A POPULAR street food trader is the latest venture to join the independent food hall line up at Stroud’s Five Valleys.

The team from the family run business are transforming the large unit next to the Artisan Baker into a little piece of Cuba - ready for a special launch evening planned for October.

The menu will feature a delicious range of authentic Cuban street food dishes, all created by owner Alexis Medina who is also planning a range of cocktails for discerning diners.

Cuban born Alexis has built up a great following of street food fans with his colourful mobile kitchen - hosting pop ups, festivals and events right across the region, including occasional Five Valley pop ups.

Now he’s planning to bring his unique style and flavours to the brand-new restaurant at the busy town centre location. 

Alexis is a self-taught chef whose love of cooking started with homecooked recipes on the woodfired stove of his family home in Cuba.

His Cuban specialities include frijoles negros (black bean stew) arroz con girs (rice and peas) as well as Cuban tortillas and a delicious range of sides including sweet potato, cassava and plantain fries.

Los Cobanos will also be serving an exciting range of mojitos – from the classic mint and lime to more unusual garlic and thyme flavours.

The new restaurant will have a relaxed family feel with a creative children’s area and striking artwork.

Alexis and his family are planning to create a relaxing space which will evolve over time, with customers encouraged to contribute to the décor.

Alexis said: “We want to create a really special space, Cuba is a real cultural melting pot and we’ll definitely be reflecting that with the look and feel of the restaurant, as well as with our menu.

“Cooking is something that’s really instinctive to me and I love making food that makes people happy. We can’t wait to bring our little piece of Cuba to the centre of Stroud.”

Centre Manager at Five Valleys, Erica Malpass, said: “Los Cubanos is the perfect addition to our fantastic line up of independent food traders here at Five Valleys and we can’t wait to see their new business open in October.”