Zara

Small, cozy, and lively. That's Zara, the joint creation of Pepe Martínez and Inés Llanos, who forsook their native Caribbean island 4 decades ago to set up this landmark of Cuban cuisine in central Madrid. Prices are reasonable, the service is first-rate, and it's well worth waiting in a queue to sit at one of the check-clothed tables if the place is busy (which is most of the time). Recommended are the standard ropa vieja (shredded meat with chickpeas and tomato sauce), arroz con frijoles y cerdo (rice with pork and beans), and picadillo de ternera con arroz y plátano frito (spicy veal with rice and fried banana), while top desserts include a delicious pasta de guayaba con queso (guava jelly with cheese). Its cocktails are legendary, especially the rum-based daiquiris, which are claimed by many to be the best in the capital.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.