On Boxing Day, I met up with my cousins at Havana on Commercial Drive. I was planning to show L where my grandfather’s grocery store used to stand, but I realized I couldn’t remember where exactly it was located. Since it was freezing cold, we headed over early to our brunch reservations. For this post, let’s listen to “Peach Fuzz” by Caamp.
The restaurant exudes a funky, chill vibe. I was impressed with the service, which I found warm and professional. I loved our spacious table in the back of the restaurant. For most of our meal, we had the whole section to ourselves.
None of my cousins brought their kids because they wanted the hour to themselves. I was going to order a tea, but I followed suit when I saw my cousins order a double Havana Caesar ($11). These girls know how to do it up.
Man, this was a good Caesar! The Clamato juice was sweet and not watered down like other places. The pineapple-infused tequila was subtle in flavour and not overpowering. I particularly liked the garnish of pickled hot pepper, cured meat, and pineapple. My cousin thought she could taste hickory smoke in the spices along the rim. I would order this drink again.
L tried the Churro Pick Me Up ($11). He thought it was an awesome boozy coffee. I took a sip and enjoyed the sweet blend of espresso, Sailor Jerry’s spiced rum, Kahlua, and cinnamon leche whip.
I wanted to order the mussels as I read so much about them, but I was informed it is only served at dinner. So I ordered my second choice – Avocado Toast ($12.00). I liked the thick-cut grilled organic sourdough. The bread was slightly tangy, with a marvellously fluffy crumb texture. The cherry tomatoes and charred shishito peppers added a nice pop of texture and flavour. I swirled each piece of toasted bread with the smashed creamy avocado, sunflower seeds, and sprouts.
L ordered the Cubano ($16) with triple-cooked house fries. L mentioned the center of his sandwich wasn’t warm enough. The next time we visit, L said he’ll order what our cousins did – the breakfast bowls. Their bowls looked impressive – piled high with brown rice, poached eggs and bacon. I would have taken a picture but we were sitting too far apart, and I didn’t want to get too close.
L and I would like to return to try the dinner items, like the mussels, octopus and tacos. I’m glad my cousin picked Havana for our family reunion. It was the perfect spot to catch up and enjoy a pleasant meal together. Hitting the Sauce gives Havana two phat thumbs up.
Hitting the Sauce 