Our Reviews 3

In Dublin Magazine November/December 3 - December 16, 1999

Havana Gold

A taste of the Caribbean in dublin? Bella Cuba delivers that and more, with mouth watering dishes in intimate surroundings bringing the heart of the tropics to a cold wet Dublin night. Located in Ballsbridge, Bella Cuba is run by Juan Carlos and features authentic Cuban Cuisine. Service was attentive withought hovering , with just the mix of relaxation and good craic. And the overall ambience provided that island feeling -- friendly and casual.

We began our meal as any good islander would, with a Daiquiry, a frozen Cuan cocktail slightly on the sweet side -- a couple of these, along with the lively salsa music playing in the background, and you almost feel the sun on your shoulders. The menu contains splendid Cuban Traditions, offering plenty of Avocado, Black Beans, Tropical Fruits, and Spices. I began with the Tostones Cubanos (Cuban Plantians), hwich for those who have never experienced Cuban delights are a fried Fruit similar to Banana with a spicy mayonaisse dip. It was served with salad of mixed greens in a vinaigrettre. My Partner tried the Frijoles Negros Enchilados (Black Bean Soup), a staple in Mexican and Cuban Kitchens. Both dishes were superb. For the MAin, I went for the Pollo a la Criolla (Cuban Chicken Creole), consisting of chargrilled marinated chicken with onions, garlic and sliced potatoes in a white wine sauce -- are you Tempted Yet? My companion ordered the Rueda De Aguja (Swordfish Steak). This Chargrilled fish was served with a Garlic and Lemon Sauce and accompanied by garlic Baked Potatoes and fresh Vegetables. We were not disappointed --a Deadly Combination.

With Our Dinner, we couldn't pass up the Chilean wine, Concha y Toro, a Cabernet Sauvignon with a lovely light Taste that complemented the Cuban Spices, for Dessert, the Tocinillo del Cielo (Creme Caramel), was unbeliveably delicious, as was the Cake Tropical (Tropical Cheesecake),which was served with a Mango sauce that keeps you licking your lips all night!

For Vegeterians, There's a good variety of Meatless starters, along with pasta and rice main courses (marked with a V). Lunch is Served Tuesday to Friday from 12.30 pm- 2.30pm, with an express lunch menu for those bussiness lunches. Dinner can be had 7 days a Week from 6pm - 11pm. And on Friday and Saturday nights Salsa music goes on 'til late with a wine and Cocktail Bar and Even some dancing.

So bring a Date or come with your mates -- and dance the night away Or just enjoy the Food, Cocktails and your Best Havana Cigars!! I'd Recommend this as a spot not to Miss.