Guidebook for San Juan
Food Scene
Very good food in a beautiful restaurant. At night sit outside in the generous patio. Chef Franco is the real deal.
17 Einheimische empfehlen
La Lanterna by Franco Seccarelli
202 C. del CristoVery good food in a beautiful restaurant. At night sit outside in the generous patio. Chef Franco is the real deal.
Celeste
Yummy French cuisine in a casual and lovely atmosphere. 5 min walk from the apt. $$$
French- Morrocan chef Brahim Haouchine born in Lille, graduated from Le Touquet culinary school. I know quite a few people that go there often for brunch. Delicious.
16 Einheimische empfehlen
Bodega Chic
313 C. de la FortalezaFrench- Morrocan chef Brahim Haouchine born in Lille, graduated from Le Touquet culinary school. I know quite a few people that go there often for brunch. Delicious.
This is one of the most sought after dining rooms in Old San Juan. Chef Peter will make sure you are comfortable and very pleased with your meal.
128 Einheimische empfehlen
Marmalade
317 C. de la FortalezaThis is one of the most sought after dining rooms in Old San Juan. Chef Peter will make sure you are comfortable and very pleased with your meal.
The perfectly lighted dining room—with crystal chandeliers, colonial arches, Moorish tiles, long drapes, and checkered marble floors—is a true example of Old San Juan charm. The menu is a mix of classic French with nouveau interpretations. The amuse-bouche may be a translucent green-apple ravioli with creamy goat cheese and roasted almonds—subtle, delicate, and flavorful. One of the menu's stars is the honey-roasted duck breast with a blood-orange wine reduction. Save room for dessert, particularly the soufflé of the day.
18 Einheimische empfehlen
Trois Cent Onze
311 C. de la FortalezaThe perfectly lighted dining room—with crystal chandeliers, colonial arches, Moorish tiles, long drapes, and checkered marble floors—is a true example of Old San Juan charm. The menu is a mix of classic French with nouveau interpretations. The amuse-bouche may be a translucent green-apple ravioli with creamy goat cheese and roasted almonds—subtle, delicate, and flavorful. One of the menu's stars is the honey-roasted duck breast with a blood-orange wine reduction. Save room for dessert, particularly the soufflé of the day.
Café Botánico
A cute little spot for a cozy and satisfying lunch. Hits the spot every time. Fresh baked bread available.
14 Einheimische empfehlen
Spiga Café
258 C. de TetuánA cute little spot for a cozy and satisfying lunch. Hits the spot every time. Fresh baked bread available.
La Madre is a hip Mexican restaurant, with a stylish, young clientele to match. Yes, it covers the standards, including some very tasty tacos, enchiladas, and chilaquiles, but you'll also find innovative, modern, international interpretations of Mexican cuisine. With well-priced margaritas, you can afford to sample more unusual flavors like cucumber, soursop, Caribbean cherry, and tamarind. The sleek dining room feels artsy and dreamlike, with classic cartoons and old movies projected silently onto a wall. Brunch is served on weekends, and seating is available outdoors. A neighboring speakeasy specializes in tequila and mezcal cocktails.
La Madre
La Madre is a hip Mexican restaurant, with a stylish, young clientele to match. Yes, it covers the standards, including some very tasty tacos, enchiladas, and chilaquiles, but you'll also find innovative, modern, international interpretations of Mexican cuisine. With well-priced margaritas, you can afford to sample more unusual flavors like cucumber, soursop, Caribbean cherry, and tamarind. The sleek dining room feels artsy and dreamlike, with classic cartoons and old movies projected silently onto a wall. Brunch is served on weekends, and seating is available outdoors. A neighboring speakeasy specializes in tequila and mezcal cocktails.
Lovely atmosphere, good food right on Plaza Colon in Old San Juan. Service can vary.
67 Einheimische empfehlen
Caficultura
Lovely atmosphere, good food right on Plaza Colon in Old San Juan. Service can vary.
