You'll even find authentic American barbecue at La Placita. Open daily from around noon to midnight, Eter Rooftop serves everything from lunch, all day brunch and dinner, to drinks in between. Best for an authentic local feel and drinks with an island vibe. Travel back in time to another era without sacrificing modern comforts. This hotel features an outdoor pool and a rooftop terrace. The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Cond Nast. Depending on the day of the week, you might catch a RuPaul viewing party or even drag bingo. Rich in history and ambiance, VC Lounge is the sophisticated lobby bar at the storied Condado Vanderbilt Hotel, which has been luring the great and the good since 1919. The great food, beer selection and reasonable prices make La Taberna Lupulo must stop on any bar hop in Old San Juan. Sign up for our newsletters to receive the latest and greatest on all things travel. If you want a romantic yet vibrant scene at night, head over to Old San Juan. Most chinchorros,like Santurce Caf, Trifongo Tano, Taberna Los Vzquez, Garabatos, Aguardiente, La Bodeguita del Medio, and others, will have live bands or DJs several nights per week, and every night will play lively salsa, merengue, hip hop, or reggaetnmusic for people to dance to. How Pull-Tabs Became a Pillar of Minnesota's Bar Culture, Over a Century Ago, Coors Made a Milk Alternative Before It Was Cool. 2014 - 2023 VinePair Inc. Made In NYC. Hyatt House San Juan is the perfect hotel for cruisers looking for a luxurious and convenient pre-cruise experience. Located just steps from the beach, the spacious rooftop terrace offers fantastic views over the ocean. It's beautiful interior adorned with Venetian chandeliers and impeccable decor create an amazing ambiance worth experiencing. The bartender tells you to mix the drink with your straw yourself as he pushes the drink forward. As you walk into LaPlacita itself, you'll come across a number of Puerto Rican restaurants with different specialties. - See 4,361 traveler reviews, 996 candid photos, and great deals for San Juan, Puerto Rico, at Tripadvisor. El CAFETN San Juan, San Juan. If we don't go there you won't see it here. El Batey is one of the best known bars in Old San Juan and likely all of Puerto Rico. pool tables and juke boxes are commonplace fixtures in pubs. not in Puerto Rico. On the weekends the space gets pretty rowdy when there's live music and brunch. Located in the heart of the city center, the atmosphere of La Central is intimate and relaxed. The ultimate treat at sunset is sailing around the walled city along San Juan Bay, the experience is so amazing, one of the tours was ranked among the Top Sailing & Day Cruises in the World by Travelers Choice in 2021 and 2022. Opening and closing times at bars and clubs in La Placita vary, but many bars open around 9 or 10 p.m. and stay open until 5 a.m. The rooftop menu includes a large selection of handcrafted cocktails, an extensive wine list, sangria and a wide range of tapas, all offered with a personal and elegant service, combined with a relaxing atmosphere. Shuttle service to and from the airport can be arranged for a fee. Meanwhile, tucked into the alleyways of Old San Juan, youll find sticky-floored literary haunts, steeped in a 1960s vibe, where the first order of business is an ice-cold Medalla beer and a shot of rum. Feel free to stop and speak to a policeman if you have any questions about safety. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and the San Cristbal fort, La Vergenza is a low-key and charming rooftop bar and restaurant, specializing in Puerto Rican and Caribbean cuisine. We welcome your feedback. Because parking can be difficult in this popular nightlife area and because you'll likely be sipping a cocktail or two it is recommended you take a taxi or rideshare to La Placita. Try to time your visit with happy hour (5-7pm daily) for pocket-pleasing specials. Up here you can indulge in authentic flavors of Japan and South America, presented with a fresh and simple twist, and complemented with crafted original cocktails and a fine selection of wines. Rooftop igloos around the world - 2022/23 edition. FILE - A rhinoceros rests inside an enclosure at the Dr. Juan A. Rivero Zoo in Mayaguez, Puerto Rico, July 7, 2017. To elevate the experience even more, head up to a San Juan rooftop bar, and you can enjoy the breeze mixed with amazing views over both the city skyline and the Atlantic Ocean. There are a few clubs, like Mijani The Club(256 Calle Dos Hermanos)with a house DJ, live salsa on Thursdays, and all-night happy hour. The blue skies become dark and starry and the only blue youll see on the water are dinoflagellates creating a natural fluorescent show, sure to be one of the highlights of your vacation in San Juan. Youve just stepped into the home of Pedro Albizu Campos, leader of the Puerto Rican nationalist movement thats plotting to overthrow the US government. The bar isn't very big, L shaped with perhaps 15 total chairs, there is also tables and chairs off to the side of the bar area. Explore the Old San Juan neighborhood made famous by "Despacito.". As the sun sinks behind San Juan, house mixologists work their magic, shaking and stirring potent cocktails full of exotic island ingredients try the refreshing watermelon mojito or a Caribbean tiki classic spiked with local rum. The worlds of craft cocktails and beer thrive here, but they're run through with island culture. With warm weather all year round, outdoor spaces become places to dine, gather, relax or dance. Here are a few