Endo Edibles

March 20, 2021
10:15 AM
by: Uhockey

Double Cake Baking Studio, San Juan PR

Double Cake Baking Studio

Chocolate Chip Cookie

Walnut Brownie

Oh My Guava Cupcake

Nutty Braid

Vegan Banana Mini Loaf

Magic Bread

Praline Quesito

Dulce de Leche Quesito

Established in 2011, with a storefront at Calle Loíza 1852 opened three years later, Double Cake started as a home business dedicated to making Cakes, Yaritza Lozano and husband Orlando Santiago moving from careers in education and graphic design to the world of sweets when government funding dried up for the former.

Dubbed Double Cake Baking Studio, and known for Puerto Rican specialties as well as traditional Baked Goods like Cookies or Brownies, it is beginning at 9:00am Monday through Saturday that guests will find several-dozen scratch-made products, all served by friendly staff in a space that is clean and cozy.

Well priced and happy to put a unique twist on classics, Quesitos topped in Dulce de Luche or Candied Pecans two shining examples, Lozano and team also make exquisite Cupcakes including “Oh My Guava” with a delicate Vanilla crumb beneath Cream Cheese Icing and Fruit Paste.

An impressive collection considering the lack of professional training, truly a hobby turned career, Double Cake’s Cookies and Brownies are fairly basic but nonetheless well-crafted, while the Vegan Banana Mini Loaf is by any other definition a Muffin with plenty of moisture and bold aromatics.

Finishing up with a Nutty Braid and “Magic Bread,” the former slightly overworked Brioche akin to a Sticky Bun, it would be best to look at its counterpart as a cousin of Mallorca thanks to the Powder Sugar dusting and yeasty notes within.

www.double-cake.com

Posted in cupcake, cupcakes, Dessert, Double Cake, Double Cake Baking Studio, Food, Puerto Rico, San Juan, Vacation Tagged Banana, Banana Muffin, Bananas, Bread, Brownie, Brownies, Bun, Buns, Butter, Cake, Cakes, Candied Pecan, Candied Pecans, Caramel, Cheese, Chip, Chips, Chocolate, Chocolate Brownie, Chocolate Brownies, Chocolate Chip, Chocolate Chip Cookie, Chocolate Chip Cookies, Chocolate Chips, Cinnamon, Confectioner's Sugar, Cookie, Cookies, Cream, Cream Cheese, Cream Cheese Frosting, Cream Cheese Icing, Cupcake, Cupcakes, Dark Chocolate, Dessert, Desserts, Double Cake, Double Cake Baking Studio, Dulce de Leche, Dulce de Leche Quesito, endoedibles, Food, Foodie, Frosting, Fudge, Fudge Brownie, Fudge Brownies, Guava, Guava Cheese, Guava Cheese Cupcake, Icing, Magic Bread, Mallorca, Mallorca Bread, Michael Uzmann, Muffin, Muffins, Nutty Braid, Oh My Guava Cupcake, Orlando Santiago, Pastries, Pastry, Pecan, Pecans, Powdered Sugar, PR, Praline, Praline Quesito, Pralines, Puerto Rico, Quesito, Quesitos, San Juan, Sticky Bun, Sticky Buns, Sugar, Travel, Vacation, Vanilla, Vegan, Vegan Banana Mini Loaf, Vegan Banana Muffin, Walnut, Walnut Brownie, Walnuts, Yaritza Lozano

March 20, 2021
9:00 AM
by: Uhockey

Lote 23, San Juan PR

Lote 23

Pernileria Los Proceres

Bacon and Cheddar Empanada

Bayqan Sandwich – Pork, Lettuce, Tomato, Mayonnaise, Brioche Bun

Café Regina

Regina’s Cold Brew

Sourdough Toast, Almond Butter, Banana, Honey, Puffed Amaranth, Lemon Zest

Batata Canol – Raisins, Pepitas

Currently comprised of eleven Kiosks, Airstreams and Booths, Lote 23 is described as a “Gastronomic Park” in the heart of Santurce, the local focus and diversity of choices noteworthy while staff do a commendable job of enforcing safety protocols across various areas starting at 9am Tuesday through Sunday with Cafe Regina and Pernilería los Próceres.

Beginning with Café Regina, a sister to Kali Jean Solack’s Loiza Street flagship where servers would rather flirt with hipsters than serve waiting guests, it is from a small Kiosk that Baristas create drinks made from locally grown Beans, Regina’s Coldbrew dark and pure with mellow note of Cocoa that pair well to a variety of Toasts and Pastries.

Also offering more experimental drinks, including a Coffee + Ginger Beer “Café Stormy,” it was after ten minutes wait that Sourdough and Sweet Potato Cake were served, the former meticulously topped with Almond Butter and Banana plus complimentary flavors while the latter offered a nice spice profile lent texture and sweetness by Pumpkin Seeds plus Raisins.

Shifting next to an Airstream trailer across the way, picnic tables cooled by an enormous fan offering a space to wait as Chef Mario Juan was running thirty minutes behind, it was finally at 9:32 that Pernileria Los Proceres was ready to take orders, though this too took much longer than anticipated.

Kitschy in terms of decoration, and firmly focused on Pork, it was after being informed that several items including Cheesecake were unavailable that an Appetizer and Sandwich were purchased, Pernileria Los Proceres’ Empanada proving perfectly fried around Bacon and Cheddar while the Bayqan Sandwich offers plenty of tender Pork Shoulder with Vegetables and Mayo on fluffy Brioche.

www.lote23.com

Posted in Breakfast, Café Regina, Coffee, Dessert, Food, La Pernileria Los Proceres, Lote 23, Pernileria Los Proceres, Pork, Puerto Rico, San Juan, Vacation Tagged Almond, Almond Butter, Almonds, Amaranth, Bacon, Bacon and Cheddar Empanada, Banana, Bananas, Batata Canol, Bayqan Sandwich, Bread, Brioche, Brioche Bread, Brioche Bun, Bun, Buns, Butter, Café Regina, Cake, Cakes, Cheddar, Cheddar Cheese, Cheese, Cinnamon, Coffee, Cold Brew, Cold Brew Coffee, Coldbrew, Coldbrew Coffee, Cream, Dessert, Desserts, Empanada, Empanadas, endoedibles, Food, Foodie, Honey, Ice, Iced Coffee, Kali Jean Solack, Kali Solack, La Pernileria Los Proceres, Lemon, Lemon Peel, Lemon Zest, Lemons, Lettuce, Lote 23, Mario Juan, Mayo, Mayonnaise, Michael Uzmann, Pastries, Pastry, Peel, Pepita, Pepitas, Pernileria Los Proceres, Pig, Pork, Pork Shoulder, Potato, Potatoes, PR, Puerto Rico, Puffed Amaranth, Pumpkin, Pumpkin Seed, Pumpkin Seeds, Pumpkins, Raisin, Raisins, Regina’s Cold Brew, San Juan, Sandwich, Sandwiches, Seed, Seeds, Shoulder, Sourdough, Sourdough Bread, Sourdough Toast, Sugar, Sweet Potato, Sweet Potato Bread, Sweet Potato Cake, Sweet Potatoes, Toast, Tomato, Tomatoes, Travel, Vacation, Zest

March 20, 2021
7:15 AM
by: Uhockey

Pinky’s (Condado,) San Juan PR

Pinky’s

Coffee

High pH Smoothie – Spinach, Mango, Cucumber, Honey

Mango Pancakes – Buttermilk Pancakes, Fresh Mango, Powdered Sugar

Pinky’s Breakfast Sandwich – Baguette, Fried Eggs, Sharp Cheddar, Ham, Garlic Pesto Mayo

Recently re-opened under original ownership on Ashford Avenue, several relocations over the years also finding a sister on Calle Loiza, Pinky’s is arguably one of San Juan’s most popular eateries – the debate largely because extremely limited seating makes it difficult for all but early risers and those with a lot of patience to dine there.