Aliado Bar & Aperitivo
This is a deal- 50’s style Puerto Rican diner style. I love their Sancocho (soup) and Serinata (cod fish served with root veggies)
58 Einheimische empfehlen
Cafe Manolin
251 C. de San JustoThis is a deal- 50’s style Puerto Rican diner style. I love their Sancocho (soup) and Serinata (cod fish served with root veggies)
Good food, fresh fruit frappes, a tad bit on the expensive side for local food but worth it.
22 Einheimische empfehlen
Café El Punto
105 C. de la FortalezaGood food, fresh fruit frappes, a tad bit on the expensive side for local food but worth it.
You must try the risotto. Lots of open air as two sides are embraced by large open archways. Quiet and elegant with historic architectural overtones
Warning- they are currently understaffed and wait times are long. They open at 1 for lunch. Be there at 1 and you will be ahead of challenging wait times.
El Asador
350 Calle de San FranciscoYou must try the risotto. Lots of open air as two sides are embraced by large open archways. Quiet and elegant with historic architectural overtones
Warning- they are currently understaffed and wait times are long. They open at 1 for lunch. Be there at 1 and you will be ahead of challenging wait times.
For a burger, fries and beer. Right around the corner from the apt. You might find a line to get in- it moves at a good clip.
66 Einheimische empfehlen
El Hamburger
402 Av. Luis Muñoz RiveraFor a burger, fries and beer. Right around the corner from the apt. You might find a line to get in- it moves at a good clip.
Live music, good food and a wonderful old-school bartender.
Cali was a former Beach Boy and the music is wonderful. Cuddle in and relax.
29 Einheimische empfehlen
Carli's Fine Bistro & Piano
Live music, good food and a wonderful old-school bartender.
Cali was a former Beach Boy and the music is wonderful. Cuddle in and relax.
Breakfast, Lunch and Coffee with "milk" options. Good sandwiches and they roast on location. Check out the cool equipment. Enter and breathe in the aroma.
83 Einheimische empfehlen
Café Cuatro Sombras
259 C. del Recinto SurBreakfast, Lunch and Coffee with "milk" options. Good sandwiches and they roast on location. Check out the cool equipment. Enter and breathe in the aroma.
St. Germain
156 Sol StreetThe food is yum. Great for lunch and dinner. Across the street.
For a beer and a view of the ocean. Service and food might disappoint. An easy walk from the apt.
29 Einheimische empfehlen
Ladi's Restaurant
Avenida Luis Muñoz RiveraFor a beer and a view of the ocean. Service and food might disappoint. An easy walk from the apt.
Pure & Natural: Fresh Food & Juice Bar
954 PR-25Bodegas Compostela
106 Condado AveCelebrated chef. Delicious food, extensive wine list, memorable cocktails and great service. http://www.viandapr.com/
31 Einheimische empfehlen
Vianda
1413 PR-25 Celebrated chef. Delicious food, extensive wine list, memorable cocktails and great service. http://www.viandapr.com/
Atelier Cocina Abierta
58 Cll CaribeGreat food. Punto-Ya
Chef Paxx is AMAZING
A cozy little tiki bar hidden on the edge of La Placita, Jungle Bird serves up fun tropical vibes; think, bamboo furniture, big leafy plants, sexy mood lighting, and gorgeous cocktails. But despite its playful name and vibes, you'll find serious rum drinks with Caribbean ingredients like fresh coconut, pineapple, and sugarcane—no overly sweet, pre-made piña colada mixes here. The food comes from chef Paxx Caraballo Moll who has been picking up national accolades for work better than you can get at almost any other bar.
30 Einheimische empfehlen
JungleBird
254 C. CanalsChef Paxx is AMAZING
A cozy little tiki bar hidden on the edge of La Placita, Jungle Bird serves up fun tropical vibes; think, bamboo furniture, big leafy plants, sexy mood lighting, and gorgeous cocktails. But despite its playful name and vibes, you'll find serious rum drinks with Caribbean ingredients like fresh coconut, pineapple, and sugarcane—no overly sweet, pre-made piña colada mixes here. The food comes from chef Paxx Caraballo Moll who has been picking up national accolades for work better than you can get at almost any other bar.
Lote 23
1552 PR-25Wicked Lily
1 Cll VendigCafe Carli Concierto
Gelatoooooo anyone? Cool off in Old San Juan with a nice selection of flavors.
