Top 12 Things to Eat in San Juan
- Mofongo
- Pastelón
- Alcapurrias
- Chicharrones de Pollo
- Sorullitos de Maiz
- Arepas de Coco
- Serenata de Bacalao
- Chillo Frito
- Arañitas
- Lechón
- Tembleque
- Piña Colada
Two things you should know about San Juan, Puerto Rico’s vibrant capital: its cobblestone streets are alive and full of color, and its food scene is absolutely brimming with delicious flavors! It goes without saying that this city is a favorite among cruisers and foodies alike. San Juan’s food scene is known for pushing boundaries, blending tradition with Spanish, African and French influences, and then adding its own special twist.
While you’re enjoying the colonial architecture, sandy beaches and rich heritage of Puerto Rico’s capital, here are some dishes you can’t miss along the way.
1. Mofongo
How to Say It: [mo-fon-go]
English Description: Mashed fried plantains with pork cracklings and garlic
The first dish you have to try in San Juan is mofongo. It’s often hailed as the king of Puerto Rican cuisine, though whether that’s true or not is up for debate— there are just too many delicious contenders! One thing is for certain, however: mofongo is the most famous. It’s a mashed concoction of fried green plantains with garlic seasoning filled with vegetables, shrimp, chicken, steak or pork. It’s like your favorite mashed potatoes, but kicked up a notch (or ten)!
Where to Enjoy
2. Pastelón
How to Say It: [pas-teh-lon]
English Description: Meat pie
If you love lasagna, get ready to fall head over heels for the Puerta Rican twist on this classic dish. It’s the perfect meal after a full day of exploring, relaxing, and shopping in San Juan, the kind that makes you work up a hearty appetite! Pastelón is made with layers of thinly sliced plantains, ground beef and then topped with delicious, melted cheese that’s sure to hit the spot.
Where to Enjoy
3. Alcapurrias
How to Say It: [al-kah-pur-rjas]
English Descriptions: Fritter made of green bananas and taro root and stuffed with meat
When you’re in San Juan, it’s an absolute must to hit up the beautiful beaches! After a long day of soaking up the sun, follow the locals’ lead and treat yourself to some alcapurrias. These tasty bites are basically fritters, with a batter made of green plantains and stuffed full of yummy fillings like crab, lobster or meat.
Where to Enjoy
4. Chicharrones de Pollo
How to Say It: [chi-cha-roh-nez dey poy-yoh]
English Descriptions: Fried chicken bites
You may ask, what could be better than fried chicken? And to that, we say: why, Puerto Rican-style fried chicken, of course! Often served with mofongo as a tasty side dish, these chicken legs are juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside, with savory seasonings of garlic, achiote and oregano.
Where to Enjoy
5. Sorullitos de Maiz
How to Say It: [soh-rul-lee-tos dey my-eez]
English Description: Corn fritters
One of the best parts of cruising with Carnival is diving into the local culinary scene, and in San Juan that means sinking your teeth into some golden-fried sorullitos de maiz. These corn fritters are like a mozzarella stick that’s crispy on the outside with a soft, buttery filling. They’re best served for breakfast, as a side dish or an appetizer.
Where to Enjoy
6. Arepas de Coco
How to Say It: [ah-reh-pas]
English Description: Stuffed cornmeal cakes
In terms of San Juan street food, it doesn’t get much better than arepas de coco — just ask the locals! While arepas are enjoyed in many countries, in Puerto Rico this fried bread is generally made with coconut flour instead of corn flour. This tropical twist gives them a uniquely sweet flavor that’s absolutely irresistible, whether you’re enjoying one plain or stuffed with tasty savory fillings like seafood, vegetables or meat.
Where to Enjoy
7. Serenata de Bacalao
How to Say It: [seh-reh-nah-tah dey bah-kah-lah-ow]
English Description: Salted cod salad
Puerto Ricans absolutely love serenata de bacalao, and it’s no wonder why; the twist to this refreshing, year-round salad is that it’s made with salted cod, and usually complemented by potatoes, capers and eggs. It’s the perfect choice for a light yet satisfying lunch, especially on a day of fun-filled shore excursions.
Where to Enjoy
8. Chillo Frito
How to Say It: [chee-yoh free-toh]
English Description: Fried northern red snapper
When you’re cruising by the sea, indulging in the local seafood is always a delight! In San Juan, chillo frito is a delectable dish you won’t want to miss. Chillo frito keeps it simple with fried red snapper— often served whole to keep the fish juicy and tender— with crispy fried green plantains on the side.
Where to Enjoy
9. Arañitas
How to Say It: [ah-rah-nee-tas]
English Description: Fried green plantains
Let’s talk arañitas! The name translates to “little spiders” in Spanish, which is exactly what this tasty treat resembles. It goes without saying that these are a favorite of kids across Puerto Rico, made of shredded green plantain strips fried to perfection, with squiggly tendrils of batter giving them their spider-like appearance on the outside. If you’re looking for meat-free snacks, arañitas are always a great choice.
Where to Enjoy
10. Lechón
How to Say It: [ley-chon]
English Description: Roasted suckling pig
When it comes to weekend celebrations or large family gatherings, there’s one dish that steals the show every time: lechón, or suckling pig. This beloved dish is a true labor of love, prepared with a generous amount of herbs and spices for seasoning before being slowly roasted over wood or coals for hours on end. The result? Pork that’s juicy and tender on the inside, and perfectly crispy on the outside. With flavors like that, it’s no wonder that lechón is the go-to for Puerto Rican family feasts.
Where to Enjoy
11. Tembleque
How to Say It: [tem-bleh-keh]
English Description: Coconut custard pudding
There’s no better way to satisfy your sweet tooth in San Juan than tembleque. This coconut custard pudding, dusted with cinnamon, offers a light and refreshing treat that perfectly complements Puerto Rico’s tropical vibes. But don’t let its airy, delicate appearance fool you; this dessert still packs a punch for your sweet tooth with a decadently creamy consistency.
Where to Enjoy
12. Piña Colada
How to Say It: [pin-yuh kuh-la-duh]
English Description: Blended pineapple and coconut rum cocktail
This blog is about food, but we couldn’t resist raising a glass to the ever-iconic queen of cocktails: her majesty, the piña colada. Why? Because it was born right here in San Juan! This delicious drink was invented by a local bartender who somehow managed to capture the essence of island living in a single sip with a tropical blend of rum, pineapple juice and coconut cream served over ice. Cheers to that!
Where to Enjoy
Carnival Cruises to Take You to San Juan
So much delicious food, and a Carnival cruise to San Juan is the perfect way to make sure you experience it all! Get started by choosing your preferred departure port— from New York City to Miami, your foodie voyage to San Juan is closer than you think
Depart from Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida
Depart from Manhattan, New York
Depart from Charleston, South Carolina
Wrapping Up
San Juan’s culinary scene is full of flavors just waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re strolling through colorful cobblestone streets or delving into tasty treats, this is a city you have to see to believe!
Note: Onboard activities, shore excursions, and dining options may vary by ship and destination.
It’s the perfect time to find your new favorite flavors!
EXPLORE SAN JUAN