Events at The Cuban, Christchurch

About The Cuban

The Cuban was a Havana-themed bar and event space located at 236 St Asaph Street in central Christchurch (www.eventfinda.co.nz) (www.mapquest.com). It presented “a gorgeous piece of Havana” with colourful Cuban décor, street‐art murals and a covered open courtyard (www.eventfinda.co.nz). The venue featured two interconnected areas – an indoor bar/restaurant and a glass-roofed outdoor patio – designed to immerse guests in a Latin American party atmosphere. Patrons could sample classic Cuban street-food tapas and cocktails (plus a house-brewed “Cuba Laga” lager) as they relaxed at low tables or high‐top leaners (www.eventfinda.co.nz). According to its listing materials, The Cuban was laid out across about 200 m² with a mix of dining tables, sofas and a dance floor (www.realestate.co.nz) (www.sharedspace.co.nz). It could accommodate roughly 300 people on its combined floorplan (about 150 in the indoor bar and 150 in the patio) and held a liquor licence until 3 am (www.realestate.co.nz) (www.sharedspace.co.nz). A retractable louvered roof allowed natural light and airflow into the patio during the day (www.realestate.co.nz). Notably, a large “Dream It” mural by a local artist covers one exterior wall, underscoring the venue’s streetside charm (www.canterburystories.nz).

Owners and history: The Cuban opened in the 2010s as a fresh Cuban‐style lounge in Christchurch’s post-earthquake rebuild. It quickly gained a reputation on the local scene for lively music nights and creative cocktails. (For example, its venue description said: “At The Cuban, we do our best to tailor each function to suit your personal requirements… providing a superior experience” (www.sharedspace.co.nz).) Unfortunately, the business was listed for sale in late 2024 – a deadline‐sale advertisement appeared for 18 December 2024 (www.realestate.co.nz) – and operations were paused around that time. Visitors planning a trip should verify whether The Cuban has since reopened under new management or concept, as it is not currently trading in its original form.

Events and Programming

With its nightclub permit and large space, The Cuban hosted all kinds of entertainment. It was not a formal theatre, but rather a club venue where DJs, salsa bands and guest musicians kept the dance floor busy. Weekly themed nights were common: for example, ‘‘Latin dance’’ or salsa evenings, DJ-driven dance parties, and bottomless brunch events. Over the years the venue also hosted touring comedy and music acts. Notable past shows include New Zealand stand-up comedian Lewis Spears on tour (20 October 2017) and the NZ date of The Big Lez Show comedy tour (18 August 2017) (www.ticketfairy.com). In short, The Cuban’s calendar was mix of Latin-themed club nights, live DJ sets, and occasional headline acts. Cover charges tended to be modest (often in the range of NZ$10–$20 for music events) and sometimes waived on slower nights.

In 2022–2023 The Cuban even housed a Flying Burrito Brothers pop-up restaurant. The Burrito Brothers team took over the space and served Mexican street-food alongside Cuban cocktails (www.flyingburritobrothers.co.nz). Hit items like burrito bowls, tacos and churros appeared on the menu, blending into The Cuban’s decor. (Some patrons noted that after this pop-up started, diners were offered either the Cuban menu or Flying Burrito specials, including churros and “tacos patatas” (www.tripadvisor.com).) Apart from those crossover events, the venue’s own programming included occasional salsa and rum festivals, tropical-themed parties, and New Year’s Eve celebrations. For example, one reviewer recalled a NYE event advertised as Latin live music, even though the playlist mixed in unexpected styles (www.tripadvisor.com).

Tickets and Booking

The Cuban did not maintain a traditional box office or ticket booth. For special events or shows, tickets were typically sold online through venue listings or at the door on the night. Promoters often used local event sites (e.g. Eventfinda) or social media to advertise shows. In practice, this meant that walk-up or advance purchase via a mobile app was common. For popular concerts or club nights, it was wise to secure tickets early – either online or by phoning ahead – because sold-out nights could occur. On most nights, however, entry was paid at the door as a cover charge (often around $10–$20), and walk-ins were welcome if capacity allowed. VIP or reserved seating rarely applied since the space was mostly general admission, but large groups could sometimes reserve a section or standing area for a prepaid function.