24 Einheimische empfehlen
Anita La Mamma del Gelato
65 C. de la FortalezaGelatoooooo anyone? Cool off in Old San Juan with a nice selection of flavors.
Bóveda Restaurante
A career working with top chefs and a successful catering business prefaced chef José Santaella's namesake restaurant in La Placita marketplace. The menu is dominated by tapas, and favorites include the ahi tuna skewers, goat-cheese quesadilla, and morcilla (blood sausage) fritters. The neighborhood is anything but chic, but the restaurant is packed every night with well-dressed socialites, trendsetters, and the "who's who" of Puerto Rican society. The decor is rustic yet elegant, with exposed walls, Edison light fixtures, an interior garden, and a sparkling, tropical bar. Chef Santaella fuses local and international ingredients to perfectly execute Puerto Rican nouvelle cuisine. The cocktail bar is one of the best on the island, so don't leave without trying one of the concoctions by Santaella's mixologists. We can't get enough of the Perfect Lady!
163 Einheimische empfehlen
Santaella
219 C. CanalsA career working with top chefs and a successful catering business prefaced chef José Santaella's namesake restaurant in La Placita marketplace. The menu is dominated by tapas, and favorites include the ahi tuna skewers, goat-cheese quesadilla, and morcilla (blood sausage) fritters. The neighborhood is anything but chic, but the restaurant is packed every night with well-dressed socialites, trendsetters, and the "who's who" of Puerto Rican society. The decor is rustic yet elegant, with exposed walls, Edison light fixtures, an interior garden, and a sparkling, tropical bar. Chef Santaella fuses local and international ingredients to perfectly execute Puerto Rican nouvelle cuisine. The cocktail bar is one of the best on the island, so don't leave without trying one of the concoctions by Santaella's mixologists. We can't get enough of the Perfect Lady!
Set in front of Condado Lagoon, RAYA Rooftop is the crowning jewel of the adults only O:LV Fifty Five Hotel. And the rooftop is really something special. Set over several levels, the rooftop comes with both a really cool pool and a jacuzzi, as well as plenty of stylish and comfy cabanas, sun beds and lounges. While the rooftop pool is exclusive to hotel guests, anyone can visit the ARYA Rooftop and enjoy the amazing views. Divided into indoor seating with A/C and an outdoor terrace with tables and lounge areas, the rooftop is available for relaxing breakfast or lunch by day, as well as more vibrant nights.
9 Einheimische empfehlen
RAYA by Mario Pagan
55 Cll BarranquitasSet in front of Condado Lagoon, RAYA Rooftop is the crowning jewel of the adults only O:LV Fifty Five Hotel. And the rooftop is really something special. Set over several levels, the rooftop comes with both a really cool pool and a jacuzzi, as well as plenty of stylish and comfy cabanas, sun beds and lounges. While the rooftop pool is exclusive to hotel guests, anyone can visit the ARYA Rooftop and enjoy the amazing views. Divided into indoor seating with A/C and an outdoor terrace with tables and lounge areas, the rooftop is available for relaxing breakfast or lunch by day, as well as more vibrant nights.
Very good chef is in da house.
A real treat. 1021 Ashford Ave
104 Einheimische empfehlen
Jose Enrique Puerto Rican Restaurant
1021 Ashford AveVery good chef is in da house.
A real treat. 1021 Ashford Ave
La Isla
Pa'l Mar Gastrobar
Nightlife. Food. Drinks. Welcome to el Viejo San Juan de Nosotros.
10 Einheimische empfehlen
CAFÉ NEGRO
52 C. San JoséNightlife. Food. Drinks. Welcome to el Viejo San Juan de Nosotros.
Sea Señor
205 Calle Jose M. RaffucciWaffle-era Tea Room
100 Calle Marinawaffles to remember
Near the boats, next to the water shuttles to catano and the bacardi factory. Great coffee had at the best price.
18 Einheimische empfehlen
Café Cola'o
Calle MarinaNear the boats, next to the water shuttles to catano and the bacardi factory. Great coffee had at the best price.
Delicious food, BIG portions, great service. In Guynabo, a 20 min drive from Old San Juan.
