Havana: Chinatown

Welcome to Le Barrio Chino!
Chinese immigration to Cuba began in the 19th century as a means to add workers to the sugarcane plantation industry. Upon signing slave contracts, many immigrants settled on the outskirts of Havana’s walls, close to the old Zanja Real - an aqueduct that supplied the city with water.
By the 20th century, the Barrio Chino had become a hub of small Chinese-owned businesses profiting from the city’s expansion - making the Cuban Chinatown one of the largest in Latin America.
After the revolution, all private businesses were nationalized, causing thousands of Chinese nationals to flee Cuba. The restaurants and relics remain. It's here you'll find Tien Tan, the place made famous by Bourdain's visit.