My Pocket Concierge 14 Edition 2019

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Concierge T he

Pocket

Restaurant, Tourism & Barhopping Guide

Reviews QR Interactive Maps Speed Read Layout Featuring:

Puerto Rico

2019

Where locals meet since 1973

• Lunch, Dinner & Happy Hour daily • • Come for food, drinks, or both • • Family friendly, great for groups • • Try our World Famous French Onion Soup •

1400 Magdalena Ave. La Casabella, Condado 939-633-6679

Executive Chef Xavier Toro rare125pr.com (787) 946.4996

Ponce de Leon Ave. Edificio Centro de Seguros #701 Miramar, San Juan

(behind Banco Popular)

Sun-Thurs: 11:30am-10pm Fri-Sat: 11:30am-11pm

The Pocket Concierge 34 Sur........................................................................................................... 10 Barrachina ...................................................................................................7 Captain Rum .................................................................................................25 Condal ..........................................................................................................11 Greenhouse...................................................................inside front cover Híjole ..........................................................................Front Cover, 8-9 La Joya ............................................................................................................12 New Taste.......................................................................................................13 Ocean Front Hotel & Restaurant .........................................................20 Perla ..............................................................................................................14 Pirilo.............................................................................................16-17 PJ’s Pizza ..................................................................................................25 Rare 125 ...................................................................................................3, 15 Ropa Vieja ............................................................................18, back cover Si No Corro Me Pizza..................................................................................... 6 Taberna Selfies.............................................................................................19 Vaca Brava........................................................................inside back cover Waiter’s Gastro Bar..................................................................................25 Best Bars .... 22-24 Festivals ... 21 Old San Juan and Concierge’s Pick ... 30 Things to do ... 28-29 Tours & Excursions ... 26-27 Pricing Guide: Our pricing legend is a subjective scale. Pricing categories can fluctuate drastically depending on sub menus and libations consumed. $ < $25pp $$ = $25-$50pp $$$ > $50pp *Pricing does not include tax or tipping. Recommended tipping in Puerto Rico is 15%-25% of the total pre-tax bill.

Photography: John Corbet (www.1810photography.wordpress.com)

Printing: Extreme Graphics

Multi Media Naranja: chief editor/design/metro area sales:

Ian Morales 787.630.5519 ianmorales3@gmail.com webmaster/social media/editor/island wide sales:

Rafael Cotto 787.505.0040 rafael@foodiespr.com

While every care has been taken, information contained herein is subject to change without notice. The Publisher accepts no responsibility for unauthorized use of images, artwork, or photography by advertisers. The Pocket Concierge is a copyrighted publication of Multi Media Naranja Inc., and any unauthorized reproduction in whole or part without written consent is prohibited.

PUERTO RICAN AND INTERNATIONAL CUISINE

Historical outdoor patio

Indoor with A/C

Home of the Original Piña Colada 787.725.7912 104 Fortaleza st.

Old San Juan www.barrachina.com

Restaurant Reviews Pg. 8

Híjole

Mexican Cuisine

An award winning Margarita, humongous portions of tasty Mexican chow, the very best brunch in town and a playful atmosphere where every hour is Happy Hour. The striking modern interior is a blaze of blue phosphorescences, warmed by charming, at times insightful chalk-written odes in honor of mother Margarita and papa Tequila.

The Margarita list includes the Par-Chin-Go-Neo with Patrón tequila, orange, mango & banana while the Hurricane Maria uses both Grand Marnier & Cointreau. The menu has all of your favorite Mexican classics with some Puerto Rican surprises blended in. An instant hit in Guaynabo, its new sister location in Isla Verde is a perfect spot to hit for drinks and munchies after a day at the beach!

Uva and Uber Eats delivery service and valet parking available.

