Cuban Restaurants in Puerto Rico

If you’re craving Cuban flavors while in Puerto Rico, you’re in luck,there are spots that serve up the real deal without the tourist traps. Old San Juan and Santurce have some solid places where you can find a cafecito that rivals Havana’s, along with classic dishes like lechón asado and congri rice. One local favorite I keep going back to is Pila in Santurce. Their ropa vieja is ridiculously tender and comes with a side of plantains that are just right,not too sweet, not too mushy.

And don’t overlook places around Río Piedras, where Cuban influences blend with the local Puerto Rican palate in interesting ways. If you want a tip, visit in the late afternoon for a less crowded experience and try the Cuban sandwich with a cold Medalla, which somehow tastes better here under the Caribbean sun. Also, Cuban food in Puerto Rico tends to lean a bit heavier on pork and garlic, so bring your appetite. You won’t find many tourist menus here; it’s the kind of place where you eat like a local, and trust me, it’s worth it.