Javi and Zami, the Cuban duo behind the YouTube channel "Javi & Zami," have become leading figures in the island's culinary content scene. Their style is fresh, critical, and entertaining. They not only travel across the country in search of stories and flavors but also spark discussions on social media with their exclusive reviews, including those of hotels in Cuba.
The popularity of these content creators has surged in recent years, partly due to their visits to high-end restaurants in Havana. One of their most talked-about episodes was their experience at "El Gabán," considered among the priciest dining spots in the country. Located in the Playa municipality, the restaurant boasts an elegant design, three distinct dining areas including one for children, and a sophisticated atmosphere. However, what grabbed the most attention at this private Havana establishment wasn't its dishes but the price of water. They offered a foreign brand with water imported from an "Italian spring," with bottles selling for 2,000 Cuban pesos.
Recently, the pair visited "Casa Mía," a restaurant facing the Malecón in El Vedado. There, they sampled cocktails, "domplines" or "gyozas," fried chickpeas, beef carpaccio with parmesan cheese, spaghetti with bacon and truffle cream, and a pineapple sauce lobster, the house specialty. In their reviews, they highlighted the product's quality and the meticulous presentation. The prices at this establishment are noteworthy, with main dishes reaching up to 8,500 Cuban pesos, plus a 10% service charge added to the bill.
Despite receiving criticism for showcasing a reality unattainable for most Cubans, Javi and Zami assert that their content aims to promote private businesses designed primarily for domestic tourism. In their videos, the foodie couple strives to depict the reality of these restaurants or luxury hotels where they stay, so that every Cuban can decide if it's worth visiting.
The Havana-based culinary influencers will serve as judges in the second edition of the cooking contest "Everyone Can Cook," where they will assess participants' performances and, true to their style, will not hold back any opinions. They advised contestants to pay attention to the elegance of their dishes and refine their presentation narratives, emphasizing that while food is initially judged by its appearance, it becomes memorable with a compelling story behind it.
Insights into Javi and Zami's Culinary Adventures
What makes Javi and Zami's YouTube channel unique?
Javi and Zami's channel stands out for its fresh, critical, and entertaining approach to exploring Cuba's culinary scene. They provide exclusive reviews and generate discussions on social media, making their content both informative and engaging.
Why did their review of "El Gabán" gain so much attention?
Their review of "El Gabán" was particularly notable because of the exorbitant price of water offered there. The restaurant sold an imported water brand from an "Italian spring" for 2,000 Cuban pesos, which sparked widespread interest and conversation.
What is Javi and Zami's goal with their content?
Javi and Zami aim to promote private businesses within Cuba, particularly those catering to domestic tourism. They strive to present an authentic view of these establishments, allowing viewers to make informed decisions about visiting.