Best Restaurants, Bars & Breakfast Spots in Isla Verde, Puerto Rico

Chef José Santaella has trained with some of the best chefs in the world, including Ferrán Adriá, Eric Ripert, and Gary Danko. His apprenticeships and successful catering career paved the way for Santaella, his signature restaurant in Santurce's La Placita Marketplace. The decor is rustic yet elegant, with exposed walls, Edison light fixtures, an interior garden, and a sparkling bar. Chef Santaella fuses local and international ingredients to perfectly execute Puerto Rican nouvelle cuisine. The menu is dominated by tapas, which you can easily make into a meal. Favorites include the ahi tuna skewers, goat cheese quesadilla, 'alcapurrias' topped with crab, and foie gras terrine with fruit jelly . The cocktail bar is one of the best on the island, so don't leave without trying one of the concoctions by Santaella's mixologists.

Welcome to Panadería y Repostería España, the best bakery in Puerto Rico! Family owned and operated for generations, they've been proudly serving Carolina since 1972. Panadería y Repostería España is so much more than your traditional bakery. Not only do we serve the best pastries and freshly baked bread in Puerto Rico, we also offer a wide variety of authentic Spanish cuisine. Taste our fresh sandwiches, cakes, and cold cuts or indulge in a glass of wine paired with our delicious hors d'oeuvres.

Just a quick ride from Escambrón Beach, Heladería Funkyberry serves up playful, ever‑changing ice cream creations with a Puerto Rican twist. Locals love flavors like Guava Cookie Crunch and Passionfruit Cheesecake, plus refreshing sorbets perfect for a hot beach day.

Located in the heart of Condado, Anita Gelato serves creamy, authentic Italian-style gelato with a wide range of classic and creative flavors. From rich pistachio and Belgian chocolate to tropical fruit sorbets, it’s a favorite stop for both locals and tourists looking to cool down after a beach day.

A San Juan institution on Calle Loíza, Kasalta Bakery & Café is famous for its fresh pastries, hearty sandwiches, and traditional Puerto Rican treats like quesitos and mallorcas. It’s the perfect spot for a sweet bite, a quick breakfast, or a relaxed coffee break after exploring the beach.

Piu Bello Gelato in Isla Verde is a popular stop for anyone craving a sweet treat after a beach day. Known for its authentic Italian-style gelato made fresh daily, it also serves crepes, coffee, and light desserts in a casual, family-friendly setting. Located just steps from the Isla Verde strip, it’s a favorite for both tourists and locals looking to cool off with something refreshing.

Welcome to Panadería y Repostería España, the best bakery in Puerto Rico! Family owned and operated for generations, they've been proudly serving Carolina since 1972. Panadería y Repostería España is so much more than your traditional bakery. Not only do we serve the best pastries and freshly baked bread in Puerto Rico, we also offer a wide variety of authentic Spanish cuisine. Taste our fresh sandwiches, cakes, and cold cuts or indulge in a glass of wine paired with our delicious hors d'oeuvres.

A beloved neighborhood breakfast and brunch destination, Bistro Café is praised for huge portions of classic Puerto Rican and American dishes. Visitors return trip after trip, highlighting its friendly service and consistently delicious fare.

Christianson is a stylish brunch spot in Loíza, popular with both locals and visitors. Known for its modern menu and hearty dishes, it’s a great place to enjoy eggs, waffles, and Puerto Rican specialties in a comfortable setting. Due to its popularity, weekends can get busy—arriving early or reserving ahead is a good idea.

Piu Bello Gelato in Isla Verde is a popular stop for anyone craving a sweet treat after a beach day. Known for its authentic Italian-style gelato made fresh daily, it also serves crepes, coffee, and light desserts in a casual, family-friendly setting. Located just steps from the Isla Verde strip, it’s a favorite for both tourists and locals looking to cool off with something refreshing.

La Playita Hotel is a charming boutique hotel tucked along the Isla Verde waterfront in Carolina, Puerto Rico. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and intimate setting, it offers cozy rooms with stunning ocean or lagoon views. Guests can enjoy the private dock, on-site bar and restaurant, and easy access to Isla Verde’s lively beaches, restaurants, and nightlife. Perfect for couples or travelers seeking a quiet retreat just minutes from the San Juan airport.

Playa Papaya Café is a laid-back breakfast and brunch spot in San Juan, known for its fresh smoothies, acai bowls, wraps, and locally brewed coffee. With its relaxed beach-town vibe, it’s a popular stop for visitors looking for a light and healthy meal before or after the beach.

