I’ve always been a bit fascinated by Miami. I went for the first time last year and mean to go back. But what I’m more fascinated by is the past. Specifically a time where people danced, drank rum and had a good time.

I swung by La Descarga recently and had a better time this night than all my nights in Miami. Starting with someone saying they wanted to make out with someone that night (to which I replied primly they were married and the response was, “I’m in Cuba! I’m on vacation!– no, I don’t believe they actually would stray from their marriage but the sentiment was funny).

There was definitely some excitement in the air from the lovely cocktails to the brilliant dancing. It was high energy in that main room to a slow, almost lethargic sensuality of the cigar smoking patio.

I tried almost all the cocktails this evening. My favorites were Tapping the Admiral, Bad Spaniard and the Daiquiri. Each were so different but appealed to my love of quirky names, tart drinks and powerful but not overwhelming cocktails. All were very balanced. I was surprised I liked all of them.

I’m not going to describe the specialness of the first time visit but it’s very much like falling down the rabbit hole. You land in pre-Castro Cuba and it’s a heady experience.

La Descarga

1159 North Western Ave.

Los Angeles, CA 90029-1050

(323) 466-0181

** reservations recommended