Puertas at El Quenepo — Hotel Review | Condé Nast Traveler

"Why book? Guests open their puertas right to Caribbean Sea views at this intimate new guest house, set above Vieques’s best restaurant. It’s the perfect destination for those who want to be somewhat removed but not quite cut-off from civilization.  Set the scene The large wooden stable doors are the most notable feature of this two-story beachfront restaurant and inn, providing inspiration to the guest house’s name. Situated right on the promenade along Esperanza beach, guests here tend to be habitual visitors to El Quenepo, the first floor restaurant, who feel like they were let in on a well-kept secret. The location lends a peek into the rhythm of the village, lively on seasonal weekends, quiet during the week when there’s nothing but the sound of the surf to lull you to sleep. From the second-floor perch, guests will witness wild horses clopping past, the tide rushing in and out, groups of locals swapping the news of the day, and tourists taking it all in as they lazily stroll past. The backstory After 15 years as successful restaurateurs, Scott and Kate Cole opened up their second floor as an exquisitely-renovated inn that embraces Caribbean cottage sophistication. The rooms Four rooms (soon to grow to six in 2022) outfitted in four poster beds, antique wood furniture, Spanish-style tiling and local art. All rooms include terraces, rainfall showers, A/C and lazily whirring ceiling fans. Beach chairs and towels come with each. The communal terrace showcases the gripping sea views.  Food and drink Since 2007, El Quenepo has been Vieques’s premier restaurant. Daily breakfast is delivered to rooms via baskets, but dinner is the main attraction at the dining room below. Everything is crafted with a global, gourmet flair, from ceviche of local fish served with fried arepas to braised goat masala and grilled swordfish with pineapple coconut curry. Cocktails are given equal care. Dinner on the terrace is an amenity available only to overnight guests. The spa No spa The neighborhood/area A lively strip of restaurants, bars and shops line the esplanade and meeting points for bioluminescent bay tours are steps away. The inn lies 15 minutes drive from the airport and the town of Isabel Segunda. The service Hands-on personal, direct from owners—longtime Viequenses.  For families Adults only Accessibility Currently the inn isn’t ADA accessible; however two new rooms are under construction on the first floor and one of them will be ADA compliant. (Completion date March 2022). Anything left to mention? Two night minimum stay required. No pets. 18 and over only." - Kathleen Squires