5 Best Restaurants in Rincón and the Porta del Sol, Puerto Rico

On weekends, patrons come from as far as San Juan to dine at this cozy restaurant. Operated by husband-and-wife team Juan and Nerylu, it's found a niche in Rincón offering dishes made using locally sourced ingredients—you may even see a fisherman pull up with a giant yellowfin tuna. The regularly changing menu by Chef Abel Mendoza might feature dishes such as queen-snapper sashimi with papaya and tiger's milk (the liquid used to cure ceviche), braised short ribs over root-vegetable mash, or duck à l'orange with roasted squash. You can't go wrong with any of the daily specials. The dining room can get loud, so ask to be seated outside on the terrace.

Join patrons from across the island for spectacular sunsets at this restaurant right on the beach. Whether you choose one of the small plates or an entrée, fresh seafood is always your best bet. Start with the roasted beet salad or the fried cauliflower, then move on to the steamed mussels in a sambucca cream sauce or the grilled fish of the day with coconut green curry sauce. The large wooden deck, illuminated by strings of lights, is a wonderful spot to sit back, relax, and enjoy the views with cocktail in hand. The doors open at 5 pm, but the days of operation vary by season, so verify hours prior to visiting.

The owners have maximized their residence, which boasts "the friendliest wave on the island," by converting the garage into overflow seating for this garden bistro. With fairy lights, beach chairs, and Latin music, the no-frills setting complements the simple menu of burgers, sandwiches, and signature dips. Creative creations include chipotle chicken nachos, beer-battered fish tacos, the peanut butter burger (just try it!), and cauliflower buffalo bites. Try the "Tropical Dreamsicle," the restaurant's version of a piña colada. For an interesting keepsake, buy one of the souvenir T-shirts from each of the island's top surf spots. Ola Lola's is cash only.

This pirate-themed restaurant has a laid-back vibe and a friendly staff who are always ready with a smile or a joke. Don't be surprised to see local fishermen making their way to the kitchen with their still-flapping catch. Entrées include juicy steaks, grilled mahimahi, homemade pastas, and stuffed mofongo. Although portions are large, lighter options are available, including fish tacos, a selection of wraps, and seared ahi tuna served on a pyramid of mixed greens. Don't miss happy hour (daily 3–7).

The best thing about this bar and grill is its beachfront location. The open-air venue serves a mean mojito, and the deck is a great place to watch novice surfers wipe out on the beach. The kitchen prepares a wide range of unique items, from fresh-fish sandwiches to baby back ribs brushed with guava sauce. On weekends, you can enjoy live music.