Puerto Rico Restaurant Guide
Daniel Mode
Daniel Mode
Laura Schulthies
Laura SchulthiesThe island of Puerto Rico has something to offer every traveler. Its sun-filled beaches, traditional cuisine and rum-filled nightlife are just some of the attractions that draw tourists to this beautiful island. There are food options for everyone here, whether you love pork, seafood, or fancy margaritas. Here’s our guide to the best Puerto Rico restaurants!
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Where to Eat
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San Juan
San Juan is Puerto Rico’s capital and is famous for its lively energy, including salsa dancing, fine dining and nightlife. Here, you’ll find luxury hotels and resorts, shopping, art museums and more. San Juan is where the Old World mixes with modern luxury to provide a truly unique experience.
Ponce
Ponce is the most populated city outside of San Juan and features a well preserved old town. Known as the “Pearl of the South,” you’ll enjoy fantastic views of the water, spectacular architecture and delicious food and drinks in this gorgeous city.
Rio Grande
The Rio Grande region of Puerto Rico is located on the island’s eastern side. It is both a city and a municipality that offers luxurious resorts, hiking trails and abundant local dining opportunities.
Vieques
Vieques is a Caribbean island off the coast of Puerto Rico, most famous for its secluded beaches, snorkeling and bioluminescent bay. It’s well worth the visit, with great dining options and a National Wildlife Refuge on the island.
Budget Restaurants
Pinky's
Pinky’s is a beloved diner-style spot right on Ashford Avenue in Condado, serving up hearty breakfast and brunch to locals and tourists alike. The portions are famously huge, consider splitting a sandwich, and the iced coffee is legendary. Don’t miss the Boricua Especial or the fresh fruit smoothies. They bring you the whole blender!
Mesa Cocina & Vinateria
Visiting Ponce would not be complete without enjoying an evening at this upscale wine bar with a complete Puerto Rican dining experience. You will find fantastic service at Mesa Cocina & Vinateria in Ponce’s historic district. Here you’ll find rich traditional dishes like lobster and steak, but make sure to try the house sangria with your meal. Valet parking is complimentary.
Papa’s Pizza
Located in the heart of Cabo Rojo, Papa’s Pizza cooks up award-winning New York-style pizza beloved by locals and tourists alike. Menu items go beyond delicious pizza to include mozzarella sticks, ham calzones, and Detroit-style options. The secret? Cold-fermented dough and authentic New York technique.
Rincon Smoke Shack
The Rincon Smoke Shack is located on PR-115 across from the Rincon of the Seas Hotel; this little roadside shack is full of flavor and requires a stop to taste the Kansas City Style BBQ. Open Thursday through Sunday, with specials including Brisket Saturday and Rib Tip Sunday. Items sell out early, so make sure to arrive at opening for the best selection.
Biekes Bistro
Biekes Bistro is a popular Caribbean-Argentinian restaurant located in Isabel Segunda, just steps from the Vieques ferry terminal. It doesn’t matter if you’re in the mood for a lobster tail, whole red snapper, or mofongo; Biekes Bistro serves it all up in a casual atmosphere. They also offer freshly baked pastries and custom cakes for special occasions.
Midrange Options
Dinghy Dock
This very popular restaurant is first-come-first served and is located right on the water in Culebra, Puerto Rico. Savor the fish-centered meals while enjoying the enormous cocktail, wine and beer list at the new bar area. Don’t miss the fresh fish, it’s legendary! Vegan and vegetarian options now available.
Eter Rooftop and Lounge
Eter Rooftop and Lounge gives off that effortless chill vibe with great cocktails and fantastic food. While you might’ve come here to enjoy a meal, you’ll stay for the 360-degree views and beautiful sunsets. Make sure to cheers to the evening with a few of their famous mojitos.
Oyster Shack
Oyster Shack in San Juan is just a few steps from Condado Beach and serves up freshly opened oysters, crudo, clams and ceviche. The best part about dining here is that the restaurant works with local, small-scale fishermen for fresh, sustainable food. So, get your oysters early before they run out!
Ekelekua
Ekelekua is one of the best brunch spots in Rio Grande, with delicious menu options such as pulled pork tacos, guava French toast and ham croquettes. Located near El Yunque National Forest, it’s the perfect stop before or after a rainforest adventure. Stop by here to enjoy everything great about breakfast and Latin food.
Hotties Bar and Restaurant
Hotties Bar and Restaurant is located just across from the water in Carolina, Puerto Rico. Known for excellent drinks and even better margaritas, kick back and relax at this fashionable bar with outdoor seating. Don’t miss out on the fantastic tapas options or frozen drinks that bring many diners to Hotties Bar and Restaurant.
Sofia's Italian Steakhouse
Sofia’s Italian Steakhouse is bursting with Italian charm and ambiance right in Old San Juan. The restaurant offers a variety of pasta creations, traditional Italian fare, and flavorful steaks cooked to perfection. With delicious pizzas with fresh basil, succulent steaks, and perfectly cooked pasta, you can’t go wrong at Sofia’s. If you’re in the mood for pasta, make sure to try the Linguine Regina or the Fettucini Alfredo. In the mood for steak? Try the Signore Tomahawk or the 24 oz Porterhouse prepared with special brown garlic butter. Request outdoor patio seating for beautiful plaza views, and enjoy a glass of wine from Sofia’s impressive wine menu to complement your meal.
High-End Restaurants
Cocina Al Fondo
Hidden away in Santurce, Cocina Al Fondo is helmed by Chef Natalia Vallejo, the first Puerto Rican James Beard Award winer. The seasonally rotating menu reimagines traditional Puerto Rican cuisine with locally sourced ingredients, many from the restaurant’s own garden. Don’t miss the spiny lobster with tostones or the creative craft cocktails on the charming outdoor patio. Reservations essential.
1919
Tucked away in the Condado Vanderbilt Hotel, Executive Chef Ciarán Elliott, formerly of New York’s legendary Per Se, leads 1919 Restaurant. Here you can expect mouthwatering contemporary dishes with Puerto Rican flair. The extensive wine list pairs perfectly with ocean views. Formal dress code required (no shorts, no sandals for men). Reservations are highly recommended.
Marmalade
Located in Old San Juan, Marmalade offers an immersive tasting menu experience of Caribbean and International fusion. Chef Peter Schintler’s acclaimed 5-course menu features seasonal creations, guests select each course from options that may include the signature Tiny White Bean Soup, fresh local seafood, and inventive desserts. Wine is available by the glass and features options from around the world.
Baleares Restaurant
Baleares Restaurant might be easy to miss as it is in the Meliá Hotel in Ponce, Puerto Rico, but it’s a must-visit. This fine-dining restaurant introduces the flavor of the Balearic Islands to diners in incredibly inventive ways. Reservations are required, so plan ahead.
El Quenepo
Only a few steps from the beach in Vieques, El Quenepo is the fanciest restaurant on the Island. It features fantastic food with beautiful views and great service. Diners will love the open-air dining experience but will stay for the creative, fresh seafood options including prawns, octopus and swordfish.
More
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