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The Coppelia ice cream parlor, one of the most iconic places in Havana, has reopened its doors after three months of renovation, featuring a varied selection of specialties, but with significantly higher prices compared to previous years.
According to the price list displayed in the establishment, shared on Facebook by journalist Ricardo Gómez, a mixed salad costs 155 pesos, while other specialties like Super Twins and Tres Gracias are sold for 130 and 105 pesos, respectively.
The sundae, one of the simplest desserts on the menu, is priced at 60 pesos, while a Vaca Negra, which includes a soda, costs 31 pesos.
In addition to the high prices of ice cream, a 550 ml bottle of water costs 160 pesos, and a slice of Coffee Cake reaches 170 pesos, prices that have generated reactions among customers visiting the ice cream shop.
“The ice cream shop Coppelia has just opened its doors, offering a variety of specialties at acceptable prices compared to other options in private establishments,” emphasized the official communicator, who conveniently does not compare the cost of a scoop—close to 25 pesos—with the average salary in Cuba.
He noted that the culinary center, founded at the initiative of Celia Sánchez Manduley, reopened with new signage, refreshed gardens, and renovated awnings.
Additionally, digital payment platforms have been enabled to facilitate transactions for customers, although in some areas the use of EnZona or Transfermóvil is mandatory.
Despite the reopening and improvements in service, the price increase at Coppelia highlights the impact of the economic crisis on the island and raises the question of whether these rates will remain affordable for most Cubans.
The official Tribuna de La Habana reported that the ice cream parlor will operate from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 a.m. to 9:15 p.m., with offerings by specialties.
Additionally, it was indicated that traditional ice cream options will continue to be available, such as salad, three graces, super twins, the three varieties of "vacas" (white, black, speckled), jimaguas, harlequin, and sundae, along with the introduction of new creations like "The 4 Jewels."
However, it was clarified that the stability in the availability of specialties and flavors will depend on the suppliers' supplies, which is why the sale will be limited to a maximum of two specialties per person.
The measure aims to ensure that products are sufficient for the entire day, although it highlights the system's challenges in providing a stable supply.
In January, the news portal CubaNet reported that the iconic ice cream parlor Coppelia, known as the "Cathedral of Ice Cream," would be reopening its doors, but with the new price of 25 Cuban pesos for a scoop of ice cream, an increase "justified" by the high cost of raw materials.
According to the website, this information was communicated to the workers during a meeting with the president of the Business Group for Domestic Trade in Havana.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Reopening of the Coppelia Ice Cream Parlor in Havana
What are the new prices of Coppelia following its reopening?
The new prices at Coppelia are significantly higher compared to previous years. A mixed salad costs 155 pesos, while other specialties like Super Twins and Tres Gracias are priced at 130 and 105 pesos, respectively. A sundae costs 60 pesos and a Vaca Negra is 31 pesos. Additionally, a 550 ml bottle of water costs 160 pesos and a slice of Coffee Cake reaches 170 pesos.
What improvements have been made at Coppelia after the renovation?
After the renovation, Coppelia has added new signage, refreshed gardens, and renewed awnings. Additionally, digital payment platforms such as EnZona and Transfermóvil have been enabled to facilitate transactions for customers.
Why have prices increased at Coppelia?
The price increase at Coppelia is attributed to the high cost of raw materials and reflects the impact of the economic crisis the island is experiencing. These rates have sparked reactions among customers and raise the question of whether they will remain affordable for most Cubans.
How does the economic crisis affect the supply of Coppelia?
The economic crisis affects Coppelia in the availability of flavors and specialties, which will depend on the suppliers' supplies. The sale has been limited to a maximum of two specialties per person to ensure that the products last throughout the day, highlighting the difficulties of the system in maintaining a stable supply.
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