Exploring the History and Unique Offerings of Libre, Palmerston North.

Welcome to Libre – the Manawatū's destination restaurant for contemporary Mexican regional cuisine, exceptional beverages, and genuine hospitality.

Some History

Libre opened its doors on Valentine's Day 2020 with a vision to bring elevated Mexican street food to the Manawatū.

Since those early days, we've grown and evolved. With the arrival of Chef Josh Dodd, our menu has transformed into a celebration of authentic contemporary Mexican dining. We've deepened our commitment to regional Mexican culinary traditions, honouring the techniques and flavours that make this cuisine so extraordinary.

Today, Libre stands as the Manawatū's destination for contemporary Mexican regional cuisine – a place where authenticity meets innovation, and where every dish reflects our journey of growth and our dedication to genuine hospitality.

Our Stories

We're excited to share our journey with you through regular stories about the food we create, the beverages we pour, and the rich heritage behind Mexican culinary traditions. Check back monthly for new posts exploring everything from the origins of our signature dishes to the craft behind our cocktails, and the cultural stories that inspire what we do.

What Makes Us Different

Authenticity with a Contemporary Twist We respect traditional Mexican culinary techniques whilst creating dishes that speak to modern palates. Every plate tells a story – from our house-made salsas to our carefully sourced ingredients.

A Journey of Discovery Mexican cuisine is incredibly diverse, with each region offering its own unique flavours and traditions. At Libre, we're passionate about sharing these authentic tastes with our guests, creating an experience that goes beyond just a meal.

Exceptional Beverages Our bar programme is something special. We feature an extensive collection of premium tequilas and mezcals, house-made infusions, and expertly crafted cocktails. From our signature margaritas to innovative creations, every drink is crafted with care and creativity.

Our Values

Everything we do is guided by five core values:

Hospitality – Creating genuine, uplifting experiences where every guest feels valued and special

Excellence – Consistently exceeding expectations in our food, beverages, and service

Integrity – Acting with honesty and transparency in everything we do

Enterprise – Continuously learning, improving, and embracing the spirit of Mexican culinary traditions

Community – Contributing positively to our Manawatū community whilst celebrating inclusiveness and diversity

A Space for Everyone

Whether you're here for date night, catching up with friends over cocktails, celebrating a special occasion, or simply exploring new flavours, Libre welcomes you. We're proud to be a gathering place where the Manawatū community comes together to share great food, exceptional drinks, and memorable moments.

Join Us

Experience regional Mexican cuisine as it's meant to be – authentic, vibrant, and served with genuine Kiwi hospitality. We can't wait to share our passion with you.

Visit us at libre.co.nz to view our menus, book a table, buy a gift card or learn more about our weekly Lotería nights and special events.