Welcome to Panadería y Repostería España, the best bakery in Puerto Rico! Family owned and operated for generations, they've been proudly serving Carolina since 1972. Panadería y Repostería España is so much more than your traditional bakery. Not only do we serve the best pastries and freshly baked bread in Puerto Rico, we also offer a wide variety of authentic Spanish cuisine. Taste our fresh sandwiches, cakes, and cold cuts or indulge in a glass of wine paired with our delicious hors d'oeuvres.

This vibrant Mexican–Latin spot brings big flavors with a lively atmosphere adored by locals and visitors alike. Dishes are a party of fresh ingredients, bold spices, and generous portions—perfect for a fun, casual meal right off Isla Verde Avenue. Frequently recommended in local community lists.

A beloved neighborhood breakfast and brunch destination, Bistro Café is praised for huge portions of classic Puerto Rican and American dishes. Visitors return trip after trip, highlighting its friendly service and consistently delicious fare.

By day, Sirena Restaurant in Carolina, Puerto Rico serves a light lunch with attentive service and tropical rhythms in a casual oceanfront setting. When the sun goes down, the experience transforms into Sirena Bar & Tapas Restaurant. Indulge in a memorable three-course dinner with your sweetheart in a supremely romantic setting at Coutyard by Marriott Isla Verde Beach Resort.

Enjoy a gorgeous sunset on the outdoor oceanfront deck and terrace or at the lounge bar while sipping tropical cocktails. Order from the exotic tapas menu to introduce your taste buds to a creative twist on local and Caribbean fusion cuisine.

Located right in the heart of Isla Verde, Mi Casita is a casual, no-frills restaurant serving up classic Puerto Rican dishes in a friendly, family-style setting. It's a favorite spot for both locals and tourists looking to enjoy hearty meals like mofongo, tostones, chuletas, and arroz con gandules — all at affordable prices.

Just steps from the beach, Mi Casita offers quick service, generous portions, and a relaxed vibe, making it a perfect stop before or after a day in the sun.

Celebrate the San Juan of yesterday and today, along with international cuisine prepared with the freshest local ingredients. Inspired dishes seamlessly blend with authentic Puerto Rican flavors and innovative island cocktails. Gather on Caña’s airy covered terrace to bask in a welcoming poolside ambiance, or inside the restaurant for a delightful experience. Enjoy daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Brunch is served Sundays.

Christianson is a stylish brunch spot in Loíza, popular with both locals and visitors. Known for its modern menu and hearty dishes, it’s a great place to enjoy eggs, waffles, and Puerto Rican specialties in a comfortable setting. Due to its popularity, weekends can get busy—arriving early or reserving ahead is a good idea.

Piu Bello Gelato in Isla Verde is a popular stop for anyone craving a sweet treat after a beach day. Known for its authentic Italian-style gelato made fresh daily, it also serves crepes, coffee, and light desserts in a casual, family-friendly setting. Located just steps from the Isla Verde strip, it’s a favorite for both tourists and locals looking to cool off with something refreshing.

La Playita Hotel is a charming boutique hotel tucked along the Isla Verde waterfront in Carolina, Puerto Rico. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and intimate setting, it offers cozy rooms with stunning ocean or lagoon views. Guests can enjoy the private dock, on-site bar and restaurant, and easy access to Isla Verde’s lively beaches, restaurants, and nightlife. Perfect for couples or travelers seeking a quiet retreat just minutes from the San Juan airport.

Just steps from Escambrón Beach, El Hamburger is a no-frills San Juan favorite serving up juicy burgers, crispy fries, and cold drinks with a view. Locals and tourists alike line up for its laid-back vibe and simple, satisfying comfort food. Perfect for a casual bite before or after the beach.

Welcome to Panadería y Repostería España, the best bakery in Puerto Rico! Family owned and operated for generations, they've been proudly serving Carolina since 1972. Panadería y Repostería España is so much more than your traditional bakery. Not only do we serve the best pastries and freshly baked bread in Puerto Rico, we also offer a wide variety of authentic Spanish cuisine. Taste our fresh sandwiches, cakes, and cold cuts or indulge in a glass of wine paired with our delicious hors d'oeuvres.

Pirilo is a rustic pizzeria in which we prepare, with dedication, delicious classic Italian and international dishes; always using the freshest local products. The space is designed and decorated by combining the typical Italian trattoria with the emblematic colonial architecture of Old San Juan, creating a picturesque and warm environment. The Pirilo bar has a wide selection of drinks, exclusive to the restaurant and a variety of more than 50 handcrafted beers.

A local favorite for authentic Puerto Rican seafood, Cayo Caribe serves fresh fried fish, seafood fritters, and hearty rice dishes in a casual setting. It’s a no-frills spot with big flavors and a lively local vibe—perfect for a true taste of island comfort food.

