Exclusive Restaurants in Havana Spark Debate Over Emerging Elite
Recent reports and employee testimonies are fueling a growing controversy surrounding a network of upscale restaurants in Havana owned by Cristina Lage Codorniú, daughter of former Cuban Vice President Carlos Lage Dávila. The establishments – Sensacioones, Woow, and Nao habana, operating under the business group Group Tentacioones SRL – are accused of catering to a privileged clientele with a strict demand for discretion.
According to accounts shared by restaurant staff and reported by journalist Mario J. Pentón on Facebook, high-ranking members of the Cuban political and military elite are regular patrons. A consistent protocol reportedly requires surveillance cameras to be deactivated upon their arrival, effectively erasing any visual record of their visits.
Specifically mentioned among these “untouchable clients” are the son of Rubén Remigio Ferro, President of the Supreme People’s Court, and the grandson of Raúl Castro, known colloquially as “The Crab.” Sources claim the latter also requests the disabling of security cameras.
This alleged preferential treatment is occurring against a backdrop of severe economic hardship for most Cubans, who struggle with widespread blackouts, insufficient wages, and the inability to afford basic necessities. The restaurants, meanwhile, offer menus priced in US dollars and boast a “world-class culinary experience” – a stark contrast to the daily realities faced by the majority of the population.
An examination by Martí News revealed that Group Tentacioones SRL serves as the business entity behind these restaurants. While the group’s website describes the establishments as “the materialized dream of a family passionate about hospitality,” it dose not disclose ownership. However, Cristina Lage is visibly tagged in posts on the businesses’ social media accounts.
the report also details Lage Codorniú’s frequent travel to the United States and Europe, reportedly facilitated by a US visa, and highlights her extensive network of contacts. Sources suggest these connections contribute to the smooth operation of her businesses within Cuba.
Despite requests for comment, Lage Codorniú has not responded to inquiries regarding the allegations. Official details regarding the ownership of the restaurants remains unavailable, a situation attributed to the lack of clarity within the Cuban system.
The controversy is particularly sensitive given Carlos Lage’s dismissal from his position in 2009, following accusations from Raúl Castro of succumbing to the “honeys of power.” The current situation, with his daughter operating exclusive businesses in Havana, has reignited debate about the emergence of a new privileged class benefiting from connections to power, while the majority of Cubans struggle to survive.
