Our Cover
Location:
Castillo San Felipe del Morro (El Morro Fort)
Photographer: Eduardo Sanchez
Model: Ana Paola Figueroa
Agency: Element Models
Make-Up: German Mirabal Ostolaza
Hair: Manolo Gonzalez
Collection: Ecliptica Old San Juan
Spring 2017
On our COVER
Castillo San Felipe del Morro (El Morro Fort), the most popular historic attraction in Puerto Rico, served as a picture-perfect backdrop and one-of-a-kind catwalk for showcasing the versatility of local fashion designer Ecliptica’s Spring/Summer 2017 collection during the seventh edition of San Juan Fashion Week.
Constructed in 1539, El Morro’s history, setting, and preservation make it one of the top tourist attractions on the island. This impressive stone fortress with awe-inspiring views of the Atlantic Ocean is located on the headland overlooking the entrance to San Juan Bay on the outskirts of the Old City. It was originally built and used by Spanish colonialists to defend against attacks from the sea. From the late 19th century until 1961, El Morro was occupied by the American Military service and operated as an active military base for both World War 1 and II. Today, the site has the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage status and attracts over two million visitors per year.
Ecliptica, led by sisters Norein and Michelle Otero, took inspiration from El Morro’s architectural and historical beauty and presented a striking feminine collection with a color scheme mostly comprised of tones in orange, blue, and green.
In their designs they use elements of draping, lace, embroidery, fringes, and macramé on flowing light silk fabrics that make each piece a true showstopper. The silhouettes mostly consist of plunging necklines and detailed pieces with effortless fluidity to provide a statuesque goddess appeal.
Ecliptica aficionados not only consist of local fashionistas but celebrities like Roselyn Sanchez, Kany Garcia, Miss Universe 1993 Dayanara Torres, Miss Universe 2001 Denise Quiñones, Nelly Furtado, Guiliana Rancic, Thalia, among others.
The sister duo became the first Puerto Ricans to be chosen by the internationally known Gen Art Organization to display their Fall 2006 collection in Miami. Though it was in 2009 when Ecliptica accomplished one of their most noteworthy goals – presented their Fall 2010 collection at New York Fashion Week with amazing reviews.
Today, Ecliptica’s bridal collection is the key to their success, and coincidentally Puerto Rico is well-known as a top Caribbean location for destination weddings.
The same way Ecliptica’s clothing line is out of this world, electric, eclectic, and modern so is Puerto Rico as a tourism destination.
Land of mixology
Whether you fancy the classics like a Moscow Mule or an Old Fashioned, or seek the thrill of a hot new alcoholic elixir, you won’t be disappointed. The island’s urbane cocktail map leads to an eclectic mix of hip bars and lounges where dedicated mixing professionals whip up memorable cocktails for today’s discerning drinkers.
Add artfully crafted cocktails to your list of things to look forward to when visiting Puerto Rico.
Whether you fancy the classics like a Moscow Mule or an Old Fashioned, or seek the thrill of a hot new alcoholic elixir, you won’t be disappointed. The island’s urbane cocktail map leads to an eclectic mix of hip bars and lounges where dedicated mixing professionals whip up memorable cocktails for today’s discerning drinkers.
Bars are aplenty in Puerto Rico, people are drinking and having fun, and there are plenty of beverage practitioners behind bar counters ready to satisfy the thirst for tantalizing libations.
Menus cater to the casual drinker or the cocktail obsessive. You’ll find the new, the classics, and the latest trends, like the current resurgence of Polynesia-inspired Tiki cocktails, heady mixes of high-octane rums and fruit flavors, syrups based on almonds, coconut or pineapple, cherry and banana liqueurs just to mention some of the ingredients that go into these favored concoctions.
Equally popular is the emphasis on health and farm-to-table. Cocktails made with vegetables and fruits are all the rage these days and Puerto Rico’s beverage practitioners are finding exciting ways of pairing spirits with unlikely partners such as spinach, cucumbers, beets, tomatoes, and fresh herbs like basil, sage, mint, or rosemary, some of which are locally sourced for an even fresher, healthy taste.
Thanks to competitions that advance brands and promote higher levels of creativity among the island’s bartenders, the opening of new bar concepts and the rise of the mixologist, Puerto Rico can pride in having a world-class cocktail scene.
“The cocktail scene in Puerto Rico has grown 150 percent in less than five years. We’re at the level of many cities in the world,” enthuses Roberto Berdecia, a World Class bartender and co-owner of several bars, including Jungle Bird on Canals Street, off the famous Santurce market, and the popular La Factoria in the historic section of San Juan.