Isla Verde

Isla Verde

#6573 Ave. Isla Verde (787) 979-6464

Guaynabo

Calle Aquarella, #19 Marginal Expresso (787) 998-6464 Mon-Thurs: 11:30am-10pm; Fri: 11:30am-11pm; Sat 9am-11pm; Sun: 9am-10pm hijole cocina mejicana

Stuffed Avocado your choice including shrimp, pastor or churrasco w/ local style rice n’ beans l Queso Fundidio gauva sauce / chorizo crumble l Burrito al Pastor pork loin marinated in pineapple sauce l Chimichanga Tripleta carnitas / shredded chicken / ham / french fries / mayoketchup / cheddar l Shrimps in Tamarind-Chipotle Sauce homemade tostones l Quesadilla Campechanas churrasco or chicken / chorizo in red wine sauce/ pepper jack

BRUNCH

Restaurant Reviews Pg. 9

$$

French classics, Mexican twists and lunch specials at Híjole make up the most exciting brunch on the strip. Brioche French Toast towers in massive cuts of gooey bliss. Eggs Benedict come in traditional or the house specialty Mexican style con carnitas & spicy Hollandaise. Really hungry? Go for it with the 8-egg omelette or the I-want-it-all combo: El Atracón . Order off the classic Mexican lunch menu with burritos, tacos and enchiladas to go with Margaritas, mimosas and Bloody Marys.

Saturdays & Sundays 9am-3pm

Omelet Híjole carnitas / monterray jack / chipotle hollandaise / pico de gallo / house potatoes l Nutella Pancake Burrito fresh fruit / creme fresh l Croque Madame ham / brioche / bechamel / pecorino / gruyere / fried egg l Rancheros fried or scrambled eggs / corn tortilla / salsa / guacamole / refritos / maduros

Restaurant Reviews Pg. 10

34 Sur

Argentinian Cuisine

$$

Maximilian Gsottschneider’s 34 Sur is simply the best Argentinian restaurant on the Island, fusing the traditional and modern elements of this popular cuisine. Heaping Parrilladas float from table to table and bring tears of joy to meat lovers with their smokey scent alone, while foodies can indulge on house specialties like the whiskey filet mignon or Max’s more exotic recipes Wednesday nights. The interior design by Wildaliz Rivera is modern but with a touch of rustic charm. A neighborhood restaurant at heart, 34 Sur serves lunch specials with Puerto Rican influences that put many local grandmothers to shame! Don’t forget to savor the splendid seafood too. With a penchant for homemade, they make and bottle their own chimichurri which comes made to order in classic, creole or spicy. Come see what all the buzz is about, you’ll be glad you did.

Parrillada 34 Sur churrasco, short rib, chicken, salmon, chorizo l Filete al Whiskey whiskey beurre blanc, potatoes gratin l

Salmon a la Francesa white wine alfredo, dijon mustard l Sorrentino cheese & your choice ham, meat or spinach

Guaynabo

Design Plaza; Calle Arblote #9 (939) 337-0030 Mon-Fri: 11:30am-10pm Sat-Sun: 11:30am-12am 34sur.com

Restaurant Reviews

Condal

Catalan Cuisine

Pg. 11

$$

This little piece of modern Barcelona delivers an authentic culinary experience in a two story space that offers table dining, a “tapas bar,” and open-air seating on the Gaudí inspired rooftop lounge.

Nibble on the highest quality cured hams or order the freshest fish off the chalkboard menu. Dive into the best paella in the city while you peruse a constantly updated wine menu. Indulge in classic Spanish preparations of meats and decadent desserts.

Exceptional professional service guides you through this openended experience equally suited for a quick tapas and wine or an all night feast and fiesta. Live music on the rooftop Thursdays to Sundays ranges from Trova to Jazz.

Paella Valenciana Spanish style

rice w/seafood, poultry & pork sausage l Jamón Ibérico Bellota acorn fed ham l Filet Mignon en Salsa Roquefort filet mignon, Roquefort Sauce

Condado

Magdalena Ave. #1104 (787) 725-0023 Sun-Wed: 11:30am-10pm; Thurs: 11:30-11pm; Fri-Sat: 11:30pm-12pm Condal Tapas Restaurant

Restaurant Reviews Pg. 12

La Joya Isla y Mar

$$

Hidden in plain sight on the hotel strip, La Joya Isla y Mar quickly became Condado’s newest cult favorite for its back to the basics approach and low key confidence. Featuring a hand picked collection of delicacies and products sourced from local farms and fisheries, La Joya’s calling is to marry them with a subtle touch of global influence. Fresh snapper is battered lightly and paired with a vibrant pesto, local pork sausage Longaniza only asks for and is given a couple teaspoons of tomato chimichurri.

The result is an elegant and modern version of Puerto Rican cuisine that lingers in the soul. The outdoor patio sits on a delightful overhang, neatly shielded from the street by verdant foliage while inside is warm and intimate. Saturdays and Sundays join La Joya for brunch with unlimited mimosas and bloody Mary’s. Vegan menu available.

