Summary
San Juan has earned a reputation as the culinary capital of the Caribbean, and the dining scene is outstanding—but it’s not strictly Puerto Rican cuisine. In fact, many of its best eateries don’t classify as pure comida criolla. Fusion cuisine is very popular, as is modern or “nouveau” Puerto Rican fare. So where in San Juan can you find true island cooking? Where can you get your mofongo, asopao, and lechón? The restaurants on this list have got you covered.
La Casita Blanca
Address: 351 C. Tapia, San Juan, 00915, Puerto Rico
Phone: +1 787-726-5501
No stay in San Juan is complete without a trip to the humble, casual, and revered Casita Blanca. Many in San Juan feel that it represents the heart and soul of Puerto Rican food, served in a rustic setting that’s low on frills and high on personality. The menu is written on a chalkboard, the Sunday brunch is a must-try for anyone who wants to gorge on island home cooking, and the cab ride here is more than worth it. If you want to eat like a ‘Rican, you have to start here.
Platos
Address: 2 C. Rosa, Carolina, 00979, Puerto Rico
Phone: +1 787-791-7474
Platos doesn’t get a lot of hype; it’s tucked away in the small Coral by the Sea Hotel and off most tourists’ beaten path. However, the food is true Puerto Rican. From the tried and true mofongos (served with your choice of creole or garlic sauce) to the local seafood (try the chillo entero or fried whole red snapper) to the ubiquitous roast pork, it will give you the island’s staples with minimal fanfare and plenty of taste.
Raíces
Address: 315 C. Recinto Sur, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico
Phone: +1 787-289-2121
From the colorful decor to the soulful cooking complemented by live music from the island interior, Raíces provides a full immersion into Puerto Rican culture. Even the name, which means “Roots,” defines it. You’ll find all the usual suspects (mofongos, asopao, frituras, and other goodies), plenty of rum-based cocktails, and a strong cup of freshly ground coffee to finish off your meal.
La Fonda El Jibarito
Address: 280 Sol St, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico
Phone: +1 787-725-8375
The colorful rustic ambiance, blue-collar comida criolla staples, and economical prices combine to make La Fonda El Jibarito a popular spot on Sol Street in Old San Juan. Although some people simply don’t like the food, and there might be hits and misses here, the menu remains traditional, and the service can be slow. Nonetheless, in the old city, it’s a longstanding homage to the Jíbaro, the country folk from the mountainous interior.
La Placita
The Plaza del Mercado, or La Placita, is a large plaza in the Santurce neighborhood. It transforms from a food market by day into a popular hangout by night, especially on weekends, making it a significant draw for locals and savvy tourists. This ultra-casual spot has a cluster of local eateries serving simple Puerto Rican fare. Furthermore, it’s a great place to sample the diverse array of finger foods and snacks that comprise such a large part of the island’s cuisine. La Placita is located at Dos Hermanos and Capitol Streets, and taking a taxi is advisable since parking on weekend nights can be challenging.
Barrachina
Address: 104 C. de la Fortaleza, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico
Phone: +1 787-725-7912
How can the self-proclaimed birthplace of the piña colada not be on this list? Guests at Barrachina appreciate its central location on Fortaleza Street, its pleasant courtyard, and its tasty fare. Although the prices are higher than other restaurants on this list, they reflect the overall dining experience. Moreover, an added benefit of Barrachina for travelers on their last day in town with a late-night flight out of Puerto Rico is the free luggage storage service it provides.
Escambrón Beach Club
Address: Parque del Tercer Milenio, FW86+QCP, C. San Agustín, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico
Phone: +1 787-724-3344
Escambrón Beach Club has two things going for it. For one, it’s got a full menu of Puerto Rican classics. For another, it’s one of the few Puerto Rican restaurants in San Juan that’s right on the beach. Come here for the bacalaítos (cod fritters), carrucho (conch) cocktail, asopao, and chuletas can can; stay for the beach and the azure waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Located in Puerta de Tierra, it’s a hike from Old San Juan, but an easy cab ride from the tourist zones.
