Bar Cuba

It was by delicious serendipity that I chanced upon Bar Cuba. I think I’d come out of an Eric Clapton concert at the Albert Hall and was walking around Kensington looking vainly for a late night drink and was tipped off that this place opened late – I mean – late night drinking in London –whatever next !

I expected the usual luck you get when you go looking for a late night boozer – you know the one – “The Dockers Fist” with its indigenous neanderthals, drinking meths and lime and playing russian roulette for money.

It was then a significantly pleasant surprise when I chanced upon this lively bar that of all things had a nightclub downstairs with live salsa dancing. For a small fee, I think £3, you could join in and everyone danced with everyone, no barriers, no typical English reserve – just a collective determination to have a damn good time. Well blow me if I didn’t just go and join in – “the rhythm is going to get you” - foretold the prophet that is Gloria Estefan. And so it came to pass…

Upstairs was going swimmingly as well, serving more than passable Sangria and Mojito’s and all with vim and vigour. A thoughtful wine list and a good selection of ice cold bottles (and 16 different rums!) ensured all bases were covered. I wobbled out at an hour resembling 2.30am with a stupid grin on my face having had my faith reinforced in all things Latino and vowed to visit again very soon.