Puerto Rico Food

The dining in Puerto Rico is world class, offering cuisines from across the globe

Fine Line

Puerto Rico's dining is so fine that some people visit the country to tour its finest dining locations. Try some of the Nuevo Latino, traditional críolla, or international cuisines - whatever suits your taste on this island where top-notch dining is just steps away.

"Comida críolla" simply means creole food, but in this case they don't mean cajun. "Creole" means something local to Puerto Rico, born on the island, as this style of cooking was. It combines elements of traditional Taíno foods, as well as many international influences - especially those of the island's Spanish colonizers, and African slaves. What trip to the Caribbean is complete without some traditional island fare?

Puerto Rico has also created a Mesones Gastronomicos program, with 30 restaurants islandwide participating. These are sure to offer the best in local dishes. Sponsored by the Puerto Rico Tourism Company, the program is designed to help travelers know they're about to try some of Puerto Rico's finest.

Still, for those looking for fine dining, there's plenty to be found. Upscale restaurants abound, especially in and around Old San Juan. At these you can taste international foods of all styles, from Chinese to Italian, and everything in between. But you're sure to be able to find some comida críolla at finer restaurants as well, since Puerto Rico has plenty to be proud of in its traditional fare.

Although Puerto Rico has plenty of fine dining options, visitors with smaller budgets can also eat well. Many smaller restaurants serve meals designed to suit more modest budgets. Costs range from approximately $5(USD) to $15(USD) for an economically-priced meal, while even most higher-end meals don't cost more than $35(USD).

When planning for a night out, be sure to dress appropriately. Puerto Rico's most upscale restaurants are usually black tie, but calling ahead is probably a good idea if you're unsure of the dress code. In the off-season less popular places probably won't require a reservation, but it's best to plan ahead.

Whatever pleases your palate and wallet, be sure to taste something new in one of Puerto Rico's many restaurants. And, of course, �Buen provecho!, enjoy your meal.

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