Viejo San Juan, Puerto Rico

Viejo San Juan is a beautiful destination spot in Puerto Rico. The area itself is a narrow piece of land in Puerto Rico that is connected to the mainland by bridges. It is popular with locals but especially popular with the cruise ship industry. Every Tuesday and Wednesday, cruise ships dock and tourist can get a glimpse of Puerto Rican colonial heritage. Once in Viejo San Juan, your eyes are mesmerized by vibrant colors. Underneath your feet are not tar and cement roads but cobble streets lined with buildings in a Spaniard colonial style. Small plazas with beautiful fountains and a warm breeze that brushes against your cheek.

For the many reasons that Viejo San Juan is a tourist attraction, it can also be a tourist trap. Unfortunately, with any tourist destination you will receive tourist prices and a watered down local experience. Restaurants tend to serve food at prices that can break the wallet and mix local favors with other cultures. Finding that true local experience can be difficult when you only have one day to explore and no rental car. Fortunately, one restaurant can still provide that local experience with great food, service and at a reasonable price.

The restaurant is called Café Manolin. Located among the colorful buildings and cobble streets is a restaurant that is popular with the locals. According to the restaurant website, it has been around for the last 60 years and I understand why. In a recent visit with family, my cousin introduced me to Café Manolin. The restaurant is quite simple and to the point in it’s design. A space to enjoy good food and conversation. As you walk in, a snake shape bar surrounds the front of the restaurant and several tables scattered throughout. As for the food, I can only give one descriptive word and that would be "Delicious".  I ordered mofongo with camarones (mashed green plantain stuffed with shrimp) and jugo de china natural (fresh squeezed orange juice). The flavor was rich and the serving amount was large. If I find myself in Viejo San Juan again, Cafe Manolin will be getting a second visit.

Café Manolin
Address: 251 San Justo, San Juan, Puerto Rico
Telephone: 787-723-9743
Website: http://www.cafemanolinoldsanjuan.com/