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A few weeks ago, I paid my first visit to the Soul de Cuba Cafe, which had long been on my list of places to dine. Located in the middle of downtown Honolulu (at 1121 Bethel Street), Soul de Cuba is really the ONLY Cuban restaurant in Honolulu — maybe even in the islands, and it’s a true delight.
Sould de Cuba Cafe was founded by brothers Jesus and Robert Puerto, along with Yoon Kim. Jesus and Robert had the shared dream of owning a restaurant, enrolled in a 2-year restaurant management course over a decade ago. In the summer of 2004, they happened to meet Yoon, a hotel and restaurant menagement graduate who had grown up in his own family’s restaurant business. The three collaborated on the Soul de Cuba concept, and the first restaurant opened its doors in New Haven, Connecticut in January 2005, followed soon after by this one in Honolulu in July 2006.
The food at Soul de Cuba is both hearty and delectable. Having traveled to Cuba and eaten many Cuban dishes myself, I have to say that this food is authentic and truly delightful. I forgot that I had ordered the same dish while in Havana last spring, but when I ordered the “Fricase de Pollo” (marinated chicken sauteed with onions and Spanish olives), I was not only taken aback by the same flavors and aromas, but blown away by the authenticity of the dish. While Cuban cuisine is not particularly distinguishable from other Caribbean or Latin American dishes, there is something very tasty and addictive about the food from this special nation.
I would highly recommend any dish — or even cocktail — from Soul de Cuba. My experience there was so rewarding. I look forward to my next taste of Cuba, as I crave every and any reminder of Castro country.
Tags: Chinatown, cuban cuisine, Dining, Dinner, food, Honolulu, Oahu, Restaurant Reviews
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I’ll admit, the first I went there it was shortly after a night at the bar, so anything tasted good. Sangria continued to flow throughout dinner making everything nice and fruity. The service was great and the atmosphere kitchy.
However, the second time around, a little less wowed. I will say the civeche was quite tasty. The rest left something to be desired, but overall I had another good experience.