Cuba Libre, tucked into Pointe Orlando, had been on my list for a while. When we lived nearby I’d often pass it while running errands and think, “We have to go.” With its Havana-inspired exterior, it always looked inviting.
I’m a fan of heavily themed restaurants, and Cuba Libre delivers. We finally made it for their Tropical Brunch, offered Saturdays and Sundays from 12 PM to 4 PM, and I’d say it’s among the better brunches in Orlando.
Cuba Libre Orlando Quick Facts:
- Location: Pointe Orlando on International Drive
- Meal: Brunch (Saturday & Sunday, 12 PM – 4 PM)
- Atmosphere: Tropical and vibrant with a touch of nightclub energy
- Price Point: $$-$$$ (most brunch dishes range from about $18–$32)
- Standout Dish: Pressed Cuban Bread with Mango Butter — sweet, salty, soft and crispy all at once
- Reservations: Not required but recommended; can be made online or by phone
- Dress Code: No dress code for brunch or regular dinner; there is a dress code for Cuba Libre Nights
Atmosphere & First Impressions
Even from the street, the exterior feels intentional — light plaster, decorative windows and a vintage marquee evoke Havana architecture. (Fun personal note: my partner and I spent time in Havana and it’s one of our favorite cities.)
There’s an outdoor hostess stand and a spacious patio for al fresco dining, but we opted for an interior booth to take in the decor.
Our booth was cozy with thick padding and a pleather cover, positioned beneath a large mural of Cuba. Painted teal shutters, faux plants and textured walls gave the space a warm, lived-in feeling.
We had a half-booth, half-chair setup overlooking the main dining floor. A tucked-away bar sits in an arched corner and the central area feels open, with two-story ceilings and dim faux-candle lighting. A wide staircase leads to a second floor modeled after a Havana town square, which is typically open during dinner service.
During our visit staff were setting up for Cuba Libre Nights, a nightclub-style event with music and dancing that runs on weekends.
What’s on the Menu? Brunch & Dinner
Our server, John, arrived quickly with a stack of menus. I appreciate variety, and Cuba Libre provides plenty of options.
The Brunch Menu is split into two sides: one with Cuban takes on classic brunch dishes—sweet and savory combinations with tropical ingredients—and the other listing brunch beverages and cocktails, including bottomless drink options.
The Dinner Menu, which is available during brunch hours as well, highlights classic Cuban small plates and sharable entrées, along with a selection of wines and Cuban-inspired cocktails like mojitos and caipirinhas.
The menu balances fun and variety without feeling overwhelming—perfect for groups or singles who want to try a few things.
What We Ordered
We decided to share several items to sample a range of dishes.
Drinks: Bottomless Brunch Cocktails – $17 per person
Bottomless options include classic mimosa, pineapple mimosa, pomegranate mimosa, sangria (red or white) and bloody marys. Since a single mimosa is $9, the bottomless option offered good value.
We ordered the classic mimosa option but received individual stemmed flutes rather than a shared pitcher. Our server explained we could mix and match since the drinks were served individually, which I liked.
I tried the classic mimosa (refreshing, a bit heavy on OJ for my taste) and the white sangria (light, dry and fruity). Overall a solid value though not extraordinary. Rating: 6.5/10.
Starter: Mango Butter and Pressed Cuban Bread (V)
First basket complimentary; $4.75 for additional baskets
This was a highlight. Warm slices of crispy, buttery Cuban bread served with a lightly whipped mango butter. The combination felt like a tropical take on French toast—sweet, savory and texturally satisfying. Rating: 8.5/10.
Starter: Smoked Cubano Pork Belly – $15
Three pieces of tender, spice-rubbed pork belly glazed with rum and pineapple sat atop black bean hummus with pickled pineapple, microgreens and a balsamic drizzle. The pork had a nice char and melted in the mouth; each bite combined sweet, smoky and tangy elements. Rating: 7.5/10.
Brunch Entrée: Jamón y Huevo Breakfast Sandwich – $19.50
Served with yucca fries and mayoketchup. The sandwich looked simple but delivered on flavor: a soft toasted brioche bun with country ham, bacon, cheddar and sautéed onions bound by a rich mayo-ketchup. The sandwich was enjoyable, but the yucca fries were a bit soggy and underseasoned. Rating: 5.5/10.
Brunch Entrée: Huevos Benedict – $21
Two benedicts on toasted brioche with smoked salmon, avocado, poached eggs, red onion, hollandaise and crispy capers, served with breakfast potatoes topped with salsa and sour cream. The eggs were perfectly poached and the smoked salmon and avocado complemented the dish well. The hollandaise was light and the capers added welcome texture; the breakfast potatoes, however, were soggy and lacked flavor. Overall: 6.5/10.
Service & Overall Experience
- Pacing: The meal flowed smoothly—apps arrived first, followed promptly by entrées.
- Staff: John was friendly and attentive, answered questions and checked back appropriately.
- Vibe: Relaxed but lively, with Latin music in the background. The restaurant felt pleasant and not overcrowded during our Saturday visit around 1 PM.
- Refills & Clearing: Water refills were timely and plates were cleared efficiently.
- Cleanliness: The space and restrooms were well maintained.
Additional Info & FAQs
Inside Pointe Orlando on International Drive.
Not required but recommended, especially for brunch or busy weekends.
Brunch is served Saturday & Sunday from 12 PM – 4 PM.
Yes. Weekday and weekend early evening happy hours are offered, typically at the bar and bar-table seating only.
Pointe Orlando has a large parking garage a short walk from the restaurant. Valet is often available as well.
Final Thoughts: Is it Worth it?
Atmosphere: 7/10
If you enjoy themed restaurants, the attention to detail here is delightful. The decor and music create an immersive, fun environment.
Food: 6.5/10
There were a few misses, but most dishes were flavorful and well executed. This is hearty, approachable food with Cuban influences rather than fine dining.
Value: 6/10
Prices are reasonable for International Drive. Portion sizes and the bottomless drink option add to the value.
Location & Parking: 5.5/10
Pointe Orlando’s garage makes parking convenient and affordable for a visit.
Who will like this spot?
Couples on date night, brunch groups, tourists on I-Drive and locals who enjoy themed dining. It’s family-friendly during daytime hours and has options for kids.
- Accessibility: There’s an elevator to the upper level.
- Noise level: Comfortable for conversation during brunch.
- Kid-friendly: Yes—there’s a kids’ menu with familiar options.
Would we return?
Yes. We’d like to try the dinner menu and visit again for brunch.
Overall Rating: 6.5/10
Not fine dining, but a fun, flavorful, and well-priced brunch option on I-Drive worth trying.
If you enjoy immersive decor, Cuban flavors and good cocktails, Cuba Libre is worth a visit—whether you’re local or just exploring Orlando.
Have you been to Cuba Libre? Share your favorite dish or tag me in your brunch photos—I’d love to hear what you tried!
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