bars in San Juan that will have a nice mixture of tourists and locals. WebSan Juan Vacation Rentals. The food comes from chef Paxx Caraballo Moll who has been picking up national accolades for work better than you can get at almost any other bar. La Cubanita is known for amazing cocktails.. it's a great pre-game, post-dinner-cocktail or romantic spot for 2. Junior's Bar 2 Gay Bars Frequently Asked Questions about San Juan What are the best places for gay clubs & bars in San Juan? Douglas makes the list due to it's juke box + pool table combo. Santaella in La Placita is home to some of Puerto Rico's buzziest food and cocktails. Ad Choices. If you love casinos you can try your luck at various resorts in Condado, Old San Juan, the Convention Center District, and Isla Verde. These are typically small locales, so most of the dancing happens in the street, transforming La Placita into a giant block party. Your Drinking Guide to Old San Juan, Puerto Rico | VinePair, https://vinepair.com/articles/drinking-guide-old-san-juan-puerto-rico/, wbs_brand Aperol, wbs_brand Barrilito, wbs_brand Campari, wbs_brand Don Q, bars, Travel, The Two-Ingredient Cocktail American Bartenders Are Falling For | VinePair, https://vinepair.com/articles/japanese-highball-american-bars/, wbs_cat Spirit, wbs_type Whiskey, bars, cocktail, Japan, whiskey. Many restaurants offer live music so you can dance in between courses. If you enjoy the art of cocktails, youll love staying in San Juan, the Rum Capital of the Caribbean. (see tour below). Mingle with locals in the neon-lit lounge or head out onto the patio and try one of the house cocktails. It gets crowded and buzzy on weekends but otherwise pretty mellow: exactly the kind of place you can kick back for a few hours. Conveniently located a short stroll from Condado Lagoon, Antillano combines a relaxed, eclectic vibe and tasty cocktails. In the wake of Hurricane Mara, owners Garrett Robinson and Derek Schwarz built Scryer from the rubble of an infamous punk-rock hangout, and shifted the focus to small-batch, cask-seasoned rums. Masterful mixologists put their own creative stamp on the classics. A new generation of bartenders is transforming Puerto Rico into a premier drinking destination. The streets of La Placita de Santurce come alive after the sun sets. Best hikes in El Yunque National ForestTop things to do in Puerto RicoBest places to visit in Puerto Rico, This article was first published June 2019 and updated January 2022. Phone (787) 705-4957 . After 11pm, the salsa dance hall is the place to be. Find one playing the music you like and head into that one. 15 Best Bars in Puerto Rico. Circo San Juans most popular gay club offering Drag shows, go-go boys and great dancing. These elevated venues offer grand views over both the city skyline and the Atlantic Ocean. Dont fall into the line of thinking that youre too good for this, no matter how averse you are to tourist traps. We hope you made some time to have a tour of Castillo San Felipe del Morro, best known as El Morro, the most visited and beloved landmark on the island of Puerto Rico. Get inspired to travel off the beaten path at these 10 top destinations in North America. The guestrooms are not far from the pools, beach and restaurants. A cozy little tiki bar hidden on the edge of La Placita, Jungle Bird serves up fun tropical vibes; think, bamboo furniture, big leafy plants, sexy mood lighting, and gorgeous cocktails. Arroz y habicuelasare the staple side dish in Puerto Rico. The ownership's changed since the hurricane (it was formerly the beloved Al's Mar Azul) but it still has the same relaxed, dive-bar feel and reliably epic sunset views from the upstairs deck. Check out the coffee of popes and kings while in Puerto Rico, 2023 Discover Puerto Rico. Bars and clubs are typically open Wednesday or Thursday through Sunday, with most everything being closed on Monday and Tuesday. This is a tequila bar with killer margaritas: strong, not too sweet, and only $6 during all-day happy hour on Wednesday ($8 every other day). When you visit, you'll find that spirit in yourself, too. Talented mixologists have created a diverse menu that features local rum libations and tropical takes on classic cocktails like the Parada 10 Collins and the Mojito del Lado. The drinks are cheap, delicious, and theres something calming and satisfying about sipping a sugary drink at an outdoor bar under the Puerto Rican sun. Everything is Marilyn Monroe themed (hence the name) and it's a great vibe. You may watch the sunset from one of the squares and parks overlooking the bay and Paseo de la Princesa. There's also a small wine list featuring mainly Spanish and Chilean whites. WebThe Royal Sonesta San Juan - 3.7 mi (5.9 km) away Upscale beachfront hotel with 3 restaurants, spa Free WiFi 2 beach bars Fitness center Outdoor pool Central location La Concha Renaissance San Juan Resort - 0.6 mi (1 km) away Upscale beachfront resort with 7 restaurants, casino San Juan Tourism San Juan Accommodation San Juan Bed and Breakfast San Juan Holiday Rentals San Juan Holiday Packages Aerial view of La Perla neighborhood in Old San Juan. Get to grips with Puerto Rico's eclectic cuisine with this guide to the very best dishes and drinks that you just have to try. Here are just a few: Whether youre a Whitney Houston in the making or your singing conjures images of Cameron Diaz in "My Best Friend's Wedding," San Juan has several karaoke spots for you. For over a century,La Plaza del Mercado de Santurce locally known as La Placita has served as the farmer's market of the Santurce neighborhood of San Juan. If you wish to dance the night away and mingle with locals, head to Fifty Eight at La Concha Resort in Condado. We recommend Fridas Visit to MOMA a fruity tequila and cachaa-based concoction or the Saturn, made with London Gin, passion fruit and lemon. The vibes at Tuluum are as upbeat and fun as its colorful walls and kitschy Mexican decor. On any given night, you'll find locals kicking back with a margarita or mezcal and enjoying the live acoustic music. Helmed by Jos Santaella, one of Puerto Ricos top chefs, Santaellas wood-paneled bar is one of San Juans most inviting spots for an early evening cocktail. Dim bar lights shine past crowds and spill onto the sidewalk. Did you know that the pia colada is Puerto Rico's national drink? 