Catharsis Restaurant and Lounge

On weekends, Catharsis Restaurant and Lounge pulses with the Latin drum beats of Buena Vista Social Club's "El Cuarto de Tula." At this 80-seat Little Havana eatery, almost everyone sings along because they all know the lyrics. Partners Hernan Stutzer, Marcelo Malvicino, and Vivian González Díaz opened the restaurant in 2011 hoping to offer a mélange of Latin American and Caribbean cuisines with a bit of Italian inspiration. The kitchen is helmed by Colombian chef Alberto Llano, whose menu dabbles in eclectic and Latin American classics. Dishes arrive with generous garnishes of sprinkled parsley, and there are many of the expected plates: caesar and caprese salads, grilled chicken, mushroom ravioli, and the unavoidable chocolate soufflé. But given the intoxicating vibe, you're unlikely to hear complaints about the mostly traditional offerings. Coupled with the increasing popularity of Viernes Culturales -- Little Havana's monthly arts festival -- the restaurant has become a Calle Ocho destination for fine dining, music, and a lively dose of Latin nightlife.