Known for All Day Breakfast and substantial portions, queues forming shortly after Pinky’s 7:00am opening lasting until 4:00pm, it was early Saturday that a two-top was scored next to the register, a sizable menu augmented by specials posing tough choices including Wraps, Sandwiches, Pancakes, Smoothies and more.

Offering both healthy and gluttonous options, a “High pH” Batida arriving along with extra in the blender quite refreshing while Coffee proves acrid as Folgers’, it was after being informed that no Mallorca were available that decisions were made – the next ten minutes spent watching a lone line-cook prepare several tables’ Food with great dexterity.

Playful in terms of décor, two servers in “Eat Me!” t-shirts whizzing by nonstop, expect eyes to widen when plates arrive, Pinky’s Breakfast Sandwich occupying a half-Loaf of Bread with Eggs, Cheddar, Ham and aromatic Mayo while the triple-stack of Mango Pancakes for just $7.50 in an undeniable bargain provided one does not mind “Fake Maple Syrup.”

www.facebook.com/Pinkys-112452892183010/

Posted in Breakfast, Coffee, Condado, Food, pancake, Pancakes, Pinky’s, Pinky’s Condado, Pork, Puerto Rico, San Juan, Vacation Tagged Baguette, Baguettes, Batida, Bread, Breakfast, Breakfast Sandwich, Butter, Buttermilk, Buttermilk Pancake, Buttermilk Pancakes, Cheddar, Cheddar Cheese, Cheese, Condado, Confectioner's Sugar, Cucumber, Cucumbers, Egg, Egg Yolk, Egg Yolks, Eggs, endoedibles, Food, Foodie, Fresh Mango, Fresh Mangoes, Fresh Mangos, Fried Egg, Fried Eggs, Garlic, Garlic Pesto Mayo, Garlic Pesto Mayonnaise, Ham, High pH, High pH Batida, High pH Smoothie, Honey, Lemon, Lemons, Mango, Mango Pancake, Mango Pancakes, Mangoes, Mangos, Mayo, Mayonnaise, Michael Uzmann, Pancake, Pancakes, Pesto, Pig, Pinky’s, Pinky’s Breakfast Sandwich, Pinky’s Condado, Pork, Powdered Sugar, PR, Puerto Rico, San Juan, Sandwich, Sandwiches, Sharp Cheddar, Sharp Cheddar Cheese, Smoothie, Spinach, Sugar, Travel, Vacation, Yolk, Yolks

March 19, 2021
6:30 PM
by: Uhockey

1919 Restaurant, San Juan PR

1919 Restaurant

Cucumber Coconut Gazpacho

House Focaccia Rolls, Butter

Croquestas de Bacalao, Aioli

Lobster Salad, Pasta, Uni Emulsion, Organic Tomato-Clam Vinaigrette

Chayote Salad, Local Citrus, Grains, Avocado, Crispy Kale, Thai Flavors, Goat Cheese, Pickled Aji Dulce, Cilantro

Wild Shrimps, Organic Polenta, Parmesan Cheese, Natural Jus

Parmentier-Truffle Soup, Potato, Leeks, Ricotta Gnocchi

Secreto Iberico, Bok Choy, Tomatoes, Young Onions

Roasted Duck Breast, Roasted Fideos, Mushrooms, Sofrito, Olives

Arroz Coco, Coconut Crumble, Yuzu Gel, Almonds, Mango Passion Sorbet

Guava and Lemon, Almond Frangipane, Pineapple, Lemon Caramel, Guava Sorbet

Macaron, Macaroon, Fudge, Madeline

Located just off the lobby of Condado Vanderbilt Hotel, 1919 may just be Puerto Rico’s most luxurious Restaurant, Chef Juan José Cuevas bringing his Michelin starred resume to a menu that features contemporary continental Cuisine built from locally-sourced Ingredients.

Known for seaside views and posh fabrics, plus the sort of service that calls guests by name or professional title rather than “Sir” or “Ma’am,” it was at precisely 6:30pm that a table for two was arranged room’s length from windows, a slight apologized for in advance and attributed to every seat otherwise taken by Vanderbilt Hotel guests.

Prone to seasonal change across a four-course Prix Fixe, $89 plus Supplements a fine deal for complex plates and large portions, it was with a $30 glass of Taittinger Rose that dinner got started, an Amuse of cooling Gazpacho quickly followed by complimentary housemade Rolls and creamy bites of fried Baccala that cost about $3.50 each.

Relaxed in terms of pacing, twenty-to-thirty minute intervals between plates filled by conversation, course one consisted of dueling Salads, her Lobster with Pasta and briny Vinaigrette enjoyable but entirely outclassed by Squash, Fruit, Cheese and Pickles brightened by Thai seasonings across a multitude of textures.

Suggesting “Smart casual” dress, though jeans and short sleeves are not out-of-place, course two consisted of lightly cooked Shrimp and “Grits” versus Soup poured tableside, Truffle-scented Cheese and Potatoes forming a velvety Potage that led nicely to meaty Entrees of grilled Pork with Vegetables and pan-seared Duck atop Rice Noodles.

Undoubtedly a meticulous kitchen, plating reliably photogenic from beginning to end, dinner concluded with Mignardises and Dessert, waiter-recommended “Guava and Lemon” akin to Clafoutis with textural Pineapples while Coconut Rice Pudding found brightness in exotic Fruits.

www.condadovanderbilt.com/condado-1919-restaurant

Posted in 1919, 1919 Restaurant, Bread Basket, Condado, Dessert, Food, Gnocchi, Ice Cream, Lobster, Macaron, Macaroon, Madeline, Madelines, Pork, Puerto Rico, San Juan, Truffle, Truffles, Vacation Tagged 1919, 1919 Restaurant, Aioli, Aji, Aji Pepper, Aji Peppers, Ajis, Almond, Almond Frangipane, Almonds, Arroz, Arroz Coco, Avocado, Avocados, Bacalao, Bacalao Croqueta, Bacalao Croquetas, Baccala, Baccala Croquetta, Baccala Croquettas, Baccala Fritter, Baccala Fritters, Bok Choy, Bread, Breast, Breasts, Butter, Cake, Cakes, Caramel, Chayote, Chayote Salad, Chayote Squash, Cheese, Chevre, Chevre Cheese, Chocolate, Chocolate Fudge, Cilantro, Citrus, Clam, Clams, Coconut, Coconut Crumble, Coconut Rice Pudding, Coconuts, Cod, Cod Fish, Condado, Cookie, Cookies, Corn Meal, Cornmeal, Cream, Crispy Kale, Croquestas, Croquestas de Bacalao, Croquetta, Croquettas, Croquette, Croquettes, Crumble, Cucumber, Cucumber Coconut Gazpacho, Cucumbers, Dark Chocolate, Dessert, Desserts, Duck, Duck Breast, Dumpling, Dumplings, Emulsion, endoedibles, Fideo, Fish, Focaccia, Focaccia Bread, Focaccia Roll, Focaccia Rolls, Food, Foodie, Frangipane, Fritter, Fritters, Fudge, Garlic, Gazpacho, Gel, Gnocchi, Goat Cheese, Grain, Grains, Guava, Guava and Lemon, Guava Sorbet, House Focaccia Roll, House Focaccia Rolls, Iberico, Iberico Pork, Jus, Kale, Leek, Leeks, Lemon, Lemon Caramel, Lemon Grass, Lemongrass, Lemons, Lobster, Lobster Salad, Lobsters, Local Citrus, Macaron, Macarons, Macaroon, Macaroons, Madeline, Madelines, Mango, Mango Passion Sorbet, Mangoes, Mangos, Michael Uzmann, Mushroom, Mushrooms, Natural Jus, Noodle, Noodles, Olive, Olives, Onion, Onions, Organic Polenta, Organic Tomato-Clam Vinaigrette, Parmentier Potato, Parmentier Potatoes, Parmentier-Truffle Soup, Parmesan, Parmesan Cheese, Passion Fruit, Passionfruit, Pasta, Pastries, Pastry, Peppers, Pickle, Pickled Aji Dulce, Pickled Aji Pepper, Pickled Aji Peppers, Pickles, Pig, Pineapple, Pineapples, Polenta, Pork, Potato, Potatoes, PR, Pudding, Puerto Rico, Rice, Rice Noodle, Rice Noodles, Rice Pudding, Ricotta, Ricotta Cheese, Ricotta Gnocchi, Roasted Duck, Roasted Duck Breast, Roasted Fideo, Roasted Fideos, Roll, Rolls, Salad, Salads, Salt, Salt Cod, Salt Cod Brandade, Salt Cod Brandade Fritter, Salt Cod Brandade Fritters, Salt Cod Fritter, Salt Cod Fritters, San Juan, Sauce, Sea Urchin, Secreto Iberico, Shrimp, Shrimps, sofrito, Sorbet, Soup, Squash, Sugar, Tomato, Tomato-Clam Vinaigrette, Tomatoes, Travel, Truffle, Truffles, Uni, Uni Emulsion, Vacation, Vanilla, Vinaigrette, Wild Shrimp, Wild Shrimps, Young Onion, Young Onions, Yuzu, Yuzu Gel

