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

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

Princesa - Cocina Cultura

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

Quick Facts
Cuisine
Puerto Rican
Price
$$$
Phone
+1 787-723-7878
Address
2 Paseo De La Princesa, Calle Shurmberg, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico
Website
princesapr.com/Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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.

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

Renowned Rum Selection
Discover a robust cocktail menu featuring a variety of rums from local distillers, alongside personalized piña coladas.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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
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
What People Dislike
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.
Yes, making dinner reservations ahead of time is highly recommended to ensure you get a table.
It features a chic and relaxing atmosphere, surrounded by natural plants and wood accents, often with live music on weekends.
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.
The restaurant has a chic ambiance, suggesting smart casual attire is appropriate.
Yes, live music is often featured on Wednesday through Friday evenings, enhancing the dining experience.
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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.
The Best of Old San Juan, Puerto Rico From Local Guides
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.
The Top 10 Best Restaurant Experiences: Puerto Rico's Culinary Crown Jewels
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.
14 Best Restaurants in San Juan You Can't Miss
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.
Trina Tapas & Flamenco
If you could eat at one restaurant in San Juan, this is the one. The food and drinks were exceptional, the ambience was spectacular and the staff was just so warm and welcoming. A fun personal story about this restaurant – when I first visited Puerto Rico, I was a poor student.
Restaurants in Puerto Rico
We want you to have the best experience while on our island. No matter how long you’re with us, enjoy and live it intensely. We are a destination that always has something to celebrate.
Recommendation for dinner old San Juan - San Juan, PR
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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