I can’t believe after all the years I spent in the Philadelphia Region, I never made it to the original Cuba Libre on 2nd. street in downtown Philly. A lot of that had to do with my work schedule, but I’m still kicking myself for having waited so long to enjoy their amazing cuisine! The good news is we have our very own Cuba Libre on I-Drive in Orlando and not only does it have the same delicious dishes as the original restaurant, it’s got the decor and ambiance of “Old Cuba” in a much larger space. Can you say Salsa Dancing?
When you first walk into the restaurant you find yourself in a beautifully recreated Old Cuba Rum Bar. Sit at the bar and enjoy the company of one of the bartenders or sit at one of the tables available in the bar area.
Of course if you’re there for dinner you’ll want to dine in the main dining room, with the open-air setting, tropical ambiance, vintage décor and upbeat Latin music.
Chef / Partner, Guillermo Pernot’s delectable menu of classic & contemporary Cuban cuisine, makes it very difficult to choose from their menu, your best bet is to go with a group of friends and try as many dishes as you can. This is their famous Lechón Asado- slow roasted marinated pulled pork, classic sour orange mojo. Amarillo chile smashed yuca and black bean broth. Vigorón slaw.
I also got to try the Ropa Vieja –Classic Cuban shredded beef brisket, stewed with tomatoes, bell peppers, onions and red wine. Maduros and steamed white rice.
Of course no dinner is complete without dessert and I jokingly told them to leave all 8…… and they did! They told me that they get that request more times than you would think.
They also plied us with delicious Cuban Rum Drinks and Cuban Coffee……sigh. It was a night to remember! Lisa and my friend from blab, Linda Barnby were there to enjoy this feast with me. Linda taking time from her day to meet up with us and graciously acted as my second camera during the blab.
They have an beautiful and large upstairs area for Parties and Dancing. I’m told the Restaurant turns into quite the nightclub late in the evening as they move out the tables and chairs for delicious Latin Nightlife! Their residents DJs spin Merengue, Salsa, Bachata and Latin Open Format music beginning at 10pm every Friday and Saturday for your dancing entertainment. Cuba Libre Restaurant & Rum Bar also regularly features performances by their professional dancers & master percussionists, theme parties and special guest DJs.
Cuba Libre has locations in Philadelphia, Atlantic City, Washington D.C. and Orlando. Visit their website for more information: Cuba Libre Restaurant and Rum Bar
Kim | a little lunch
Dennis, there are so many fantastic things about your post, photos, video, and visit to Cuba Libre that I almost can’t put ’em into words. (Yes, me, lol!) First, I loved their “entertaining” philosophy — it’s evident right down to every house-made ingredient, sauce, dish, presentation, and “so glad to see you” smiles. Your reaction to their shrimp said multitudes! I also LOVE that coffee & coconut milk concoction… will be trying that at home!
Quick “aside”: I’ve been putting off a painting project (an accent wall in my kitchen) but I was SO inspired by this, I cranked up some Latin music, poured myself a white rum with lime, and got on my “get to it” duds. (BTW, the paint color is “Salsa!” 🙂
Thanks again for this review. I hope to experience Cuba Libre one day!
Chef Dennis Littley
Thank you Kim! You know me and food, its a love affair that knows no bounds! I’m happy to hear you enjoyed my post, I had a great time writing it!
Nancie McDermott
What a gorgeous setting, and the food looks so fine. I adore ropa vieja, even though it usually (in my ktichen) looks plain — hearty and good but plain. I love this elegant and witty presentation — it has wings! Thanks for the visual tour and conversation about a most inviting place to dine.
Chef Dennis Littley
It is one of my all time favorite restaurants Nancie! Thanks so much for stopping by!