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We've compiled the best of the best in Greater San Juan - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.
Chef Natalia Vallejo won the James Beard Foundation's Best Chef: South award in 2023. Her restaurant in the heart of Santurce is a magical experience. The restored home is simple yet tastefully decorated and leads to a large outdoor patio in a lush and vibrant setting. The small kitchen churns out innovative Puerto Rican dishes with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Dinner is served from Thursday to Saturday.
The decor is minimalist yet inviting, a nod to Japan's tradition of elegant simplicity, and the culinary experience is spectacular. Start with the pork gyozas (dumplings) or tomorokoshi (grilled corn), before moving on to the sushi rolls. Specials may include uni (sea urchin) or toro (fatty tuna) flown in from Japan.
Celeste is Puerta de Tierra's first upscale restaurant. Chef and proprietor, Sebastian Sarda, alongside his wildly talented team, serve some of Puerto Rico's most creative dishes with quality ingredients. Order everything on the menu at this wine and seafood bar, you won't be disappointed.
A breakfast and brunch restaurant, Christianson is known for having bottomless mimosas ($25 per person for one hour) as well as decadent French toast flavors like cinnamon roll, million-dollar bacon, and guava strawberry cheesecake.
L'Olivo is a Mediterranean restaurant serving a blend of Spanish, Italian, and Greek cuisine. This is an upscale dining experience with tapas and craft cocktails. The pot-pie appetizer with Portabello mushrooms and brie, roasted beet carpaccio, and marinated short ribs are crowd-pleasers. On-site parking is available.
Inside a gas station is the last place you'd expect to find an Italian restaurant in San Juan, but don't let that deter you. This is one of the best places for pizza on the island, cooked in an 800-degree brick oven. They also serve other dinner entrees and have a wine list to pair with your meal. Seating is limited so reservations are recommended.
An Italian restaurant with a Puerto Rican flair, Tavola features homemade cuisine and is a favorite for pasta lovers. The gnocchi and mushroom tortellini are popular on the menu, but the main attraction is the hidden speakeasy inside, Vendetta. You enter through what looks like a convenience store refrigerator into a dark room with craft cocktails and an exclusive lounge ambience.