35 Einheimische empfehlen
Bottles
#2 Cll TabonucoDelicious food, BIG portions, great service. In Guynabo, a 20 min drive from Old San Juan.
Named after the classic film starring Audrey Hepburn, this lively, tropical-chic bistro serves creative Caribbean dishes such as poached lobster in clarified butter or mussels in coconut broth. Weekend brunch is a draw, too, with options like eggs Benedict with mangú. Fashionable locals also come to sip cocktails and enjoy the live music that's often being played.
116 Einheimische empfehlen
Sabrina
1801 C. LoízaNamed after the classic film starring Audrey Hepburn, this lively, tropical-chic bistro serves creative Caribbean dishes such as poached lobster in clarified butter or mussels in coconut broth. Weekend brunch is a draw, too, with options like eggs Benedict with mangú. Fashionable locals also come to sip cocktails and enjoy the live music that's often being played.
Casa Vieja
26 PR-149Under the direction of noted chef Ariel Rodríguez, one of the city's more celebrated restaurants is popular with the local elite for its old-school, fine-dining atmosphere and its international cuisine with strong French influences. A prix-fixe menu is available with or without wine pairings. Begin with a classic cocktail like James Bond's Vesper Martini, or chat with the sommelier, who can help you choose one of the roughly 300 bottles on the list. Local works of art decorate the walls of the formal dining room, giving it a lively, modern touch. Brunch is served on Sunday.
Ariel
801 Avenida de la ConstituciónUnder the direction of noted chef Ariel Rodríguez, one of the city's more celebrated restaurants is popular with the local elite for its old-school, fine-dining atmosphere and its international cuisine with strong French influences. A prix-fixe menu is available with or without wine pairings. Begin with a classic cocktail like James Bond's Vesper Martini, or chat with the sommelier, who can help you choose one of the roughly 300 bottles on the list. Local works of art decorate the walls of the formal dining room, giving it a lively, modern touch. Brunch is served on Sunday.
If you dream of dining right on the beach, head to this Ocean Park favorite. If you prefer air-conditioning, opt for the elegant glassed-in solarium, with black cobblestone floors and slow-turning ceiling fans. The menu—a contemporary, creative mix of Caribbean spices and other tropical ingredients with an accent on fresh seafood—has red snapper, blackened salmon with a Caribbean vegetable medley, and a bouillabaisse-like seafood sofrito with shrimp, mussels, clams, and calamari.
76 Einheimische empfehlen
Numero Uno Beach House
1 C. Sta. AnaIf you dream of dining right on the beach, head to this Ocean Park favorite. If you prefer air-conditioning, opt for the elegant glassed-in solarium, with black cobblestone floors and slow-turning ceiling fans. The menu—a contemporary, creative mix of Caribbean spices and other tropical ingredients with an accent on fresh seafood—has red snapper, blackened salmon with a Caribbean vegetable medley, and a bouillabaisse-like seafood sofrito with shrimp, mussels, clams, and calamari.
Drinks + Ambiance
A place like no other. Head all the way up to the upper level deck and let the staff bring you drinks and edibles.
26 Einheimische empfehlen
Steinway Piano Bar at the Cannon Club
215 C. San SebastiánA place like no other. Head all the way up to the upper level deck and let the staff bring you drinks and edibles.
The Mezzanine
Sol StreetAl Fresco Rooftop Wine Bar
156 C. del SolThis intimate bar is located in Old San Juan and has a very romantic atmosphere. The award-winning bistro has won the Table Chef’s Hat Award for four years straight. To create the romantic ambiance, jazz pianist Carli Munoz serenades his patrons while they savor their cocktails. At times, he is accompanied by a cellist or a quintet. If you visit this venue, make sure that you sample the sangria and the excellent mojitos. Cocktail prices range between $8 – $13 dollars, making this bar very reasonably priced.
29 Einheimische empfehlen
Carli's Fine Bistro & Piano
This intimate bar is located in Old San Juan and has a very romantic atmosphere. The award-winning bistro has won the Table Chef’s Hat Award for four years straight. To create the romantic ambiance, jazz pianist Carli Munoz serenades his patrons while they savor their cocktails. At times, he is accompanied by a cellist or a quintet. If you visit this venue, make sure that you sample the sangria and the excellent mojitos. Cocktail prices range between $8 – $13 dollars, making this bar very reasonably priced.
