DCL

Looking for recommendations for good, cheap restaurants in San Juan - rice and bean style!

Ronnie

Metropol! There is one in Isla Verde and one downtown Santurce, maybe one other. Lots of rice and beans and all the other Spanish dishes at a very reasonable price!<BR>Ronnie

Mariarosa

I agree with Ronnie's suggestion of Metropol. There is indeed one in Isla Verde and one in De Diego avenue in Condado (in front of Pueblo). The one in Condado had a fire about a year ago, but has re-opened in the locale next door. I haven't eaten there since it re-opened, but it used to be authentic rice 'n beans fare.<BR><BR>Another excellent option is Havana's Cafe on Calle del Parque. It is not in a touristy neighborhood, but rather in an area of government and private offices. Do not be put off by this, because the service and food is excellent and the prices are moderate ($12-19 for most entrees, $3-8 for most appetizers). They have the BEST sangria. It will become popular because it was written up by the New York Times about a month ago. I have family in San Juan and they eat here almost every week.

tom

Another vote for Metropol (I've only been to the one in Isla Verde) - try the cornish hen stuffed with black beans and rice - very good (and under $10).

Statia

And yet another vote for Metropol. They also give you lots of onion.

rqf

The Metropol is a good place to eat but it features Cuban cuisine not Puerto Rican. They are similar but not the same. Ajili Mojili in the Condado serves PR cuisine but is expensive. One that is not expensive is Mi Casita in Isla Verde. It is a very small restaurant in a strip mall across from the Intercontinental near a Church's Chicken restaurasnt. If you do go to a restaurant featuring PR cuisine try the Mofongo - mashed green plaintains, lots of garlic and pork crackling. You won't find this dish in the Metropole. If you are staying in Isla Verde Mi Casita is open for breakfast. A full breakfast cost $2.99 last November.