Condado

Ashford Ave #1302 (787) 294-5513 Monday 4pm-11pm Tuesday closed Friday 11:30am-11pm Sat & Sun 10am - 11pm www.lajoyapr.com Carne Ahumada de Naranjito local smoked pork l Alitas de Coliflor cauliflower “hot wings style” w/vegaoili l Roast Pollo Sous Vide roast chicken in marinated herb w/chickpea stew & white rice l Chillo Frito fried Red Snapper in green sauce w/ marinated root vegetables l Risotto de Langosta (lobster tail) y Braised Short Ribs

Restaurant Reviews

New Taste

Pg. 13

Asian Cuisine

$$

Condadoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s neighborhood Asian restaurant, with a heritage spanning decades and generations, New Taste is the choice whether you are craving a savory authentic recipe or high caliber comfort foods. Delicious, consistent and charming, this place is swimming in choices presented across multiple menus, sub menus & lunch specials including Bento boxes and the best Dim Sum on the island. Sip on one of the multitude of Bobba Tea flavors or pick something off the Sake list. Centrally located with private parking within the Condado hotel strip, New Taste has indoor and outdoor seating areas, each with its own sushi bar.

Baby Silver Fish in chili, salt and pepper l Peking Duck crispy duck skin wrap, shredded duck, vegetables l New Taste Roll churrasco, scallion, masago, shrimp tempura dry garlic slice, soy bean paper l

Condado

Ashford Ave. #1018 (787) 721-8111 Mon-Thurs: 11:30am-1am Fri-Sun: 11:30am-1:30am newtastepr newtastepr

Egg Plant with Spicy Bean Sauce house recipe l Fried Flounder

Restaurant Reviews

Pg. 14

Perla

Contemporary American Cuisine

$$$

Hotel La Concha’s stunning sea shell appendage hosts Puerto Rico’s definitive upscale dining experience, Perla. This opulent architectural masterpiece floats on water, evoking the grand old days of cruise ships. Perla features elegant flavors using a mix of imported ingredients with the freshest and best from local markets prepared to timeless techniques and modern tenets.

Tasting menus are available with or without pre-selected choices from the 500-plus bottle cava. This nightly extravaganza is tended by an orchestrated service that glides gracefully across the floor. The cavernous dining room is perfect for large groups or special activities.

Chef Lindell Smith

Condado

Hotel La Concha, Ashford Ave. #1077 (787) 977-3285 Sun-Thurs: 6pm-10pm Fri-Sat: 6pm-11pm perlarestaurant.com Conch con “Mojo” arañitas, chimichurri l Kale Caesar Salad herb butter croutons, queso del pais l Pan Roasted Seabass Maine lobster & truffle risotto, lobster beurre blanc l Surf & Turf grilled 8oz. Filet Mignon w/bacon jam, baked Caribbean lobster w/truffle mashed potatoes & wild mushroom l Fennel Dusted Diver Scallops truffle white bean stew, apple wood smoked bacon l Boca Negra Cake graham cracker ice cream, brulée bananas, marshmallow

Restaurant Reviews

Rare 125º

Pg. 15

Neighborhood Grill

$$

Rare 125º reboots the steakhouse into something modern yet familiar. With copper and black interior patterns and a feminine touch this Miramar hot spot is elegant with a freindly vibe.

Prepare to encounter ridiculously delicious steak dishes, swinging for the fences at every bite and sip. Start with an excellent entrée like the Nagano pork belly chicharron, then dive into the classic meat cuts like the filet mignon with blue cheese crust or the hearty rib eye steak, optionally accompanied with an enticing offering of side dishes like twice fry truffle fries and three cheese mac n’ cheese. Seafood options are just as proudly offered.

With outdoor patio and valet parking, Rare 125º is frequently congratulated for its friendly, helpful and attentive service.

Miramar

Ashford Ave #1302 (787) 294-5513 Mon -Wed: 4pm-11pm Thurs-Fri: 4pm-11pm Sat -Sun: 10am-10pm Filet Mignon au poivre, blue cheese crust l Tuna Poke seaweed, sesame crumbs, wasabi cream, wonton chips, asian vinaigrette, edamame l Nagano Pork Belly Chicharrón black bean refrito, lime cream, bacon bites l Pan Seared Halibut Yuca frita a la Huancaina, broccolini, pesto l Osso Bucco creamy polenta, au jus, onion rings l Beef Mac n’ Cheese three cheese sauce, panko, shredded filet mignon

Restaurant Reviews

Pirilo

Pg. 16

Pizza Rustica

$

Pirilo is a passionate lover of international cuisine...

