Deb, Orlando with regards to the alcohol I was painting a picture in my head of what would bring the most revenue. That bar area is kind of small. Do you make more money selling booze or with additional seating? You're probably right- some nice cocktails would accentuate the guest experience and get the most bang for the buck, so to speak.
With that in mind- Cuba is known for rum. Why not have a nice little selection of exceptional rums? Bourbon and now Tequila are dominating the landscape right now. That would be a great niche. Cuba is also tied to Hemmingway and his Daquiri. Give him a nod and make some nice handcrafted Daquiris. They pair brilliantly with the food.
Deb, your idea of Old Havana is exactly what I had in mind. I'm not sure of the cost, but wouldn't a faux-stucco façade on the side of the building facing the city would draw attention to the building? So the location would look like one of those houses in downtown Havana?
I like the idea of some kind of archetypical logo. Something hip. What about the front of a '56 Chevy?
Just tossing around some ideas!
PS: Something that popped into my head just now is the subject of FOH uniforms. You have to sell your style. I love the idea of a nice vest on your Bartender/Key Employee person. I also enjoy the idea of a Fedora on you Orlando- if you're going to be the managing partner. Something that quickly identifies you as the owner to the guest. Andrew at 211 is known for his bowties and seersucker attire- I have always admired that approach.