Coppelia, the famous ice cream parlor in Havana, Cuba.

 

Coppelia, the famous ice cream parlor in Havana, Cuba, is not just an iconic spot for ice cream lovers but also a place full of cultural and historical significance. There are several fascinating facts and curiosities surrounding this beloved Cuban institution.

Curiosity: Named After a Ballet

One of the most interesting aspects of Coppelia is that it was named after a famous ballet—"Coppélia", a 19th-century French ballet about a doll brought to life. The ballet was composed by Léo Delibes and is still performed by ballet companies around the world. The name is symbolic of something sweet and playful, like a doll, which ties in nicely with the lighthearted nature of enjoying ice cream.

Construction and Inauguration

Coppelia was inaugurated in 1966 as part of Fidel Castro's vision of creating accessible luxury for all Cubans. Located in Vedado, Havana, the ice cream parlor became known as the "Cathedral of Ice Cream" due to its large size and the variety of flavors it offered. The complex was designed by Mario Girona, a Cuban architect, and sits in a sprawling park-like area, taking up an entire city block.

Dimensions and Capacity

The Coppelia ice cream parlor is one of the largest ice cream shops in the world. The central building, shaped like a flying saucer, can accommodate around 1,000 customers at any given time. This impressive capacity reflects the idea of making ice cream an affordable luxury for the masses, rather than an elite indulgence.

The Coppelia Experience in the 1960s

During the early years of Coppelia, it was famous for offering an astonishing 26 flavors of ice cream, a variety that was practically unheard of in Cuba at the time. People would come from all over the country to enjoy the rich selection of flavors, from tropical fruit sorbets to creamy vanilla and chocolate. Coppelia represented the ideals of the Cuban Revolution—an affordable place for the people to enjoy something sweet and luxurious.

Queues and Patience: The Coppelia Experience Today

Despite its grandeur, one of the most defining experiences of visiting Coppelia today is the wait. Long lines are common, and customers are often required to have significant patience. The state-run business operates with fluctuating availability of flavors, and the once-abundant variety has often been reduced due to supply shortages. However, it remains an essential part of Cuban life, and many Cubans have fond memories of waiting in line for a scoop of ice cream on a hot Havana day.

Coppelia in Cuban Culture

Coppelia has been immortalized in Cuban cinema, most notably in Tomás Gutiérrez Alea's film, "Strawberry and Chocolate" (Fresa y Chocolate). The film, set during the early 1990s, uses Coppelia as an important meeting place for the characters, symbolizing Havana’s urban life and the intersection of different social and political currents in Cuba.

The Famous "Ensalada"

One of Coppelia’s signature servings is the "Ensalada" (literally "salad"). However, it is not a salad in the traditional sense. Instead, it’s a large bowl of five scoops of ice cream, usually featuring different flavors. The Ensalada has become one of the most popular orders, and it’s a treat to be shared with friends or family.

Architectural Significance

Architecturally, Coppelia’s design is unique. The central building, with its flying saucer shape and glass panels, reflects the modernist style that was popular in the 1960s. It’s surrounded by lush greenery, creating an open and welcoming atmosphere. The design encourages people to linger, talk, and enjoy their time in the heart of the city. The circular design of the main building also provides an almost panoramic view of the area around it.

Challenges in the Special Period

During Cuba’s Special Period in the 1990s, following the collapse of the Soviet Union, Cuba faced severe economic hardships, including food shortages. During this time, Coppelia, like many other businesses, faced difficulties, and the variety of flavors dwindled significantly. Despite these challenges, Coppelia remained a symbol of resilience, with people still flocking to the parlor for what ice cream was available.

Coppelia Across Cuba

Though the Havana location is the most famous, Coppelia ice cream parlors have been established in other Cuban cities as well. These locations aim to replicate the same spirit of affordable luxury and are an integral part of Cuba’s culinary culture.

Conclusion

Coppelia is more than just an ice cream parlor; it’s a cultural icon in Cuba, reflecting the ideals of the Revolution, the challenges of the Special Period, and the resilience of the Cuban people. Despite changes in the availability of flavors and long lines, it remains a cherished spot for both locals and visitors, offering a sweet taste of Cuban life.

Would you like to know more about the architect, the flavors they offer today, or its role in Cuban cinema?