Based in what was once old San Juan’s most iconic bar, Hijos de Borinquen (The sons of Borinquen), La Factoria is actually four distinctive bars within an old corner building whose rundown facade and maze-like interior affect a carefully cultivated environment of chick grunge, in the style of a grand movie set.
Soon, it will add another three bars: one on the second floor and the other two stem from the recent purchase of La Cubanita, next door to La Factoria. Actually, both businesses are part of the same building so connecting the new spaces was no problem.
“We have bartenders who in competitions rank among the top four in the world and bars that have won prizes at the national and international level. I always think we still have a ways to go, but I believe that’s how you keep growing,” Berdecia said.
Star bartender Luis Pagan from La Coctelera, a small but very pleasant bar on Loiza Street, near the Condado tourist area, agrees the cocktail scene is flourishing but finds the local palate needs to expand a bit further to be on a par with the leading drinking capitals of the world, “the island has very good bartenders and the level of creativity is growing,” said Pagan, who is considered among the island’s top 10 bartenders.
Further proof of Puerto Rico’s rising status as a land of mixology is the scheduled opening of a rarefied resource: a laboratory to foster experimentation and innovation in the craft of mixing drinks.
The brainchild of Berdecia and his Factoria partners, Leslie Cofresi and Pablo Rodriguez, the lab called Licoreria Miramar will be open to professionals and aficionados on a membership basis. The 4,000-square-foot space, in San Juan’s Miramar section, will have all the equipment necessary for users to explore new ideas and techniques.
Such creative laboratories dedicated to alcoholic beverages are not unheard of even if the concept owes credit to Spanish gastronomic superstar Ferran Adria whose famous restaurant el Bulli, on Spain’s Costa Brava, functioned as a laboratory for the creation of haute cuisine dishes. Adria popularized molecular gastronomy by applying principles of physics, chemistry, and biology to the preparation of food, creating spectacular new flavor sensations. Not surprisingly, the world of spirits was inspired to pick up this new science, bringing the art of mixology to a whole new level.
Basically, bartenders and mixologists aim for the same thing: to deliver a wow drink. Still, there are differences between the two roles. Bartenders know all the basic drinks and tend bar; mixologists spin the old classics into exciting new cocktails and create new taste experiences using different techniques. The two categories are not mutually exclusive: a bartender can also be a mixologist and vice versa.
Further proof of Puerto Rico’s rising status as a land of mixology is the scheduled opening of a rarefied resource: a laboratory to foster experimentation and innovation in the craft of mixing drinks.
Being a mixologist calls for a great deal of knowledge, according to Jorge Lopez Albarran, outgoing president of the Puerto Rico Bartenders Association. An affiliate since 1992 of the International Bartenders Association, the group, which has around 800 members island wide, has contributed to professionalizing the field through workshops, courses, and competitions whose winners go on to participate in international events, such as the upcoming Pan-American Cocktail Championship in Havana, Cuba, in August, and the IBA World Cocktail Championship to be held in Estonia in October.
Think of the mixologist as a type of polymath. As described by Lopez, he must know about spirits, wines, coffee, the pairing of foods and drinks, which spirits go best with cigars and chocolate. Lopez is an award winning master blender and consultant whose company, Gourmet Business Solutions, supplies ingredients like syrups used in making drinks and foods.
He also must know about molecular mixology, nutrition, and techniques like infusing and smoking cocktails. According to Lopez, “He must have more experience and years of study.”
Puerto Rico has various educational institutions that train people for work as a bartender or mixologist but this is a career that some take up without any formal training. Others come to it by chance as happened to bartender/mixologist Roberto Rodriguez, the owner of Tablas Restaurant in Salinas, on Puerto Rico’s South coast.
Rodriguez, who is 34, took a job in the banquets division of the Ponce Hilton Hotel to earn extra money while studying to be a physical education teacher at the Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico in Ponce, where he excelled as an elite athlete. When a position opened up at the bar, he signed up out of curiosity. Besides, none of his co-workers was interested. He had no experience mixing drinks but he knew he was a quick learner and could rise to the challenge; besides, as he told his superior, “Tell me the recipe once and I can repeat it for the rest of my life.”
Although he went on to study cooking at the Institute of Banking and Commerce and bartending at the Puerto Rico Hotel School, Rodriguez admitted he wasn’t convinced bartending could be a permanent career but in 2009 he represented Puerto Rico at IBA’s annual competition in Berlin and “it opened my mind. It taught me this was a serious profession and you could live off it.” More importantly, “I didn’t win this competition but it made me completely fall in love with the industry,” Rodriguez said.