Seating and Layout

The Cuban’s layout was open-plan with flexible seating. The main bar area consisted of mixed low tables, dining chairs and high-top “leaner” tables, all oriented toward the bar and dance floor. In this central room you could sit on wooden chairs or sofas where available. Through large bifold glass doors, the space extended into the covered courtyard. The courtyard featured Chesterfield-style leather sofas and armchairs along the edges, plus more leaner tables, surrounding a wooden dance floor. A second bar counter was accessible to courtyard patrons. This area was often left standing-room for dancing on busy nights, but could be rearranged with extras seating for private events. In all, the venue offered seating for up to ~150 people inside and ~150 in the patio simultaneously (www.sharedspace.co.nz).

Best spots: For a full experience, many guests preferred to sit or mingle in the patio area — the vaulted, louvered roof gives it an open-air feel by day and an airy party vibe at night. The lounge sofas there were cushy “VIP-style” spots (good for a group drink). If listening to live music, standing near the front of the dance floor kept you close to the action and the PA speakers. Conversely, the indoor bar area gave a more laid-back, chatty atmosphere. Avoid the far corners tucked behind the bar during peak events, as sound can be lower there and views of the dance floor are limited. In general, every seat had an unobstructed line of sight because there were no pillars or balconies – it’s all one level. (www.realestate.co.nz) (www.sharedspace.co.nz)

Acoustics and Ambiance: The Cuban had a lively acoustic character. With bare brick walls and high ceilings, music tends to feel loud and resonant. In practice this created a club-like thump suitable for dancing, but conversation can get challenging during a DJ or band set. Sofas and rugs in the lounge areas help absorb some sound for a cozier feel. The retractable roof added daylight and fresh air in warmer weather, and could be closed for indoor comfort. Colourful party lighting (spotlights on the bar, string lights and neon accents) completed the immersive Cuban vibe after dark.

Getting There and Parking

The Cuban’s exact address is 236 St Asaph Street, Christchurch 8011 (www.mapquest.com). This puts it on the south side of Christchurch’s CBD, just a few blocks east of the city centre and about a 5-minute walk west of the town stadium (www.realestate.co.nz). It sits between Colombo Street (to the west) and Antigua Street (to the east), with the entrance on St Asaph. Because it’s so central, most visitors arrive by private vehicle or public transit.

• Driving: There is no dedicated parking lot for The Cuban itself, but several paid carparks are very nearby. For example, Wilson Parking operates covered lots at 230 St Asaph (entry via the archway) and 200 St Asaph (both just a block away), which charge roughly NZ$2–$3 per half hour (www.wilsonparking.co.nz) (www.wilsonparking.co.nz). The Antigua Street carpark (corner of St Asaph & Antigua) is also a short walk and costs about $3.50 per half hour (www.wilsonparking.co.nz). Metered street parking is available on St Asaph and adjacent streets (typically in 2-hour zones with payment by plate after 8 AM). Free parking can sometimes be found after 6 pm on street or late-night in adjacent areas, but always check the signs.
• Public Transit: Multiple bus routes stop within a block of The Cuban. Notably, Metro Route 3 (Sumner–city) and Route 80 (Lincoln–city) both call on St Asaph Street just east of Fitzgerald Avenue (moovitapp.com). Other suburban lines (such as Route 60 and 81) also pass nearby on Colombo and Moorhouse avenues. From these stops it’s just a 1–2 minute walk north or south on St Asaph or Fitzgerald to reach the venue. The central Christchurch bus exchange (Cathedral Square) is about 5–10 minutes’ walk northwest.
• Rideshare and Taxis: Uber, Ola and local taxis can drop you off at the curb right outside The Cuban on St Asaph Street. The nearest taxi ranks are on Colombo Street (at The Hub) or in Cashel Mall (by the railway station). Late-night buses do not run past midnight, so rideshare or taxis are the way back to outlying suburbs after events.
• Cycling/Walking: Central Christchurch is highly walkable. The Cuban is just 10 minutes’ walk from Cathedral Square and the core downtown area. Cyclists can park at nearby bike racks (on St Asaph or at the adjacent Convention Centre). Pedestrians coming from the stadium or Addington suburb can walk via Antigua or Moorhouse Ave in about 10–15 minutes with standard city crossings.

