"Benni Jama is an outdoor barbecue joint that overwhelms the senses. Walking in, you are greeted by a life-size figure of Celia Cruz sitting on a rocking chair as her music blasts overhead. There is a bunch of outdoor seating, but we like the shaded church benches surrounded by caricatures of famous Cubans. As you’re waiting for your order, look up and appreciate the Sistine Chapel-esque mural featuring an impressive cast of political figures. The barbeque here is on par with its extravagant exterior, beautiful and full of flavor. Start with an order of the thick chicharrones. There’s a variety of grilled meats marinated in mojo, and the half chicken has a subtle smoke to it. Sit down, eat, and watch the old standups by Alvarez Guedes playing in the background—or just take in the hyper-muscular forms of Fidel Castro and Vladamir Putin." - yuliet llanes