His utmost satisfaction is to delight every client’s palate by creating memorable recipes and dishes. The inviting atmosphere at each of his three locations is a recollection of his passions...

Old San Juan, where history and bohemian styles meet.

Ocean Park, a witness to his fascinating travels.

Dorado, puertorrican traditions unveiled through the magic of an antique residence...

While Genoveva is Pirilo’s eternal love and pizza is his weakness, he has developed additional exquisite dishes to please everyone’s’ culinary preferences... Galician Octopus, Chorizo in wine, Mampostea’o Rice, Prime Churrasco (Skirt Steak), Hummus, Argentinian Turnovers, Fried Pork Chunks, Stuffed Mushrooms, Cuatro Leches (Four Milks) dessert and lots more...

All prepared with our secret ingredient... Lots of Love!

Visit Us At Pirilo Pizza Rústica. A tasteful Journey!

Find Us On: pirilopizzaoficial pirilopizza

Restaurant Reviews

Pirilo

Old San Juan

201-2 Fortaleza St. (787) 721-3322 Sun, Mon, Wed: 11:30am-12am Thurs-Sat: 11:30am-2am

Ocean Park

Mcleary St. #2000 (787) 268-2346 Sun, Mon, Wed: 11:30am-12am Thurs-Sat: 11:30am-2am

Dorado

Carretera PR-693, km 8.5 Barrio Higuillar (787) 796-3015 Sun, Mon, Wed: 11:30am-12am Thurs-Sat: 11:30am-2am

Pg. 17

Restaurant Reviews

Ropa Vieja

Pg. 18

Cubarican Grill $$ Venerated by Condado’s most avid restaurant goers, Ropa Vieja is a decades long staple of the Puerto Rican dining experience.

Traditional in delivery, this famed food lovers’ haunt offers the rich authentic flavors of Cubarican cuisine: stewed meats, rices, plantain dishes & fresh seafood. It is a sophisticated recipe of quality cuts and old-world cooking in an art gallery decor. For drinks try a passion fruit mojito or thumb the wine list which is heavy on Spaniards. As convenient as satisfying, Ropa Vieja sits on the Hotel strip’s busiest corner and has private parking.

Reservations are recommended on weekend nights, when the band plays on the outdoor patio.

Mofongo de Ropa Vieja mashed plantains, “old clothes” stewed beef l Pork Fillet creamy spinach,

Condado

#57 Ave Ashford Condado Palm Hotel (787) 428-0327 Sun-Thurs: 11:30am10:00pm Fri-Sat: 11:30pm-12am ropaviejagrill.com ropaviejagrill

brandy sauce l Rabo Encendido de Ternera veal tail in Cuban sauce l Costillas de Cerdo con Frutas Secas rack of lamb, dried fruits

Restaurant Reviews Pg. 19

Taberna Selfies Authentic Spanish Cuisine $

The most authentic tapas bar on the island, Taberna Selfie’s captures the succulent and zesty flavors of Spanish cuisine down to the rich broths and aromatic spices that make these time-tested Iberian comfort foods a belly rub to the soul. At this unassuming hidden gem just off the theater district, Taberna Selfie’s has the first and only self service beer system in Puerto Rico. Menu includes lunch specials, bocadillos (Galician sandwiches) and fine cold cut tablas at this casual, comfortable and inviting vibe of a genuine Tapas bar in the heart of trendy Santurce. Valet Parking.

Santurce

Calle del Parque #361 Tues-Fri: 12pm-11pm Sat: 5pm-11pm Taberna Selfies @tabernaselfies Tabernaselfies

Lomo Queso delicious pork loin sandwich, manchego, tomato & olive oil spread l Papas a lo Pobre thin sliced potatoes with onion and peppers l Aros

de Cebolla en Buñuelos de Bacalao

onion rings in codfish batter l Rabo de Toro rioja stewed, house potatoes l Pulpo a la Gallega Galician octopus w/ paprika

Festivals

Pg. 21

Saborea Puerto Rico

April 7, 2019 Carolina The grandaddy of Puerto Rico’s culinary festivals, Saborea takes place at the beautiful Escambrón Beach with 30 local restaurants and over 50 guest stars from the International and Local food and beverage industry.

