The paladar Ivan Chefs Justo occupies the second and third floors of a colonial mansion, built in 1776. The restaurant relies on its reputation for high-quality food and fame of its founding chefs, one of whom, Justo Pérez, cooked for Fidel Castro for 35 years. Chef Iván himself has always been a successful chef, but the success of this paladar being featured on TV and in magazines, made him Havana’s celebrity chef.

The walls of the restaurant are covered with numerous pictures and photos, from Marilyn Monroe posters to the old city photos. The décor is very retro with old wooden clocks, wooden seats and ceramic wall plates. There are some objects around that you may not understand why they are there, like the bicycle and the trumpet. A chalked-up menu on the wall details starters and main courses of the day. The dining room on the third floor is more spacious; it can hold about 30 people. There is also a private dining room across from the kitchen, where you can watch the preparation of the dishes by the chef and the staff.

Salmon salad, gazpacho, seafood papaya, sautéed mushroom, mango chicken salad, duck breast salad and lamb soup are recommended appetizers. As the main dish you have many choices: roasted baby pork, caldereta (fish stew), grilled fish, paella, cheese risotto and arroz negro with calamari and prawn. Don’t miss to taste the trés leches cake. The service is professional, attentive and quick.