San Cristóbal was knocking out fine food long before the US president dropped by in March 2016, although the publicity attending Barack Obama's visit probably didn't hurt. Crammed into one of Centro Habana's grubbier streets, the restaurant has a museum-worthy interior crowded with old photos, animal hides, and a Santería altar flanked by images of Antonio Maceo and José Martí.

　　The menu is Cuban with a touch of Spain, and superbly prepared dishes are usually driven home with a complimentary glass of house rum. Obama had the solomillo (sirloin steak), while the First Lady had tentación habanero (fajitas with fried plantains). Since their visit, many other dignitaries have dined here.