Did someone ask about Brunch? Because if they did, then we got the memo. Now let’s talk about mimosas and waffles in San Juan, the Island’s capital. San Juan is a vibrant and diverse city, full of life, art, music, and brunch. Here we’ve picked the top 5 and we hope you’re able to enjoy the unique experiences each one of them has to offer. It’s time to dig into some morning fun!
1. Chocobar Cortes
First on the list is Chocobar Cortes, featured in The New York Times, The New Yorker, CBS News, and other publishers, Chocolate Cortes is known as the family-owned brand of chocolate maker of PR. Their mission is to make your taste buds bounce with new flavors that incorporate a classic favorite: chocolate. Chocolate Cortes, was and still is a staple in any Puerto Rican household. The most popular way to drink it? A hot chocolate with ‘queso de papa’ dunked inside, a classic sweet and salty.
That’s why it comes without a surprise that Chocobar Cortes designed a menu that elaborately and imaginatively incorporates chocolate in some way, shape, or form. Like, why not try some chocolate ‘pique’ (hot sauce) with some guacamole with chocolate in ‘Chalupitas de Mofongo’. Or maybe let us satisfy the sweet tooth with some ‘Chocobar Pancakes’. No matter which chocolatey twist is your favorite choice, this is a must-visit brunch in Old San Juan.
2. St.Germain
Since we’re pacing through the ‘adoquines’ of the colonial San Juan City, our next stop on the list is St. Germain. But not only because it is neighboring its previous contender, but because it has earned a spot on our list. This popular brunch earned its stripes by becoming one of the first and best local vegan and vegetarian-friendly brunch options.
St. Germain is certain to give you a delightful and delicious brunch experience. Their menu features fusions of flavors that will make your taste buds dance to the rhythm of ‘El Caribe’. Try out a Puerto Rican version of shrimp and grits or a Banana Foster French Toast. These are just some of the many great options you’ll find on their menu.
3. Caficultura
On our walk through Old San Juan, we finally stumbled upon Caficultura. The first thing we recommend, closed eyes, is their coffee. They use local coffee and it is smooth and tasty. Another great drink choice is a mimosa with local fruit juice, like tamarind or passion fruit, refreshing, fresh, and delicious.
Caficultura is also well known for its great service and this cute little spot offers both outdoor and indoor seating options. Any seating choice is as magical and welcoming as the other. Their menu is just as innovative and classic as the Old San Juan vibe, unexplainably magical.
4. Bistro Café
Bistro is a great choice to visit on your way from or to the airport. It is located in Isla Verde and it is one of the most popular brunches on the Island. Their elaborate and far-from-shy plating presentation gave them their reputation and popularity. Imagine any scrambled or omelet combination or pancakes with lots of nutella and fruit, open toasts with a generous portion of smoked salmon. That’s the definition of Bistro Café.
Their booming business got them to expand during the past years, opening up their main salon to accommodate more hungry customers and opening a second location in Miami. We do recommend arriving on the earlier side or later during the early afternoon. Their peak hours are from 10 am to 12 pm and that usually means a little longer than usual wait time. Although the feast you’ll delight after will be 100% worth the wait.
5. Tía
Our last stop for this little brunch trip is Tía. This spot may be small but their reputation is big. This classic brunch uses local produce and it is evident in the freshness and quality of the food. One of their most popular entries is the lemon pancakes, sweet and a little tangy, a well-balanced choice.
Adding to the great food and coffee is the light-filled and aesthetically soothing decor. They have indoor and outdoor seating and their service is great. On weekends they tend to get busy and you may expect some wait time, you can order coffee and drinks while you wait to be seated and enjoy the full experience.
Conclusion
This small Island is big on brunch. This top 5 list is an invitation to start your trip with a brunch adventure. We welcome you to continue to explore and discover more options around town but we’re certain these hits will give your palate some memorable experiences.