Cooking classes, competitions, food and drink samples and great after parties!

The Pineapple Festival

May or June, Lajas The pineapples in Lajas belong in a category all of their own when it comes to flavor. This festival takes place specifically in La Parguera, Lajas, with its oceanfront view. There is fried food and live music, and plenty of refreshing, locally grown pineapples.

Festival of Masks December 28 Hatillo

A parade commemorating the massacre of the Day of the Holy Innocents, that is, the Biblical story of King Herod’s orderes to exectue babies born in Judea in order to kill baby Jesus. Thousands of people dressed in colorful, beautiful, at times outlandish costumes parade the streets, on foot, horse, or in elaboratly decorated cars.

Regional Festivals

These regional festivals are a rich part of Puerto Rico’s tradition with many of them taking place in the town’s square. Many are devoted to local saints or typical agriculture. As of printing some dates are yet to be determined.

April 6 - Turtle Festival- Luquillo April 26 - Batlle of 1797 Reenactment - Old San Juan May 3-12 - Ferinart Puerto Rico - Old San Juan Mid July - Carnaval de Vieques - Vieques Late July - Fish Festival - Cabo Rojo Late July - Festival of St. James - Loíza

Pg. 22

Santurce

Top 10 Best Bars The gentrified neighborhood of Santurce gets all the press these days as the most vibrant and budding nightlife area in San Juan.

Dilapidated buildings have been refurbished into hipster hot spots leaving entire streets with comfort food joints, mixology bars, craft beer taverns and indie shops shoulder to shoulder for as far as the eye can see.

Industry 1. Piso Viejo: The gentrified hipster capital of Loiza street has dozens of bars and restaurants with wax bearded mixologists and trending social media pages, but none of them quite capture the inclusive, eclectic, mid-tempo vibe of the area quite like Piso Viejo.

Kinda loung-ey, sorta dancey with varied DJ sets. 1917 Calle Loiza 2. La Respuesta: This 10 years running space hosts international & local indie bands and doubles as a gallery for artists. Most famous for its Hip Hop Mondays, a great choice for an otherwise slow night around town. 1600 Ave. Fernandez Juncos.

3. La Carniceria: Farmer’s market by day and afterwork bar & restaurant scene at night, La Placita is as “local” as it gets. This market square and its adjoining alleyways are a cornucopia of sights scents and sounds. 180 Calle Dos Hermanos.

4. Bar El Rubí. As night becomes morning at La placita, the crowds begin to move towards Canal Street where a number of bars cater to a younger crowd with a bigger variety of music. The first one you should hit is the historical Bar Rubí which has kept up with the times having a dance floor main bar and a quieter lounge bar in the back. 213 Calle Canals 5. Esquina El Watusi: Surrounded by some of the world’s best graffiti walls, this new wave chinchorro is like an old goat with a haircut. Get the combo, a flask of chichaito (half rum, half anise) and a medalla beer for $5. 801 Cll Elisa Serra.

6. Los Vazquez the award winning Coctelera is the best cocktail menu on the strip. What this spot may lack in ambiance it more than makes up for in great drinks and out of this world bar food making a great spot to open up the night in. 1348 Calle Orbeta.

7. La Terraza de Bonanza: Off the beaten path, this bar is famous for its live music especially on Monday Nights which end up pretty wild with dancing in the streets. Ave. Eduardo Conde.

8. El Local: Hipsters and old punks mingle at this club, bar and art space. Great place to catch underground local acts. 1425 Ave. Fernandez Juncos.

9. Captain Rum: A category above the neighboring chinchorros of la placita, Captain Rum has a slew of house drinks and typical food that make it a perfect place to start the night. 254 Calle Dufaut.

10. Industry: Calle Loiza’s techno club has a 1st rate sound system and slick resident DJ’s that play head bobbing house music. The firehouse side room is a techno death chamber. 1760 Calle Loiza.

Barhopping

Old San Juan

Pg. 23

Top 10 Best Bars

The Island’s most famous bar crawl, the Old City is teeming with secret passageways and hidden taverns. Old San Juan has a distinctly bohemian vibe, old and wise in the ways of the revelry.

Exploring this labyrinth of watering holes can test the navigation skills of a drunken sailor, but most treks end in the north end of San Sebastian Street or the southern end of Bahía Urbana.