40 romantic rooftop restaurants. By subscribing to our newsletter(s) you agree to our User Agreement and Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement. Be sure to book a bioluminescent bay tour after a fun day on the beaches of San Juan. Award-winning Caribbean cocktails are skillfully crafted by the bar staff, using produce, herbs and spices grown in the restaurant's garden. This infectious outlook is often combined with what is commonly referred to as Puerto Rican Pride, creating an atmosphere thats fun and energetic. Puerto Rico is a real-life,choose-your-own-adventure islandand the story is yours to write. All rights reserved. There's also. Borona En La Placita(100 Calle San Rafael)also specializes in criollo food and has live music several days a week including local jazz artists and acoustic duos. We dont accept payments in exchange for favorable reviews. If youre in San Juan on a Sunday night, be sure to take a walk along Paseo de la Princesa and enjoy delicious food and drinks from local kiosks, live music, art pieces from local artisans, and the sunset over the San Juan Bay. There are also numerous casual bars serving cold Medalla beer and standard mixed drinks all around La Placita. If you say it to them in Spanish ("por favor," "hola," and "gracias"), your gesture will be noticed and appreciated. Found in the heart of Old San Juan, Al Fresco Rooftop Wine Bar offers both a unique and intimate rooftop experience, filled with tasty tapas and wine, as well as delicious cocktails. 262 Calle del Sol, Viejo San Juan, San Juan, 00901. These are typically small locales, so most of the dancing happens in the street, transforming La Placita into a giant block party. Past the foyer and the living room, behind the bar next to the shelf stocked with pristine bottles of spirits, aperitifs and bitters, a cement wall still sports bullet holes from when the FBI raided the place on October 1950. Bonus Tip: The owners of La Factora also run several other bars around San Juan, including La Cubanita and El Desvo right next door, Jungle Birdin La Placita de Santurce, and Caneca in Lote 23. 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. A central location, ice-cold Medallas, and all-round good vibes make this an ideal spot to wind down after a long day of sightseeing. But which is the best rooftop bar San Juan? George Stern, head bartender of The Polynesian tiki bar in New York, doubles as beverage director of Gallo Negro, bringing serious tropical-cocktail While dancers strut, master mixologists conjure up some of the citys most creative cocktails the Lavender Mule, made from house-made ginger beer and lavender-infused syrup, is outstanding. Best for classic aperitifs and old-school glamour. The grounds are playgrounds where children and adults alike fly kites, play, and relax to the cooling tradewinds. Divided into indoor seating with A/C and an outdoor terrace with tables and lounge areas, the rooftop is available for relaxing breakfast or lunch by day, as well as more vibrant nights. 11) Walk the Paseo del Morro. San Juan. is among the most popular for classic Puerto Rican food, while next door, As you enter Calle Canals from Ponce de Len Avenue, on the corner you'll spot an orange house with a yard full of communal tables. Book Now. With a lovely climate year-round, San Juan is just made for enjoying al fresco food and drinks. One of San Juans most stylish rooftop bars, Arya is located inside the award-winning O:LV Hotel, one of San Juan's most stylish stays, in the ritzy Condado neighborhood. San Juan Smokehouseserves up heaping portions of pulled pork, brisket, BBQ chicken, and Memphis-style dry rub ribs smoked in hickory. Theres also a well-curated wine list partnered with a stellar menu of small bites and bar food. Whether you want to play or get away, you'll find the perfect spot in Puerto Rico. If you see someone or a group of people eating, it is customary to say, Buen provecho, which is the same as bon apptit in French. Feel free toContact UsThis guide is researched, written and published independently of advertisements. With a pleasant climate year-round, San Juan is really a prime spot for al fresco dining and drinking, and there are quite a few great rooftop available. WebSan Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino San Juan, San Juan SHOW DE COMEDIA IMPROVPIA SHOW DE COMEDIA IMPROVPIA Thu, Mar 2, 8:00 PM + 1 more event Moner Caf Teatro & Bar Caguas, Caguas Luna Llena en El Morro (Marzo) Luna Llena en El Morro (Marzo) Tue, Mar 7, 6:45 PM Castillo San Felipe del Morro San Juan San San Juan offers something for everyone at night, from fine dining experiences, musical events, trendy clubs to dance the night away, relaxed squares, and even water activities. 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