Brothers José Carlos and Julio Imperatori co-own 304 O'Reilly, an art-inspired dining experience in Old Havana. José Carlos used to work at a government bar in Havana, but always dreamed of opening his own restaurant. As soon as the government passed the law allowing Cubans to own their own businesses, the brothers opened their doors. José Carlos focuses on the day-to-day management of the restaurant, while Julio is busy traveling the country, sourcing the best produce. It is this practice that makes 304 O'Reilly one of the finest restaurants in all of Havana. I enjoyed the ceviche de pescado, empanadas, and variety of gin cocktails on the menu. The atmosphere is fun and funky, and every woman receives a flower before leaving the building. All these components make 304 O'Reilly the perfect destination for a night out in Old Havana. Thinking up the name (the restaurant's address) can't have taken much imagination, so it is perhaps a little ironic that O'Reilly 304 serves up some of the most imaginative cuisine in Havana. Exquisite seafood with crispy veg is presented on metal pans set into wooden trays, while the cocktails and tacos are fast becoming legendary.