Cinema Bar 1. La Factoria: This cocktail bar with 4 different rooms and ambiances has won every award under the sun for its cocktail menu that includes the orginal spiced rum Old Fashioned. Great place to dance, drink or even do tapas & wine. Music ranges from urban to salsa to electronic. 148 Calle San Sebastian.

2. El Batey: This historical dive bar is infamous for graffiti walls and celebrity patrons of times gone by like author Hunter S. Thompson of Rum Diaries fame. A true alcoholics’ den, it opens at 3pm-ish and closes purportedly past dawn (not that we’d know for sure...). To this day a colorful collection of ex pats & old city legends drink to tunes from a 45’s jukebox. 99 Calle del Cristo 3. The Cannon Club: A lobby and upper terrace lounge of the Gallery Inn hotel, stepping into the Cannon Club is to transport back in time to a more elegant Caribbean Nights. With a Steinway piano playing and Havana feel. 44 Calle San Sebastian.

4. Anam Spa & Cocktail Lounge: Not really a bar, this nail & massage salon offers its famous “Chinese combo” of one foot massage + drink for $20. Next to the pigeon park and with a great view of the San Juan Harbor, this is an afternoon spot to take a break from walking around.

259 Calle Del Cristo.

5. La 39: Once off limits to the general public, the winding shantytown of La perla now hosts friendly and accessible spots like La 39. Eclectic music and a great ocean view at this cash bar. La Perla.

6. Cinema Bar: This Old San Juan art house theater shows local indie films and plays. The bar/restaurant is a great mojito & cocktail bar with decor that pays homage to the Island’s entertainment legends. Calle Norzagaray.

8. La Casita de Rones: Sponsored by Rums of Puerto Rico, this little colonial bar is a rum concept mixology haven where you can sip on high end cocktails by the cruise ship docks. Calle Comercio.

7. Taberna Lupulo: San Juan’s first beer tavern worth its salt is still its finest as well. Set in a legendary bar corner on San Sebastian Street, Chris Hoppe’s spuds lover’s mecca has over 30 on tap and twice as many bottles including small batches from local brewers.

151 Calle San Sebastian.

9. El Quinque: Another entry from fabled San Sebastian Street, El Quinque is a sterling entry in the mixology category, but without the hustle of some its more famous cousins. 114 Calle San Sebastian 10. Douglas: Jukebox, stripper pole and upstairs pool hall, Douglas is the go to dive bar for many of the locals. 207 Calle Fortaleza.

Barhopping

Pg. 24

Condado Top 5 Best Bars

A lively hotel strip and urban center, Condado is the epicenter of Puerto Rico’s restaurant and Nightlife scene 1. Red Coral Lounge: The Marriott Lobby Bar has live from thursday-sundays ranging from Caribbean to Rock. Cocktail Bar is next to the casino which makes this a great spot to have a variety of fun. 1309 Ashford ave.

2. Fifty Eight: Upscale dance club and lounge at La Concha Hotel & resort with a VIP vibe. Music ranges from electronic to reggaeton.

1077 Ashford Ave. 3. Hard Rock Cafe: Brand spanking new and glitzy, this 3 story version of the historic brand is exactly what you know it is. Great burgers, cover bands and memorabilia with a Latin rock lean.

1214 Ashford Ave. 4. Oasis: With dive bar decor, thumping tacky techno and a closet space dance floor that encourages collisions with random strangers, Oasis is the epitome of downscale LGBTQ+ clubbing.

There are claims of a tapas menu but we’ve never seen any evidence of that. 6 Condado Ave. 5. Patrick’s Irish Bar: A 2nd floor watering hole with large TV screens, open patio area and ear blasting party music. Drinks are cheap and bartenders are fun which makes up for the distinctly divey look. 1157 Ashford Ave.

Isla Verde Top 5 Best Bars

While Isla Verde doesn’t possess the bar hopping layout of other districts, this venerable hotel strip offers a few gems 1. Mist Rooftop Bar + Kitchen: Our favorite rooftop Bar on the strip, Mist has competition quality cocktails and succulent tapas to go with a stunning ocean view and runway worthy house beats.

Located in the fabulous San Juan Water Beach Club Hotel, Mist effervesces with the Island’s risqué Miami influence. 2 Calle Jose Tartak.

2. Ocean Lab Brewery: A craft brewery on the beach? Take my money! Ocean lab has the trappings of any great brewery bar including tasting flights, merchandise store and gastropub grub.

