It's RUM TIME. The only certified Rum Bar on the Island @ La Princesa Gastrobar
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Princesa - Cocina Cultura

4.6
·491k reviews·,

A culinary gem in Old San Juan, offering elevated Puerto Rican cuisine amidst a lush, tropical garden ambiance and an impressive rum bar.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Wed/Fri 18-21h

Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

CrowdLow
It's RUM TIME. The only certified Rum Bar on the Island @ La Princesa Gastrobar

Princesa - Cocina Cultura

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A culinary gem in Old San Juan, offering elevated Puerto Rican cuisine amidst a lush, tropical garden ambiance and an impressive rum bar.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"This is the place to go for authentic Puerto Rican cuisine with a fabulous presentation."

TIP

Reserve Ahead

Dinner reservations are highly recommended to secure your spot, especially for evening dining.

Consider Late Lunch

If an evening reservation isn't possible, a late lunch can be a great way to avoid crowds.

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Quick Facts

Open·Closes 9PM

Cuisine

Puerto Rican

Price

$$$

Phone

+1 787-723-7878

Address

2 Paseo De La Princesa, Calle Shurmberg, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico

Insta-Factor

High

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Farm-to-Table with a Tropical Twist

Farm-to-Table with a Tropical Twist

Experience fresh, local ingredients transformed into unique Puerto Rican dishes with international flair. A true taste of the island.

The Best of Old San Juan, Puerto Rico From Local Guides14 Best Restaurants in San Juan You Can't Miss
Enchanting Garden Ambiance

Enchanting Garden Ambiance

Dine amidst lush plants and the soothing sounds of coquí frogs in a charming setting that captures the island's spirit.

Restaurants in Old San JuanThe Best of Old San Juan, Puerto Rico From Local Guides
Renowned Rum Selection

Renowned Rum Selection

Discover a robust cocktail menu featuring a variety of rums from local distillers, alongside personalized piña coladas.

14 Best Restaurants in San Juan You Can't MissGoogle Review
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Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

En Princesa Cocina-Cultura la calidad y frescura de nuestros productos es imprescindible. Horario: martes, miércoles y jueves 12:00pm - 9:00pm viernes y sábado 12:00pm - 10:00pm Realiza tu reservación a través de: www.princesapr.com
@princesacocinacultura
16 likes • 1.3K views

Reserve Ahead

Dinner reservations are highly recommended to secure your spot, especially for evening dining.

Consider Late Lunch

If an evening reservation isn't possible, a late lunch can be a great way to avoid crowds.

Ask Your Server

Servers like Alejandra are knowledgeable and can provide excellent recommendations.

Happy Hour Deals

Look out for happy hour specials, like the 2-for-1 mojitos mentioned.

Tips

from all over the internet

Reserve Ahead

Dinner reservations are highly recommended to secure your spot, especially for evening dining.

Consider Late Lunch

If an evening reservation isn't possible, a late lunch can be a great way to avoid crowds.

Ask Your Server

Servers like Alejandra are knowledgeable and can provide excellent recommendations.

Happy Hour Deals

Look out for happy hour specials, like the 2-for-1 mojitos mentioned.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Princesa - Cocina Cultura is celebrated for its masterful fusion of local Puerto Rican flavors with international influences, creating a truly unique culinary experience. Diners rave about the exceptional service, warm ambiance, and creative cocktails, especially the extensive rum selection. While most reviews are overwhelmingly positive, some patrons mention a lengthy wait for the bill as a minor drawback.

"We stumbled upon this incredible restaurant near the San Juan port, while visiting PR in a cruise and it was a highlight of our experience in PR. The fusion of local Puerto Rican flavors with international cuisine is nothing short of masterful, making every dish a delightful surprise. We ordered a variety of appetizers and main courses, and every single bite was outstanding. The pulpo was an absolute standout—tender, flavorful, and perfectly prepared. The pork belly with chistorra risotto was pure magic, a dish we LOVED. The menu was so tempting that choosing was a challenge; everything sounded divine. We’re already looking forward to our next visit to explore more of their phenomenal offerings. Highly recommend!"

