Conuco

Conuco Review

A mix of locals and gringos frequent Conuco, soft-spoken Puerto Rico native Rebecca Betancourt's homage to local food with an upscale twist. Barnlike open windows look out onto one of Isabel Segunda's main streets, and within, the airy room is simple but cozy, enhanced by bright yellow walls, seafoam chairs, white table tops, and ceiling fans. A back patio offers alfresco dining. Start with an sangria rum punch, then move onto any of the menu's many selections; they're all that wonderful. Piping-hot arepas are piled high with pepper and octupus salad, while small tostones rellenos (fried plantains) are shaped into cups filled with a citrusy ceviche. Sorullitos (cheesy corn fritters) and bacalaítos (cod fritters) are reimagined with modern flair. The only thing trumping the flavors of a juicy churrasco (skirt steak) and overflowing seafood mofongo is the wow-factor of Betancourt's presentations. Elevating cooking to art form, this local spot is one that will have you dreaming about Vieques long after you've left the island.