Gate-side at Terminal 2, Restaurante Terminal 2 is one of the few sit-down options on the departures level at José Martí International. It sits airside after security in Terminal 2, so you’re already through checks before you eat. Space is basic, with simple tables and plastic chairs, and service runs on Havana time rather than hub-airport speed.
Food leans Cuban cafeteria-style: expect ham-and-cheese sandwiches, simple chicken plates with rice and beans, and the occasional pork dish, all usually under USD $10–$12 at official rates. Menus are often printed in Spanish only, and items can be “no hay” by midday, so have a backup choice ready. If they have it, a grilled chicken breast with arroz congrí is usually the safest order.
Drinks matter here because Terminal 2 has limited options beyond small kiosks. You can usually get local Cristal or Bucanero beer in bottles or cans, basic mixed drinks made with Havana Club rum, and soft drinks in cans. Expect cash pricing in CUP or sometimes euros; card terminals may be offline, and US cards in particular tend not to work.
Service hours roughly track flight banks, with the restaurant open for morning departures and closing not long after the last evening flight in Terminal 2. Don’t count on a hot meal at 23:00 if your flight is delayed; by then you may find only sandwiches or snacks left. Staff are used to handling full tables when a couple of aircraft depart close together, so wait times can stretch to 30–40 minutes.
One practical tip: eat here before you sit at your gate in Terminal 2, and bring small bills in euros or CUP; it speeds things up and avoids any “no change” issues at the register.