Where to Eat, Drink and Explore

Cueva Ventana

Cueva Ventana is a cave atop a limestone cliff in the mountainous town of Arecibo about an hour from San Juan. Its name translates to “cave window.” One hikes up and looks through for a gorgeous view of mountains and river. Head over on a weekday, when non-resident tickets are $19 for a 90-minute guided tour.

El Yunque National Forest

The only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System, El Yunque National Forest is home to an incredible amount of biodiversity. There are 240 tree species alone, making it a must-see on any nature-lover's itinerary. One need not worry about big wildlife, but lizards and frogs—like the island's coqui mascot—abound. Hike the rather easygoing trails to see all the vegetation, small animal life, and waterfalls.

Isla Verde Beach

Isla Verde Beach is a popular urban beach known for its soft, golden sand, clear, warm waters, and vibrant atmosphere.

La Placita de Santurce

On weekends, La Placita de Santurce farmers' market is a packed-to-the-gills party featuring small bars and restaurants. The central market is housed in a historic building, giving the revelry a truly escapist feel. But the real joy here is getting a rum drink in a plastic cup and walking around while taking in the sights. There are excellent restaurants on the outskirts, as well, including Jungle Bird, Santaella, and Mai Pen Rai.

Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico

Once a hospital, the Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico was restored and given new life in 1995. The grand building houses the work of the island's artists dating from the 17th century to the present day. The museum, located in the Santurce neighborhood, is a San Juan institution. The permanent collection includes more than 1,000 works ranging from painting to sculpture to installations. Rotating exhibitions, often with a political undercurrent, are part of the appeal. The exchange project Repatriation, for example, showcased the work of Puerto Rican artists living in Chicago.

Castillo San Felipe del Morro

Castillo San Felipe del Morro is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Puerto Rico—the iconic lookout is even on the island's license plate. The fortification dates back to the 16th century, during Spanish rule. There are no guides, but you can hire someone to show you around Old San Juan, including a stop at El Morro. Anyone bored by history or who can't be out in the sun too long should skip it, but the scale and longevity inspire awe among most visitors.

Ron de Barrilito

This is the home of Puerto Rico’s oldest rum, distilled in small batches by the Fernandez family since 1880. Three tours are offered: The Heritage Tour takes visitors through the landmarked grounds, which includes the Fernandez family mansion, while walking guests through the rum-making process. The Mixology Tour is a hands-on deep-dive cocktail class, and the Tasting Tour brings the tastebuds on a journey through the brand’s esteemed portfolio. Don't head out before trying the signature rum Old Fashioned served at the bar and sampling the high-end 5-star limited blend.

La Factoria

Dark, dim, and a little grungy, with its scuffed checkerboard floors, worn old couches, peeling walls, and chalkboard menus, La Factoria feels like a clandestine underground speakeasy. At least it will, if you can even find it—the bar is hidden in a nondescript old building with no sign out front, but just follow the crowd. La Factoria is world-famous for taking Puerto Rican mixology to the next level—the cocktails are refreshingly simple but masterfully made. (Word has it that the team is soon opening an outpost in Ponce, too.) The signature drink, the Lavender Mule—a mix of vodka, ginger beer, and homemade lavender infusion—is the perfect way to kick off the night. Come for an unforgettable cocktail in an unpretentious environment. Added bonus: behind the main bar, you'll find a door leading to a handful of other low-lit bars—and a dance floor.

Cafeteria Mallorca

A professional pan de Mallorca maker, Cafeteria Mallorca, gives off a cozy neighborhood feel. It is the oldest standing diner on the island and stays open till 3 p.m.

Lote 23

A menagerie of hip food trucks, airstreams, and vendor stalls, Lote 23 is a pitstop that will satisfy a wide range of tastes, whether you’re craving local beers from The Box Lab or savory Caribbean bites from Pa'l Cilantro. There’s also live music and plenty of picnic tables to lure you from the beach.

Verde Mesa

A shabby and oh-so-chic restaurant, Verde Mesa feels more like a home. The menu changes rapidly to accommodate the freshest ingredients. Owner Loyda Rosa Figueroa pioneered the farm-to-table concept in Puerto Rico, using fresh veggies from her own organic farm or the local farmer’s market in her dishes. Make room for dessert and ask for the purple cloud.

Vianda

After moving to Puerto Rico in 2017, husband-wife team Amelia Dill and Francis Guzmán built their first restaurant, Vianda. Showcasing the flavors of Puerto Rico with farm-to-table flair, the two earned their chops at New York City’s Blue Hill and two-Michelin-star restaurant The Modern. In 2019, Vianda was among the 20 Best New Restaurants in America selected by the James Beard Foundation with Chef Francis Guzmán chosen in 2021, 2022, and 2024 as a semifinalist for outstanding chef. “Fresh, locally sourced in a friendly environment. It would rank the top restaurant on my list,” said Valentin.

