From traditional Puerto Rican empanadas and tostones to the ever-classic national dish of arroz con gandules, the best Puerto Rican restaurants in America showcase all of the flavourful favourites you’d expect to see wandering the streets of San Juan.
There’s nothing not to love about Puerto Rican food. When cooked right, it’s perfectly well-seasoned and features lots of bold flavours at the forefront of each dish. Delightful ingredients range from plantains and salt-cured pork to tasty, tantalising sweets.
If you’re not drooling yet, then you’re about to. Visit any one of the 25 best Puerto Rican restaurants in America for an enlightening and flavorful culinary experience.
Best Puerto Rican Restaurants In America
How do these rankings work?
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25th. Pal Campo – Orlando, Florida
You’re going to want to start your wonderful tour of Puerto Rican flavours and restaurants in America at Pal Campo in Orlando. More than a mere restaurant, dining here is a bit of an experience. Enjoy all of your favourite traditional Puerto Rican dishes that they craft to the utmost perfection. There’s a reason why this place has been named the Best Puerto Rican Restaurant in Central Florida for years.
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24th. Señor Juan – Houston, Texas
A Puerto Rican restaurant on wheels? Get to rollin’ and make your way to Señor Frogs, one of the best Puerto Rican restaurants in Houston, if not all of Texas. Take your taste buds on a journey through San Juan and beyond as you delight in truly authentic flavours. Start with the empanadas. Then, make your way through the entire rest of the menu. Everything here is worth a try.
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23rd. Dolce Pan Bakery – Huntsville, Alabama
It’s hard to find a traditional Puerto Rican restaurant and bakery more authentic and charming than Dolce Pan Bakery. Tucked away in Huntsville, Alabama, this might not be where you’d expect to find quality Latin food, but they sure to deliver. From Puerto Rican-style sandwiches and street food to delectable sweets, everything here is bursting with flavour and served with style.
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22nd. Chago’s Caribbean Cuisine – Austin, Texas
Chago’s was one of the restaurants responsible for introducing Austin locals to the Puerto Rican food scene. Chago and his wife Solemar run the place, and they do with energy, passion, and love. And, it’s evident that they infuse that same kind of passion and love into every dish they cook. The chef’s specialty is a pernil asado, so you can’t visit Chago’s and not try the dish.
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21st. Phoenix Coqui – Phoenix, Arizona
Phoenix’s first authentic Puerto Rican food truck is slinging their signature dishes like nobody’s business. Authentic flavours run over and through every plate they serve here, and it’s all due to the hard work and passion of the family behind the truck. Simply put, they bring the flavour and fun from Puerto Rico and cook it into the food they so lovingly serve locals and visitors.
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20th. La Perla – Oakland, California
Puerto Rican empanadas overflow at La Perla, one of the best Puerto Rican restaurants in America. If you’re looking for authenticity, then you’ve just found it. Spending an afternoon devouring everything on the menu here is easy to do. From the Chuleta Kan Kan to their golden, crispy empanadas, it’s all filled with flavour. Simply put, you’re going to want seconds, for sure.
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19th. Guavate – Orlando, Florida
At Guavate you can expect to enjoy home-style Puerto Rican cuisine all with a side of Latin flare. They whip up some of the best traditional dishes here. So, whether you’re trying the Arroz con Pollo, Tostones, Pernil, or their popular Mofongo, you know you’re sampling true tastes straight from Puerto Rico. And, if you’ve got the stomach for it, make sure to try one of their desserts.
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18th. La Isla Cuisine – Seattle, Washington
So, there’s a lot going on at La Isla Cuisine, and it’s all very, very delicious. While they use only fresh, natural ingredients to craft their homemade recipes straight from the island, their menu also includes Puerto Rican food with a Northwestern twist. And, to top it all off, you can indulge in one of their over 60 different specialty rums to choose from. Bottoms up! They all pair perfectly with pretty much anything on the menu.
