Favela Cubana, New York’s newest restaurant featuring classic delicacies of Brazil and Cuba, has officially opened its doors after weeks of careful preparation and quality assurance.   Located between two of Manhattan’s stylish neighborhoods, SoHo and The West Village, Favela Cubana serves the highest quality foods from two distinct countries in a lively and informal atmosphere.

Owner, Marco Britti has seamlessly fused elements of both countries in every aspect, from cuisine to décor, music to cocktail specials. A native of Italy, Britti has spent a significant amount of time both in Brazil and Cuba studying music and food, both clearly reflected in his new venture.  “What began as a musical journey through Brazil and Cuba has now blossomed into a wider cultural passion that shapes my new culinary venture” Britti notes.

Marco Britti was born and raised in Naples, Italy, a city known for its rich history, art, and culture.  Having spent time in both Brazil and Cuba learning new drumming techniques and refining his skills, Britti finally emigrated to the United States in1996 and settled in New York City to advance his studies in music.  Once in New York, he studied at the prestigious Drummer Collective while working at the trendy SoHo restaurant, SoHo Streak, as a server and staff captain, where he began his journey amid culinary industry and acquired a wealth of meaningful industry contacts.

After completing his studies with Drummer Collective, he immediately immersed himself into New York’s music circuit as a sought-after drummer. Performing at many of the city’s most iconic venues, including Webster Hall, Roseland Ballroom and CBGB, Britti’s reputation quickly provided him the opportunity to work with music sensations Mark Anthony and Jennifer Lopez.

What began as a musical journey through Brazil and Cuba has now blossomed into a wider cultural passion that informs Britti’s new culinary venture.  In early 2009, Britti open Favela Cubana, a restaurant that features traditional Brazilian and Cuban delicacies in a festive environment that reflects a mélange of cultures.  Favela Cubana fuses elements of Brazil and Cuba to create a hybrid experience of food, art, and rhythm.

Britti still pursues a love of percussion in his band, Shadow Lie.

In a city abundant with quality restaurants and bars, Favela Cubana strives to serve as an oasis, where guests can relax, unwind and introduce their palate to new flavors and lively music.  Featuring a rotating list of live performers and musical talents, each night brings a new experience and chance to eat, drink, dance, and bond.  “I consider myself a lucky man to have been able to bring elements that I am passionate about; food, art, and rhythm”.

Flavena Cubana, is located at 543 LaGuardia Pl, between Bleecker & West 3rdStreets. For breakfast M-F 8-12:30PM, S&S 8-12:30PM. Its open for lunch Monday through Sunday from 12:30 – 4:30 PM, for brunch Saturday and Sunday 12:30 -4:30 PM, and for dinner M-W from 4:30- 11:30PM, Thur-Sat 4:30-1:00AM and Sun from 4:30-11:30PM. For more information on the private event room or to learn more about the establishment, please call at (212) 777-6500 _ or log on to your website www.favelacubana.com

Tags: Brazilian, Cuban, dining, food, restaurants