In 2013 and 2014, Rodriguez was part of the Puerto Rico Hotel and Tourism Association culinary team that won the Taste of the Caribbean competition. He has been named Bartender of the Year and Bartender of the Caribbean, also entering the mixologists’ hall of fame in these competitions.
A year and a half ago Rodriguez parlayed his experience working in hotel and independent bars into opening his own business, Tablas Craft Cocktail, a breezy open air restaurant in Salinas that features more than two dozen cocktails of his own creation that have been recognized in local and outside competitions. “I’m doing very well but it was a challenge after Maria,” he said.
La Coctelera’s Pagan is a slightly built young man with a hip hop haircut and an easy smile who looks younger than his 30 years of age. Turns out that he’s a natural at his craft and never formally studied to be a bartender. In fact, his first experience as a bartender was kind of a trial by fire. He was working in a restaurant while going to college and one busy December day the bar was short an employee and he was asked to fill in. He had made it a habit to watch the bartenders at work so he managed just fine.
Tending bar didn’t last long, however. Pagan said he dropped out of university when his mother fell ill and decided to study holistic medicine, going on to work for many years as a masseur. Four years ago he came back to bartending only to find to his surprise that the cocktail scene had changed dramatically: different cocktails, new ingredients, mixologists, homemade infusions.
To get up to speed he studied on his own and signed up for competitions. In 2016 he was a finalist in the Puerto Rico edition of the Diageo World Class event and last year he won the title of Bombay Sapphire Most imaginative Bartender by preparing two cocktails — one creative and the other a gin and tonic — in the assigned time of 13 minutes. Named “The Four Thieves,” his imaginative drink struck an intriguing balance of tastes and aromas from ingredients that included Bombay Sapphire gin, lime juice, spice-infused honey syrup featuring clove, eucalyptus and cinnamon, rosemary sprigs and sage leaves.
“Competitions are a challenge, they motivate you to be more creative,” he said in an interview at La Coctelera, which has a simple but appealing decor. Its centerpiece, next to the bar counter, is a striking wall assemblage of square and rectangular blonde-wood cabinets filled with colorful liquor bottles.
Puerto Rico has plenty of liquor competitions. According to Joel Vasquez, American Beverage Marketers’ Caribbean general manager, the island’s liquor distributors have created their own competition platforms “in order to give value to and elevate the knowledge about their brands.” International competitions with Puerto Rico editions also provide exposure for local participants.
Mixo Madness, an event developed by the Crafted Barrel Group for Rums of Puerto Rico, seeks out the best bartenders in various categories; winners go on to compete on the mainland at a grand finale pitting finalists from other states. Bartenders are rated on how well they mix flavors, knowledge of local rums, technique, even how they express themselves and interact with the public.
Another CBG event is the Speed 4 Tips competition: it tests the bartender’s speed, correct usage of techniques, ability to remember recipes, neatness and precision.
The biggest competition in the world is the Diageo Reserve World Class which is held in 60 countries, including Puerto Rico and since its launch in 2009, this competition “has supported, educated and inspired over 250,000 bartenders through its training and advocacy program,” according to the World Class Club website.
For participants, competitions are not just an opportunity to show off their skill, talent and professionalism but also a chance to learn from interacting with and observing other professionals. It doesn’t hurt that prizes include traveling, either nationally or internationally, as an ambassador for the sponsoring liquor brand.
Sometimes, a competition can prove a turning point for a bartender as was the case for Tablas’ Rodriguez, or even teach an important lesson as happened to Berdecia when he participated in the 2011 World Class Final held in India. He had won the Puerto Rico leg of the competition with two creative cocktails, one of which he named in honor of murdered Guatemalan environmental activist Myrna Mack. A variation of the Classic Rob Roy, a mix of Scottish whisky with vermouth and amaro, his version teamed up Guatemalan Ron Zacapa with vermouth, apple infusion and orange amaro.
Although he prepared for the international showdown by reading 10 to 15 books of recipes, Berdecia realized that winning wouldn’t be easy. So he recalibrated his attitude and decided that “instead of going to win, he would go to learn.”
Over at the Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America in Las Vegas, Puerto Rican mixologist Joymar Herrin took the People’s Choice category with her concoction Sand Break made out of 3 Star Barrilito Rum.
Sand Break also has a pinch of orange, coconut, lime, egg white and a splash of Disaronno amaretto. Combine all ingredients in shaker and serve in a glass with its rim covered with brown sugar and coconut.
“Sand Break is my interpretation of the moment right before emerging in the ocean. Your feet are in the sand and the waves are breaking on the edge. As a good ambassador of my island I like to use quality products that presents something authentic and traditional of Puerto Rico,” said Herrin.
