Cuba Libre is a welcome addition to the trendy (and expensive!) Knox-Henderson area just north of downtown Dallas. It helps fill a defecit in the amount of good, authentic Caribbean food in the DFW metroplex.
From the whimsical architecture and colors of the exterior to the dark and stylish interior, Cuba Libre proves itself to be a visual feast before you even taste the food. The atmosphere is friendly and loud. There is a small dining area downstairs (MAYBE 20 tables), but don't let the small size fool you. This place is NOT the place for an intimate date -- it gets downright RAUCOUS on weekends. This is a place to come with friends.
The bar upstairs serves divine mojitos (mint cocktails, VERY refreshing) and you can sit at the bar or at large cushy booths or couches, where you can also dine. Happy Hour is 4-7pm Mon-Fri, and on Tuesdays after 7pm, all their drinks are $3 (except top shelf). The bar has a balcony that also permits dining and the patio downstairs is for dining only. The only downside to the patio is that the tables are round and only accomodate four comfortably. If your party is larger, you have to makeshift by moving tables together.
The staff at Cuba Libre is moderate. They are very helpful and friendly when handling group reservations and they ALWAYS call me the day after to make sure my group was satisfied and had a great time. However, the service can be somewhat slow and indifferent, by Dallas standards, ESPECIALLY when dining in a large group. (There is a 26% service surcharge for groups over 6!)
Food is superb! You should definitely start with a basket of chips and salsa, which, annoyingly, are not free here. However, the salsa is smoky and delicious, served piping hot. DEFINITELY worth the $2 they charge. Another favorite appetizer is the plantain chips served with three lovely dipping sauces.
By far one of the best culinary bargains in Dallas is Cuba Libre's taco platter. They allow you two tacos of your choice, plus black beans and rice, for only $7.99 all day long. These tacos are FAT, stuffed with unique gourmet combinations. Try grilled swordfish with avocado, cabbage, and lime cream. Or jerk chicken with spinach, black beans, and jicama. Also try the inexpensive traditional Cuban food, like pressed media noche sandwiches for $6.99.
The main menu is sumptuous, but pricier, with beef tenderloin coated with molasses and black pepper ($15.99). The lobster and shrimp tamales are divine ($13.99). Every entrée I've tried has been exceedingly delicious.
Cuba Libre is a winner. In a sea of pretentious, over-priced restaurants, it has a fun party atmosphere, a superb bar, and food that exceeds any expectation. Enjoy!