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17th. Tex-Chick – Houston, Texas
Tucked away on an unassuming side street in Houston, Tex-Chick serves high-quality Puerto Rican cuisine in a laidback setting. The owners and the staff are always extremely friendly, and their Mofongo is some of the best you’ll try in the entire United States. Authentic flavours, vibes, and dishes work to create a unique experience at Tex-Chick, every time you visit.
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16th. Vejigantes Restaurant – Boston, Massachusetts
The owners of this restaurant note that dining here is a culinary experience inspired by Puerto Rican cuisine. The experience, which highlights the island’s rich culture, passion, and even ingredients, is all fueled by the restaurant’s main dishes. They’ve mastered the art of putting a fine-dining spin on traditional Puerto Rican flavours. And, the result is something you simply have to taste for yourself.
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15th. El Lechon de Negron – Union Township, New Jersey
If you’re after authentic Puerto Rican pig roast, there’s no better place to get your fill than at El Lechon de Negron in New Jersey. Their Pernil is delicious, for instance, but their Chuletas Fritas are equally as divine. Our best tip is to head here extremely hungry and try to eat your way through as many menu items as possible.
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14th. La Marginal – San Antonio, Texas
La Marginal is a casual dining restaurant serving quality, authentic Puerto Rican cuisine and warm hospitality. First, you’ll likely notice the stunning Old San Juan decor of the restaurant. Then, you’ll be invited to experience the tastes of Puerto Rico. From fresh mofongos to tasty roasted pork, the flavours here are delightful and delicious.
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13th. Metropol Restaurant – Miami, Florida
Metropol Restaurant was actually founded in San Juan back in 1965. The original concept combined the ideas of good service at good prices, a family ambience, and excellent Puerto Rican food to create one of the most popular restaurants on the island. Now, they serve hungry guests all over the world, but their Miami location is truly top-notch.
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12th. La Bomba – Chicago, Illinois
There’s nothing at La Bamba that’s not downright delicious. Beginning with the mouthwatering lechon, morcilla, and alcaprrias and straight through to the famous Arroz con Gandules, everything here is cooked to perfection. And, it’s served with just the right balance of flavour and tradition. If you find yourself out and about and craving La Bomba, look for their twenty-eight food trailer around town.
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11th. El Palmar Restaurant – Elizabeth, New Jersey
For traditional Puerto Rican food in New Jersey, head to El Palmar Restaurant. While they’ve been serving quality Cuban food since the 1970s, they added Puerto Rican dishes to their menu a while back. Sample any one of their sandwiches, sides, and main dishes to experience authentic flavours that taste as if they’ve just come straight from the island.
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10th. Casa Borinquen – Hollywood, Florida
Explore the tastes of Puerto Rico by spending the afternoon dining at Casa Borinquen in Flordia. Here, you’ll be able to sample a variety of dishes from all over the country, ranging from Chuleta Kan Kan and Mofongo to Arroz Con Gandules. While flavourful food is standard, service is always top-notch as well. The only thing missing is a little merengue and a glass of Don Q.
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9th. Millie’s Cafe – Mesa, Arizona
This unassuming diner churns out high-quality, mouthwatering traditional Puerto Rican standards on a daily basis. Head to Millie’s Cafe if you’re looking to truly immerse yourself in all of the flavours and dishes of Puerto Rican cuisine. From their Caribbean-inspired sandwiches to the various different ways they cook plantains, there’s nothing here that’s not a true delight.
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8th. Ay Bendito Con Sabor a Puerto Rico – Miami, Florida
Flavourful food and a family looking to spread their unique culture across Miami make Ay Bendito one of the best Puerto Rican restaurants in America. However, restaurant might not be the correct term to use. At Ay Bendito Con Sabor a Puerto Rico, you can enjoy authentic Puerto Rican food on wheels. They’ve mastered the execution of their family recipes and manage to cook it all with the flavour of Puerto Rico inside.
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7th. Ponce Restaurant – Chicago, Illinois
Chicago’s best Puerto Rican restaurant is also one of the best Puerto Rican restaurants in America. This family-owned business has been serving authentic food to residents of Chicago for over 15 years now, which means that they’re experts at delivering dishes packed with flavour and authenticity. Try their famous Pollo Guisado con Arroz y Gandules. You won’t regret it.