JungleBird
254 C. CanalsUnique and super yum.
At this elegant, dimly lit, Prohibition-inspired bar, exquisite artisanal cocktails rival those of any mainland American city. Expect refined touches on classics, like a piña colada with coconut water and cinnamon syrup, as well as inventive concoctions like the Cortadito: bourbon, espresso, and chocolate bitters topped with white chocolate shavings. There's also an extensive wine and Champagne menu featuring some big-spender bubbles; this is that sort of place
13 Einheimische empfehlen
Bar La Unidad
562 C. CuevillasAt this elegant, dimly lit, Prohibition-inspired bar, exquisite artisanal cocktails rival those of any mainland American city. Expect refined touches on classics, like a piña colada with coconut water and cinnamon syrup, as well as inventive concoctions like the Cortadito: bourbon, espresso, and chocolate bitters topped with white chocolate shavings. There's also an extensive wine and Champagne menu featuring some big-spender bubbles; this is that sort of place
La Taberna Lúpulo is a gorgeous Old San Juan tavern with soaring beamed ceilings, big oak doors flung open to the street, and a long wooden bar. When you think about drinks in Puerto Rico, you don't immediately think beer bar, but from the moment you walk in, it's clear that's what this spot is about: Shelves of bottles line the walls, the bar boasts a whopping 50 taps, and there's a huge chalkboard scribbled with the bartenders' favorites.
123 Einheimische empfehlen
La Taberna Lúpulo
151 C. San SebastiánLa Taberna Lúpulo is a gorgeous Old San Juan tavern with soaring beamed ceilings, big oak doors flung open to the street, and a long wooden bar. When you think about drinks in Puerto Rico, you don't immediately think beer bar, but from the moment you walk in, it's clear that's what this spot is about: Shelves of bottles line the walls, the bar boasts a whopping 50 taps, and there's a huge chalkboard scribbled with the bartenders' favorites.
Found in the Miramar neighborhood, on top of the Ciqala Luxury Suites, Eter Rooftop & Lounge offers an elevated mix of cocktails, Puerto Rican cuisine and amazing 360 views of San Juan. The wooden-decked rooftop terrace comes equipped with a mix of dining tables, bar stools and comfy loungers. Open daily from around noon to midnight, Eter Rooftop serves everything from lunch, all day brunch and dinner, to drinks in between. The menu includes Puerto Rican cuisine and tapas bites, as well as house special cocktails, wines, sparklings and beers.
38 Einheimische empfehlen
Eter Rooftop & Lounge
752 Av. Manuel Fernández JuncosFound in the Miramar neighborhood, on top of the Ciqala Luxury Suites, Eter Rooftop & Lounge offers an elevated mix of cocktails, Puerto Rican cuisine and amazing 360 views of San Juan. The wooden-decked rooftop terrace comes equipped with a mix of dining tables, bar stools and comfy loungers. Open daily from around noon to midnight, Eter Rooftop serves everything from lunch, all day brunch and dinner, to drinks in between. The menu includes Puerto Rican cuisine and tapas bites, as well as house special cocktails, wines, sparklings and beers.
Casa de Montecristo Puerto Rico
201 C. del CristoShopping
Everyone loves these bags. Ethically made by seamstresses in Utuado. New location on Calle Luna.
Collective Request
159 C. de la Luna
Puerto Rican Art & Crafts
204 C. de la FortalezaThis is a unique shop with a full selection of island spices and sauces. Check out the tasting bar for jams and chutnies, hot sauces and banana katsup.
Spicy Caribbee
154 C. del CristoThis is a unique shop with a full selection of island spices and sauces. Check out the tasting bar for jams and chutnies, hot sauces and banana katsup.
Vice Versa
1951 C. LoízaArts & Culture
Antiguos Arsenales de la Armada Española
Calle La PuntillaGreat art exhibits. Gorgeous building.
Good museum. If you are into art. GO! Rainy day or sunny. In the neighborhood of Santurce, near Miramar. Surrounded by yummy places to eat. Take an uber or take the bus.
