5 Best Restaurants in El Yunque and the Northeast, Puerto Rico

This laid-back spot has elevated Puerto Rican street food to an art form, thanks to two New Yorkers (one Puerto Rican) with restaurant pedigrees who decided to leave the big city and open a new spot dedicated to barbecue in an old gas station outside the Conquistador Resort. Highlighting products obtained from local fishermen and farmers, and smoking their own meats in an outdoor kitchen, Idalia García and Kevin Roth's awesome joint is one of Puerto Rico's don't-miss culinary treats. Settle into one of the mismatched patio tables—be it teak, cedar, or concrete—order up a cocktail, and get ready to feast.

Forget McDonald's and Taco Bell; in Puerto Rico, a beachside kiosk like this one is the place to go for fast food. El Kiosko Boricua ticks all the boxes for fried Puerto Rican goodies, with alcapurrias, arepas, and bacalaítos among the items on offer. Wash it all down with fresh coconut water or the local beer, Medalla.

One among the ever-changing cast of restaurants along Route 187, the New Aquarium, like its neighbors, won't win any awards for decor and design. The setting here is decidedly laid-back, with plastic tables and chairs serving as the humble backdrop for some stellar seafood. Vegetarians should request the special meatless mofongo. The service is friendly and attentive, and the location—a literal stone's throw from the Atlantic—can't be beat.

This restaurant is locally owned and family run. They have a popular brunch menu with hearty meal options and recently completed an outdoor expansion to include a taco bar and pizza oven. Vegan dishes are available.