March 19, 2021
1:00 PM
by: Uhockey

Ropa Vieja Grill, San Juan PR

Ropa Vieja Grill

Mofonguitos de Ropa Veja

Garlic Shrimp

Masitas de Cerdo, Maduros, Tostones

Tres Leches Cake

Carrot Cake

Attached to Condado Palm Inn, at the intersection with Ashford Avenue and the epicenter of Spring Break revelry, Ropa Vieja Grill has done big business ever since opening its doors in May of 2002.

Known for Cuban-Puerto Rican favorites, and moreso a lively outdoor patio from open to close, it was midday after a morning on the beach that two guests settled in for a light lunch, service stretched across tables of drunk twenty-somethings but nonetheless doing an admirable job of keeping up.

Featuring an accessible menu, but oddly sold out of Bacalaitos even though most tables seemed to be ordering Calamari, Burgers and Don Tito, Appetizer consisted of Garlic Shrimp and mini-Mofongo topped with fragrant shredded Beef, a follow-up of fried Pork easily outperforming both while dueling styles of Plantain were each well-prepared.

Reportedly making Dessert on-site, likely in the same kitchen as Palm Inn’s Cookie House, Carrot Cake needs work in both its aromatics and haphazard plating, while Tres Leches fares far better thanks to a soft Crumb more than capable of standing up to creamy Frosting and a heavy pour of sweetened Condensed Milk.

www.ropaviejagrill.com

Posted in Condado, Condado Palm Inn, Dessert, Food, Pork, Puerto Rico, Ropa Vieja Grill, San Juan, Vacation Tagged 3 Milks, 3 Milks Cake, Beef, Butter, Cake, Cakes, Carrot, Carrot Cake, Carrots, Cheese, Cinnamon, Clove, Cloves, Condado, Condado Palm Inn, Condensed Milk, Cow, Cows, Cream, Cream Cheese, Cream Cheese Frosting, Cream Cheese Icing, Dessert, Desserts, endoedibles, Food, Foodie, Fried Plantain Tostone, Fried Plantain Tostones, Fried Pork, Frosting, Garlic, Garlic Shrimp, Icing, Lemon, Lemons, Maduros, Mashed Plantain, Mashed Plantains, Masitas de Cerdo, Michael Uzmann, Milk, Mofonguito, Mofonguitos, Mofonguitos de Ropa Veja, Nutmeg. Cake, Onion, Onions, Pastries, Pastry, Pepper, Peppers, Pig, Pork, Pork Chunk, Pork Chunks, PR, Puerto Rico, Ropa Veja, Ropa Vieja Grill, San Juan, Sauce, Shrimp, Shrimps, Sugar, Sweet Plantain, Sweet Plantain Maduros, Sweet Plantains, Sweetened Condensed Milk, Three Milks, Three Milks Cake, Tostone, Tostones, Travel, Tres Leches, Tres Leches Cake, Vacation, Vanilla, Walnut, Walnuts, Whip Cream, Whipped Cream

March 19, 2021
10:15 AM
by: Uhockey

Musa, San Juan PR

Musa

Cocktail

Mamposteao Fritters, Avocado Aioli, Bechamel Sauce

Churrasco Dumplings, Dried Peppers, Soy, Sesame Seeds, Sweet Plantains

Pastrami Monte Cristo, Swiss Cheese, Mustard, Maple Syrup, French Fries, Ketchup

Tres Leches French Toast, Bruleed Cream, Bananas, Strawberries, Blueberries, Maple Syrup

Open day and night from Tuesday through Sunday, but best known for a lively Brunch that goes from 10:00am until 3:00pm, Musa occupies an artistic block of Santurce with Food and Beverage to match.

Part of the San Juan dining scene since 2017, Chef Hector Escobar setting up shop with co-owner Yamil Rojas amidst murals lining Cerra Street, it is inside the upscale gastro-pub that guests are invited to dine and imbibe, the already whimsical menu further enhanced by a handful of daily specials.

Better-priced than like concepts on Ashford Avenue, with better service than the likes of Wicked Lily, it is after placing an order that eyes are freed to peruse everything from chic paintings to neon, though once plates start to arrive it is difficult to take attention off items such as Arancini made with Puerto Rican Mamposteao or Beef Dumplings marrying Maduros to Asian flavors.

Regularly reinventing the menu, though Tres Leches French Toast seems to be a constant for good reason, choosing an Entrée will prove difficult considering the number of unique options, but for this writer’s $16 it seems hard to imagine any were more delicious than a Monte Cristo Sandwich loaded with good Pastrami and Swiss Cheese plus a liberal pour of Maple Syrup.

www.facebook.com/musapuertorico

Posted in Breakfast, Dessert, Food, French Toast, Musa, Puerto Rico, San Juan, Vacation Tagged 100% Maple Syrup, 100% Pure Maple Syrup, 3 Milks, Aioli, Arancini, Avocado, Avocado Aioli, Avocados, Banana, Bananas, Bechamel, Béchamel Sauce, Beef, Beef Dumpling, Beef Dumplings, Beef Steak, Blueberries, Blueberry, Bread, Brioche, Brioche Bread, Brioche French Toast, Bruleed Cream, Butter, Cake, Cakes, Cheese, Churrasco, Churrasco Dumpling, Churrasco Dumplings, Churrasco Steak, Cinnamon, Cocktail, Cocktails, Condensed Milk, Cow, Cows, Cream, Dessert, Desserts, Dried Pepper, Dried Peppers, Dumpling, Dumplings, endoedibles, Food, Foodie, French Fries, French Fry, French Toast, Fries, Fritter, Fritters, Fry, Hector Escobar, Ketchup, Maduros, Mamposteao, Mamposteao Fritter, Mamposteao Fritters, Mamposteao Rice, Maple, Maple Syrup, Michael Uzmann, Milk, Monte Cristo, Monte Cristo Sandwich, Musa, mustard, Onion, Onions, Pastrami, Pastrami Monte Cristo, Pepper, Peppers, Plantain, Plantains, Potato, Potatoes, PR, Puerto Rico, Pure Maple Syrup, Rice, Rice Fritter, Rice Fritters, San Juan, Sandwich, Sandwiches, Sauce, Sauce Bechamel, Seed, Seeds, Sesame, Sesame Seed, Sesame Seeds, Soy, Soy Sauce, Steak, Steak Dumpling, Steak Dumplings, Strawberries, Strawberry, Sugar, Sweet Plantain, Sweet Plantains, Swiss Cheese, Syrup, Three Milks, Tomato, Tomatoes, Travel, Tres Leches, Tres Leches French Toast, Vacation, Vanilla, Yamil Rojas

March 19, 2021
7:05 AM
by: Uhockey

Barista Squared (Condado,) San Juan PR

Barista Squared

Espresso

Carrot Cake

Quesito

Nutella Quesito

Guava Cheese Cake

Located just steps from the Ashford strip in Condado, its only real “competition” at 7:00am Starbucks, Barista Squared gives guests an opportunity to support local business and drink good Coffee without straying too far from San Juan’s tourist corridor.

