The Best Restaurant in Ponce and the Porta Caribe, Puerto Rico

Background Illustration for Restaurants

Not all the culinary hot spots are in San Juan. In fact, people from the capital drive to Ponce or Guánica to see what's new on the horizon. Some of the more ambitious restaurants in this part of Puerto Rico are experimenting with Asian and Latin fusion cuisines, which means you might find pork with tamarind glaze or guava sauce, or snapper in a plantain crust. But what you'll mostly find are open-air eateries serving simple, filling fare. The southern coast is known for seafood, particularly Salinas and Ponce, both of which have a string of popular seaside restaurants. A 15%–20% tip is customary; most restaurants won't include it in the bill, but it's wise to check.

Santorini Ocean Lounge

$$$

The only Greek restaurant in Ponce, this open-air establishment has successfully captured the cuisine and atmosphere of its namesake island. Statues of goddesses line the pathway leading to a bi-level dining area, decorated with 1960s-era movie posters from Greece, and nearly every dish is bathed in olive oil and vinegar, including the salads and sandwiches. You'll also find plenty of Caribbean food and Spanish tapas like conch fritters and stuffed lobster hamburgers, but it's the grilled lobster that's the hands-down favorite. On Friday and Saturday, the bar is open late for drinks and dancing. Request a table on the lower deck, where water gently laps near your table, and bring bug repellent.

Rte. 2, Km 218, 00731, Puerto Rico
787-651–6110
Known For
  • Grilled lobster
  • Churrasco
  • Baklava
Restaurant Details
Closed Mon. and Tues.

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