The most solicited mixed drink in the Dominican Republic is by far the Cuba Libre (Free Cuba). The origins of the Cuba Libre name are fuzzy but one widely accepted story is that of a group of American soldiers who sat down at a Cuban bar at the end of the Spanish American War. One of the soldiers ordered rum, soda, ice cubes and a lime wedge. The drink sparked the curiosity of others and they quickly ordered the new concoction. It is said that one soldier suggested a toast of “Por Cuba Libre” (For Free Cuba) in honor of their recent independence.

No matter what the name’s origins might be, sipping a cold Cuba Libre is part of Dominican culture. At a bar or club, your Cuba Libre will be served in a glass, but at a colmado (Dominican mini-markets that double as nightspots), you create your own Cuba Libre. Just remember a good bottle of rum, a bottle of Coca Cola or Pepsi, cups, ice and a lime. For a twist try a Santo Libre, by substituting the Coke or Pepsi for 7 Up or Sprite.