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$ La Esperanza, Calle 16 105 entre 1 y 3, T 224361. 1200-1600, 1900-2330, closed Wed. Another top night, top nosh Miramar experience. The atmosphere is pure Almodóvar, the food and attitude is pseudo-Parisien. The varied and ever- changing menu delivered at lightning speed by the brusque Herbert may leave you plucking for the only thing that you can remember, but each dish is a delightful deviation from traditional Cuban fare. Delicious main course dishes include seared tuna steaks with roasted red peppers and breast of chicken in caramelized orange sauce. Clearly fans of all things fruity, Herbert and Manolo also whip up good, highly potent mango daiquiris. $ Calle 10, Calle 10 314 entre 3 y 5, near Teatro Karl Marx, T 296702. 1200-2400. Another very professional set up, the residents of Calle 10 certainly know how to cultivate a jovial holiday vibe, with the added bonus of being one of the cheapest of the Miramar crop. The well-prepared food leans towards Cuban, with the old shredded beef favourite, ropa vieja, taking star billing alongside plenty of pork. There is the odd international twist, including grilled fish with a white wine and seafood sauce, and a great salad Niçoise. Great setting with outdoor eating area with open air grill, tiki bar, upbeat tunes and gastronomic props including strewn onions and garlic, which unfortunately don't keep away the dollar-sucking minstrels – don't ask for change from your US$10. $$$ La Ferminia, Av 3 esquina 18, T 336555. 1200-2400. A beautiful neoclassical residence with an elegant atmosphere. With an emphasis on the use of natural ingredients and cooking methods, this Havana gastronomic institution is also a training school for budding chefs, which may explain the rather hit-and-miss cuisine. La Ferminia is one of the best mid-range restaurants for vegetarians with tasty veggie pies, a clutch of pasta options and an all-you-can vegetarian buffet. For the more carnivorous there is a good value churrasquería, all-you-can eat skewers of prime Uruguayan meat, served with chips and rice for US$12.95 in the lovely courtyard garden.
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