best-places-to-eat-in-San Juan, Puerto Rico

Discovering the Flavors of San Juan, Puerto Rico

San Juan, the vibrant capital of Puerto Rico, is a foodie’s paradise. From traditional dishes to modern twists, the city offers a diverse culinary scene that will tantalize your taste buds. Here are the best places to eat in San Juan, with a focus on popular street food:

Street Food Heaven: La Placita de Santurce

Located in the trendy Santurce neighborhood, La Placita is a bustling marketplace offering an array of delicious and affordable street food options. Be sure to try:

  • Alcapurrias: Deep-fried dough pockets filled with beef or chicken.
  • Churros con Cajeta: Sweet fried dough pastries coated in cinnamon sugar, served with a side of creamy cajeta (caramel sauce).
  • Pernil: Slow-roasted pork marinated in a mixture of garlic, oregano, and sour orange juice.

Other Must-Try Street Food Spots

  • El Jibarito: This humble eatery in Old San Juan serves mouthwatering Mofongo (mashed green plantains with your choice of filling) and Arroz con Gandules (rice with pigeon peas).
  • Kasalta: A popular food truck parked near La Placita, offering innovative dishes like Tostones con Cangrejo (fried green plantain chips topped with crab meat).

Traditional Eateries

  • La Bombonera: This Old San Juan institution has been serving traditional Puerto Rican cuisine since 1902. Try their famous Quesito (a sweet, flaky pastry filled with cream cheese).
  • El Asador: This casual eatery in the Río Piedras neighborhood specializes in Asado de Pernil (roasted pork) and Arroz con Pollo (chicken and rice).

Modern Twists

  • Lote 23: A trendy food park in Santurce featuring a variety of vendors, including La Estación, which serves creative dishes like Tostones con Pulpo (fried green plantain chips topped with octopus).
  • Barrachina: This popular brunch spot in Old San Juan offers innovative takes on traditional Puerto Rican dishes, such as Mofongo French Toast.

Insider Tips

  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at La Placita, especially on weekends.
  • Don’t be afraid to try new things – the locals are always happy to recommend their favorite dishes!
  • Wash it all down with a cold Medalla Light, Puerto Rico’s national beer.

Get Ready to Indulge

San Juan’s culinary scene is a reflection of its rich cultural heritage. From traditional street food to modern twists, there’s something for every palate and budget. So come hungry, and get ready to discover the flavors of San Juan!