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6th. Mofongos – North Hollywood, California
Fancy experiencing a bit of Puerto Rican food, music, and tradition while you’re in Southern California? Head to Mofongos. First, you’ll be welcomed by a wonderful atmosphere that oozes charm and culture. Then, you’ll tantalise your tastebuds as you indulge in a unique blend of native Taino, Spanish, and African cuisine that defines Puerto Rican cuisine.
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5th. LaLa’s Puerto Rican Kitchen – Old Bridge, New Jersey
At LaLa’s Puerto Rican Kitchen, expect to enjoy a taste of true Puerto Rico. While dishes are prepared using only the finest ingredients, it seems to be the passion behind the scenes that adds so much unique flavour. The most popular dish here is the Pernil served over their traditional Arroz con Gandules. But, make sure you head here hungry, as there’s no way you’re going to be able to resist ordering seconds.
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4th. Adobo Puerto Rican Cafe – Dallas, Texas
From Austin to Houston and all the way up to Dallas, the Lone Star State is filled with little restaurants oozing of Puerto Rican flavours and rhythm. For example, Adobo has long been serving quality food to Dallas locals. The Martinez family moved from Puerto Rico to Texas in 2010 and brought their family recipes with them. The result? Mouthwatering food that’s full of passion.
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3rd. Isla del Encanto – Miami, Florida
Serving pasteles, mofongo and other classic Puerto Rican dishes to hungry locals and visitors alike, this is one of the best Puerto Rican restaurants in America. So, if you’re looking for the perfect mix of balanced flavours and authentic vibes., try Isla del Encanto. While the space itself is charming and quaint, it’s the perfectly-prepared meals that delight. With a chef from Lares, Puerto Rico, it doesn’t get much more authentic than this.
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2nd. Sol Food – San Rafael, California
This Michelin Guide restaurant has been wowing visitors for years. Featuring truly authentic flavours and a line of festive diners out the door, Sol Food serves more than just quality Puerto Rican dishes. Whether you’re indulging in the arroz con pollo and pernil or are opting for stuffed taro, everything here is bursting with flavour. Simply put, dining here feels like entering a quaint restaurant on the streets of San Juan.
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1st. Made in Puerto Rico – Bronx, New York
While ranking the best Puerto Rican restaurant in America is pretty difficult, Made in Puerto Rico certainly earns the top spot. They’re famous for blending modern Latin cuisine with traditional spices in a way that truly highlights all of Puerto Rico’s amazing flavours. Savour all of the traditional Puerto Rican dishes you love along with their famous signature dishes and cocktails.
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I love all Puerto Ricans food .I am proud too be a ponce , Puerto Rican.
I’m very sorry to disappoint…BUT Made in Puerto Rico is DEFINITELY not the #1 Spanish restaurant in the Bronx. I live around the corner from this place. I will never step foot in there as I’ve had countless bad encounters with food and drink. Somebody is definitely not doing there research. THEY ARE NOT #1 by a long shot. My cooking alone will give them 100 kicks in the ass.
Food is subjective and what you might think is the “best”, might not be to someone else.
it’s not spanish food it’s Puerto Rican Food
I’m on Baisley Avenue, right around the corner like Dyanna and could not agree more , bad choice and outright incorrect, far from the best
Also if you are in Las Vegas, search Sofrito Rico. The PR food is amazing
I went there when I was in Vegas for training. Food was amazing.
My son lives in Las Vegas and he say it’s a very good restaurant. Good food.
I can’t believe that Pal Campo Restaurant is #25 on your list. It should have been top 3, if not #1. This restaurant has been awarded as the Best in Central Florida every year since it opened. Is not even comparable to some of the places you mentioned on this list. It certainly shows on the picture you used from them why they are so amazing.
Ponce Restaurant in Chicago is awesome. I miss Puerto Rican food living in Margate FL. Every time we visit Chicago, Ponce is our #1 stop. Love it.
