THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Habana

THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Habana Restaurant Review:

The interior conjures up mythic mid-century Cuba at this beautifully decorated restaurant. Banana palms sway in the indoor patio where Cuban-inspired cocktails and exotic favorites like the caipirinha and the mojito mix it up with American classics like the martini at a large, comfortable bar that whisks you away from the bustle of Van Ness Avenue. In the dining room, the flavors of Cuba abound. Ceviches are a good place to start with three nightly specials, including bay scallops in pineapple-lime juice with toasted coconut and serrano chilies. The picadillo appetizer is a spicy blend of chopped chicken studded with almonds and raisins served up with yucca chips. The tierra-mar is a fritto misto of sorts with crispy fried calamari and green beans accompanied by a romesco dipping sauce. Entrées are equally enticing with fresh tuna served with plantain, onion and bacon purée or the tiger prawns swimming in a Creole-Cuban sauce with fragrant saffron rice. The obligatory flan does reside on the dessert menu, but try the warm banana tart or the pineapple crisp instead. Wines from Argentina, Chile and Spain share space with local favorites.