But again, and we can’t stress this enough, it’s got a rocking ocean view! Road PR 187, Km 2.6.

3. Híjole: The best margarita on the island, Hijole always has happy hours available and great Mexican bar food making it a great after beach spot. 6573 Ave. Isla Verde.

4. El Daiquiri Lounge: A “hidden” bar before they were trendy, this local’s watering hole is brazenly kitsch yet endearingly cozy.

Owner/barkeep/karaoke star Fred Denis hosts the activities with the intimacy and tongue-in-cheek naughtiness of a slumber party.

Cond. San Tropez, 6267 Ave. Isla Verde.

5. Club Brava: Brava has been pumping music at the El San Juan Hotel for over 25 years, which is practically Methuselah in Nightclub years. While the age shows, this is still one of the livelier Clubs on the entire strip with a fetching young crowd and admirable energy.

6063 Ave Isla Verde.

Barhopping

Delicious Puerto Rican Food.

House of The Skirt Steak Rice (Casa del Arroz Enchurrascado).

Sports Bar and After Hours Eats.

Ashford Ave. 1024 (787) 977-1611 11am-â&#x20AC;&#x2122;til late

N.Y. Style Hand Tossed Pizza

Homemade Sauce with 100% ripped vine California Tomatoes & 100% Fresh Mozarella

Subs. Calzones. Pasta.

Fri-Sat 11am-2am; Sun-Thurs 11am-12am 787-332-0242 (delivery to nearby hotels) 1045 Ashford Ave.

Best Bar in La Placita.

Seafood Salads. Sandwiches. Empanadas.

House Drinks. Tequila & Rum Bar

La Placita en Santurce 787.993.5943

Pg. 26

CATAMARAN SNORKELING WITH LUNCH BUFFET

Our 54 ft. sailing catamaran, “Traveler” departs dock at the Villa Marina in Fajardo, Puerto Rico with our primary destination, the uninhabited Isla Icacos. It’s a short 45 minute to 1 hr. sail in relatively flat, protected waters. Arriving at Icacos, we anchor just off a stunning white sand beach with crystal-clear turquoise water. Price: $125.00 per person

EL YUNQUE RAINFOREST & LUQUILLO BEACH

See the famous waterfall La Coca Fall after we show you a great panoramic view of the east coast of Puerto Rico and stop to visit a 20 min. low impact walking trail. Our last visit will be to one of the most famous beaches in Puerto Rico, Luquillo Beach. Here you can relax, enjoy the sun and the white sand. Prices: $80.00 (half day) and $100.00 (full day).

TORO VERDE ZIPLINE

Boost your adrenaline to the maximum levels once you reach a speed of 200km/h in The Beast. This tour allows you to experience it first hand. With our special harness you’ll fly like a bird on one of the world’s longest single run zip-lines. With a length of 4,745 ft. (1.446 km). Prices between $100.00 to $250.00 per person (half day and full day available).

CULEBRA: THE BEST SNORKELING EXPERIENCE

Snorkeling on the beach, you will have the chance to spot turtles and stingrays. The huge expanse of Coral Reef will allow you to see colorful tropical fish and many species of coral.

The package includes water, refreshments, snacks, fresh fruit, a light sandwich lunch, taxes and transportation. Price: $145.00 per person.

Pg. 27

Please Contact your TKTS 2 PR Agent for further Information @ 787-791-5151 x 83155 concierge@marestclair.com KAYAK BIO BAY AT LAGUNA GRANDE IN FAJARDO

Experience one of Puerto Rico’s natural wonders. Encounter nature close up as you navigate through the natural channel that leads into Laguna Grande. Each stroke of your paddle lights up a swirling glow in the water. You will have an experience that will last forever. The package includes water, taxes and transportation. Price: $105.00 per person.

HACIENDA CAMPO RICO ATV’S & HORSEBACK RIDING

Let the excitement begin! Feel the exhilaration and appreciate the beauty of nature with our guided ATV Adventure Tours - a dynamic way to experience the great outdoors! Coastal plain and mangrove horseback ride, this is truly a beautiful experience along trails, through plains and mangroves. You will enjoy this pristine 2,000 acre Hacienda with a stop at a cave.

Price: $79.00 to $148.00 per person.

