Alex Mahoney: Blog Post #4 ~ The Cuban Art Factory

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 The Cuban Art Factory would be the perfect spot to go if looking to fill up free time after dinner! With its location close by in Vedado (Calle 26) this fun and lively environment is recommended by many including Time Magazine. The Fabrica de Arte Cubano (FAC) made it on Time Magazine's 100 Best Places in the World’s List and is deemed “Havana’s hippest art gallery, music performance space, and nightclub”. If these qualifications do not prove their popularity, the long line outside the entrance will! 

In the early 2010s, a group of artists bought an old cooking oil factory established in 1910. The building needed a lot of renovations but by 2014, the FAC was opened to the public and business was booming. Since the venue is similar to a warehouse, there are different areas throughout allowing everyone to find something of interest. Whether you are looking for live music, a more subdued art gallery, or a fun bar scene, all are available at the Cuban Art Factory. This is one of the trendiest places to be in Cuba and it is well liked by both tourists and locals. 


The bar serves both drinks and food. Classic mojitos can be ordered here but also new drinks are created. Cuban street food and Spanish-style tapas are offered along with other cuisines such as Asian-inspired food. 


The FAC is open from Thursday through Sunday from 7:00pm - 2:00am. As I have previously stated, I have found that it is beneficial to arrive early as the lines can be long. Occasionally the venue can be closed to set up new art exhibits. The Cuban Art Factory is constantly changing to allow different artists to be highlighted, so it is not clear who/what is being presented when we will be in Vedado. The entrance fee is only 2 CUCs, plus any additional food or drink you buy. There is also a rooftop bar and patio area at the FAC. 


I do think this would be an interesting place to spend a night as it can cater to a variety of our group's needs. If someone is interested in seeing more art or music, that is all here, or if someone wants to relax after an exciting day with a drink and snack, that is also a possibility! In addition to Time Magazine, the FAC is rated 4-5 stars on both Google and Tripadvisor. This spot seems to be well-liked by anyone who attends. 





For more information: 

https://www.cubaunbound.com/blog/must-visit-havana-fabrica-de-arte-cubano

https://visitcuba.com/art-culture/fabrica-de-arte-cubano/

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