Durban sits on South Africa's eastern coast, where the warm Indian Ocean creates a perfect backdrop for this vibrant city. The city blends African, Indian,and colonial influences, making it a cultural melting pot with a unique vibe. The famous Golden Mile beachfront stretches alongside the city center, offering locals and tourists alike a place to enjoy the sun and surf.

Key highlights:

- World-class grill room listed among South Africa's top 20 restaurants
- Magnificent 180-degree views from the Bluff to uMhlanga Rocks
- Cuban-inspired atmosphere with impressive wine list and imported cigars

PROFILE

Havana Grill stands as a premier dining destination within the Suncoast Casino complex on Durban's Golden Mile. The restaurant focuses on being the ultimate spot for meat and seafood lovers. It's all about food, wine,cigars, and atmosphere. The establishment has built a reputation solid enough to earn it a place among South Africa's top 20 restaurants.

AMBIENCE

White linen tablecloths and tuxedo-clad staff immediately signal the upscale nature of the dining experience. The restaurant offers breathtaking views of Suncoast Beach through its large windows. Cuban influences are evident throughout the décor. The atmosphere caters to couples and groups celebrating special occasions. Sparkling flatware and an elegant setting create a refined dining space. The crowd tends to be adult-oriented, with minimal children present during evening hours.

MUST-TRY

The perfectly aged beef from their in-house butchery stands as the star attraction. Seafood lovers should sample their extravagant seafood platters that showcase the fresh bounty of Durban's coastal location. Their chocolate fondant has been described by some diners as the best they've ever eaten. The Cuban chicken livers make for an excellent starter option. For those preferring pasta, the chicken and prawn pasta receives consistently positive reviews. The pork belly special, when available, offers a flavorful alternative to their signature steaks.

FOOD

The menu leans heavily toward steaks but provides a good choice of other dishes. Latin-influenced meat and fish dishes dominate the offerings. Havana Grill practices a philosophy of good raw materials simply cooked. Portions are wholesome and satisfying. The restaurant houses an in-house butchery to guarantee the quality of their steaks. Vegetarian options and salads are available for non-meat eaters. Desserts like ice cream complement the hearty main courses perfectly. The avo, feta and bacon salad is practically a meal in itself.

SERVICE

Staff members maintain professional demeanor throughout the dining experience. Several reviews note the friendliness of the service staff. The waiters are attentive without being intrusive. Service quality can vary depending on how busy the restaurant is.

PRICING

Prices fall on the higher end of the spectrum, reflecting the restaurant's upscale positioning. The average price per person is around $20. Cocktails are particularly noted as being on the expensive side. The wine list offers good value despite the premium pricing. Some diners question the value proposition, while others feel the quality justifies the cost. Special lunch menus may offer better value than dinner options.

SUMMARY

Havana Grill delivers a consistent, high-quality dining experience that caters to those seeking upscale cuisine in Durban. The combination of excellent food, stunning views, and refined atmosphere makes it suitable for special occasions and business dinners. While prices are higher than average, the restaurant provides a memorable experience that has kept it among South Africa's top dining destinations. Those seeking well-prepared steaks and seafood in an elegant setting will find Havana Grill worth visiting. The restaurant may not be ideal for casual, budget-conscious diners or families with young children. For visitors to Durban seeking a premium dining experience with Cuban flair, Havana Grill offers a compelling option.

FAQs

What are the operating hours of Havana Grill?

Havana Grill is open seven days a week from 12:00 to 22:00. Note that the last lunch order is taken daily at 14:30, and the restaurant closes between 15:00 and 18:00.

Is there a dress code at Havana Grill?

While there's no explicit dress code mentioned, the upscale nature of the restaurant suggests smart-casual attire would be appropriate. The elegant atmosphere and higher price point indicate a more refined dining experience.

Do I need to make a reservation before visiting?

Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner service and weekends when the restaurant tends to be busier. The restaurant's popularity among both locals and tourists means tables can fill up quickly.