By Molly Given

Cuba Libre Restaurant & Rum Bar is celebrating 25 years the best way they know how—with a vibrant party, and everyone is on the guest list.

Since opening in December 2000 as the city’s first Cuban restaurant, the award-winning hotspot has blended bold flavors, handcrafted cocktails, and high-energy entertainment into an all-in-one experience. Now, as it celebrates its anniversary, the return of Executive Chef Guillermo Veloso signals both a homecoming and a renewed commitment to the dishes and traditions that have defined Cuba Libre during its run.

Locals can experience the original chef’s return through a complimentary Anniversary Open House on Saturday, March 7 (with a snow date of March 8). From noon to 4 p.m., the all-ages event invites both longtime regulars and first-time visitors to sample returning original dishes and fan favorites, alongside rum tastings and specialty cocktails from Don Q Rum.

Guests 21 and over can also enjoy a complimentary beer, wine, or sangria, while everyone can try their luck at the restaurant’s prize wheel.

In total, the lineup includes mojito-making classes, photos with Cuba Libre’s “Lola” character, a set by DJ Decybals, and salsa performances from the Temple University Esencia Latina Club. No tickets or fees are required, though guests who pre-register online can secure a bonus $25 gift voucher.

As noted before, the anniversary also marks a meaningful return in the kitchen. Executive Chef Guillermo Veloso, whose early-2000s tenure helped shape the restaurant’s culinary identity, has reintroduced several of his original creations, including the Suntanned Salmon, Boniato Relleno, and Duck Frita Salad. These revived dishes will remain on the Philadelphia menu throughout 2026. Veloso has also collaborated with Culinary Directors Kevin Couch and Angel Roque to refresh the 25th Anniversary Chef’s Tasting, offering a contemporary take on the culinary side.

And finally, Cuba Libre is asking guests to share photographs of first dates, engagements, birthdays, anniversaries and other celebrations held there, to create a memory wall display for the open house. The best part? Guests can send photos and stories to info@cubalibrerestaurant.com by Feb. 28 for a chance to win a $200 Cuba Libre gift card.

To find out more about Cuba Libre (10 S. 2nd Street) and its anniversary party, visit cubalibrerestaurant.com