473 Einheimische empfehlen
Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico
299 Avenida José de DiegoGood museum. If you are into art. GO! Rainy day or sunny. In the neighborhood of Santurce, near Miramar. Surrounded by yummy places to eat. Take an uber or take the bus.
art, art, art...on the second floor and pretty impressive architecture. This building was a hospital...way back in the day...a good place to visit if it rains.
17 Einheimische empfehlen
Ballajá
art, art, art...on the second floor and pretty impressive architecture. This building was a hospital...way back in the day...a good place to visit if it rains.
Museum of Art and History
150 Bulevar del ValleGood museum. WE LOVE the local arts.
Rebecca is a professional photographer and will create memorable portraits during your visit in Viejo San Juan. During the photo session you will visit fun and colorful locations throughout the old city. www.rebeccaz.com
IG: rz_portraits 787.461.4407
REBECCAZ.COM
105 C. de La CruzRebecca is a professional photographer and will create memorable portraits during your visit in Viejo San Juan. During the photo session you will visit fun and colorful locations throughout the old city. www.rebeccaz.com
IG: rz_portraits 787.461.4407
Historic, interesting, and lovely open space to view art by local artists.
21 Einheimische empfehlen
Galeria Botello
208 C. del CristoHistoric, interesting, and lovely open space to view art by local artists.
Taller Tambuyé
1003 PR-25DanzActiva
Calle BeneficenciaIsland Exploration
Great places to visit in other parts of the island
Some really great airbnb guests informed me that this place for zip-lining is just amazing. They are doing their own farming and using solar energy as well. Visit the mountains!!!
29 Einheimische empfehlen
Batey Zipline Adventure's
110 28 miSome really great airbnb guests informed me that this place for zip-lining is just amazing. They are doing their own farming and using solar energy as well. Visit the mountains!!!
Casa Cubuy
A wonderful place to stay in the rainforest. Amazing views.
In the middle of the island, in the mountains of Utuado, you will find...
Casa Grande Mountain Retreat
Carretera 612In the middle of the island, in the mountains of Utuado, you will find...
An unusual place to stay overnight. Step into the latest in eco-tourism, Puerto Rican style.
bamboo treehouse
An unusual place to stay overnight. Step into the latest in eco-tourism, Puerto Rican style.
Finca Victoria
Framed perfectly by swaying palms and strung with delicate fairy lights, La Copa Llena feels like a rom-com setting. Though the restaurant is known for its farm-to-table tapas, the cocktails alone are worth the trip to Rincón. There are playful tropical riffs on classics (like the Spicy Parchatini, a vodka Martini with a splash of chili-infused passionfruit juice), plus easy-sipping summery concoctions (like the Rincón Shandy, made with Medalla beer, gin, lime, and orange). There's also a small wine list featuring mainly Spanish and Chilean whites.
191 Einheimische empfehlen
La copa llena
Black Eagle RoadFramed perfectly by swaying palms and strung with delicate fairy lights, La Copa Llena feels like a rom-com setting. Though the restaurant is known for its farm-to-table tapas, the cocktails alone are worth the trip to Rincón. There are playful tropical riffs on classics (like the Spicy Parchatini, a vodka Martini with a splash of chili-infused passionfruit juice), plus easy-sipping summery concoctions (like the Rincón Shandy, made with Medalla beer, gin, lime, and orange). There's also a small wine list featuring mainly Spanish and Chilean whites.
Tamboo
Carretera 413 RamalViews, a place to stay, food and drink, seaside.
Dos Aguas
Scuba Dogs at Escambrón Marine Park
Bahía Bioluminiscente
Parks & Nature
For scuba diving lessons and outings look no further.
14 Einheimische empfehlen
Scuba Dogs at Escambrón Marine Park
For scuba diving lessons and outings look no further.
Everything Else
Massage Healing Therapists
https://massagehealingtherapists.com/
Piloto 151 Old San Juan
#151 C. de San FranciscoWork space. Several locations. This one is in Old San Juan on Plaza de Armas
Piloto 151 Santurce Parada 18
Pro work space in Santurce- quick Uber or bus ride.