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Bella Cuba Restaurant

Juan Carlos & Larissa Jimenez's bright, warm-toned restaurant is decorated with dramatic murals by a Cuban designer, providing a uniquely Cuban atmosphere - and Juan Carlos's cooking demonstrates the Spanish, Caribbean and South American influences on Cuba's food.

Most dishes are slow cooked, with very little deep frying, and the flavours are of aromatic spices and herbs - predominantly garlic, cumin, oregano and bay.

Informative menus give the names of dishes in two languages, with a full description of each, and it's well worth a visit to experience something genuinely different: begin with a famous Cuban cocktail like a Daiquiri or Mojito and then try a speciality of drunk chicken rice or roast pork with Cuban dressing.

Service, under the direction of Omar Jiminez, is professional and friendly, adding to the appeal of this cheerful restaurant.

The wine list, which offers a choice fairly balanced between the old and new, includes a pair of Cuban bottles.

The early evening 'Value Menu' allows you to choose from a limited selection on the à la carte.

Seats 33; not suitable for children after 7pm. D daily, 5 - 11 (to 10.30pm Sun). Early D €20 (5-7). Also á la carte. House wine €18.50. SC 10% on parties 6+. Closed Christmas. Amex, MasterCard, Visa, Laser.

Directions:

Middle of Ballsbridge