Debunking the Myth: CUP Restaurants in Cuba
When you’re on holiday in Cuba, you may notice that there are some restaurants and other establishments that advertise their prices in Cuban Pesos (CUP) only, and not in Cuban Convertible Pesos (CUC), which is the currently that is primarily used by visitors to the country. Some people think that these places are ‘locals only’ establishments, but actually anyone is permitted to visit these places.
Here’s everything you need to know about visiting ‘MN’ (moneda nacional, or national currency) places:
Public Attractions (art galleries, theatres, museums etc.)
If you love taking Caribbean islands vacations for the culture, then you'll probably want to visit some of Cuba’s best museums. Public attractions like museums will usually charge CUC for foreigners, and CUP for locals. However, prices in both currencies should be clearly displayed so it’s easy to figure out.
Cinemas
If you’re thinking of catching a movie during your holiday in Cuba, you may find that many of the local cinemas accept CUP currency only. Fortunately, it is easy to exchange CUC currency to CUP currency in banks, or you may be able to purchase CUP from the host family at your casa particular in Havana.
Restaurants
If you’re staying in a vacation villa Havana in a main tourist area, most restaurants will charge in CUC only. Outside of these main areas, however, restaurants may have two menus; a CUP menu and a CUC menu. There may also be a ‘CUP side’ of the restaurant, and a ‘CUC side’ to make things easier for the staff.
Taxis
Taxis are the only aspect that is a little different; typically visitors should only use official taxis authorised for carrying foreigners, with a price in CUC. Other taxis, including private taxis and communal taxis are usually not authorised for visitor use, and will often only accept payment in Cuban Pesos.