Puerto Rico’s bar scene is evolving and getting better. In recent years, bartenders have noticed a greater openness by local drinkers to try out new drinks instead of staying within the confines of a safe comfort zone.
Drinkers are more demanding and are changing consumption habits: they are more likely to savor a few cocktails than drink to excess, according to Tapas’ Rodriguez.
They also are more informed and will look up information about cocktails on the internet so they know if the bartender gets it right, Lopez said.
In a service industry based on making people feel good, the experience of having a great drink in a great bar is ultimately what brings repeat customers.
“People may forget your name, the drink you fixed for them and even what you talked about but they never forget how you made them feel, how you treated them, the service you gave,” said Pagan.
If the bar and bartender made the person feel good, you can be sure they’ll be back.
Altitude is the hottest new cocktail ingredient
Puerto Rico, known as the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean, has some amazing restaurants with stunning decor, but nothing beats a hot rooftop bar. Chilling on a rooftop never gets old especially when combining breathtaking views, tropical Caribbean breezes, and world-class cocktails.
Puerto Rico, known as the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean, has some amazing restaurants with stunning decor, but nothing beats a hot rooftop bar. Chilling on a rooftop never gets old especially when combining breathtaking views, tropical Caribbean breezes, and world-class cocktails.
Whether you are seeking spectacular views of the ocean, bay, cobblestone streets, historic homes, or a bustling city, you’ll find what you’re looking for at these cool, classy, and spectacular rooftop bars.
Eter Rooftop & Lounge
After a long day, the Eter Rooftop at Ciqala Luxury Suites in Miramar with its endless views of San Juan is the ideal place to watch the sunset, or take a dip in the pool accompanied by seasonal cocktails and scrumptious culinary Caribbean infusion creations.
The View: Miramar and San Juan Bay.
What to Order: “Mofongo” stuffed with skirt steak.
Insider Tip: Brunch of champions every weekend with free valet.
Location: 752 Ave. Manuel Fernandez Juncos, San Juan; (787) 998-1176.
MIST ROOFTOP Bar+Kitchen
At MIST ROOFTOP Bar+Kitchen at San Juan Water Beach Club Hotel, you get awe-inspiring vistas of the Atlantic Ocean, white sand beach, and the incredible skyline of Isla Verde glittering with towering hotels and condos. The MIST ROOFTOP ambiance features sexy white pillow sofas and couches for total relaxation, a custom designed Cîroc bar serving a unique selection of cocktails and wines, and a restaurant with mouthwatering lunch, dinner, and a one-of-a-kind brunch culinary delights.
For a seductive evening under the stars, the MIST ROOFTOP offers daily Happy Hour specials as well as the sounds of electronic and house music.
The View: Atlantic Ocean and Isla Verde skyline.
What to Order: Signature pizza verde with Boursin cheese, kale, brussels sprouts, asparagus and mushrooms and risotto sprouts served with pork, butifarra and pecorino cheese.
Insider Tip: Things heat up with DJs spinning house and lounge music from Thursday to Saturday, starting at 9 p.m.
Location: 2 Tartak Street, Isla Verde; (787) 728-3666.
Al Fresco Rooftop Wine Bar
Located on the corner of Sol and Cruz streets in Old San Juan, this super cozy terrace perched atop a colonial rustic orange painted building is also home to the quaint and amazing St. Germain Bistro & Café and The Mezzanine bar, which serve a variety of delicious, mouthwatering tapas and fine wines.
The View: Historic Old San Juan.
What to Order: Homemade sangria or wine with tapas.
Insider Tip: Thursday nights are Ladies Night! Enjoy 2-for-1 drinks from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Location: 156 Calle Sol, Old San Juan; (787) 723-3427.
Punto de Vista
Located on the rooftop of the Hotel Milano in Old San Juan, Punto de Vista has a well-deserved reputation for serving the best mofongo relleno in the city. A glass wall spanning the width of the dining room offers its guests views for days while drinking and dining outdoors provides vistas of the capitol building, San Cristobal Fort, San Juan City Hall, the San Juan Bay and Calle Fortaleza below. So bring your camera or pop out your Iphone and be ready to capture amazing selfies with stunning sunsets in the background.
The View: Old City and San Juan Bay.
What to Order: Mofongo (garlic-flavored mashed plantains) with choice of chicken, shrimp, pork or skirt steak with fresh garlic sauce or sautéed in a white wine mango peach creole sauce.
