Around 7PM on Wednesday night, the Bodega on Central Instagram account posted a story that read, “A little brass birdie said there is a hidden door in the back of Bodega, slide it open to see what’s in store!”

I had to investigate. So, I drove to the Cuban joint’s beautiful new space located at 1180 Central Avenue in the EDGE District. The employees were tidying up and getting ready to close, but I walked to the back of the restaurant towards an unmarked sliding door near the restrooms. 

Once I stepped inside, I was transported to what felt like an upscale, modern cocktail bar in Havana, Cuba. The space, which I learned is called Bar Chica, has gorgeous teal-colored walls, matching teal chairs, brass tables and bar top, and light brown leather booth seating.

The bar has an intimate vibe and only room for about 20 people inside, including five seats at the bar.

For now, the menu is limited to 11 cocktails and four food items. However, in the future, the menu will expand to 21 cocktails and a much larger food menu. There are also three local beers on tap. 

Rum cocktails comprise over half of the drink menu. Hotel Nacional, named after the historic 1930’s Havana hotel, consists of Havana Club Blanco rum, Giffard apricot liqueur, lime, pineapple, and sugar.                                

Order a Bywater and receive a rocks glass with Diplomatico Mantuano rum, Averna, Green Chartreuse, Falernum, Peychaud’s bitters, and orange bitters.

The entire food menu, although limited for now, features items you won’t find at Bodega. Right now, you can get Twice-Fried Chicken Wings, Crispy Pork Belly Cracklins, Black Bean Hummus, and House Sliders.

Prices are what you’d expect for the neighborhood. Cocktails cost between $10 to $12 and the food is anywhere from $6 to $9.

Bar Chica is open Thursday through Saturday. Hours are 5PM to 11PM on Thursday, and 5PM to 1AM Friday and Saturday. Although Bodega closes earlier most nights, the front door should still be unlocked. Let yourself in and walk to the back to take a trip to one of Havana’s best cocktail bars. 

Branding and design work for Bar Chica was handled by Top Hat, a local branding and marketing agency.

Follow Bar Chica on Instagram for the latest updated on their food and drink offerings.