Cuisine & Cocktails

The Island’s cocktail scene has evolved with equal care. Puerto Rico is the birthplace of the piña colada, and you’ll find that an innovative approach to refreshing drinks continues to this day. Whether it’s one of the world’s top bars in Old San Juan, a brewery tour, a tasting of local rums, or just a poolside cocktail, you’ll find plenty to enjoy there.

Puerto Rican cuisine is characterized by its colorful and seasoned dishes that bring a savory (not to be confused with spicy!) touch to every meal. Even though many American eateries can be found in Puerto Rico (the island is full of McDonald’s, Burger King, and the like), the local food is a connection to the historical context that the island has gone through and to its culture. Heaping portions of crispy, garlicky, fried plantains; slow-roasted, succulent pork; savory rice and beans chased with a cold local beer or fruity rum cocktail, and that's just your first meal.

Having the opportunity to enjoy authentic Puerto Rican food is a highlight of many visitors' experiences. The vibrancy of Puerto Rican culture comes alive in its dishes, a celebration of flavors that visitors have the opportunity to indulge in. Some of the favorites are mofongo, tostones, pasteles, tostones, arroz con gandules, cuchifritos, tembleque, coquito among others. Criollo foods are traditionally paired with beer or rum with cola or fruit juice.