A Facebook video shared by Evelio Valdes has ignited a wave of nostalgia among Cubans by showcasing images of two iconic spots in Havana's Vedado neighborhood: the El Carmelo café and the Amadeo Roldán Auditorium Theater.
The post invited followers to reminisce about these two establishments, prompting an overwhelming response. Commenters fondly recalled ham and cheese snacks priced at 1.20 pesos, malt beverages, sandwiches, and the lively nights of entertainment that stretched late into the evening at the café.
According to those who reminisced online, there were two El Carmelo branches in Havana: one located on 23rd Street next to the Riviera cinema, and the other on Calzada, across from the former Amadeo Roldán Auditorium Theater.
Remembering Havana's Culinary and Cultural Icons
"El Carmelo's porches served a variety of sandwiches, snacks, sweets, milkshakes, sodas, and malt drinks. It also featured an air-conditioned private area with a different menu and a bar offering cocktails, beers, and wines," users recalled. They also mentioned other legendary Havana establishments like La Roca, El Cochinito, El Mandarín, and Moscú.
The Amadeo Roldán Auditorium Theater, shown in the video images, was reopened on April 10, 1999, after nearly 25 years of closure. However, the building's condition deteriorated again over time.
In recent years, the theater building has been overtaken by vegetation, presenting a stark image of neglect that painfully contrasts with the cherished memories of its former glory held by many Cubans.
The situation did not improve. A subsequent fire once more brought the theater into the spotlight, rekindling the concern and attention of those who remember it as one of Havana's premier cultural venues.
Exploring Havana's Historical Culture
What were some of the popular offerings at El Carmelo café?
El Carmelo café was known for its variety of sandwiches, bocaditos, sweet treats, milkshakes, sodas, and malt beverages. It also offered an air-conditioned area with a distinct menu and a bar serving cocktails, beers, and wines.
When was the Amadeo Roldán Auditorium Theater reopened?
The Amadeo Roldán Auditorium Theater was reopened on April 10, 1999, after being closed for almost 25 years.