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Puerto Rico's rich history has led to a rich culinary palate of local fare, or comida criolla. These foods begin with local ingredients and end as something uniquely Puerto Rican.
In most cases, coastal cities have the best selection of seafood - a great way to begin exploring local island cuisine. Try Caribbean Lobster, a sweeter variety than its Maine cousin. Dolphinfish and red snapper are also widely available, but the local seafood specialty is conch stuffed with tomato for a fritter or mixed into a ceviche salad. In cities and towns away from the coast, pork is widely popular.
Government sponsored mesónes gastronómicos are a great way to experience criolla cuisine, but many smaller restaurants throughout the island also serve this local"down home" fare. Puerto Rico's criolla is a mix of Taíno Indian, Spanish, and African cuisines that have fused over the years. The following foods are examples of some of the most well-known and widely-available criolla dishes:
Lechón asado - Roasted pork dish
Asopao de pollo - Stewed chicken dish
Habichuelas - Rice and red beans served with most meats
Tostones - Mashed slices of green plantains, more salty than sweet
Plátanos - Plantains, but not cooked like tostones
Mofongo - A ball of crushed plantains, fried and seasoned
Sofrito - A sauce that is a mix of spices and seasonings including cilantro, onions, garlic, and peppers
Adobo - A popular seasoning made of garlic, oregano, paprika, vinegar, and oil
In some restaurants, world-renowned chefs have also begun to cook what is referred to as Nuevo Latino cuisine. Nuevo Latino cuisine puts a twist on comida criolla and focuses on fish, fruits, and tubers with tropical marinades and dark rum sauces. Restaurants featuring Nuevo Latino fare are more likely to be found in San Juan or other large cities.
Of course, Puerto Rico is also known for a few strong beverages. Coffee is served extremely strong or sweetened and with milk and called café con leche. However, the national drink is rum. Here you'll find more than 20 different brands of rum. Both the locally-brewed beer Medalla and Presidente beer from the Dominican Republic are equally popular.
If you're looking for beverages with a little less kick, check out coco frío, drunk straight from a chilled coconut. Or take a sip of some of the popular fresh fruit juices. You may want to try the concoction known a jugo de china, a combination of mangos, papayas, and oranges.
You're sure to find interesting food and drink that are uniquely Puerto Rican on this island.
From dress code to price range, learn all about the dining options found in Puerto Rico.
Travelers who take the time to learn about the local culture are sure to appreciate the beauty and traditions found throughout Puerto Rico.
Get more out of your vacation by reading about the history of Puerto Rico.