Insider Tip: Tip: Buy 1 get 1 free mojitos every day until 5:00 p.m. and Medalla beer on tap for just $2.
Location: 307 Calle Fortaleza, Old San Juan;(787) 725-4860.
Olive Boutique Hotel
O:live Rooftop atop the luxury O:live Boutique Hotel is the epitome of chic and sophistication, where even its location screams exclusivity. It’s rooftop bar even has a pool, completing the ultimate oasis package. The Rooftop offers a taste of the high life inspired by the Mediterranean travels of the property’s owners, attentive and helpful staff that looks out on the high-rises of Condado and the waters of the Condado Lagoon.
The View: Condado Lagoon.
What to Order: Order a bite from the enticing menu of Sage restaurant operated by Chef Mario Pagan, one of Puerto Rico’s top chefs who participated in Food Network’s Iron Chef.
Insider Tip: Must try signature drink Kiwi Collins especially at sunset.
Location: Aguadilla St. #55, Condado; (787) 705-9994.
O:live Rooftop looks out on the high-rises of Condado and the waters of the Condado Lagoon.
La Terraza de San Juan
Nothing is more relaxing than taking a dip in a rooftop terrace infinity plunge pool while enjoying birds eye views of Old San Juan and sipping a tropical drink from its patio bar. Guests can chill out watching cruise ships come and go, admire beautiful sunsets over the Old City and San Juan Bay. On the very clearest of days, you can see El Yunque Rainforest, located at the eastern end of Puerto Rico.
The View: Old San Juan and San Juan Bay.
What to Order: Mimosas and smoothies.
Insider Tip: Tasty tapas and cocktail menu in evenings from Thursday to Saturday.
Location: 262 Calle Sol, Old San Juan; (787) 722-2014.
AC Rooftop
Indulge on delicious drinks, warm breezes, and superb dining at this unique rooftop lounge at AC Hotel San Juan that features a swimming pool and one-of-a-kind views of the bustling Condado district. This stylish property with a European urban vibe is steps away from the beach and has modern décor with contemporary furnishings.
The View: Condado District.
What to Order: Light tapas.
Insider Tip: Co-working space by day and hub of social buzz by night with live DJ and bands.
Location: 1369 Ashford Ave, Condado (787) 827-7280.
Bay Pool Bar & Grille
The rooftop Bay Pool Bar & Grille at the Sheraton Puerto Rico Hotel and Casino overlooks the marina in the heart of the city that captures vibrant ocean and bay views, as well as the city’s varied cityscape, from the gleaming condo towers of Condado to Spanish colonial splendor.
The terrace situated on the hotel’s fourth floor has plush sofas and cabanas, and a great bar and grill; there is nowhere else you will want to be during a splendid San Juan afternoon. There is an impressive menu of tropical cocktails and frozen drinks, and a simple menu that delivers with great taste.
The View: San Juan Bay and cruise port.
What to Order: Chino Latino wrap, fish tacos, mahi mahi skewers and guava chicken wings.
Insider Tip: Reserve your pool cabana early; voted one of the best hotel pools in Puerto Rico by US News.
Location: 200 Convention Boulevard in San Juan, (787) 993-3500.
Vistas
Vistas rooftop terrace at Vistas Restaurant and Cocktail Lounge has spectacular panned views of the city of Ponce.
Imagine sitting high above the town on a warm and sultry evening while sipping on a cocktail experiencing a cosmopolitan vibe while overlooking at one of the most recognizable landmarks in Puerto Rico, Parque de Bombas (former Ponce Fire House) with its emblematic black and red colors and Cruzeta El Vigia (The Watchman Cross). The staff at Vistas is friendly and the food is yummy as well.
The View: Nearly all of Ponce.
What to Order: Pasta, pork loin, St. Louis ribs, BBQ chicken and mofongo.
Insider Tip: $4 Margaritas Happy Hour every Tuesday and Wednesday and a 2-for-1 Mojitos and Sangria Happy Hour every Thursday from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Location: Cristina Street #76, Ponce; (939) 350-2407.
So make sure you take advantage during your visit of Puerto Rico’s near-perfect year-round weather and stress-reducing views.
Back Into the Swing of Things
Puerto Rico’s rebound in the wake of Hurricane Maria can be likened to a round of golf at one the islands world-class courses —there was bound to be some rough, some ups and downs, and some unexpected turns along the way. And while landscapes may change, the renewal of the island’s lush greens seemingly blossomed overnight as its mountain forests, palm-lined coasts – and yes its 18-hole oases – sprang back to life under the healing tropical sun.