Part of the local scene since 2014, a second location further out also offering Pastries, Breakfast and Coffee, it is from the hands of skilled Baristas that shots are rapidly pulled, the Beans local but not roasted on-site featuring light acidity atop mellow Caramel undertones.

Also serving Pancakes and Sandwiches, plus a small glass case of Baked Goods, it may surprise many that Barista Squared serves a top notch Quesito, the better between Original and Nutella a toss-up while both frosted Carrot Cake and the Guava Cheese Coffee Cake are far better than those at Hacienda San Pedro.

www.baristasquared.com

Posted in Barista Squared, Barista Squared Condado, Breakfast, Coffee, Condado, cupcake, cupcakes, Dessert, Food, Puerto Rico, San Juan, Vacation Tagged Barista Squared, Barista Squared Condado, Bread, Butter, Cake, Cakes, Carrot, Carrot Cake, Carrot CupCake, Carrots, Cheese, Chocolate, Chocolate Hazelnut Spread, Chocolate-Hazelnut, Cinnamon, Clove, Cloves, Coffee Cake, Condado, Confectioner's Sugar, Cream, Cream Cheese, Cream Cheese Frosting, Cream Cheese Icing, Cupcake, Cupcakes, Dark Chocolate, Dessert, Desserts, endoedibles, Espresso, Food, Foodie, Frosting, Guava, Guava Cheese, Guava Cheese Cake, Hazelnut, Hazelnuts, Icing, Michael Uzmann, Nutella, Nutella Quesito, Nutmeg, Pastries, Pastry, Powdered Sugar, PR, Puerto Rico, Quesito, Quesitos, San Juan, Sugar, Travel, Vacation, Vanilla, Walnut, Walnuts

March 18, 2021
6:30 PM
by: Uhockey

José Enrique Restaurant, San Juan PR

José Enrique Restaurant

Morcilla

Bacalaito

Swordfish Schnitzel

Pollo Chupa Plato

Mofongo with Sauce Creole

Formerly part of in Santurce, and now occupying an unmarked white building on Ashford Avenue, José Enrique Restaurant self-defines as a Latin-Caribbean Brasserie, its Chef finding fame for his use of local Ingredients and classic technique to highlight traditional Puerto Rican fare.

Open from noon to 11.00pm Wednesday through Sunday, social distancing guidelines limiting capacity and making reservations a must, it is amidst largely unadorned walls that guests are seated swiftly, servers pleasant and quick to describe the relatively brief menu.

Awarded “Best New Chefs” accolades in 2013 by Food & Wine, the JBF offering a Finalist spot for “Best Chef South” two years later, José Enrique in 2021 carries a price tag somewhere between gourmet and casual, $12 housemade Morcilla enjoyable but not 3x so much as La Alcapurria Quemá though the $5 Bacalaito made like a Chinese Scallion Pancake is admittedly exquisite.

Ranging $21 to $44 for Main courses, a side of Mofongo with roasted Tomato Sauce featuring crisp edges around a succulent center, do be sure to order “Lick Your Plate Chicken” if the roasted Bird and Rice are available, but perhaps reconsider $23 “Schnitzel” that on this night featured perhaps 3oz of flavorless Fish pounded thin and fried with Panko.

www.joseenriquepr.com

Posted in Food, José Enrique, José Enrique Restaurant, Pork, Puerto Rico, San Juan, Vacation Tagged Bacalaito, Bacalaitos, Baccala, Blood, Blood Sausage, Brandade, Bread, Bread Crumb, Bread Crumbs, Breadcrumb, Chicken, Chickens, Cod, Cod Fish, Cream, Creole Sauce, Crumb, Crumbs, endoedibles, Fish, Food, Foodie, Gravy, José Enrique, José Enrique Restaurant, Lemon, Lemons, Lick Your Plate Chicken, Mashed Plantain, Mashed Plantains, Mofongo, Mofongo with Sauce Creole, Morcilla, Morcilla Sausage, Onion, Onions, Panko, Panko Bread crumb, Panko Bread crumbs, Panko Breadcrumb, Panko Breadcrumbs, Pepper, Peppers, Pig, Plantain, Plantains, Pollo Chupa Plato, Pork, PR, Puerto Rico, Rice, Roast Chicken, Roasted Chicken, Salt Cod, San Juan, Sauce, Sauce Creole, Sausage, Scallion, Scallions, Schnitzel, Swordfish, Swordfish Schnitzel, Tomato, Tomato Sauce, Tomatoes, Travel, Vacation

March 18, 2021
1:00 PM
by: Uhockey

La Alcapurria Quemá, San Juan PR

La Alcapurria Quemá

Goat Stew, White Rice, Beans, Avocado

Morcilla Pastelillo + Rabbit Pastelillo

Beef Alcapurria + Chicken Alcapurria + Crab Alcapurria + Cod Alcapurria

Tostones

Mofongo, Chicken Broth

Coconut Arepas

Hidden inside La Placita de Santurce, minimal signage tucked behind a small patio easily overlooked by those passing by, La Alcapurria Quemá is nothing short of a destination for those seeking one of San Juan’s most outstanding casual eateries.

Largely populated by locals, the Calle Duffaut 251 address and variable hours doing little to diminish lines present from opening until COVID-19 curfew, it was after a thirty minute wait that two guests were seated along the bar, two servers pleasant and constantly moving to keep up with an open kitchen where two women could be seen creating plate after plate of delicious Food.

Known largely for fried Food, in particular eponymous Puerto Rican Fritters made with Mashed Plantains and stuffed with Meat, it was with cold Beverages that four Alcapurria got things started, Beef, Chicken and Baccala all greaseless and enjoyable, though the real star was a crunchy elongated stick filled with Crab.

Well priced considering portions and quality, each Fritter $3.50 and Pastelillos filled with Blood Sausage or Rabbit the same, it was with good fortune that Cabrito en Fricase was the daily special, Goat perfumed with a variety of Herbs succulent and tender along with three Sides.

Not passing on Mofongo, $5 with Broth an unequivocal bargain, Tostones at La Alcapurria Quemá are lighter and crispier than many while Coconut Arepas offer a delicate and flaky way to end an otherwise weighty meal.

www.facebook.com/laalcapurriaquema

Posted in Crab, Dessert, Food, La Alcapurria Quemá, Puerto Rico, San Juan, Vacation Tagged Alcapurria, Alcapurrias, Arepa, Arepas, Avocado, Avocados, Baccala, Baccala Alcapurria, Bean, Beans, Beef, Beef Alcapurria, Blood, Blood Sausage, Broth, Cabrito en Fricase, Chicken, Chicken Alcapurria, Chicken Broth, Coconut, Coconut Arepa, Coconut Arepas, Coconuts, Cod, Cod Alcapurria, Cod Fish, Cod Fish Alcapurria, Cow, Cows, Crab, Crab Alcapurria, Crabs, Dessert, Desserts, endoedibles, Fish, Food, Foodie, Fried Plantain, Fried Plantain Tostone, Fried Plantain Tostones, Fried Plantains, Fritter, Fritters, Goat, Goat Stew, La Alcapurria Quemá, Mashed Plantain, Mashed Plantains, Michael Uzmann, Mofongo, Morcilla, Morcilla Pastelillo, Onion, Onions, Pastelillo, Pastelillos, Pastries, Pastry, Pepper, Peppers, Plantain, Plantains, PR, Puerto Rico, Rabbit, Rabbit Pastelillo, Rice, San Juan, Sauce, Sausage, Stew, Sugar, Tostone, Tostones, Travel, Vacation, White Rice

March 18, 2021
10:05 AM
by: Uhockey

Kudough’s Donuts & Coffee Bar, San Juan PR

Kudough’s Donuts & Coffee Bar

Glazed Donut

Oreo Donut

Nutella Donut

S’mores Donut

Strawberry Guava Donut

Established in 2017, and still San Juan’s only artisan Donut Shop, Kudough’s is currently operating under limited hours, though offerings seem largely unchanged throughout the pandemic save for a few daily specials.

