One of region’s best-loved independent venues is celebrating a remarkable milestone this autumn. 

Cubana first opened on Trippet Lane in November 2000, but the journey wasn’t without a challenge. Due to licensing delays, the team were unable to serve alcohol for the first few weeks – so customers were invited to bring their own wine. The unexpected twist meant the focus naturally shifted towards food, laying early foundations for what would become one of Sheffield’s biggest success stories 

Since then, Cubana has evolved into a true Sheffield institution. It has become renowned for its tapas, cocktails, live music and late-night dancing. 

Adrian Bagnoli, who co-owns Cubana with long-time business partner Brad Charlesworth, explains: “When we started, we just wanted to bring a bit of Havana sunshine to Sheffield. We never imagined Cubana would weave itself into the fabric of the city in the way it has. The real soul of Cubana comes from the people – our incredible staff over the years and the customers who’ve supported us from day one.” 

Adrian’s love for Latin culture began in Florence in the 1990s, where he frequented a Brazilian nightclub called Maracana. Captivated by the atmosphere, he felt Sheffield was ready for something similar leading to the launch of Sheffield’s first Latin club night ‘Viva Salsa”, a fortnightly event first staged at Club Uropa in June 1995. 

“The opening night attracted 700 people and was electric,” Adrian recalls. “it was clear there was this appetite for something new – Latin music and dancing.”

That momentum led to Adrian joining forces with Brad to open Cubana on Trippet Lane in November 2000. Cubana spent nearly 14 memorable years on Trippet Lane, becoming synonymous with warm hospitality, great music and unforgettable nights. 

“Customers still fondly talk about our time at Trippet Lane, it holds a special place in many customers’ hearts – we made so many fabulous memories there. One of the highlights has got to be hosting members of the Buena Vista Social Club and having some of their musicians perform live at Cubana following their City Hall shows.”

In 2014 though, it was time to say goodbye to Trippet Lane and a new chapter. 

A two-floor venue in Leopold Square (formerly Platillos) became available, and after discussions between Adrian and Brad, the team made the decision to move to a new home. Working with local artist Paul Staveley and architect Paul Brady, they recreated Cubana’s unique, atmospheric style. The new venue opened just four days after the final night on Trippet Lane in July 2014.

Over the years, Cubana has welcomed some notable guests, including Aleida Guevara, daughter of Che Guevara.

“Having Aleida visit us was something really special – she was so complimentary about the food, the atmosphere, the décor, everything really.”

Other visitors have included iconic boxers such as Panama’s Roberto Durán and British legend Ricky Hatton, along with a host of sporting celebrities who regularly drop in.

Cubana’s list of accolades is long. Its rum collection – more than 300 varieties sourced from across the globe – was hailed by world rum ambassador Ian A. V. Burrell as one of the finest in the world. Cubana also made national headlines for selling Havana Club 1519 at £250 a shot, the first bar outside Cuba to stock it.

Cubana also organises the renowned ‘Salsa in the Square’ events, outdoors in Leopold Square on Bank Holiday weekends and music remains at the heart of the it’s DNA, staging a busy live music programme every week.

While the atmosphere and music are central to Cubana’s identity, the team are equally proud of the food. Their tapas menu blends Latin American favourites with timeless Spanish influences, earning both local and national recognition.

Asked about the secret to 25 years of success, Adrian added: “To still be here after 25 years in hospitality really means something. It comes down to hard work, shared values and the strong bond Brad and I have built. But above all, it’s the good fortune of having very many fantastic staff members work for us and being part of the Cubana family over the years.

“Cubana has always been about having fun – that uplifting holiday feeling, live music, good food, friendly people and a bit of escapism that just makes people smile and de-stress as soon as they walk in. We’ve seen nearly three generations of families from Sheffield enjoy Cubana, and that’s really special.”