Inside the Venue

Upon entering, guests step into a warm, tropical-toned lounge. The decor included dark wood furnishings, carved lamps, and vintage Cuban posters. A long, backlit timber bar (with round stools along it) was immediately visible (www.realestate.co.nz). When busy, a doorman at the entrance checked IDs (especially for late shows) and implied a casual smart dress code. (Most patrons dressed in neat casual or trendy clubwear; think jeans and a nice shirt rather than formal attire.)

Atmosphere and Service: The Cuban cultivated a party vibe. Staff were typically energetic and friendly, though on crowded nights service could slow. At least one review noted attentive bartenders and a fun playlist of Latin rhythms (www.tripadvisor.com). Live shows sometimes had extra security on hand. There was no formal coat check – small bags could be stowed under tables or on chairs. All personal belongings remained the owner’s responsibility. As a nightclub, The Cuban enforced standard rules: no outside alcohol or illegal substances, no weapons, and valid ID required to drink (usual Kiwi license law applies: minimum drinking age 18). Cameras and phones were generally allowed for personal use, but professional photography or video recording without permission was discouraged.

Food & Drink: The Cuban operated a full bar and kitchen. The cocktail menu showcased traditional Cuban drinks – mojitos, daiquiris, rum punches – plus local craft beers (including its own “Cuba Laga” lager) and non-alcoholic smoothies. The tapas-style food menu offered items like croquettes, empanadas, flatbreads and a signature Cubano sandwich. (During the Flying Burrito Brothers pop-up, Mexican dishes like tacos, queso, and churros were also available (www.tripadvisor.com).) Prices were moderate – cocktail around $18–$22, small plates $8–$15.

Amenities: The venue was fully climate-controlled (air-conditioned) and even offered free guest WiFi (www.sharedspace.co.nz). A built-in sound system and multiple TV screens were on hand for events (the TVs could show sports games or music videos). There were restrooms both inside the bar and one near the courtyard (www.sharedspace.co.nz). Overall The Cuban functioned like a modern bar/club hybrid: large screens, plentiful heaters for cool nights, and a sound rack for DJs.

Nearby Amenities

The Cuban’s central location means plenty of nearby options:

• Restaurants: Around the corner on St Asaph and Colombo Streets are casual eateries (pizza, burgers, curry) and bakeries. The Bohemian Bakery and Café is just a block away (255 St Asaph) for coffee or brunch. The nearby Christchurch Casino complex has fine-dining restaurants (e.g. Ponti’s Steakhouse) and a brewery bar. A few doors from The Cuban is a Thai restaurant and the Stray Dog Pub & Kitchen. Walking distance includes the town’s best cafes (C1 Coffee Roasters at Margaret Mahy playground, King of Snake burgers). In short, you can easily grab dinner or drinks in the area before a night at The Cuban.
• Bars & Nightlife: The venue is only a block from The Dirty Land (a popular whisky and cigar bar) and a short walk from Cashel Mall’s cocktail lounges. After-hours options in the central city (Drinking establishments open until 3am) abound, so you can seamlessly hop to another club or bar nearby post-show.
• Hotels: A range of lodging is close by. The Crowne Plaza and Distinction Hotel are 5 minutes east, and the Rendezvous and Ibis are 7-10 minutes north by foot. Budget hostels (like JUCNZ) are also nearby. If driving in, many city-center hotels have valet parking or deals at the adjacent Wilson lots for guests.
• When to Arrive: For concert nights or club shows, arriving 30 minutes before start time is wise – this lets you beat any lines and get a drink beforehand. The Cuban’s entrance was around 8 pm for typical 9pm events. On quiet weeknights one could usually just walk straight in. For weekend parties, expect a small queue at peak times. (Tip: If you’re ringing for a large group or table, booking ahead via phone was sometimes possible.)

What Makes This Venue Special

The Cuban stood out as one of Christchurch’s only true Cuban/Caribbean outlets. It recreated the feeling of a Havana cantina in every detail – a reviewer noted that on a Friday night “you have stepped out of time and country and entered into a slice of Havana” (www.tripadvisor.com). Its eclectic décor (Dream It murals, palm‐frond accents, vintage posters and glowing orange back‐lights) was uncommon in New Zealand. The mix of wood-fired tapas, exotic cocktails and Latin dance music gave it a unique niche in the city’s nightlife.

Architecturally, it impressed too. A large folding glass wall and automated louver roof made it versatile for both indoor club nights and semi-open-air summer parties (www.realestate.co.nz). The venue’s cosy Chesterfield lounge and fireplaces (built into the indoor bar area) added a touch of old-world lounge luxury (www.realestate.co.nz). In its prime, The Cuban also played an important role in Canterbury’s cultural scene: it provided a late-night gathering place in the south city, drew crowds after major stadium events (being only a 5-minute walk from the home ground (www.realestate.co.nz)), and even hosted a trendy Mexican pop-up (Flying Burrito Brothers) that blended two cuisines in one space (www.flyingburritobrothers.co.nz) (www.tripadvisor.com). Both artists and patrons often praised its friendly, festive atmosphere. In short, by fusing Cuban music, food and art downtown, The Cuban offered an experience unlike anywhere else in Christchurch.

Visitor Tips and Information

• Accessibility: The Cuban’s layout was all on one level and had step-free entry, so it was wheelchair-accessible. There was space for wheelchairs at tables and a designated accessible restroom (as with most modern bars) on site. If mobility access is a concern, check that any temporary steps at the entrance are removed and staff are notified in advance.
• What to Bring: You’ll need photo ID (NZ driver’s license or passport) if you plan to drink alcoholic beverages. Dress comfortably but smart – smart-casual is safest. Bring cash or card (the bar accepted tap payments). A small jacket might be useful: although it’s covered, the open-roof design can feel like outdoors when the roof is retracted. Earplugs can be handy for sensitive ears on loud band nights. If coming from the stadium or a concert, note that crowds will form around The Cuban early, so give yourself extra time.
• Things NOT to Bring: No outside food or beverages are allowed by liquor law (you must purchase on-site). Large backpacks or Santa-sized bags may be subject to search or refused entry – best to keep belongings to a minimum. Also, since it’s an entertainment venue, professional recording equipment or unapproved cameras are generally prohibited without management’s consent. Well-behaved companions and a positive attitude are always expected.
• Door Policy and Age: The Cuban was strictly 18+ (some sources may list 20+, depending on events) for any night-time entry due to its late licence. Under-18s were not admitted to late shows. It had no formal uniform dress code beyond “smart casual” – no sports jerseys or obscene costumes – but it did enforce normal nightclub practices (ID checks after 11pm, locked doors after last call).
• Timing: Doors usually opened 30–60 minutes before an advertised event. If you arrive early, you can often get a good spot by the bar. If arriving late, keep in mind that staff stop serving food about 30 minutes before closing, and alcohol sales cut off by 3 am (so the music winds down around that time). On busy weekend nights it’s normal for the bar to charge a small cover fee (e.g. $5) even if no band is scheduled, in which case having some cash ready is helpful.
• Weather & Plan B: The covered courtyard meant rain was rarely an issue, but in heavy storms the roof could be closed completely, turning the outdoor dance floor into an indoor area. For any scheduled outdoor entertainment, the venue would typically proceed rain or shine, thanks to its design.
• Nearby Transportation (post-event): If you stay late, note that city buses wind down by midnight, so arrange a taxi or rideshare early. There’s usually plenty of Uber/Ola coverage at peak times in the CBD. Taxis (Rodney, City Cabs, Blue Star) can pick up around the corner (Colombo Street) or be called to St Asaph Street.
• Insider Tip: The Cuban had special promotions from time to time. For example, mid-week deals like 2-for-1 cocktails or food specials might run. Posting or emailing the venue occasionally provided alerts for such offers. Also, if you’re interested in Latin dance, ask if any salsa classes or live conga nights coincide with your visit – The Cuban sometimes hosted community dance evenings.
• Customer Reviews: Recent visitor reviews (on TripAdvisor and Google) praised the atmospheric décor and drinks, but some warned about occasional slow service or unexpected music choices (www.tripadvisor.com) (www.tripadvisor.com). Overall the consensus was that it was a fun spot to try something different in Christchurch.