Restaurant Owner Revives Family Legacy in Asheville’s Culinary Scene

In a vibrant corner of Asheville, North Carolina, Hemingway’s Cuba has emerged as a beacon of resilience and cultural heritage. The restaurant, owned by Alex Fraga, reflects his family’s journey from exile back to their roots through a shared passion for Cuban cuisine. This transformation not only highlights Fraga’s culinary skills but also honors the rich history of his family’s past.

A Journey Through Exile

Fraga’s story begins with his father, who described their early life as a “silver spoon life,” a term that captured the ease and privilege they once enjoyed in Cuba. However, at the age of 17, everything changed dramatically. Forced to flee their homeland, Fraga’s father and other family members faced the hardships of exile. This reality shaped Fraga’s upbringing and ultimately inspired his return to the culinary arts.

“My father used to call it a ‘silver spoon life,’ until that life was taken away,” Fraga recalls. “His experiences instilled in me the importance of resilience and the power of food as a means of connection.” This philosophy has become the cornerstone of Hemingway’s Cuba, where patrons are not just dining but also experiencing a piece of Fraga’s heritage.

Rebuilding a Culinary Legacy

Fraga opened Hemingway’s Cuba in early 2023, aiming to recreate the flavors he cherished from his childhood. The menu is a tribute to traditional Cuban dishes, featuring everything from ropa vieja to picadillo. Each dish tells a story and serves as a reminder of the family’s journey and the culture that shaped them.

The restaurant has quickly gained popularity in Asheville’s bustling food scene, attracting both locals and visitors eager to explore authentic Cuban cuisine. Fraga emphasizes that dining at Hemingway’s Cuba is about more than just food; it’s about celebrating resilience and the importance of community.

Asheville, known for its rich arts scene and diverse culinary offerings, provides the perfect backdrop for Fraga’s vision. “I want people to feel a sense of belonging when they walk through our doors,” he explains. This sentiment resonates with many, reinforcing the restaurant’s growing reputation as a cultural hub.

Beyond the dining experience, Fraga is committed to giving back to the community. A portion of the restaurant’s proceeds supports local charities focused on immigrant rights, a cause close to his heart due to his family’s history. This initiative reflects Fraga’s desire to foster a sense of community and support others who have faced similar challenges.

As Hemingway’s Cuba continues to flourish, Fraga remains dedicated to his mission of sharing his family’s heritage through food. In doing so, he is not only preserving a legacy but also enriching the cultural fabric of Asheville. “Every plate is a reminder of where we came from and the journey we’ve taken,” he says, embodying the spirit of resilience that defines both his family and his restaurant.

Through his culinary endeavors, Alex Fraga not only honors his family’s past but also paves the way for future generations to appreciate the beauty of their heritage. As he reflects on his journey, it is clear that Hemingway’s Cuba stands as a testament to the power of food and the enduring strength of the human spirit.