JUNGLEQUI ZIPLINE ADVENTURE

At the foothills of the Rain Forest, experience first hand beautiful hiking trails and the thrill ride of 11 Carbon Fiber Ziplines plus 2 Free-fall Rappels, as you enjoy aerial views of the lush flora and beautiful views of part of the Rainforest. Price: $145.00 per person.

EXPLORA: BODY RAFTING & CAVING

An exclusive eco-experience through ing caves canyons and rivers fed ing through caverns, rock climbing through the jungle and discover the

an untouched private forest with access to amazby underground springs where you go spelunkand body rafting™.

Hike down and Indian trail wildlife. Price: $79.00 to $148.00 per person.

Pg. 28

Things to do

TOP Beaches 1. Flamenco Beach, Culebra.

Get to Culebra by ferry or plane & visit the #2 beach in the world.

2. Tres Palmas, Rincón (surfing). Best surfing in the Caribbean with waves up to 25’.

3. Crashboat Beach, Aguadilla. Tranquil west coast beach is great for snorkeling.

4. Mar Chiquita, Manati.

Beautiful secret spot “liitle beach” is perfect for taking family.

5. Aviones, Loiza (surfing). Best surfing beach close to the metro area.

Flamenco

TOP Tours 1. El Yunque Rainforest Hiking.

Guided Tours available with a team of interpreters.

2. Bioluminescent Bays. Two of the only five in the world are in Puerto Rico.

3. Camuy Caves/Arecibo Observatory.

Two breathtaking sights in one trip.

The Colonial Old City houses two forts and many placitas.

Bacardi Rum Factory. Learn about the history of Bacardi and taste the rums!

4. Old San Juan Historical.

5.

El Yunque

TOP Museums 1. Museum of Art, Santurce.

Guided tours available with an in house group of interpreters.

2. Museum of Art, Ponce. More than 4,500 works from prehispanic to present.

3. The Cemi Museum, Jayuya. Island’s most important museum dedicated to Taino culture.

4. Casa Cortés, Old San Juan. The personal collection of the Cortes family is free to view.

Museo de Arte

TOP Golf Courses 1. TPC Dorado Beach, Dorado. Named the #1 Golf Course in PR by Golf Digest in ‘16.

2. Royal Isabela, Isabela. Cliffs & dramatic

ocean vistas at this memorable golf experience.

16 lakes & stunning views at this Bruce Bessy designed course.

4. Coco Beach, Rio Grande. Diverse landscape & plenty of challenging water hazards.

3. Costa Caribe, Ponce.

Tourism

TPC Dorado Beach

Group Services inc.

787.724.5494 gsipuertorico.com

Trust the most diverse adventure company in Puerto Rico! Speak with your concierge or Tour desk agent and ask for GSI tours.

Over 60 Tours!

El Yunque

Historical

Caving

and more!

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Old San Juan

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The Old City is the touristic centerpiece of Puerto Rico. Founded in 1521 and coveted for its strategic location ever since. It’s been sacked and invaded by land and sea, leaving a long trail of historic spots. Today, it is one of the most enchanting and accessible towns in the world with decorated restaurants, pulsating nightlife, art galleries and museums and brightly painted architecture crammed into 70-something twisting blocks of bohemian chaos.

In a single day, the high energy traveller can visit both of the famous sister forts, El Morro (the 16th-century citadel and focal point of Old San Juan overlooking a breathtaking view of the ocean) and San Cristóbal (with its connecting tunnels and cannon enbrasures); as well as the Catedral de San Juan Bautista (resting place of explorer Juan Ponce De León). Looking for a casual pace? Paseo de la Princesa circles the western part of the outer wall with gorgeous harbor views.

Want to take a selfie? At Parque de las Palomas (Pigeon Park) you can prance through flocks of birds while you feed them. If you are looking for a place to shop, walk down Cristo Street for familiar outlet shops, or step into any of the local shops for something tropical.

Concierge Pick

La Perla - Made famous by the Latin Grammy Awards winning “Despacito” music video, this winding maze of dilapidated shantytown on the wrong side of the city walls is now a bucket list destination for its ocean view dive bars & gentrified hangouts.

Definitely for the 18+ crowd, please remember that La Perla is wisely visited accompanied by a local guide.

Do:

Take a historical tour. The Old City is brimming with sights that are best appreciated in proper context.

Don’t:

Wear high heels. The cobblestone streets are not friendly on the feet.

Tourism

57 Ave. Ashford Condado Palm Hotel 787.428.0327 ropaviejagrill.com

Open for Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner