AguavivaCity/Region: San Juan
Aguaviva's cool, turquoise décor is very laid-back, in stark contrast to its chaotic atmosphere. The stained-glass aquaviva (jellyfish) replicas are intriguing, best contemplated over oysters and a stiff drink from the bar. An open kitchen serves delectable cuisine including a marlin and garlic ceviche (appetizer), and a seafood tower made up of fried oysters, coco-flavored shrimp and fried octopus. The grilled mahi-mahi with smoky shrimp, salsa and yucca is also fantastic, as is the paella with seafood and pork sausage. Reservations
required.
Address: 364 Calle Fortaleza
Augusto's CuisineCity/Region: San Juan
This elegant and glamorous restaurant flaunts its European flair in a portentous grey and green dining room within the
Hotel Excelsior,
Miramar. Fresh ingredients are used to create indulgent offerings such as creamy corn and oyster soup, an exquisite lobster risotto or medallions of veal with foie gras and Madeira sauce. The wine list is also outstanding.
Address: 801
Ponce de León Ave
DragonflyCity/Region: San Juan
Dragonfly's décor is reminiscent of an old
San Francisco bordello with beaded curtains, fringed lamps and gilded mirrors. Their trademark drink is the 'Dragon Punch', often accompanied by live Latin jazz performances. The plantain chips, chicharrónes (pork rinds) and spicy crab cakes are easily followed by delicious red snapper or grouper, while the pumpkin and bean selection is quite formidable. For those with bigger appetites, the barbecued lamb shank is a must! Reservations required.
Address: 364 Calle Fortaleza
Parrot ClubCity/Region: San Juan
The Parrot Club is found in a stately 1902 building and occasionally hosts local dignitaries in its ambient dining hall. The courtyard tables are accompanied by live music among potted ferns, orchids and palms. This bistro and bar blends
Puerto Rican cuisine with Spanish, African and Taíno flavors. Halibut, salmon and mahi-mahi form part of the ceviche (appetizer) menu and the criolla-style flank steak is superb for a main course, as is the tuna with rum and orange-essence sauce. A favored drink is their trademark 'Parrot Passion'. Closed for two weeks in September.
Address: 363 Calle Fortaleza