Now opening at 10am Tuesday through Sunday, strangely late for Breakfast Pastries considering the central location on Calle Loiza, guests visiting will find several styles if Coffee along with just five varieties of Donuts, Kudough’s idea of “Cold Brew” in reality tepid Coffee poured over Ice and immediately watered down.

Cute in terms of decoration, the lone clerk a friendly young woman happy to explain Kudough’s “variety,” it is at about $4 each that Donuts all feature a similar raised base, good size and lightness most evident in a simple glazed ring while others featured what tastes like commercial Frosting, the Guava Gel in particular cloyingly sweet while S’mores at least found some balance from toasted Marshmallows.

www.kudoughsdonutscoffeebar.business.site

Posted in Breakfast, Coffee, Dessert, Food, Kudough’s, Kudough’s Donuts, Kudough’s Donuts & Coffee Bar, Puerto Rico, San Juan, Vacation Tagged Bread, Butter, Chocolate, Chocolate Frosting, Chocolate Hazelnut Spread, Chocolate Icing, Chocolate-Hazelnut, Cinnamon, Confectioner's Sugar, Cookie, Cookies, Cracker, Crackers, Cream, Crumb, Crumbs, Dark Chocolate, Dessert, Desserts, Donut, Donuts, Doughnut, Doughnuts, endoedibles, Food, Foodie, Frosting, Glaze, Glazed Donut, Glazed Doughnut, Graham, Graham Cracker, Graham Cracker Crumb, Graham Cracker Crumbs, Graham Crackers, Grahams, Guava, Hazelnut, Hazelnuts, Honey, Icing, Kudough’s, Kudough’s Donuts, Kudough’s Donuts & Coffee Bar, Marshmallow, Marshmallows, Michael Uzmann, Nutella, Nutella Donut, Nutella Doughnut, Oreo, Oreo Cookie, Oreo Cookies, Oreo Donut, Oreo Doughnut, Oreos, Pastries, Pastry, Powdered Sugar, PR, Puerto Rico, Raised Donut, Raised Donuts, Raised Doughnut, Raised Doughnuts, S'mores, San Juan, Strawberries, Strawberry, Strawberry Guava Donut, Strawberry Guava Doughnut, Sugar, S’mores Donut, S’mores Doughnut, Travel, Vacation, Vanilla, Vanilla Frosting, Vanilla Icing, Whip Cream, Whipped Cream, Yeast, Yeast Donut, Yeast Donuts, Yeast Doughnut, Yeast Doughnuts

March 18, 2021
7:50 AM
by: Uhockey

Hacienda San Pedro, San Juan PR

Hacienda San Pedro

Vanilla Iced Latte

Guava Cake

Quesito

Corn Muffin

Carrot Cake

Pecan Pie

Brownie

Apparently quite popular before COVID-19, though an entirely empty outdoor seating area and no other customers at 8:00am would suggest much has changed, Hacienda San Pedro is an independent Coffee shop in the Santurce neighborhood that offers a limited Food menu in addition to Beverages made from their own Beans.

Serving the San Juan Metro for over ten years, a Latte made with commercial Syrup the lady’s choice while this writer opted for a double shot of Espresso that was decent but a touch over-roasted, Pastries prove hit and miss with Guava Cake an unequivocal yes thanks to a buttery crumb while San Pedro’s Quesito is a disaster attributable to Pastry that might as well come from Pillsbury.

Questionable in terms of freshness, the Corn Muffin expectedly toothsome while Carrot Cake lacks herbs or sweetness, it seems impossible that Pecan Pie can be so dry as to crumble and fall apart but this one certainly did, and the Brownie wasn’t much better.

www.cafehsp.com

Posted in Breakfast, Coffee, Cornbread, Dessert, Food, Hacienda San Pedro, Puerto Rico, San Juan, Vacation Tagged Bread, Brownie, Butter, Cake, Cakes, Carrot, Carrot Cake, Carrots, Cheese, Chocolate, Chocolate Brownie, Cinnamon, Clove, Cloves, Coffee, Confectioner's Sugar, Corn, Corn Bread, Corn Muffin, Cornbread, Cream, Cream Cheese, Dark Chocolate, Dessert, Desserts, endoedibles, Espresso, Food, Foodie, Fudge, Fudge Brownie, Guava, Guava Cake, Hacienda San Pedro, Ice, Iced Coffee, Iced Latte, Latte, Michael Uzmann, Muffin, Muffins, Nutmeg, Pastries, Pastry, Pecan, Pecan Pie, Pecans, Pie, Pies, Powdered Sugar, PR, Puerto Rico, Quesito, Quesitos, San Juan, Sugar, Travel, Vacation, Vanilla, Vanilla Iced Latte, Walnut, Walnuts

March 17, 2021
4:35 PM
by: Uhockey

Restaurant El Jibarito, San Juan PR

Restaurant El Jibarito

Surullitos

Bacalaítos

Sandwich Jibarito

Pastel de Cerdo, Tostones

Although Puerto Rican Cuisine has a long and storied history the Jibarito Sandwich is a relatively new idea, its first sighting somewhere around 1996 at Restaurant Borinquen in Chicago’s Humboldt Park neighborhood, though the name translated as “little hillbilly” in Spanish is nonetheless shared by one of Old San Juan’s most popular eateries which opened nearly two decades prior.

Known for Comida Criolla, the combination of friendly servers and reasonable prices enticing locals and tourists alike, it is amidst bright murals that guests sit at long tables, the menu containing everything from Beef with Onions to Mofongo and Goat Stew.

Often found with a waitlist, moreso during the era of socially distanced seating, it was forty minutes after arrival that orders were received, her Juice made with Fruit from the courtyard paired to an oversized Pork Pastel and fried Corn Sticks without the slightest hint of Oil.

Casual but not rushed, both guests and servers taking their time as music plays overhead, one bite of El Jibarito’s Bacalaítos will help to explain why so many feel the need to indulge slowly, both taste and texture far better than even San Juan’s most upscale Restaurants though the “Sandwich Jibarito” is a far cry from that in the Windy City, and essentially just Beef with Onions between Tostones.

www.eljibarito.business.site

Posted in El Jibarito, Food, Old San Juan, Pork, Puerto Rico, Restaurant El Jibarito, San Juan, Vacation Tagged Bacalaito, Bacalaitos, Beef, Cod, Cod Fish, Corn, Corn Stick, Corn Sticks, Cow, Cows, El Jibarito, endoedibles, Fish, Food, Foodie, Fried Corn Stick, Fried Corn Sticks, Fried Plantain Tostone, Fried Plantain Tostones, Jibarito, Jibarito de Bistec, Jibarito Sandwich, Lettuce, Michael Uzmann, Old San Juan, Onion, Onions, Pastel, Pastel de Cerdo, Pig, Plantain, Plantains, Pork, PR, Puerto Rico, Restaurant El Jibarito, Salt, Salt Cod, San Juan, Sandwich, Sandwich Jibarito, Sandwiches, Surullito, Surullitos, Tomato, Tomatoes, Tostone, Tostones, Travel, Vacation, Yuca, Yucca

March 17, 2021
10:15 AM
by: Uhockey

El Rancho Original, Cayey PR

El Rancho Original

Lechon + Morcilla + Pastel

Arroz con Grandules

Alcapurria + Surullito

Flan

Located adjacent to Lechonera Los Pinos, and seemingly more popular with locals than the spot Bourdain made a destination, El Rancho Original is a worthy additional stop along La Ruta del Lechón for those willing to take the 45 minute drive from San Juan.

Easily differentiated from the other dozen-plus Restaurants on a winding road in Guavate, El Rancho Original’s sheer size suggesting long lines and a jovial atmosphere pre-pandemic, it was shortly after 10am that staff was found happy to serve an even larger bevy of options than next door.

Open air with interconnected buildings and an annex, the sort of place already designed for spreading out long before “social distancing,” it was after watching an older man hack bits of Pork from the whole Hog with a machete that seats were taken, El Rancho’s Lechon less seasoned than Los Pinos and a bit fattier which thus sees Skin break less briskly and instead eat like Chicharrón.

