Today I look at great places to eat in Condado (including Isla Verde), Puerto Rico. This is the high-end ocean-front strip that runs from the airport to the entry of Old San Juan. The primary road in Condado is Ashford Avenue, known as the Rodeo Drive of PR for it's shopping such as Gucci, Cartier, and Luis Vuitton, along with great dining and sight-seeing (see my blog on the once-a-month farmer's market that takes place at Ventanas al Mar, in Condado).
This is an area that is experiencing change and growth, with lots of new restaurants and restored classic 5-star hotels reopening to rave reviews. Check back as I add more great restaurants in the near future, but until then I give you these:
[NOTE: All have great food, a key requirement for me. Reservations may be necessary!]
In no particular order:
UPSCALE RESTAURANTS
PIKAYO, Condado Plaza Hilton, Condado, (787.721.6194)
-Beautiful spot, gourmet PR cuisine from one of the top PR chefs Wilo Bennett, top notch.
RUTH’S CHRIS STEAKHOUSE, Intercontinental Hotel, Isla Verde, (787.253.1717)
BLT STEAK, Ritz Carlton Hotel SJ, Isla Verde, (787.253.1700)
MORTON’S STEAKHOUSE, Caribe Hilton Hotel, Condado (787.977.6262)
-Classic steakhouses, all excellent!
BUDATAI, Condado, (787.725.6919)
-Another of PR's best chefs: Roberto Trevino, international cuisine, great atmosphere/experience.
INFORMAL RESTAURANTS
OCEANO, Isla Verde, (787.724.6300)
-Gorgeous beach-front restaurant, cool vibe, seafood.
BAR GITANO, Condado, (787.294.5513)
-Spanish tapas bar, great location, great people watching, fun and delicious.
So that's where you should eat and drink in Condado and Isla Verde, PR. At least a start, then explore and find your own favorites. There's a great big world out there just dying to be found! Yes, please!