Known for its relaxed atmosphere and consistently fresh seafood, La Cueva del Mar is a go-to for locals craving classics like shrimp mofongo, garlic butter fish, and seafood empanadas. It’s the ideal place to enjoy laid-back dining with plenty of flavor after a beach day.

This vibrant Mexican–Latin spot brings big flavors with a lively atmosphere adored by locals and visitors alike. Dishes are a party of fresh ingredients, bold spices, and generous portions—perfect for a fun, casual meal right off Isla Verde Avenue. Frequently recommended in local community lists.

A beloved neighborhood breakfast and brunch destination, Bistro Café is praised for huge portions of classic Puerto Rican and American dishes. Visitors return trip after trip, highlighting its friendly service and consistently delicious fare.

The true taste of Puertorican food! Come and enjoy a piece of Puerto Rico with our variety of dishes. Standouts include mofongo, lobster tails with tostones, and rich black bean risotto. Your favorite drink awaits for you at our bar. Also you can try our house drinks, sangrias and more. By the glass or a bottle, you will find your favorite wine at Platos Restaurant in Isla Verde. Red, Sparkling, Rosé or White, we have it.

Known for delivering genuine Boricua cuisine in relaxed surroundings. Reviewers rave about the pace, service, and vibrant, authentic flavors. Come and enjoy the PLATOS experience!

By day, Sirena Restaurant in Carolina, Puerto Rico serves a light lunch with attentive service and tropical rhythms in a casual oceanfront setting. When the sun goes down, the experience transforms into Sirena Bar & Tapas Restaurant. Indulge in a memorable three-course dinner with your sweetheart in a supremely romantic setting at Coutyard by Marriott Isla Verde Beach Resort.

Enjoy a gorgeous sunset on the outdoor oceanfront deck and terrace or at the lounge bar while sipping tropical cocktails. Order from the exotic tapas menu to introduce your taste buds to a creative twist on local and Caribbean fusion cuisine.

Located just minutes from Isla Verde Beach, Metropol Restaurant is a long-standing favorite for both locals and visitors seeking authentic Cuban and Puerto Rican cuisine in a polished, family-friendly setting. Known for its flavorful ropa vieja, arroz con pollo, and mofongo stuffed with shrimp or churrasco, Metropol blends hearty Caribbean comfort food with a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

With generous portions, quick service, and consistent quality, it's a go-to spot whether you’re craving a traditional Cuban sandwich or a full Puerto Rican feast. It's perfect for lunch, dinner, or a satisfying meal after the beach.

Pa’ Pical is a vibrant and locally loved eatery in Carolina, Puerto Rico, known for its creative twist on traditional Puerto Rican street food. With a name that plays on “pa’ picar” (to snack on), this casual hotspot offers loaded fries, savory empanadas, juicy burgers, and inventive sliders — all packed with bold Caribbean flavor.

Perfect for a quick bite after the beach or a fun late-night snack, Pa’ Pical serves up comfort food with flair in a relaxed, urban setting. Locals rave about the generous portions, colorful plating, and chill vibes.

Tucked along the shores of Isla Verde, Ocean Breeze is a laid-back beachfront restaurant offering panoramic ocean views and a breezy, tropical atmosphere. Known for its fresh seafood, handcrafted cocktails, and welcoming service, it's a perfect spot for a relaxing lunch, sunset dinner, or casual drinks by the sea.

Whether you're in the mood for grilled mahi-mahi, mofongo with shrimp, or simply sipping a piña colada as the sun sets, Ocean Breeze captures the spirit of island dining.

Located right in the heart of Isla Verde, Mi Casita is a casual, no-frills restaurant serving up classic Puerto Rican dishes in a friendly, family-style setting. It's a favorite spot for both locals and tourists looking to enjoy hearty meals like mofongo, tostones, chuletas, and arroz con gandules — all at affordable prices.

Just steps from the beach, Mi Casita offers quick service, generous portions, and a relaxed vibe, making it a perfect stop before or after a day in the sun.

Christianson is a stylish brunch spot in Loíza, popular with both locals and visitors. Known for its modern menu and hearty dishes, it’s a great place to enjoy eggs, waffles, and Puerto Rican specialties in a comfortable setting. Due to its popularity, weekends can get busy—arriving early or reserving ahead is a good idea.

Piu Bello Gelato in Isla Verde is a popular stop for anyone craving a sweet treat after a beach day. Known for its authentic Italian-style gelato made fresh daily, it also serves crepes, coffee, and light desserts in a casual, family-friendly setting. Located just steps from the Isla Verde strip, it’s a favorite for both tourists and locals looking to cool off with something refreshing.

