Puerto Rico is experiencing a burgeoning new identity in a period of artistic and cultural renaissance.
Eat & Drink
MORNING COFFEE FIX
There is no better way to start the day than with a cup of Puerto Rican coffee. Find locally grown, 100% Arabica beans harvested and processed in the mountains of San Lorenzo at Hacienda Muñoz, where you can tour the coffee plantation and then visit Yiya’s Restaurant (named after the owner’s mother), Doppio Coffee Bar, Amanda’s Garage (a sports bar open on weekends), a gift shop, and events venue. Purchase specialty blends on-site to savor the flavor of the island long after you depart. haciendamunozpr.com
HOLISTIC HOSPITALITY
Chef Carlos Portela offers a restaurant experience unlike any other at Orujo. Guests are treated to a tasting of more than a dozen courses made with local ingredients and served in an intimate setting. A treat for foodies, you’re encouraged to wander into the kitchen and watch the staff prepare your meal. Wine pairing is available, and dinner can last several hours, feeling like a private party at the chef’s house. Plan ahead to experience the restaurant as reservations book out several weeks in advance.
A CELEBRATION OF FLAVORS
In 2023, chef Natalie Vallejo was the first Puerto Rican to win the James Beard Award for Best Chef South. She is at the helm of Cocina al Fondo, located in a former residence, with indoor and outdoor dining. The menu has classic Puerto Rican dishes with an elevated twist and varies depending on what’s in season. The restaurant utilizes locally sourced ingredients expertly paired with handcrafted cocktails. This is a great spot for a date night. cocinaalfondo.com
You’re encouraged to wander into the kitchen and watch the staff prepare your meal. Wine pairing is available, and dinner can last several hours, feeling like a private party at the chef’s house
Shop
LOCAL TALENT
Calle Loíza is one of San Juan’s trendiest areas. The street is filled with clothing boutiques, smart restaurants, and small businesses. You can easily spend an afternoon shopping for the perfect vacation clothing. Or stop by Pure Sol Boutique on Calle San Justo to browse the chic resort and casual wear; it was founded by Sylma Cabrera, a native of San Juan and graduate of Parsons School of Design in New York City. puresoulboutique.com
BOOKS GALORE
This small, independent bookstore has a well-curated collection of books in English and Spanish. You’ll find handwritten notes with book recommendations and reviews on the shelves, written by the staff. You can lounge at tables and on sofas, and order a snack from the in-house café, serving artisanal cupcakes, macarons, sandwiches, and more. There are a variety of coffee options, from espressos to chai lattes, all adding up to an inviting atmosphere where you can enjoyably linger. thebookmarkpr.com
UNIQUE CRAFTS
Located in a Spanish colonial building in Old San Juan, Puerto Rican Art & Crafts is your one-stop-shop for handmade, authentic artwork. Wander the gallery and admire Puerto Rican craftsmanship from ceramics to woodwork to paintings. If you choose to purchase a piece of art, shipping is available. This is a good place to shop for vejigante masks, used during Carnival and each with a unique design. puertoricanart-crafts.com
Explore
BREATH OF FRESH AIR
El Yunque is the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System and is often referred to as the lungs of the island. It spans more than 28,000 acres, with over 240 species of native trees. There are waterfalls, observation towers, hiking trails, and scenic overlooks to enjoy. Take the Angelito Trail for an easy hike that leads to refreshing natural pools. Another popular route is to drive to La Coca Falls and continue on to Yokahú Tower. fs.usda.gov/elyunque
MUSEUM MATTERS
Located in Santurce, Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico has 24 exhibition galleries and immersive art installations. The art museum’s collection highlights Puerto Rican artists, and visitors are encouraged to ask the knowledgeable English-speaking staff questions about the works on display. Outside, the Sculpture Botanical Garden at the back spans 2.5 acres and incorporates national flora into the landscaping. mapr.org/es
CAVERN EXPLORATION
An hour and a half from San Juan, the Río Camuy Cave Park is the third-largest cavern system in the world. Closed for several years for renovations after flooding, it has now officially reopened. There’s an admission charge and visitors must use a designated guide to tour the caves, which is extremely helpful as inside it’s dark and can be slippery underfoot, so wear appropriate shoes. It’s an adventure that feels like journeying to the center of the Earth.
Insider's Tip
Those wanting to stretch their legs while on vacation can do so on a scenic bike route. Paseo Puerto de Tierra is a new bike path from Condado to Old San Juan, which is safe to ride along. Rent an e-bike at the start or end of the route, and once in Old San Juan, stop by the island’s landmark, Castillo San Felipe del Morro, to enjoy the breeze and take in the views.