Puerto Rico – Fine Dining

Verde Mesa
“This quaint hidden gem has a rustic vibe à la française with punched-tin ceilings, mason-jar light fixtures, and mismatched French-style furniture. The refined pescatarian and vegetarian menu changes daily, depending on what catch and organic local produce is available. Don’t neglect the mainstays on the printed menu — like the signature verde mesa rice, tuna Nicoise, and pigeon pea hummus. The small space tends to fill up quickly: Reservations aren’t accepted and turnover can be slow, so be prepared to wait. Thankfully, you can try tantalizing herb “infusions” (red, green, or yellow) while you wait, either on their own or with some local rum. Pro tip: ask for a small tasting of the potions before deciding which one to choose.” – Eater.com
Address: 107 Calle Tetuan San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico
Phone: (787) 390-4662
La Cucina di Ivo
“Named for its Milanese transplant chef Ivo Bignami, this elegant yet simple Italian trattoria is definitely a family affair: Bignami’s daughters provide attentive and impeccable service as Bignami turns out specialties from his native Italy, like osso buco allá Milanesa, impossibly fluffy gnocchi, and tiramisu. Throw on a nice outfit and head to Ivo’s for a romantic night out: Its incredible Italian cuisine is served in an exquisite ambiance.” – Eater.com
Address: 356 Calle Fortaleza San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico
Phone: (787) 729-7070
Pikayo
“Pikayo is celebrity chef Wilo Benet’s flagship restaurant. Despite several changes in physical location and menu, Pikayo has been elevating local Puerto Rican flavors into fine-dining experiences for over 15 years. The latest location — inside the Conrad Condado Plaza Hotel — combines a modern ambience with stunning ocean views. Pikayo is renowned not just for its menu of haute cuisine criollo like the bistec encebollado (steak with onions), pegao rice with tuna tartare, foie gras with plantains and truffle honey, or swordfish with pigeon peas.” – Eater.com
Address: 999 Ashford Avenue San Juan, 00907, Puerto Rico
Phone: (787) 721-6194
1919
“Inside the swanky Condado Vanderbilt Hotel is the equally luxe 1919 restaurant by chef Juan Jose Cuevas, who previously spent time in storied kitchens like Arkelare, Lespinasse, and Blue Hill. This posh eatery serves refined plates with meticulous care and impeccable presentation. The dining room is as exquisite and sophisticated as the food: a glass wall provides floor-to-ceiling views of the Atlantic and chandeliers cascade with mother-of-pearl. Order à la carte or go for the three or four-course prix-fixe option. There’s also an impressive wine list, with over 250 selections to choose from.” – Eater.com
Address: 1055 Ashford Ave San Juan, San Juan 00907, Puerto Rico
Phone: (787) 724-1919