This island that most tend to think is not part of the U.S. is not only beautiful, but welcoming. With that said, I can "understand" why some would think it is another country. After walking most of the island and really seeing all it has to offer in the alleys, cracks and crevices, I am grateful to share with you some things I learned and the tasty experiences I had.
First, I was sweetly surprised to learn that the Pina Colada was created in Puerto Rico! On top of that, I happen to be staying at the very hotel, Caribe Hilton, where it was officially dreamt up. That's why I couldn't stay away from that bar :) Those drinks are so heavenly that I felt like I was on cloud 9 every day. It's the perfect expression of escapism. (Sidenote: I did have one almost as good when I visited Cuba). This pina colada is the star of the show!
Then I was beefly surprised by the little hamburger spot, El Hamburger, that we stumbled upon while walking to/from our hotel to downtown. The lovely smell of onions cooking and the masses of people inside made me want to go check it out. It's such a small, simple place that serves small burgers with a big taste. I don't eat beef burgers now, but I recommend for those who do.
Next was a sea-savoring surprise - lobster! Yes, everyone knows I love some seafood and the lobster is my favorite sea crustacean. I got to choose which humongous lobster I wanted, and I didn't feel one bit guilty after looking him in the eyes and wishing him the best cooking he ever had :) That waiter was easy on the eyes as well. The way they prepare it leaves you speechless. I was literally lost for words after consuming my new Thanksgiving turkey :) Mmmmm Mmmmmm!
Since the lobster was so well-prepared, I had to get it at another restaurant, The Oceano, as well. One of the locals suggested this more upscale restaurant, and I must say it was also delish. In short, the food here is amazing.
And then the island-y surprise was the deliciously filled Alcapurrias (similar to an empanada). We stumbled upon a little house-like place off the beaten path. Not only was the smell amazing, but to see all the elder locals sitting outside enjoying the weather and eating whatever they were cooking up inside, I knew this was going to be a gem. And it was! The dough is a mixture of green plantains and taro seasoned with annatto, and the filling was ground beef and green pepper seasoned with sofrito. Yummy!
The other island-y favorite was the mofongo. Previously, I had only heard about mofongo and seen it on an episode of Sanford & Son with Julio :) Well, we got to make our very own at a restaurant during the food tour. The mashed fried plantains mixed with olive oil, garlic, and other seasonings was more than a treat. For me, it was garlic that set it off.
And last, but not least, was the Puerto Rican rum surprise! We did a food tour, of course, and sampled some rum along the way. During the tour, I met an American who also lives there. She talked about how the rum makes the best rum cakes. So, true to LaShawn fashion, I asked if she could make one while I was visiting so I could be the judge. We exchanged numbers, but I didn't think anything else about it after the tour ended. To my sheer delight, she called to tell me she had baked me my very own cake and was downstairs in the lobby with it. Honey, honey, honey, it was all she said it would be and more. The extra-ness of the rum-soaked nuts on top took it over-the-top! I had never met a more friendly, thoughtful person during my travels.
Yes, the water is beautiful and the people are friendly, but I wanted to share PR from my experience and what I enjoyed the most. Besides, you have, and will continue to see, so many beautiful oceans and pristine water in my blogs. So, there you have it...
#letsgettrekking #trekking4life #trekking4food #puertorico #bonappetit #travelandleisure #travel #letsgo
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