Puerto Rico’s rebound in the wake of Hurricane Maria can be likened to a round of golf at one the islands world-class courses —there was bound to be some rough, some ups and downs, and some unexpected turns along the way. And while landscapes may change, the renewal of the island’s lush greens seemingly blossomed overnight as its mountain forests, palm-lined coasts – and yes its 18-hole oases – sprang back to life under the healing tropical sun.
Like many of its best hotels, Puerto Rico’s golf courses seized the opportunity presented to grow back better than ever through a host of upgrades including a new fleet of GPS-equipped golf carts at Dorado Beach through the remodeled club house and re-imagined courses at Rio Mar, to cite just two examples.
Check out Costa Caribe to Coco Beach and El Conquistador, Palmas del Mar, Punta Borinquen and beyond, where restoration contractors who arrived on the island in droves could be heard extolling the virtues of Puerto Rico’s range of golf courses on their hard-earned days off from the work of rebuilding.
Puerto Rico is known as the premier location for golf professionals and enthusiasts in the Caribbean where golf enthusiasts travel from all over the world to play throughout the year on the island’s 20 championship golf courses. This year’s tournament calendar features the PRGA’s annual signature event, the PRGA Championships, as well as seven World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR) points tournaments for both juniors and amateurs. For the second straight year, Puerto Rico will also host a USGA U.S. Am qualifier.
With global media attention focused on Puerto Rico’s challenges and can-do attitude, the island’s profile in the golf world was also elevated through the likes of its touring professionals such as Maria “Marife” Torres, the first Puerto Rican to play full time in the LPGA and Rafael Campos’ solid presence on the PGA Web.Com Tour.
Further shining a bright light on Puerto Rico’s competitive golf scene were a range of signature tournaments stretching from spring into winter – no need to worry about the weather on an island where balmy 80 degree days are the rule.
July 9-10
USGA US Amateur Qualifier
August 11-13
PRGA Junior Match Play Championship
November 2-4
PRGA Match Play Championship
But the biggest sign of the solidity of the island’s competitive golfing future may well have been the PGA’s bet on bringing the PGA Tour’s Puerto Rico Open back to the island at least through 2020.
Dating back a decade, the 2018 event could have been carried out, but the PGA Tour and the main sponsor the Puerto Rico Tourism Company opted instead to hold a special, unofficial PGA Tour event in March to support recovery efforts on the island featuring PGA Tour golfers, athletes and celebrities. The charitable event was held at the TPC Dorado Beach, which is home to three legendary championship golf courses, including the famed East and West courses originally designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. Since its inception, the Puerto Rico Open has supported the work of local charities and donated nearly $700,000 to non-profit organizations that work with children, youth and health-related issues.
While putting relief before dollars was a move right from the heart, the PGA Tour doubled-down on Puerto Rico when it inked in the return of the four-day, official PGA Tour event in 2019 and also in 2020.
“The Puerto Rico Open has been part of the PGA Tour for the last 10 years and our commitment to golf on the island has never been stronger,” said PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan. “Our hope is that this special event in 2018 would benefit Puerto Rico’s recovery efforts to the fullest extent, while reminding the world that Puerto Rico is a premier golf and travel destination.”
In partnership with tournament officials and the PRTC, the PGA Tour heavily considered all factors following Hurricane Maria to determine a course of action for the 2018 Puerto Rico Open and examined what would provide the greatest support and economic impact for the island during this period of recovery. Therefore, the tournament in Puerto Rico was re-imagined as a special, unofficial PGA Tour event to support the recovery efforts and to celebrate golf and Tourism on the island.
Weekends were made for brunching
Weekends are for brunching — chatting with friends, digging into a delicious stack of syrup-drizzled pancakes, lingering over a café con leche, zesty Bloody Mary or a fruity mimosa. Fortunately, Puerto Rico knows how to brunch, and there are a plethora of chic and cozy restaurants where the food is both delicious and highly Instagrammable.
Weekends are for brunching — chatting with friends, digging into a delicious stack of syrup-drizzled pancakes, lingering over a café con leche, zesty Bloody Mary or a fruity mimosa. Fortunately, Puerto Rico knows how to brunch, and there are a plethora of chic and cozy restaurants where the food is both delicious and highly Instagrammable.
Soda Estudio de Cocina is a charismatic and unique restaurant tucked away in Cuevillas St. in Miramar, just a few blocks from the Fine Arts Cinema Café. Its eclectic decor, laid-back atmosphere, unique charm, and great food touted as urban creole make it a perfect place to enjoy brunch and connect with friends.
