Robaina's

Robaina's
Robaina's plantation

Thursday 23 April 2015

Paladar San Jose (Trinidad, Sancti Spíritus) Restaurant Review

                 We hadn't been to Trinidad, in the Sancti Spiritus Province, for more than 8 years. Wow how it's changed, we almost didn't recognize it. Since Raul's changes to the law allowing more private businesses to open, Trinidad's restaurant scene has exploded and it was evident on this trip. There were every manner and variation of eatery-bar around every corner and choosing where to go was an impossible task. We had our first dinner not long after arriving at our Casa, I had them prepare a fish for us. I asked for a recommendation for the next night. Without hesitation, San Jose was the restaurant that our host chose. He warned us to go early if we didn't make a reservation and he was right. Even though it wasn't too late, it was after 7pm and we waited at least 20 minutes before a table was available.
                   The decor was tastefully done resembling something along the line of rustic which isn't difficult in Cuba but they had put some effort into it with what I thought was an excellent result. It looked old but it also looked clean. We felt very comfortable and we weren't crammed into the place even though it was full, there was a lot of room between tables. We waited a little but they were busy. The service was pleasant and professional. The menu is very extensive and the portions (appetizers at least) were huge. We thought that the (tempura) Breaded Shrimp appetizer could have been a main course for one person. We were not happy with our main course choices (lobster thermidor & smoked pork) but will return to try something else, maybe the Ropa Vieja. Be aware that their wine by the glass....it's a 3 oz. pour.
                   It's was quite reasonable, considering I had the most expensive main course on the menu (Lobster at $14.95) & 3 glasses of wine ($15 total), the bill for the 2 of us including gratuity was $59. That included 2 cocktails and 2 desserts. I would recommend to try this place but as my host told me, I will tell you, make reservations or go early unless you want to wait in line. Have the breaded shrimp appetizer and order wine by the bottle (not glass) or drink beer.



Paladar San Jose,
Calle Maceo (Gutierrez) #382
e/ Colon y Smith
Trinidad, Sancti Spiritus
www.restaurantbarsanjose.com
tel. +53 (41)994702

























No comments:

Post a Comment