What kind of music would you expect to hear at a Lebanese/French restaurant? Well, Cuban, apparently

Two lovely ladies on vocals and percussion, and one dashing gentleman on the guitar make up the charismatic Cuban trio ‘Harmony’ – the resident act at Red Carpet restaurant that’s been making diners shimmy their shoulders over shish tawook for three months now. “We’re from Cienfuegos, Cuba, so we specialise in Latin music – salsa, bossa nova – you name it.”

Following stints in Kuwait and Al Ain, they’ve already made their mark at Abu Dhabi’s Souk at Qaryat Al Beri, with a few regulars front row too. “We’re proud to be here, representing Cuba and our music, and it’s been going really well. Management and the crowds have been fantastic,” says leader Alex.

“For me, the most interesting and enjoyable thing to see is Arab and other non-Spanish people enjoying our music; really, that’s the most important thing.” Typical of a non-native crowd when faced with a Spanish band:

“Everybody wants to hear ‘Guantanamera’,” Alex adds. “A lot of our songs are in Spanish but we also play a few American songs at the request of the audience – they love to hear ‘Hotel California’.” Unfortunately classic Arabic tunes aren’t in their repertoire. “We’ve been asked to play some before. The melody is no problem, but sadly we don’t speak Arabic,” Alex smiles. “We do try our best to play something for everyone.”

The band’s spicy singing sessions will resume after Ramadan. But if you’re seeking authentic Cuban music in a setting sans salsa or guacamole dip, it’s worth the wait.

Where? Red Carpet restaurant, Souk Qaryat Al Beri, Shangri-La Hotel
When? Sunday to Thursday, 8.30pm to 12.15am