Some of the best menu items include steak and eggs with a side of truffle fries; pastrami, Serrano ham, and mozzarella cheese; the egg breakfast pizza; asparagus-wrapped bacon with eggs and hollandaise sauce; the mac & bacon cheese omelet; or whatever your little heart hungry heart desires.
Combine these delicacies with Soda’s delicious mimosa mojito or watermelon Moscow mule to spice up your dining experience. Brunch hours are every weekend from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Looking for a seriously good brunch spot? Look no further and visit Choices Restaurant at the Sheraton Puerto Rico Hotel & Casino in the Convention Center district. It’s sophisticated yet casual with live music and traditional brunch choices with a creative twist.
Try the crab cake Benedict, or the Brunch Burger prepared with sweet Mallorca bread rolls, bacon, cheese, topped with crispy onions and eggs, or the fantastic Guava pancakes, or the Boricua Omelet with pork, local white cheese, and tomato avocado salad topping. All are absolutely yummy! And all dishes come with a complimentary Mimosa. The brunch menu is available every Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Over in the Condado, widely known as a chic tourist area with fabulous beaches, shops, and hotels in the heart of San Juan, there is a slice of brunch heaven called Blonda for those with pure food indulgence in mind.
This cozy and modern restaurant serves lobster frittata; doughnut sliders; chicken and waffles; pancakes with bananas, strawberries, blueberries and whipped cream or Nutella; ranchero eggs; salmon Eggs Benedict; and an incredible French toast prepared with thick-sliced bread topped with caramel sauce, strawberries, and vanilla or Nutella. Brunch hour is from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
With the Atlantic Ocean as the backdrop, Ola Oceanfront Bistro at the sophisticated Condado Vanderbilt Hotel provides the exquisite and unique flavors of Puerto Rican fare.
Its Sunday buffet brunch with live entertainment is out of this world with dishes prepared with the freshest products.
Enjoy fluffy pancakes, frittatas, chicken escabeche or Paella del Campo made with chorizo, pork, ham, chickpeas and plantains accompanied by artisanal bread, fresh fruit, assorted fresh pastries, or bacon.
Combine these classic brunch favorites with bottomless mimosas or signature cocktails like the spicy Bloody Mary, Mai Tai, Old Fashioned, Perfect Martini or Dark and Stormy – made with dark rum, ginger beer, and lime. Sunday brunch is from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
And you can never go wrong with the Boozy Brunch Party at Serafina San Juan every Saturday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Enjoy breakfast and lunch dishes like delicious orange-cinnamon brioche French toast, lemon ricotta pancakes, smoked salmon benedict and steak and fabulous eggs accompanied by a lively stream of Bloody Mary’s, mimosa’s and more.
Bring your friends and make an afternoon at Serafina as your new weekend kick-off tradition.
Looking for something different for brunch that is available all day, than Pannes in Condado may be a perfect option. When visiting ask for the “French Mess,” made with three fried eggs, bacon, melted cheese served between two French toasts with cream cheese. Mmmm what a delicious mess! Or try the Brunch Burger where a beef patty is topped off with bacon, onions and an egg or the famous Ashford Special Royal, which consists of French toast with Nutella and fresh fruit.
Fresh squeezed fruit nectar and Prosecco make for one refreshing brunch Bellini. But why not pair your morning feast with a glass of Sicily. It’s made with lime juice, simple syrup, Luxardo Maraschino Liquor, angostura bitters, and vodka. Or try the Julius Caesar cocktail with Cynar, Fernet Branca, red grapefruit, and vodka – all perfect concoctions to sip on while eating at Nonna Cucina Rustica.
This inviting restaurant located on San Jorge St. in Santurce has a similar vibe to Italian bistros found in NYC mostly due to its exquisite five-star cuisine.
Whether you’re looking for delicious steak and fried eggs; frittata with mushrooms; Eggs Benedict with red potatoes as a side; or flavorsome French toast made with homemade brioche bread overflowing with almonds and fruit than Cucina Rustica is the place to go. Sunday brunch hour is from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Isla Verde boasts the best beaches and water sports in the metro area, but Bistro Café rules the brunch scene. Its menu is exceptional, and its options satisfy those with a sweet tooth or a salty side.
The Mendoza consists of scrambled eggs with longaniza and mixed veggies and the irresistible Romeo and Juliet, a French toast dish full of cream cheese, bacon, fruit, and Nutella. And you can’t forget to point out the 2 for 1 mimosas. Brunch hours are from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
There’s no doubt that San Juan’s plate is full of fresh brunch options and its restless chefs are turning the city into the nation’s breakfast capital.
There are way too many excellent places to have brunch especially in the artsy and hipster town of Santurce like Gallo Negro. The restaurant is famous for its mac and cheese prawns and French toast made with Mallorca bread and Barrilito rum.
