Fodor's Expert Review Conuco

A mix of locals and tourists frequent Conuco, soft-spoken Puerto Rico native Rebecca Betancourt's homage to local food with an upscale twist. Barnlike open windows look out onto one of Isabel Segunda's main streets, and within, the airy room is simple but cozy. A back patio offers alfresco dining. Start with sangria rum punch, then move onto any of the menu's many selections—they're all that wonderful. Piping-hot arepas are piled high with pepper and octopus salad, while small tostones rellenos (fried plantains) are shaped into cups filled with a citrusy ceviche. Sorullitos (cheesy corn fritters) and bacalaítos (cod fritters) are reimagined with modern flair. The only thing that outdoes the flavors of a juicy churrasco (skirt steak) and overflowing seafood mofongo is the wow-factor of Betancourt's presentations.