La Playita Hotel is a charming boutique hotel tucked along the Isla Verde waterfront in Carolina, Puerto Rico. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and intimate setting, it offers cozy rooms with stunning ocean or lagoon views. Guests can enjoy the private dock, on-site bar and restaurant, and easy access to Isla Verde’s lively beaches, restaurants, and nightlife. Perfect for couples or travelers seeking a quiet retreat just minutes from the San Juan airport.

Chef José Santaella has trained with some of the best chefs in the world, including Ferrán Adriá, Eric Ripert, and Gary Danko. His apprenticeships and successful catering career paved the way for Santaella, his signature restaurant in Santurce's La Placita Marketplace. The decor is rustic yet elegant, with exposed walls, Edison light fixtures, an interior garden, and a sparkling bar. Chef Santaella fuses local and international ingredients to perfectly execute Puerto Rican nouvelle cuisine. The menu is dominated by tapas, which you can easily make into a meal. Favorites include the ahi tuna skewers, goat cheese quesadilla, 'alcapurrias' topped with crab, and foie gras terrine with fruit jelly . The cocktail bar is one of the best on the island, so don't leave without trying one of the concoctions by Santaella's mixologists.

Named for the year Condado Vanderbilt first opened its doors, this unparalleled tour-de-force in fine dining offers contemporary, "flavor-forward" dishes crafted exclusively from local artisans and farmers. The 1919 team believes in pairing social consciousness with exquisite taste. Combined with impeccable service and meticulous attention to detail, it's a recipe for feasts you'll not soon forget.

Marmalade Restaurant & Wine Bar is a celebrated, upscale dining gem located in the historic heart of Old San Juan. Marmalade delivers a refined and immersive culinary experience and is known for its innovative tasting menu only format. Reservations of 5 or less people will enjoy our 5 course menu. Groups of 6 or more will enjoy the TASTE OF MARMALADE experience. Please note Marmalade does not offer a children's menu or a la carte.

Where Flavor, Artistry, and Culture Converge! MĀRO is more than a restaurant, it’s a journey through the soulful flavors of Latin America and the vibrant traditions of the Pacific Rim. Crafted by acclaimed Chef Mario Pagán, MĀRO Cocina Pacífico-Latina invites you to immerse yourself in a world where culinary creativity meets architectural beauty, and every moment is designed to delight.

Cocina al Fondo offers a unique sensorial journey that is meant for everyone to enjoy. The rotating, seasonally-inspired plates, from the most simple to the most complex dish, encourage wellbeing: of our bodies, minds, and soul. Nature, art, the lyrical essence of the island, the aromas, and the colorful, intense Caribbean heritage are all imbued into every element of their cuisine.

Celebrate the San Juan of yesterday and today, along with international cuisine prepared with the freshest local ingredients. Inspired dishes seamlessly blend with authentic Puerto Rican flavors and innovative island cocktails. Gather on Caña’s airy covered terrace to bask in a welcoming poolside ambiance, or inside the restaurant for a delightful experience. Enjoy daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Brunch is served Sundays.

Just steps from Escambrón Beach, El Hamburger is a no-frills San Juan favorite serving up juicy burgers, crispy fries, and cold drinks with a view. Locals and tourists alike line up for its laid-back vibe and simple, satisfying comfort food. Perfect for a casual bite before or after the beach.

Pirilo is a rustic pizzeria in which we prepare, with dedication, delicious classic Italian and international dishes; always using the freshest local products. The space is designed and decorated by combining the typical Italian trattoria with the emblematic colonial architecture of Old San Juan, creating a picturesque and warm environment. The Pirilo bar has a wide selection of drinks, exclusive to the restaurant and a variety of more than 50 handcrafted beers.

Pizzella is a cozy, casual pizza spot in San Juan known for its colorful atmosphere, friendly service, and crowd-pleasing pies. Located near tourist shops and city buzz, it's a go-to for both locals and visitors craving fresh, oven-baked pizza with generous toppings.

With a vibrant red storefront and indoor dining accented by warm colors and pizza-themed decor, Pizzella offers a relaxed setting to grab a quick slice or sit down for a hearty meal. The menu features classic options like pepperoni and veggie, plus local twists that showcase Puerto Rican flavor.

Pa’ Pical is a vibrant and locally loved eatery in Carolina, Puerto Rico, known for its creative twist on traditional Puerto Rican street food. With a name that plays on “pa’ picar” (to snack on), this casual hotspot offers loaded fries, savory empanadas, juicy burgers, and inventive sliders — all packed with bold Caribbean flavor.

