10 Great Restaurants in Puerto Rico

Raices is one of Old San Juan’s most popular restaurants that’s right in the heart of the historic quarter. You can find it just a skip away from the scenic Catedral neighbourhood and the bustling port.

Raices is usually busy – which is a good sign – feeding diners with local cuisine that stays true to its Old San Juan roots. Serving up traditional favourites such as mashed plantains with mofongo (crispy pork crackling) as well as fresh seafood and steak, you’re sure to find a Puerto Rican dish that suits your palate. Don’t forget to try a cocktail or 2 – Raices makes them with local fresh fruit and generous pours of spirits.

When you walk into El Jibarito, you might think you’ve wandered into a Caribbean canteen from the 1970s. The tables are bare and the cocktails come in scratched plastic pitchers. But when the food is served, you understand why this is one of the best restaurants in Puerto Rico.

The Puerto Rican fare at El Jibarito is cooked to perfection, with locals claiming it tastes, “just like grandma’s recipes”. Dishes like fried and flaky empanadas, cubed beef steak, and juicy red snapper are prepared to order, so be ready to sit back and take in the local vibes for a while. The cocktails are also famous here, so spending a few hours here shouldn’t be a problem.

Orozco’s restaurant is a popular place to bring the family after a day at the beach, which is a short stroll away. Specializing in local meat dishes, this is the place you want to be after you’ve worked up an appetite.

If you come just once, don’t miss the famed churrasco (skirt steak), a cut of beef known for its intense flavour. Or, try the tender lomo de cerdo (pork loin). All meat specials come with large sides of your choice. Try the rice and red beans to complete the Puerto Rican culinary experience.

Casita Miramar is a Puerto Rican restaurant in San Juan that’s well known for its fresh ingredients and colourful atmosphere. A blend of casual and fine dining, the dishes are presented with gusto and the flavours don’t disappoint. Try the chorizo buñuelos (fried dough fritters with spicy sausage), and comida criolla (fried ground beef with taro). This is also a top spot for steaks.

Casita Miramar achieves a greater depth of flavour thanks to its herb garden located onsite. Much of the seasoning that goes into each dish is harvested to order – it’s something you can taste and see in each vibrant dish and craft cocktail. 

Deaverdura restaurant in Old San Juan is an adventure no matter how many times you’ve been there. There are no reservations, no menu and not much organization in the small dining room. But the (somewhat) organised chaos is what gives this place its charm.

Come in, grab a table and eat what’s fresh that day. You’ll almost always find crispy croquetas and delicious steaks served with plantains, rice and beans. The bar is also well-stocked with local liquors and fresh juices for cocktails. Don’t be surprised to see locals strumming guitars, watching football, or dancing through the crowds here. The vibe is as addictive as the food.

Cafe El Punto is a place for large plates of traditional creole food, a relaxing cup of coffee or a round of icy draught beers with friends. Whatever you come here for, you’ll enjoy some of the best services in Puerto Rico. The staff are known for being extremely kind and knowledgeable about the menu and the area.

Start with a delicious fresh juice and then move on to tangy ceviche and prawn stuffed avocado. There are traditional pork and beef dishes too. After your meal, browse Cafe El Punto’s small onsite craft shop. 

Jose Enrique is creating elevated fusion cuisine with traditional Caribbean flavours. Located on the water, this restaurant specialises in fresh seafood, including halibut, snapper and lobster. There’s always a catch-of-the-day option, which is practically pulled from the water and put on your plate. You’ll also find hearty beef stews, fried plantains and croquetas here – all prepared and served with a modern twist.

Chef Jose Enrique was twice nominated for the prestigious James Beard Award, which recognizes culinary excellence in America. If you’re a foodie visiting Puerto Rico, this San Juan restaurant should be at the top of your list.

La Cambija is located near the tiny beach village of Rincon, and the vibes at the restaurant are fitting. The outdoor venue is surrounded by lush greenery and food is served to you at picnic tables. The fresh air and salty breeze from the nearby beach add to the flavour of the Caribbean fare.

At La Cambija, it’s all about uber-fresh seafood. From prawns to octopus to clams to fish tacos, you can taste the treasured flavours of the sea in every bite. Of course, everything is garnished with plenty of fresh salsa, avocado and local herbs.