Lisa R.
Yelp
I love learning about culture through food, with some history mixed in, and found this tour from searching/TripAdvisor reviews before I went to San Juan. I would prefer to start my trip with this, but because I was in PR for work, I had to save it for last with the half day I had on Sunday before my flight.
The tour began at 10 AM, and I had already confirmed that I do not eat pork in writing, by calling earlier in the week, and texting with my guide Jesus an hour before the tour. I arrived first, 20 minutes early at the meeting spot, and Jesus was there shortly thereafter. Everyone else arrived a little late, and he was only willing to wait until 10 minutes after the start time.
Our first stop was Cuatro Sombres for breakfast, where were offered a cortado (espresso and milk) and a croissant. These were ham and cheese so even though I confirmed a zillion times I do not eat pork, I guess that did not register initially. However, Jesus was able to get the restaurant to make me a croissant without ham so I still had cheese, and the secret ingredient, Guava Butter!
Our second stop was Senor Paleta for a "snack" of passionfruit popsicle, perfect on a warm, humid day. We then walked to Cafe El Punto for appetizers, a beef stuffed alcapurria (like an empanada made with yucca dough) and a happy spoon with refreshing ceviche. I could not eat much of the alcapurria because it had a hair cooked into the dough which turned me off. It happens, but it was a bit yucky to see while eating.
Our entree stop was El Patio de Sam, where we imbibed on frozen pina coladas, then were served a "make your own mofongo." This entailed using a pilon to smash twice-fried plantains in garlic, butter, and salt (like a mortar and pestle) and stuff it with the chicken on the plate, then turn it over to eat with rice and beans. It was delicious!
Our last stop for dessert was Chocobar Corte, where we had a chocolate quesito (like a decadent pastry with sweet cheese and chocolate inside). It was divine! Of course, we meandered through Old San Juan, learned about the history of certain places and political events, and had nice conversation amongst the group and with our guide. I would definitely recommend trying this or the evening rum tour as well!