Cayo Coco, Cayo Guillermo. Names from the Cuban geography that evoke images of bright sun, warm white sands and turquoise sea. It could not be otherwise: both islands, located in the Jardines del Rey archipelago, are favorites of thousands of travelers who each year choose them as a destination for a tropical vacation.
However, there are more adventures to live in this paradise. When speaking of adventures, we undoubtedly include those related to the discovery of new traditions, new ways of doing things, new flavors.
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This is precisely Nativa’s commitment, a gastronomic experience that the Gaviota Tourism Group and our Meliá Cuba teams develop in numerous hotels throughout the archipelago. Broadly speaking, Nativa reinvents the culinary traditions of each tourist destination to adapt them to modern trends, while maintaining the originality and authenticity of each dish or cocktail.
And Jardines del Rey is no exception. Its proximity to the central-eastern region of the big island – an area of extensive agricultural activity – allows to incorporate proposals such as tostones (crushed and fried green plantains) that are now presented in a substantial beef broth, seasoned with lemon and sprinkled of corn kernels. Sounds tempting, doesn’t it? Guests can also taste criollo style torrejas, with hints of dry wine, anise and cinnamon; and for our part we recommend that you do not miss the taste of the torticas, delicacies that have transcended from the town of Morón to become famous among all Cubans (and those in love with Cuba). Made with a dough of wheat flour, butter, sugar, aromas such as nutmeg and natural fruit jams, the simplicity of its formula contrasts with the explosion of flavors and textures that they leave on the palate. Of course, the mastery of the pastry chef greatly influences the final result; But with the talented magicians that reign in the kitchens of Meliá Cuba, the success of the preparation and the enjoyment of the diners are guaranteed.
And to drink? Cuba, a country with such a long cocktail tradition, doesn’t offer anything special under the Nativa insignia at Jardines del Rey? Of course it does! As a sample, three specials: the Cubanito, where the peasant influence is once again manifested in a delicious mix starring the juice of fresh tomatoes; the Cubata, which adds cola drinks to the classic Havana Club; and Ron Collins, an island variant of Tom Collins where the original gin is exchanged for old white rum. Better or worse the change? Remember to try it during your stay and then tell us.
In our hotels, each of these delicacies shows the true soul of Cuba. Not only that: they are recipes made with love, thinking of you, taking care of every detail. If you enjoy them, if you remember them, if you dare to prepare them on your own or if you return to Jardines del Rey to repeat with Nativa and Meliá Cuba, then we will be more than satisfied.
