Cuban

For a taste of Havana, head to Pambiche (2811 NE Glisan St., 503/233-0511, www.pambiche.com [1], 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Mon.–Thurs., 11 a.m.–midnight Fri., 7 a.m.–midnight Sat., 7 a.m.–10 p.m. Sun., $11–17), a popular, colorful restaurant and night spot. The spicy, citrusy tang of Cuban food blends Spanish and creole flavors, and it’s served up with a light touch—just the thing to accompany a cocktail from the lengthy list of sassy Caribbean drinks. For chef-owner John Connell Maribona, good Cuban cooking is in his blood—he credits his prowess to his Cuban mother and grandmother, both great home cooks. Pambiche is very popular; go early or late to avoid lines.