Food

Luquillo Kioskos (Carr. 3) is nearly as popular an attraction in Luquillo [1] as Balneario La Monserrate [2]. Along Carretera 3 just before you approach Luquillo from San Juan [3], this long stretch of 80-plus side-by-side shacks is one of the best places to experience Puerto Rico [4]’s array of traditional fritters.

Shaped like discs, half moons, cigars, boats, and balls, these crispy deep-fried goodies come stuffed with a varied combination of meat, crab, cheese, plantain, coconut, and more. Each kiosk serves nearly identical fare at stand-up bars where you can eat on your feet or seated at a table nearby. Pick one of each (they’re only $1–3 apiece) and wash it all down with a cold beer, a cocktail, or coco frio, ice-cold coconut juice served from the shell.

Be sure to buy a bag of coco dulce, sinfully rich patties of sugary coconut, for later. This place can get packed on the weekends and holidays, and the atmosphere can get rowdy at night. Despite the area’s rustic nature, most kiosks accept credit and debit cards.

For more information on what to expect from Puerto Rico’s roadside snack shacks, check out our Kiosk Cuisine Primer [5].

Cafeteria La Exquisita (corner of Calle L. Calzada and Ave. 14 de Julio, on the plaza, 787/633-5551 or 787/370-3537, daily 10 a.m.–2 p.m., $5–8) serves traditional Puerto Rican cuisine, including arroz con pollo, rice and beans, pork, tostones, and more.

Erik’s Gyros and Deli (352 Calle Fernandez Garcia, at the intersection of Carr. 992 and Carr. 193 right by Carr. 3, 787/889-0615, Mon.–Sat. 7 a.m.–5 p.m., $4–10) is an excellent place to get a cheap Greek-, American-, or Puerto Rican–style breakfast or lunch. This little corner deli serves gyros, burgers, lamb barbecue, Cuban sandwiches, tortilla-style omelets, French toast, and more. It also sells chorizo and serrano ham by the pound.