Marmalade

Marmalade With pretty multi-course meals, Marmalade is the sort of luxe spot one goes to celebrate life’s milestones. All the dishes are focused on farm-to-table ingredients. The White Bean Soup sprinkled with black truffles is a local favorite, mentioned to me several times while I was in the city. Suffice to say, it’s on my list for when I return.

El Viejo San Juan

A visit to Viejo San Juan is like traveling back in time. Walk the blue cobblestone streets of the oldest city in the United States for a look into the core of Puerto Rican history and culture.

Santaella

The Bride's Favorite! Looking for an afternoon pick-me-up in the form of an espresso martini? Velazquez offers up Santaella as a way to kickstart your night of salsa dancing. Led by Chef Jose Santaella, you’re in for a night of modern dining with local dishes that put “the vibrant energy of the island’s ‘cocina criolla’” on full display.

Paulina Escanes Restaurant

Join Paulina Escanes on a culinary journey rooted in her Mexican roots, where authentic flavors and seasonal produce shaped her palate. The menus created are filled with memories of Mexico and Paulina's travels, reflecting the essence of her homeland. At Paulina Escanes, you'll enjoy a warm atmosphere, like eating at a friend's house, with dishes that evoke nostalgia and transport you to the heart of Paulina's culinary influences.

Café Regina

Cafe Regina is a friendly, multi roaster neighborhood cafe, located in San Juan, Puerto Rico in the Ocean Park, just 1 block from the beach. Cafe Regina focuses greatly on quality, in both the coffee & the food served, and in the service offered. The cafe works with top roasters, incredible farmers, and collaborate often with local producers & makers.

787 Coffee

Bistro Café

Bistro Café is a trendy and casual cafeteria located in San Juan, Puerto Rico, offering a wide array of delicious Puerto Rican breakfast and brunch options.

Tostado* Puerta de Tierra

Tostado is a great spot for breakfast or brunch

Semilla Kitchen & Bar

Located in the heart of Condado, Semilla serves fresh and flavorful food infused with vibrant Puerto Rican roots. Dishes are carefully crafted to deliver an authentic and unforgettable dining experience.

La Casita Blanca

Its' story begins in 1980 when Jesús M. Pérez and his family founded La Casita Blanca on Tapia Street, in Villa Palmeras, Santurce. Located in a traditional and picturesque house from the 1920s, La Casita Blanca is a hidden gem offering traditional Puerto Rican cuisine that takes you back to the flavors of our grandmothers.

Lala Puerto Rico

Fun Fact: It's Bad Bunny's Restaurant! This restaurant is a fusion of Puerto Rican and Latin food and other elements worth trying. If you are a Bad Bunny fan, you should add this to your list!

YOKO

Located in the heart of Santurce on Calle Loíza, Yoko is home to both locals and anyone who seeks to enjoy Japanese cuisine crafted by Chef Meléndez.

El Jibarito

Traditional Puerto Rican Cuisine in the heart of Viejo San Juan

La Cueva del Mar

Piñones

Piñones is a beachside neighborhood famous for their delicious street food and beautiful coastline. Pinchos | Alcapurrias | Bacalaítos | Pastellillos | Mofongo | Seafood Some of our favorite spots are: Kiosko El Boricua, Kiosko El Guariquiten, The Waterfront, The New Reef

Esquina El Watusi

CAFé CON RON

Café con Ron is a coffee bar in El Veijo San Juan, Puerto Rico, known for its unique blend of coffee and rum cocktails. It's inspired by the Bad Bunny song of the same name and features a vibrant atmosphere with traditional Puerto Rican elements. The bar serves a signature "Café con Ron" cocktail and offers traditional Puerto Rican food like "frituras tripletas" and empanadas.

Blowbar

Hair

Esteban Montes Salon

Hair | Makeup | Barber

Beyond Salon

Hair | Nails | Makeup

U Salon

Hair | Makeup

MOLÉCULA

Hair | Nails | Makeup

OnlybyPizzon

Cristobal Color Studio

Hair | Skin | Nails

Makeup Artist

Get Wedding Ready with FierceFacesArtistry We’re so lucky to have one of my close friends—and an incredibly talented makeup artist—glamming us up for the big day! If you’re attending and want to look extra fabulous (photos last forever 🤍) you can book your wedding day or welcome party makeup with her.