Havana Jax, Jacksonville

Havana-Jax Café in the Arlington section of Jacksonville is an authentic Cuban restaurant, where the staff speaks fluent English and Spanish and caters to both regulars and newcomers looking for the delicious Cuban food. With ochre walls, jade and burgundy tablecloths and large booths, Havana-Jax is as colorful to look at as the menu is to eat. A large center bar keeps things lively, while dishes like ropa vieja, paella and palomilla steak – a marinated and seared Angus steak, grilled with onions – draw in the hungry set. Simpler desserts include flan, rice pudding and egg custard, making for a well-rounded meal that’s popular with the local neighborhood, while still drawing visitors looking to enjoy the long-time staff and quality food.