Paladares are private restaurants run by Cubans who, up until recently, were not allowed to own and operate these types of businesses — and if they did, they were taxed and had limitations on who could work there (it used to be only family members) as well as the number of guests that could be accommodated (at one time, it was up to 12 people per paladar). However, laws have loosened to give people the opportunity to provide services from their homes. While travelling through Cuba, allow yourself to stumble spontaneously into these cosy houses for authentic Cuban fare and extra time with locals.
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Hilary White