Abracadabra Counter Café with the perennial brunch favorite of scrambled eggs with veggies and goat cheese, French toast made with brioche bread topped with fruits and whipped cream.
And there’s Tostado with its breakfast bowel cooked in a mini cauldron with spinach, mixed veggies, and goat cheese topped with two fried eggs.
Best in the West
Over on the west coast, famous for its beautiful beaches, stunning sunsets, tranquil turquoise waters and colorful reefs with active marine life, is the famous bakery Levain Artisan Breads in Aguadilla. This shop serves a no-frills brunch menu on Sundays full of traditional comfort foods at its next door Debut Cocina Rustica venue.
Here you will find the best lattes, breakfast sandwiches as well as the classic Eggs Benedict served with a side of home fries and greens, pan fried brioche with eggs and bacon and of course the all-time favorite Croque Madame sandwich made with three kinds of bread with ham, gruyere cheese, and béchamel sauce topped with a fried egg.
Uva Playa Restaurant in Mayaguez, Puerto Rico’s third largest city, is a casual and stylish eatery perfectly positioned at the water’s edge where you can enjoy an expansive view of the Atlantic Ocean through its large windows or outdoor terrace.
You can’t go wrong with ordering its simple brunch options perfect for the hungry or hung-over and make sure you order the passion fruit sangria or coconut mojitos which are dangerously delightful.
For those who love to eat, the English Rose in Rincon is one of the best places to get your brunch on. This lovely quaint restaurant located inside a country inn has a Caribbean feel with old English charm. Even though the venue is small, it makes up for its size with breathtaking panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea and its artistic menu.
A must-try is the Full Monty; a classic British breakfast combo made with bacon, homemade pork sausage, two eggs any style, oven-crisped potatoes with butter, caramelized onions, and cabbage with a slice of toast. Or opt for the Encore Eggs Benedict (poached eggs on an English muffin, Canadian bacon, and hollandaise) or the Benny Hill that substitutes the bacon for smoked salmon.
English Rose has an impressive menu and only opens for breakfast and brunch from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and is often packed with people. If anything, take that as a marker of great food.
Southern Comfort
Ponce es Ponce (Ponce is Ponce), a simple yet telling Puerto Rican saying about the second oldest city of Puerto Rico. And Lola Eclectic Cuisine is simple and all about brunch.
If you’re hungry for more than just bites, La Plaza three-egg fluffy omelet is the way to go. It’s served with ham, bacon, Italian sausage, tomato, green peppers and American cheese. The French toast is made with Puerto Rican criollo bread. What can be more savory? After stuffing your tummy, a walk around the city of Ponce, known as the Pearl of the South, will make you feel the magic of this city with its elegant neoclassical and European style architecture.
At Melao Coffee Shop at the Ponce Plaza Hotel and Casino, their all-day breakfast and brunch menu (from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.) appeals to both the novice and foodie through classic comfort fare, all-encompassing a key ingredient, eggs.
Signature dishes include Mallorca bread filled with eggs, ham, and American cheese; the Melao Omelet with ham, bacon, Italian sausage, tomato, green peppers and American cheese with a side of sautéed potatoes; the classic scrambled eggs wrap; and the Spanish Florentine Omelet made with spinach, tomato, mushrooms, peppers, and muenster cheese.
Or try the sweet treats like a home-style French toast with loads of powdery white sugar, maple syrup, and fresh strawberries. The fluffy flapjacks or light waffles are perfect with Nutella, whipped cream and fresh fruit with a side of crispy bacon. But the headliner of this star-studded cast of multi-faceted delectables is the coffee.
The menu features a variety of hot beverage options like espresso, café Bombon (espresso with sweetened condensed milk), macchiato with a dash of milk, latte, American, American cappuccino, Italian cappuccino, chai latte, mocha latte, Mexican spiced cocoa, and hot chocolate. Also, house-crafted natural juices, smoothies, Acai bowls and more.
Over in Guanica, you can enjoy the shimmering coastline and swimming pool area of Copamarina Beach Resort and Spa while you tuck into a delicious pork sandwich on sweet Mallorca bread basted with garlic and pepper sauce, and Swiss cheese accompanied by corn fritters at Alexandra restaurant.
The delicious brunch menu (every Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.) offers bottomless mimosas and live music. Looking for an egg dish with a twist than try the steak and eggs with a side of fries or the smoked salmon and boiled eggs with purple onions, olives, and toast with a side of tomato and asparagus salad with lemon dressing. Buen Provecho.