Check out JesseJays in Churchton, Maryland, wonderful authentic, homemade food
IAM PUERTO RICAN. AND I. KNOW THAT WE COOK. WITH. ALL THAT LOVE. AND WE SEASON. THAT FOOD SO GOOD. ALL THIS. FOOD LOOKS SO GOOD. GOD BLESS. PUERTO RICO. FOOD.
Weird how none of the top 25 in America are in Puerto Rico, which is also in America.
I want to comment that there’s a puertorican restaurant forgotten and it’s Fredy’s and Tony’s in Philadelphia PA. They’re food is 100% legit Puerto Rico memories
You right homie the freddys and Tony’s on front and Indiana!!! Slammmin!
Am PUERTORRÍQUÉÑO Y me Encanta mi Comida .Reconocida mundialmente como la Mejor en Gastronomia y sus Resetas.
Metrópol is actually Cuban cood
True, sister. It is Cuban
Please do your research and get educated before you comment. Metrópol started and was founded in PR by Puerto Rican’s and for they great success they open in Miami as well…
You should practice what you preach, Metropol was founded by Mr. Pepe Canosa, cubano, in the Ponce de Leon avenue in Santurce PR. I know because Pepe and his family were close friends with my family. El Metropol is a Cuban restaurant in PR, since always.
Correct ! And it’s amazing ,ate there in P.R One of the better latin restaurants.
Sadly, I no longer live near any good PR restaurants in Minneapolis. When I grew up in New York there was a cuchifrito on just about every corner, but not here. There was a place but he closed down shorty after I moved here because not enough people showed up. I am hoping to change that next year when I purchase a food truck, which I hope, eventually turns into a brick and mortar restaurant. This town needs a good Puerto Rican food spot. Sadly I have to drive 6-hours to Chicago if I want a decent Puerto Rican meal from a restaurant. Good think I know how to cook, so I never have to make that drive! still, it would be nice to be able to sit in a place and order and not have to cook!
I also live in Minneapolis and everytime I go to Chicago I stop at Ponce first. If there was a Spot for Puerto Rican food it would be awesome. I find all ingredients I need in W. St.Paul so i cook at home but would love to eat and not spend 3 -4 hours prepping/ cook good homemade Puerto Rican food.
I did not see not 1 restaurant that was in Central or South America; only the US. This list is about restaurants in the United States; not even North America. Acknowledge the rest of America. Don’t call the US America.
I don’t know why you say in America when you’re talking about the United States. It’s good to have a guide, I sent it to my son who travels around. In DFW area, though, I prefer Jibarito’s Latin Kitchen to Adobo. Food is good in both, but Jubaritos feels more like a restaurant and less like a “fonda”.
You guys gotta be crazy not to include “Freddy’s and Tony’s” in Philadelphia! Not the one on Allegheny Ave., But the one on front and Indiana!!
You should visit and enjoy the best Puerto Rico cuisine in Las Vegas. Sofrito Rico Restaurant serves the most amazing homemade from scratch Puertorrican dishes! You will wish to have couple stomachs to eat everything in their menu….. When my family goes, they eat there and they order other plates to go.
There is also Puerto Rico Restaurant in Las Vegas also that….some people I know….highly recommended.
I just ate there last week, as a Boricua, I was longing for some Purto Rican cuisine googled it found this place, fabulous.
When doing lists like this you should really make sure that these eesturants are legitely owned by Puerto Ricans and that the recepies are authentic to our culture. And specify if they are puerto rican infused resturants with other nationalities.
Casa Adele….NYC…4th Street and Avenue C…Puerto Rican comfort food and Love all around … Should be on Top of this List….be edit…
Adobo in Dallas is not a Great restaurants, if in Texas, the best ones are located in Killeen Texas
I agree Adobe in Dallas is not good, for my fix in the Dallas area there is El Flamboyan in Wiley. Awesome staff and the food is amazing!
RED Monkey Latin Fusion in Raleigh and Heavenly Sweets in Fayeteville NC are absolutely amazing and delicious.
Much Love to all on the list! We’re Blessed also near Petersburg VA., to have “Puerto Rican Bakery & Cafe”. Muy Buena comida Criolla!
