The architecture is tremendous; the culture is fascinating. But the historic neighbourhood of Old San Juan is one of the Caribbean’s Meccas for food, with one of the region’s most highly-developed food scenes. You could spend a week walking just on Calle Fortaleza and not be able to try every high-quality eatery, from local fare to contemporary fusion cuisine. Here are six great restaurants to try on your next trip. What’s your recommendation for a great bite in OSJ?
Marmalade Restaurant & Wine Bar
Led by innovative, globe-trotting Chef Peter Schintler, a veteran of restaurants including Le Cirque, Marmalade is an experience — and one of the region’s top eateries.
Trois Cent Onze
In the heart of Old San Juan, this is all about classic French cuisine. Think classic French onion soup, fresh foie gras and bouillabaisse.
DragonFly
One of several top-notch eateries on the main drag of Calle Fortaleza, specializes in Latin-Asian fusion.
Aguaviva
It’s now been around for more than a decade, but this fish-focused eatery by Chef Hector Crespo is still turning heads. It’s part of the same group that runs Dragonfly, too.
El Picoteo
The El Convento hotel is one of our favourites, and El Picoteo is the property’s signature restaurant, offering up a range of Spanish tapas.
Panza Restaurant
This property in the Cervantes boutique hotel in Old San Juan emphasizes the fine-dining experience, with excellent food and a great wine selection in a restored 18th century building. Note: it’s closed for the low season – so try it when it reopens in November.