Habana Blues opens tonight. Here's a peek and a cheat sheet.

Habana Blues Tapas Restaurant opens tonight in the space formerly occupied by the Windsor, and before it, the pioneering Bistro New Albany. On Thursday night, there was a pre-opening gathering, and I’d like to thank Mike Kopp inviting us to participate. I had the pleasure of meeting the owner and chef last night. They’re young, committed and enthused.

Like all openings, it will take time for the system to be smooth and efficient, so treat your experience accordingly. Hours are projected to be Monday – Saturday, 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., with the bar staying open as late as trade supports.

Habana Blues represents a wonderfully different cultural concept in downtown New Albany’s on-going development, and I’ve cobbled together the following cheat sheet. Keep scrolling for more information on each notion. At the end, you’ll find the answer to the question: Why the vivid reds and blues?

1 Cuban cuisine – itself a cultural fusion
2 Tapas – smaller plates and varied flavors
3 Mojitos – signature cocktail of the island

Cuban cuisine, from Wikipedia:

"Cuban cuisine is a fusion of Spanish, African and Caribbean cuisines. Cuban recipes share spices and techniques with Spanish and African cooking, with some Caribbean influence in spice and flavor. This results in a unique, interesting and flavorful blend of the several different cultural influences … during colonial times, Cuba was an important port for trade, and many Spaniards who lived there brought their culinary traditions along with them."
Tapas at about.com:

"What are Tapas? Tapas are snacks, canapés or finger food. Tapas come in many different forms and can vary from town to town."

The Mojito, at Taste of Cuba:

"There are countless recipes for the Mojito (pronounced moh-HEE-toh), but this version is for the one Hemingway himself enjoyed at the Mojito's place of birth: La Bodeguita del Medio in Havana, Cuba."

While there are shared characteristics, Cuban cuisine differs from Mexican, as we’re about to see gloriously showcased at the new La Rosita’s on Pearl Street. Habana Blues further defines its niche concept by focusing on tapas, cold and warm, which take up most of the menu (there also are soups, salads and sandwiches, including the famed Cuban).

The very basis of tapas is communal and relaxed. Don’t think in terms of an entrée. Instead, order several tapas and graze while enjoying a libation. As for the colors, consider the Cuban flag.