Cafe La Trova, Miami
This cocktail bar located in Miami’s vibrant Little Havana neighbourhood is as close to drinking in Cuba as you can get without actually being there. Cocktails are served by traditional Cantineros – a rigorously trained breed of Cuban bartender, of which there are just over 1,200 remaining in the world, and about 100 of them work in the US. It makes each Daiquiri, Mojito and any of the other 200-plus Cuban classic cocktails that they have memorised that more special. On nights where there’s live music, the talented Cantineros trade their cobbler shakers for instruments, pretending to play along as they shimmy and step in unison, demonstrating to guests that they’re more than bartenders: they’re entertainers. In 2020, Cafe La Trova was awarded Best American Bar Team at the bar industry’s illustrious Spirited Awards, in addition to being ranked 28th in The World’s 50 Best Bars 2021 – a testament to not only the exquisite Cuban cocktails served, but the experience curated at the bar, led by the charismatic Cantineros. For imbibers who love cultural drinking experiences, look no further. cafelatrova.com
Avecita at Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa, Grand Cayman
Avecita and the beverage programmes at the Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa aren’t what you’d typically find at your average Caribbean resort – there are no saccharine serves here.
GREAT ESCAPES
The hottest holiday destinations don’t always offer the coolest drinks spots – unless you know where to look says Tyler Zielinski
Above: Not your average Caribbean resort, Avecita at Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa; Below: Julio Cabrera (centre) and fellow charismatic Cantineros at Cafe La Trova in Miami
LOVERS OF CULTURAL DRINKING EXPERIENCES, LOOK NO FURTHER At Avecita, expect the most flavourful and freshest of juices – all of which are prepared daily, some from fruit that actually grows on the property – and cocktails that strike the perfect balance of approachable and contemplative. The Escape (If You Like Piña Coladas) – a Ramos Gin Fizzstyle take on the Champagne Piña Colada that marries rums, coconut, fresh pineapple and
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bubbly – is an elevated take on the cult favourite tropical classic that exemplifies what the bar programme is all about. If you’re lucky enough to experience a sunset at Avecita, then you’ll know there are few better places in the world to drink during golden hour. The nautically designed bar’s floor-to-ceiling glass walls allow the space to be enveloped by a copper-gold sheen that, we say, pairs perfectly with the Escape. In tandem, the experience is a feel-good overload; no wonder nobody ever wants to leave. averestaurant.com
El Patio at Marbella Club, Marbella
El Patio is an all-day, indooroutdoor Mediterranean dining and drinking option located at the heart of the illustrious