Certainly more than just Lechon Asado, Rice with Pigeon Peas and sides including porky Pastel plus fried Alcapurria and Surullito performing well, fans of Morcilla will find El Racho’s smoother with bolder aromatics than most while thick slabs of housemade flan are creamy with a faintly-bitter finish not dissimilar to traditional Crème Caramel.

www.elranchooriginalpr.com

Posted in Cayey, Dessert, El Rancho Original, Food, Lechonera El Rancho Original, Pork, Pork Highway, Puerto Rico, San Juan, Vacation Tagged Alcapurria, Alcapurrias, Arroz, Arroz con Grandules, Blood, Blood Sausage, Caramel, Cayey, Cheese, Corn, Corn Stick, Corn Sticks, Cream, Dessert, Desserts, El Rancho Original, endoedibles, Flan, Food, Foodie, Grandule, Grandules, Lechon, Lechon Asado, Lechonera El Rancho Original, Michael Uzmann, Milk, Morcilla, Morcilla Sausage, Pastel, Pastries, Pastry, Pepper, Peppers, Pig, Pigeon Pea, Pigeon Peas, Plantain, Plantains, Plantanos, Pork, Pork Highway, PR, Puerto Rico, San Juan, Sauce, Sausage, Sugar, Surullito, Surullitos, Tamale, Travel, Vacation, Yuca, Yucca

March 17, 2021
9:30 AM
by: Uhockey

Lechonera Los Pinos, Cayey PR

Lechonera Los Pinos

Lechon

Morcilla + Longaniza de Cerdo

Arroz con Grandules

Name + Plantanos Maduros

Tres Leches

While some may find it strange that a person who travels to dine does not watch “Food Television” the fact remains, but on the same day as a trip to El Yunque National Forest the opportunity to visit Puerto Rico’s famous “Pork Highway” proved impossible to resist.

Locally known as La Ruta del Lechón, a dozen or more Restaurants at elevation on a winding road in Guavate, it is following the 45 minute drive from San Juan that travelers will find Lechonera Los Pinos, a bit of rain and pandemic precautions seeing few guests at 9:30am even though staff and Food were ready to go.

Found along Route 184, stories of visits by Andrew Zimmern and Anthony Bourdain prominent across Social Media, it is from the parking lot that the smell of cookery becomes prominent, the friendly all-Spanish servers helping first-timers navigate a menu loaded with Proteins and Starches.

Open air and spacious, the sort of place already designed for spreading out long before “social distancing,” it was after watching an older man hack bits of Pork from the whole Hog with a machete that seats were taken, Los Pinos’ Lechon perfectly seasoned with rendered Fat glistening beneath skin that shatters like glass with a smoky finish.

More than just Lechon Asado, Rice with Pigeon Peas and sides of Sauteed Plantains plus tender Yam also delicious, those in search of more Pork will do well to order both garlicky Longaniza and boldly flavored Blood Sausage with Rice before wrapping up with individual Tres Leches in a small aluminum cup.

www.lechoneraspr.com

Posted in Cayey, Dessert, Food, Lechonera Los Pinos, Pork, Pork Highway, Puerto Rico, San Juan, Vacation Tagged 3 Milks, 3 Milks Cake, Arroz, Arroz con Grandules, Blood, Blood Sausage, Cake, Cakes, Cayey, Cinnamon, Condensed Milk, Cream, Dessert, Desserts, endoedibles, Food, Foodie, Grandule, Grandules, Lechon, Lechon Asado, Lechonera Los Pinos, Longaniza, Longaniza de Cerdo, Longaniza Sausage, Maduro, Maduros, Michael Uzmann, Milk, Morcilla, Morcilla Sausage, Name, Pastries, Pastry, Pepper, Peppers, Pig, Pigeon Pea, Pigeon Peas, Plantain, Plantains, Plantanos, Plantanos Maduros, Pork, Pork Highway, PR, Puerto Rico, San Juan, Sauce, Sausage, Sugar, Three Milks, Three Milks Cake, Travel, Tres Leches, Tres Leches Cake, Vacation, Vanilla, Whip Cream, Whipped Cream, Yam, Yams

March 17, 2021
8:30 AM
by: Uhockey

Panaderia España Repostería, San Juan PR

Panaderia España Repostería

Tres Leches

Besito Coco

Pastelito de Baccala

Mallorca

Quesito

Guava Quesito

Pastelito de Guayaba

Mil Hojas

Not so internationally famous as Kasalta, who still proudly promotes a visit from President Obama almost a decade prior, Panaderia España nonetheless finds favor amongst many residents of Pueto Rico, its location en route from SJU to San Juan giving most tourists a glimpse although only those with a car will be able to experience.

More than just a quick stop for many, spacious confines plus a diversity of items creating a gathering place even during pandemic times, it was at 8:30am that small queues were found at dueling counters, the number of Breads and Baked Goods almost dizzying even before considering España’s deli, Soups and Sandwiches.

Part of Isla Verde since 1972, owner José Rodriguez Lopez and partners combining traditional Spanish recipes with local favorites to create a menu of over one hundred items, it goes without saying that tough choices face any who enter, though Pastelitos including one with Baccala should definitely be a focus for those seeking something savory.

Open 6a to 10p daily, items changing from morning to night with more popular items baked fresh to replenish supplies as needed, Mallorca comes highly recommended by staff and Panaderia España’s is apparently used in many local Restaurants, while the Bakery’s version of Quesito is one of the Island’s best – with or without Guava.

Further focusing on favorites, in addition to a “Coconut Kiss” rightly recommended by staff, Mil Hojas was unfortunately a bit soggy in comparison to competitors across the island, though a warm and flaky Guava Pastelito plus lightly-sweet Tres Leches to finish made the misstep easier to forget.

www.laespana.net

Posted in Breakfast, Dessert, Food, Macaroon, Panaderia España, Panaderia España Repostería, Puerto Rico, San Juan, Vacation Tagged 3 Milks, 3 Milks Cake, Almond, Almonds, Baccala, Besito, Besito Coco, Brandade, Bread, Butter, Cake, Cakes, Caramel, Cheese, Cherries, Cherry, Cinnamon, Coconut, Coconut Flake, Coconut Flakes, Coconut Macaroon, Coconut Macaroons, Coconuts, Cod, Cod Fish, Condensed Milk, Confectioner's Sugar, Cream, Cream Cheese, Dessert, Desserts, Dulce de Leche, endoedibles, Fish, Food, Foodie, Guava, Guava Pastelito, Guava Quesito, Guayaba, José Rodriguez Lopez, Macaroon, Macaroons, Mallorca, Mallorca Bread, Maraschino Cherries, Maraschino Cherry, Maraschno, Maraschnos, Michael Uzmann, Mil Hojas, Milk, Panaderia España, Panaderia España Repostería, Pastelito, Pastelito de Baccala\, Pastelito de Guayaba, Pastelitos, Pastries, Pastry, Powdered Sugar, PR, Puerto Rico, Puff Pastry, Quesito, Quesitos, Salt Cod, San Juan, Sugar, Three Milks, Three Milks Cake, Tomato, Tomatoes, Travel, Tres Leches, Tres Leches Cake, Vacation, Vanilla, Whip Cream, Whipped Cream

March 16, 2021
6:30 PM
by: Uhockey

Mario Pagan Restaurant, San Juan PR

Mario Pagan

Seed Bread, Herb Butter, Baccala Chips

Yuca Fries, Truffle Aioli

Gouda Croquetas, Sweet Papaya / Escargots, Yuca Bacon Mofonguitos, Garlic Veloute

Pastel de Yuca, Corned Beef, Arugula, Hollandaise Sauce

Spiny Lobster Thermidior, Shallot Escabeche, Yuca Mofongo, Tarragon Parmesan Panko

My Lamb Shoulder Confit, Goat Cheese and Truffle Cauliflower Risotto, Cranberry Sauce

Chocolate Souffle, Praline Anglaise, Citrus Ice Cream

Tropical Fruit Cheesecake, Vanilla Croutons, Macerated Strawberries

Comfortably straddling the border of Condado and Santurce, Mario Pagan Restaurant is arguably Puerto Rico’s premier fine dining venue, a low-slung building at 1110 Magdalena Avenue housing the most personal concept yet from the Chef responsible for The Laurel inside Puerto Rico Museum of Art and Sage Steak Loft at Olive Boutique Hotel.

