San Juan is a food lover’s dream, bursting with incredible restaurants and an array of delicious cuisines. With over 1,000 dining spots, it can be overwhelming to choose where to eat. That’s why I’ve put together a list of my absolute favorites that I can’t wait to visit again!

• La Casita De Rones (Puerto Rican / Caribbean)

Situated right on the waterfront with an aesthetic that could rival any top influencer’s feed, this stunning restaurant is adorned with hanging plants and flowers that sway gently in the breeze. Its extravagant cocktail and food menu is just as impressive. Located in beautiful Old San Juan, the restaurant boasts two bars and an extensive drinks menu. After trying several options, I can confidently say they’re all fantastic—my top pick is the lavender sangria. 

The food menu is diverse, featuring daily specials that are always worth a try. The staff is very knowledgeable about allergens, which I greatly appreciated as maintaining a gluten-free diet while traveling is often challenging. My vegan friend also found several delicious options. The service is excellent; the wait staff frequently checks in to see if you need anything else, and the food comes out fast. If you’re dining with a group, it’s worth ordering a few appetizers to share. During my last visit, I ordered one of the daily specials as my main course—mofongo stuffed chicken—and it was truly delicious. Don’t miss out on this stunning dining experience in Old San Juan!

• St. Germain (Puerto Rican)

Don’t let the unassuming exterior fool you; this small, family-owned restaurant serves up some of the best food in town at incredibly affordable prices. While the seating is limited, this just means you’ll receive attentive service. Lunchtimes tend to be quieter, but it definitely gets busier in the evenings.

The staff here are knowledgeable about allergens, which I really appreciated. They also have a daily happy hour with discounted drinks. Even outside of happy hour, the drink prices are some of the best in town, with a large glass of wine costing just $9. 

I’ve eaten here a few times, and it’s always been a delight. My favorite dish is “The Pasteleon,” a delicious combination of sweet plantains, ground beef, and melted cheese served with a side salad (which I once swapped for tostones!). They offer breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a fabulous brunch menu on weekends. 

• La Madre (Mexican) 

 Blink and you might miss it, but make sure this spot is on your list! The tacos here are hands down the best I’ve ever had (and I consider myself quite the taco connoisseur). Whether you choose to sit inside in the air conditioning or outside on the street, it’s a great place to people-watch if the weather is nice.

Their cocktail menu is exceptional, and I highly recommend the jalapeno colada—it has just the right amount of spice! While chips and salsa aren’t automatically served, you can request them (like I did), and their salsa is fantastic, though the portion is a bit small.

Seriously, order the tacos. Specifically, the crispy pork belly tacos with pineapple chutney salsa are a must-try. My friend had a burrito and said it was fantastic, too. I can’t imagine anything on the menu not being top-notch. The service was great, with the wait staff offering thoughtful recommendations. Don’t miss out on this taco haven!

• Cannon Club (American / Caribbean)

This aesthetically pleasing restaurant, located in the heart of Old San Juan, has a lively atmosphere that makes it a must-visit. It gets busy, so I recommend making a reservation. The live piano music, often accompanied by a parrot, adds to the wonderful ambiance, although it can get quite noisy.

There’s a beautiful outdoor garden area with a few tables, but they get snagged quickly. You can now book a “pool pass” to enjoy the small plunge pool in the gardens. The staff is knowledgeable about some allergens, and the food arrives quickly. It’s a fun place to enjoy your dinner and soak in the vibrant atmosphere!

San Juan offers a diverse and vibrant culinary scene that is sure to satisfy any food lover. From waterfront dining at La Casita De Rones to the hidden gem La Madre, there’s something for everyone. Have you been to any of these restaurants, or do you have other suggestions to add to the list? Drop a comment below and share your experiences or recommendations!

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