Perfect for a quick bite after the beach or a fun late-night snack, Pa’ Pical serves up comfort food with flair in a relaxed, urban setting. Locals rave about the generous portions, colorful plating, and chill vibes.

Tucked along the shores of Isla Verde, Ocean Breeze is a laid-back beachfront restaurant offering panoramic ocean views and a breezy, tropical atmosphere. Known for its fresh seafood, handcrafted cocktails, and welcoming service, it's a perfect spot for a relaxing lunch, sunset dinner, or casual drinks by the sea.

Whether you're in the mood for grilled mahi-mahi, mofongo with shrimp, or simply sipping a piña colada as the sun sets, Ocean Breeze captures the spirit of island dining.

Located right in the heart of Isla Verde, Mi Casita is a casual, no-frills restaurant serving up classic Puerto Rican dishes in a friendly, family-style setting. It's a favorite spot for both locals and tourists looking to enjoy hearty meals like mofongo, tostones, chuletas, and arroz con gandules — all at affordable prices.

Just steps from the beach, Mi Casita offers quick service, generous portions, and a relaxed vibe, making it a perfect stop before or after a day in the sun.

Marmalade Restaurant & Wine Bar is a celebrated, upscale dining gem located in the historic heart of Old San Juan. Marmalade delivers a refined and immersive culinary experience and is known for its innovative tasting menu only format. Reservations of 5 or less people will enjoy our 5 course menu. Groups of 6 or more will enjoy the TASTE OF MARMALADE experience. Please note Marmalade does not offer a children's menu or a la carte.

La Placita de Santurce is a Market by Day, Party by Night. A vibrant Valencia‑style piazza that thrives during the day—and explodes with live music, salsa dancing, reggaetón DJs, bars, and street food in the evenings.

La Respuesta is a vibrant arts-and-entertainment venue in Santurce that blends live bands, DJs (hip‑hop, R&B, Latin jazz), comedy nights, and creative performances in a relaxed, artsy setting . Open typically Thurs–Sat from around 8 PM to late, it's a favorite spot for art-forward locals and visitors alike .

Located in the heart of Condado, Kāne Rum Bar specializes in showcasing over 150 rums, paired with creative cocktails and small plates in a stylish, laid-back setting. It’s perfect for a happy hour or post-beach evening.

Located next to the Puerto Rico Convention Center in Isla Grande/Santurce, this 476,000 ft² entertainment district features: live‐music venues (including Coca‑Cola Music Hall), an LED‐lit outdoor Popular Plaza, Caribbean Cinemas VIP, urban adventure attractions like zip‑lines, around a dozen restaurants/bars, shopping, and the Aloft Hotel—all launched in August 2021.

By day, Sirena Restaurant in Carolina, Puerto Rico serves a light lunch with attentive service and tropical rhythms in a casual oceanfront setting. When the sun goes down, the experience transforms into Sirena Bar & Tapas Restaurant. Indulge in a memorable three-course dinner with your sweetheart in a supremely romantic setting at Coutyard by Marriott Isla Verde Beach Resort.

Enjoy a gorgeous sunset on the outdoor oceanfront deck and terrace or at the lounge bar while sipping tropical cocktails. Order from the exotic tapas menu to introduce your taste buds to a creative twist on local and Caribbean fusion cuisine.

Pa’ Pical is a vibrant and locally loved eatery in Carolina, Puerto Rico, known for its creative twist on traditional Puerto Rican street food. With a name that plays on “pa’ picar” (to snack on), this casual hotspot offers loaded fries, savory empanadas, juicy burgers, and inventive sliders — all packed with bold Caribbean flavor.

Perfect for a quick bite after the beach or a fun late-night snack, Pa’ Pical serves up comfort food with flair in a relaxed, urban setting. Locals rave about the generous portions, colorful plating, and chill vibes.

Club Brava is an entertainment venue that blends the high-energy dancing of a nightclub with the relaxed atmosphere of a lounge. Designed for those seeking elegance and sophistication, it’s the ideal spot to see and be seen. Located in the Fairmont El San Juan Hotel and Casino, Club Brava has become a landmark in Puerto Rico's nightlife.

It's perfect for locals and visitors alike to gather on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Thursdays feature local college nights for those 18+, with Latin music hits and open-format reggaeton. Fridays and Saturdays are 21+ events, showcasing a mix of Latin hits and American music, with local DJs upstairs and our resident DJ downstairs. Saturdays are all about reggaeton, celebrating vibrant Latino vibes. Club Brava is the place for visitors to embrace Puerto Rico's music and culture in a fun, safe environment.