Part of the San Juan dining scene since 2016, modern décor akin to movie stereotypes of expensive eating admittedly a bit boring, it is after warm greetings and a temperature check that diners are led to well-spaced tables, the seasonal menu also adding a handful of daily specials.

Dressy yet unpretentious, Chef Pagan’s goal of introducing Puerto Rican-Caribbean influenced cuisine to the rest of the world evident across “Bites,” “Taste,” “Eat” and “Sides,” it was after requesting three courses that complimentary Bread and Bacalaitos were offered, the former soft and yeasty while fried Fish was subtle and light.

Priced akin to similar concepts, Appetizers $10-18 and Entrees $24-52, dinner officially began with a trio of unique tastes, Yuca painted with fragrant Paste a distinctive taste on Truffle Fries while liquid Gouda and Papaya as well as Burgundy Snails atop mini-Mofongo found French technique dancing in harmony with Caribbean ideas.

Influenced by his grandmothers long before studying the culinary arts at Johnson & Wales University, Pagan’s mid-course consisted of a Caribbean Tamale made from Yuca stuffed with Corned Beef before proceeding to Entrees, the Hollandaise a precursor to indulgent Spiny Lobster Thermidior whose decadence was matched by “My Lamb Shoulder Confit” with spoon-tender protein resting alongside Goat Cheese and Truffle Cauliflower Risotto.

Reciting Desserts from memory, the Restaurant’s signature Soufflé requested much earlier, it was after a tableside pour of Praline Anglaise that airy Chocolate quickly disappeared, with a small Cheesecake topped in Streusel Croutons and Strawberries soon to follow.

www.mariopaganrest.com

Posted in Bread Basket, Condado, Dessert, Food, Ice Cream, Lobster, Mario Pagan, Mario Pagan Restaurant, Pork, Puerto Rico, San Juan, Souffle, Truffle, Truffles, Vacation Tagged Aioli, Anglaise, Arugula, Bacalaito, Bacalaitos, Baccala, Baccala Chip, Baccala Chips, Bacon, Beef, Brandade, Bread, Bread Crumb, Bread Crumbs, Breadcrumb, Breadcrumbs, Brioche, Brioche Bread, Broccoli, Butter, Cake, Cakes, Carrot, Carrots, Cauliflower, Cheese, Cheese Cake, Cheesecake, Chevre, Chevre Cheese, Chip, Chips, Chocolate, Chocolate Souffle, Citrus, Citrus Ice Cream, Cod, Cod Fish, Condado, Confit, Corned Beef, Cow, Cows, Cranberries, Cranberry, Cranberry Sauce, Cream, Cream Cheese, Creme, Creme Anglaise, Croqueta, Croquetas, Croquetta, Croquettas, Croquette, Croquettes, Crouton, Croutons, Dark Chocolate, Dessert, Desserts, endoedibles, Escabeche, Escargot, Escargots, Fish, Food, Foodie, Fries, Fry, Garlic, Garlic Velouté, Goat Cheese, Goat Cheese and Truffle Cauliflower Risotto, Gouda, Gouda Cheese, Gouda Croqueta, Gouda Croquetas, Herb, Herb Butter, Herbs, Hollandaise, hollandaise sauce, Ice Cream, Lamb, Lamb Shoulder, Lamb Shoulder Confit, Lemon, Lemons, Lobster, Lobster Thermidior, Lobsters, Macerated Strawberries, Macerated Strawberry, Mango, Mangoes, Mangos, Mario Pagan, Mario Pagan Restaurant, Michael Uzmann, Mofongo, Mofonguito, Mofonguitos, My Lamb Shoulder Confit, Onion, Onions, Panko, Panko Breadcrumb, Panko Breadcrumbs, Papaya, Parmesan, Parmesan Cheese, Passion Fruit, Pastel, Pastel de Yuca, Pastries, Pastry, Pecan, Pecans, Pig, Pork, PR, Praline, Praline Anglaise, Pralines, Puerto Rico, Risotto, Salt, Salt Cod, San Juan, Sauce, Seed, Seed Bread, Seeds, Shallot, Shallot Escabeche, Shallots, Sheep, Shoulder, Snail, Snails, Souffle, Soup, Spiny Lobster, Spiny Lobster Thermidior, Spiny Lobsters, Strawberries, Strawberry, Streusel, Sugar, Sweet Papaya, Tarragon, Tarragon Parmesan Panko, Thermidior, Tomato, Tomatoes, Travel, Tropical Fruit, Tropical Fruit Cheesecake, Tropical Fruits, Truffle, Truffle Aioli, Truffles, Vacation, Vanilla, Vanilla Crouton, Vanilla Croutons, Veloute, Yuca, Yuca Bacon Mofonguitos, Yuca Fries, Yuca Fry, Yuca Mofongo, Yucca

March 16, 2021
2:45 PM
by: Uhockey

Chocobar Cortés, San Juan PR

Chocobar Cortés

Coldbrew Coffee

Chocolada – Barcelo Anejo Rum, Coconut Cream, Whipped Cream, Toasted Coconut

Chocolate Grilled Cheese – Sharp Cheddar, Chocolate Butter, Brioche

Chocolate Croissant

Chocolate Baklava

Chocolate Quesito

Churros

Bolstered by Social Media and positive press, plus a spacious storefront at 210 Calle San Francisco in Old San Juan, Chocobar Cortés is rarely found without a line, same the kiosk inside SJU Airport where guests can purchase Confections crafted in the Caribbean since 1929.

Adding a Kitchen in 2013, Chef Ricardo De Obaldía bringing a degree from Seville and years at Celler de Can Roca as well as Le Calandre to Puerto Rico’s dining scene, it was at 2:30pm that two seats in Chocobar Cortés’ window were found unoccupied, service predictably stretched as at least one hundred guests continued to indulge in everything from Pancakes to Salad.

Inevitably rooted in Chocolate, a family-owned farm-to-bar product since the start, most diners will find it prudent to begin with Beverages, Hot Chocolate a tough sell in sun and humidity while Coldbrew Coffee from Gustos and concoctions including the creamy Chocolada are a great way to beat the heat.

Currently open at 8:00am daily, closing subject to change in the era of COVID-19, it was perhaps twenty minutes before two items arrived fresh from the kitchen, Churros frankly hard and disappointing save for the including Sauce while De Obaldía’s signature Chocolate Grilled Cheese is shockingly delicious thanks to subtle Cocoa offering a foil to Sharp Cheddar.

Waiting much longer for Pastry, the waiter later admitting he’d forgotten to plate these items from Cortes’ glass case, suffice it to say Croissants are likely better warm in the morning while both the Chocolate Quesito and complimentary Baklava were fun riffs on the original with great texture.

www.chocobarcortes.com

Posted in Chocobar Cortés, Croissant, Croissants, Dessert, Food, Old San Juan, Puerto Rico, San Juan, Vacation Tagged Anejo Rum, Baklava, Barcelo Anejo, Barcelo Anejo Rum, Bread, Brioche, Brioche Bread, Brioche Toast, Butter, Cheddar, Cheddar Cheese, Cheese, Chip, Chips, Chocobar Cortés, Chocolada, Chocolate, Chocolate Baklava, Chocolate Butter, Chocolate Chip, Chocolate Chips, Chocolate Croissant, Chocolate Croissants, Chocolate Grilled Cheese, Chocolate Quesito, Chocolate Sauce, Churro, Churros, Cinnamon, Cinnamon Sugar, Cocktail, Cocktails, Coconut, Coconut Cream, Coconuts, Coffee, Coldbrew, Coldbrew Coffee, Confectioner's Sugar, Cream, Croissant, Croissants, Dark Chocolate, Dessert, Desserts, Donut, Donuts, Dough, Doughnut, Doughnuts, endoedibles, Food, Foodie, Grilled Cheese, Grilled Cheese Sandwich, Gustos, Gusto’s Coffee, Honey, Ice, Iced Coffee, Michael Uzmann, Old San Juan, Pastries, Pastry, Phyllo, Phyllo Dough, Powdered Sugar, PR, Puerto Rico, Quesito, Ricardo De Obaldía, Rum, San Juan, Sandwich, Sandwiches, Sauce, Sharp Cheddar, Sharp Cheddar Cheese, Sugar, Toast, Toasted Coconut, Toasted Coconuts, Travel, Vacation, Vanilla, Viennesoire, Viennesoires, Viennoiserie, Viennoiseries, Walnut, Walnuts, Whip Cream, Whipped Cream

