Tiffany Farrow/The Valdosta Daily Times Carlos and Olga Rogue, far right, owners of the Havana Cafe, along with Rafaela Almaguer and Jessika Burkhart, offer authentic Cuban dishes in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere.

VALDOSTA — When you step out of the parking lot and into the Havana Cafe, owner Carlos Rogue said it’s like customers are stepping onto a little piece of Cuba, but in South Georgia. The walls are blue like the beautiful water that surrounds the island and photos and decor give customers a glimpse into life there.

Rogue’s little bit of homeland opened June 6, ready to serve the people of Valdosta with authentic Cuban dishes that boasted a bold taste of the islands.

“We wanted to bring the flavor of the Caribbean to the Valdosta area,” Rogue said. “People seem to be addicted to Cuban sandwiches with sweet cheese, ham and pork — they are pressed and hot.”

Cuban sandwiches are not the only great food offered at the Havana Cafe. The steam table offers hot dishes like roast pork, rice and black beans, made from scratch everyday. Breakfast on Saturday features favorites like ham eggs, sausage and omelets with a Cuban twist. Even French fries are made from scratch.

Rogue is a Cuba native who left for the United States at the age of 12. The others on his staff are also from the island. Together they bring a great atmosphere to the restaurant, one that Valdostans may enjoy while dining on great homemade dishes.

Though business could always improve, Rogue said that there is a large market for the Cuban flavor in Valdosta.

“Every is so excited. They tell us they never want us to leave,” he said. “A lot of people have a taste for Caribbean food, especially those moving from (metro areas) where there are more opportunities to try it.”

Those who want the authentic cuisine for parties or weddings should inquire with Rogue about catering services.

He and partner Olga Rogue said they plan to stay in the Valdosta area for a long time — as long as the citizens of Valdosta accept them. They hope that will be a long time.



Q: Do you like your location?



A: Yes, we have very good neighbors, they are friendly people. The location is convenient with a lot of traffic in the area.



Q: How has business been?



A: It’s been picking up, but it could be better. Not many people know we are here quite yet.



Q: What are your specialties?



A: Chicken fricassee and boliche (pot roast). We also offer Cuban sodas and just started serving Cuban pastries.



Q: What are prices like?



A: Very affordable. Many customers are telling us we are too cheap.



Q: What are your expectations?



A: We want to grow and maybe open others, even a chain where we can spread them out of town.



Q: What should people know?



A: They should know about the quality of our food and the great taste. We want them to feel like they are home because this is a little piece of our home in Georgia. Also, it will be beneficial for our customers to tell me what they like and how they feel. They should be free and comfortable to approach me because I want them to be satisfied 100 percent.



Havana Cafe

Owners: Carlos and Olga Rogue

Phone: (229)333-8898

Location: 402C Northside Dr.

Hours: 11:30 a.m. until 9 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8:30 a.m. until 9 p.m. Saturday