I’m from Chicago and I know that have some great Puerto Rican restaurants, but I find it extremely hard to believe that NYC, which has been by far the main destination point for Puerto Rican families leaving the island for the mainland U.S., only has one restaurant on this list. Impossible.
Chago’s shouldn’t make the top 50. No disrespect. But I’ve been to more then 50 better places. The place is in a horrible location also
This list is not complete without Luna Rosa Grill y Tapas in San Antonio Texas
You missed the freaking Rican restaurant in NYC
Around the world that wasn’t around the world what about Lancaster PA we have some good Restaurants here too.
I live in San Antonio Texas and one of the best Puerto Rican restaurants I’ve ever had is in Buffalo New York it’s called Cafe Niagara! We have even considered taking a trip over there so we can eat there again. My mother owned a Puerto Rican restaurant a long time ago in Milwaukee Wisconsin so we have the taste buds down.
A Puerto Rican restaurant that is making big waves recently in Atlanta area is Mi Casita Boricua in Lilburn, GA. Certain to soon make your top 25 list.
Restaurant salsabor
Pasco fl 34668 newportrichey fl mmm
Cilantrillo is the best one in Orlando by a mile.
I ate there shortly after coming from P.R. and chinchoriar all weekend on the island. That was not real P.R. food. I ordered a basic classic, pollo guisado. Figured If you can’t make that property then Ah , no . Your not as good as you think. It was so salty, soggy pellejo , and the beans were so bland not a lick of cilantro. Very disappointing. I don’t know who rated you but you got lucky.
CMON Elizabeth ? Ok i get it -but one restaurant is clearly missing the list
Family owned located near new Hamburg station metro north NY
#NYCafeConLeche
10 main st wappingers falls ny
Check it out –
You are soooo correct!!! That place is excellent!
I have visited many latin food restaurants in many states and the flavors are not the same as back home. The food truck idea is a great way to teach the world about cuisine inspired by the passion for cooking and infusing not just latin flavors…but creating Puertorican flavors. Is what led me to write about native recipes with original ingredientes, Puerto Rican Cooking for Beginner’s. Teach people how to find and use our seasonings. Un pedacito de mi Isla y de sabor Boricua. Cook from home and from your heart. Respectfully..
Although this list is great you should check out a new Puerto Rican restaurant in Las Vegas Nevada. It’s called Puerto Rico Restaurant it started as a to go shack just past the stratosphere and now a sit down restaurant and bar excellent food the leeching to die for their shrimp mofongo the best.
I see alot of people disagreeing with the author. But you have to remember, it’s only her opinion. I don’t agree with her either and she definitely missed a few top places. Like Casa Adela on the lower East side, which should be at least in the top five and has been in business longer than any restaurant on this list! They MUST be doing something right!
Isla del Encanto in Miami, FL made #3. That’s a joke! They’re not even authentic P R. The owner’s wife is Colombian, so it’s PR with a Colombian twist and no where near the best. As for #8, Ay, Bendito con Sabor a P.R. Their food is good and better than the cuisine at sla del Encanto’ just don’t go when there’s a rush. The food takes forever and some of the fried items, pastelitos, tostones, Etc. are sometimes undercooked. The owners are really down-to-earth, cordial Puerto Ricans. Casa Borinquen in Hollywood did not impress me eiher. Their food is alright at best, but nothing to brag about. There was also a small roach on the wall and that really turned me off.
I almost forgot, Pa’l Campo in Orlando is by far better than the other three restaurants/food truck that I mentioned in my previous comment. And although taste is subjective, for true Puerto Ricans from the island, we know what authentic PR cuisine should taste like and some of these restaurants pale in comparison to the restaurants on the island that offer true gastronomical delights such as La Villa del Capitan en Arecibo, PR, U.S A. and Makitos in Naguabo, PR, U.S A. These restaurants are absolutely delicious.
I must say that one of the best True Puerto Rican restaurants in the Hollywood Florida area, if not the Best not on the list would be El Bayu de Wela Sara! In downtown Hollywood. An experience that you must try
I live in LA and if mofongos is 6th then this list is trash because mofongos has no business being on any top 10 list