March 16, 2021
12:05 PM
by: Uhockey

Café Manolín, San Juan PR

Café Manolín

Churrasco – Chimichurri, French Fries

Mofongo Relleno de Camarones – White Rice, Sweet Plantains, Beans

Tres Leches

Serving traditional comida Criolla for more than seventy years, Café Manolín is nothing less than an Old San Juan institution, the current location on Calle San Justo larger than that operated by Manolín Ruíz but owners Annie Rivera and Tomás Molina still maintaining all of the Restaurant’s original charm and recipes.

Open daily for Breakfast and Lunch, pandemic precautions making masks mandatory and reservations recommended, it was at noon on Tuesday that Café Manolín was found bustling, an unpretentious setting and fair prices enticing everyone from men and women in suits to very obvious tourists.

Dividing the offerings into two halves, Breakfast ending at 10:45 and Lunch until 4:30, it was merely fifteen minutes after Ice Water was poured that two plates arrived, her medium Steak and Fries an undeniable bargain at just $11.95 while Shrimp Mofongo with Beans, Rice and Maduros was better prepared than that at Casita Miramar for less than half the price.

Also offering Coffee and housemade Desserts, plus a handful of daily specials, suffice it to say that $4 Tres Leches may not look like much, but the concoction in an aluminum cup beneath Whipped Cream is texturally splendid with Cake that still maintains plenty of spring despite a supersaturation of Condensed Milk.

www.cafemanolinoldsanjuan.com

Posted in Café Manolín, Dessert, Food, Old San Juan, Puerto Rico, San Juan, Vacation Tagged 3 Milks, 3 Milks Cake, Annie Rivera, Bean, Beans, Beef, Beef Steak, Butter, Café Manolín, Cake, Cakes, Camarones, Cherries, Cherry, Chimichurri, Chimichurri Sauce, Churrasco, Cow, Cows, Cream, Dessert, Desserts, endoedibles, Food, Foodie, French Fries, French Fry, Fries, Fry, Garlic, Herb, Herbs, Maduros, Manolín Ruíz, Maraschino, Maraschino Cherries, Maraschino Cherry, Maraschinos, Michael Uzmann, Milk, Mofongo, Mofongo Relleno de Camarones, Mofongo with Shrimp, Old San Juan, Onion, Onions, Pastries, Pastry, Plantain, Plantains, Potato, Potatoes, PR, Puerto Rico, Rice, San Juan, Sauce, Shrimp, Shrimps, Skirt Steak, Steak, Sugar, Sweet Plantain, Sweet Plantain Maduros, Sweet Plantains, Three Milks, Three Milks Cake, Tomás Molina, Tomato, Tomatoes, Travel, Tres Leches, Tres Leches Cake, Vacation, Vanilla, Whip Cream, Whipped Cream, White Rice

March 16, 2021
9:45 AM
by: Uhockey

Cafetería Mallorca, San Juan PR

Cafetería Mallorca

Coffee

Mallorca Sandwich – Ham, Swiss Cheese

Mallorca Sandwich – Bacon, Cheddar Cheese

Iconic prior to COVID-19, an Old San Juan address and the name of Puerto Rico’s famous Sandwich plastered across its marquee, Cafetería Mallorca during Pandemic times is merely average, a lack of Pastries constraining diners to little more than acrid Coffee, Eggs and Pancakes beyond the eponymous dish.

Still open 7:00am-3:00pm daily, temperature checks and sanitizer but no social distancing another odd choice atop closing the Bakery, it was after only ten minutes that two petite Sandwiches arrived, the Bread itself crisp and buttery beneath a liberal amount of Confectioner’s Sugar while Ham, Bacon, Swiss and Cheddar were under-portioned and far lower quality than what one will find at Kasalta.

www. cafeteria-mallorca.business.site

Posted in Breakfast, Cafetería Mallorca, Coffee, Food, Old San Juan, Pork, Puerto Rico, San Juan, Vacation Tagged Bacon, Bread, Butter, Cafetería Mallorca, Cheddar, Cheddar Cheese, Cheese, Coffee, endoedibles, Food, Foodie, Ham, Mallorca, Mallorca Bread, Mallorca Sandwich, Michael Uzmann, Old San Juan, Pastries, Pastry, Pig, Pork, PR, Puerto Rico, San Juan, Sandwich, Sandwiches, Sugar, Swiss Cheese, Travel, Vacation

March 16, 2021
8:05 AM
by: Uhockey

Tostado* (Santurce,) San Juan PR

Tostado* Santurce

Ghandi’s Coco Pumpkin Pancakes – Homemade Granola, Powdered Sugar, Maple Syrup

French Toast Sticks – Chocolate, Banana, Whipped Cream, Maple Syrup

Favored by locals for early hours, fast service and a menu of Organic and Vegan items, Tostado* occupies a spacious storefront on Calle Condado, both it and a location further East serving identical menus populated by Burgers, Breakfast items and Salads.

Local and sustainable, servers suggesting almost everything served is sourced in Puerto Rico, it is via QR Code that choices are made, the duo of French Toast Sticks and Vegan Pancakes made with Pumpkin and Coconut Milk each impressive while portion to price ratio is more than generous considering the Ingredients.

www.facebook.com/tostadopr

Posted in Breakfast, Cafe Tostado, Cafe Tostado Santurce, Cafe Tostado*, Cafe Tostado* Santurce, Dessert, Food, French Toast, pancake, Pancakes, Puerto Rico, San Juan, Tostado, Tostado Santurce, Tostado*, Tostado* Santurce, Vacation Tagged 100% Maple Syrup, 100% Pure Maple Syrup, Banana, Bananas, Bread, Butter, Cafe Tostado*, Cafe Tostado* Santurce, Cake, Cakes, Chocolate, Cinnamon, Coco Pumpkin Pancakes, Coconut, Coconuts, Confectioner's Sugar, Cream, Dark Chocolate, Dessert, Desserts, endoedibles, Food, Foodie, French Toast, French Toast Stick, French Toast Sticks, Ghandi’s Coco Pumpkin Pancakes, Granola, Homemade Granola, Maple, Maple Syrup, Michael Uzmann, Oat, Oatmeal, Oats, Pancake, Pancakes, Pastries, Pastry, Pepita, Pepitas, Powdered Sugar, PR, Puerto Rico, Pumpkin, Pumpkin Pancake, Pumpkin Pancakes, Pumpkin Seed, Pumpkin Seeds, Pumpkins, Pure Maple Syrup, San Juan, Seed, Seeds, Sugar, Syrup, Toast, Tostado*, Tostado* Santurce, Travel, Vacation, Vanilla, Whip Cream, Whipped Cream

Lote 23, San Juan PR

Pinky’s (Condado,) San Juan PR

Ropa Vieja Grill, San Juan PR

Musa, San Juan PR

Barista Squared (Condado,) San Juan PR

La Alcapurria Quemá, San Juan PR

Hacienda San Pedro, San Juan PR

Restaurant El Jibarito, San Juan PR

El Rancho Original, Cayey PR

Lechonera Los Pinos, Cayey PR

Panaderia España Repostería, San Juan PR

Chocobar Cortés, San Juan PR

Café Manolín, San Juan PR

Cafetería Mallorca, San Juan PR

Tostado* (Santurce,) San Juan PR

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