Daniel Vidal

"Very classy and unique cuisine that tends to make your palate roar. Drinks were way above average and the food was definitely superior to those other locations in the area. Alejandra was extremely knowledgeable and quick and a joy to have serve our large family group. I would highly recommend especially for a romantic dinner. Wednesday through Friday they have live music and the atmosphere has a very soothing vibe. I can't wait to return."

Rafamataz S

"I recently hosted a rehearsal lunch for my son’s wedding at La Princesa, and I cannot recommend this place highly enough. From the moment we arrived, the staff was nothing short of exceptional, they were attentive, warm, professional, and incredibly responsive to every detail. They remained consistently attentive throughout the entire event, checking with me periodically, anticipating and adjusting to our needs and ensuring everything ran smoothly from start to finish.

Everything came out exactly as planned, the service was seamless, the food was great, the cocktails amazing, and the space was beautifully decorated to match the occasion. The management were consistently responsive and helpful during the planning process. The staff is what made the experience outstanding; their positive attitude, approachable manner, and genuine attentiveness created a warm and welcoming atmosphere that made the day feel special for everyone.

The restaurant is set in a beautiful location, nestled in a lovely park area near the waterfront. The entrance and the surroundings add an extra charm to the experience, it’s peaceful, scenic, and perfect for a special gathering.

A huge kudos to the entire staff at La Princesa for going above and beyond. Your hospitality made all the difference! Keep up the great work. I highly recommend stopping by if you're in the area."

Marisol Asmar

What People Like

Fusion of Puerto Rican and international cuisine
Exceptional, attentive service
Enchanting garden ambiance

What People Dislike

Long wait for the bill

Frequently Asked Questions

The restaurant is renowned for its farm-to-table approach, blending fresh local ingredients with international flavors for unique Puerto Rican dishes, and its extensive rum selection.

14 Best Restaurants in San Juan You Can't MissGoogle Review

Yes, making dinner reservations ahead of time is highly recommended to ensure you get a table.

TikTok

It features a chic and relaxing atmosphere, surrounded by natural plants and wood accents, often with live music on weekends.

The Best of Old San Juan, Puerto Rico From Local GuidesGoogle Review

While not explicitly listed, dishes like Chana Masala suggest an openness to diverse culinary influences, and it's worth inquiring about vegetarian preparations.

Popular dishes include the fish croquettes, Manchego flan, pork belly with chistorra risotto, and seafood paella.

Google Review+1

The restaurant has a chic ambiance, suggesting smart casual attire is appropriate.

Google Review

Yes, live music is often featured on Wednesday through Friday evenings, enhancing the dining experience.

TikTokGoogle Review

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Set in a gorgeous setting along the fortified wall, Princesa Cocina Creativa serves dishes inspired by recipes from the 19th and 20th centuries. Surrounded by trees and the sound of coquí frogs, its a memorable dining experience.

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Princesa - Cocina Cultura (formerly Princesa Gastrobar) in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico is located on the harbor side facing the historic Old Spanish Arsenal piers just off the tree covered Paseo De La Princesa. Princesa's outdoor seating (under an open trellis style ceiling) is surrounded by tropical plants and vines that create a really cool ambiance. The elevated Puerto Rican food here is great all around and many locals call this place their favorite in Old San Juan.

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A mosaic of art, music, and culinary wonders, Princesa Cocina y Cultura isn’t just a restaurant; it’s Puerto Rico on a plate. As traditional beats play in the background, indulge in dishes that have been passed down through generations, each packed with nostalgia and soul. The restaurant, with its vibrant decor, perfectly encapsulates the island’s spirit, often leaving diners with not just a full stomach but a heart brimming with the joy of discovery.

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Princesa Cocina y Cultura is the first gastrobar to open in Old San Juan. Princesa specializes in crafting traditional dishes combined with international and Caribbean flavors. The restaurant is surrounded by magical trees and offers a robust cocktail menu featuring a variety of rums from local distillers.

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A higher end option would be Princesa- Cocina Cultura- really good food there. It's on Passeo Princesa- which is a walk from the hotel.

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