, and is also known for its excellent desserts, like profiteroles. Its wine list is also famous, filling out the agreeable atmosphere and good service. The Aguiar is one of the most elegant and exclusive restaurants in Havana, and it also has a rich history behind it.
|
|
