M L.
Yelp
Just returned from a trip to Puerto Rico with the family and having visited Bistro del Mar. We'd intended on eating here before our trip even started based on its Yelp reviews, and we were not disappointed. The food was superb and the customer service was above and beyond.
Let me interrupt myself right here to state that - yes, this is indeed a food truck. Though I shy away from these back at home and basically everywhere in the US, this was different from what I'm used to and definitely well within my usual dining requirements. The truck is entirely open on one side, and every important portion of the interior is visible to the customer. There's no hiding a dirty or messy interior - you see the food leave its containers as it gets put onto the grill, and should have no hesitation about the stellar food prep occurring.
The day we visited was rainy, and we went with the intention of bringing food back to the room. We were the only ones there given the weather, and were able to chat with the owners more than had there been a crowd. Marina & Juan are very friendly, and speak English very well. Marina hails from New York, and her accent betrays the aggressive and fast language skills she'd acquired there. Her staff also all speak English, though I tried using my Spanish throughout all interactions. They were very complimentary about my use of their language, and I could tell the staff was more comfortable speaking English with me & my fam after making these attempts at communicating in Spanish.
The food was prepared as soon as we ordered, and the owners interacted with us to accommodate our desires. We have a little one - and any parent knows kids can be picky - but the owners made an off menu item for him (he just wanted steak). The smell was intoxicating as we awaited our food, and it was all packed up and ready for us in relatively short order. We were given napkins and utensils to go so there was no problem returning to our room and eating despite it being a hotel.
The food itself was incredible - que saboroso. My little one ate every bite, as did his slightly older brother. This by itself is the grandest compliment, given my kids are plain-janes and prefer snack food to anything else! They gave us a taste of their selections, but did not want to share otherwise. Too good to give up!
I had the avocado with steak, and could feel my taste buds dancing from first bite. I've found skirt steak to be a common menu item throughout Puerto Rico, and every time I ordered it anywhere on the island it was delicious and tender. This was no exception! My husband got the mofongo, and my other child got a steak quesadilla. Amazing - every bite.
I hope to return one day, and will definitely return to Bistro del Mar when I do. It's atmosphere is unique to top of its superb customer service and quality food - it's a must do for anyone interested in truly experiencing more than just the tourist side of Puerto Rico. A+!