BLT

Located inside the Ritz Carlton Hotel in Isla Verde, BLT is the “it” spot for Kobe beef, but there's a bit for everyone in this modern-milieu restaurant and lounge. Carnivores can feast on juicy porterhouse, sirloin and New York strip steaks and dip them in creamy béarnaise, Roquefort, peppercorn and other sauces. Poultry is also available and their raw bar serves oysters, clams and all the classic raw seafood delicacies. BLT opens Tuesday through Sunday and accepts Visa, MasterCard, Amex and ATH. (787) 253-1700.

IL MULINO

Il Mulino opened its doors at the Ritz-Carlton two years ago to critical acclaim. Those who haven't visited yet are missing out on gorgeous old-world décor, as well as delicious entrees that include tortellini in bordo and scampi alla francese. Open Monday through Saturday, and located inside the Ritz-Carlton San Juan. Call (787) 791-8632. Parking available at the hotel. Visa, MasterCard and American Express accepted.

CHIMICHURRI

Argentinean-style meats and pastas are offered at this Guaynabo eatery. The restaurant has a casual environment and valet parking service for clients' convenience. Chimichurri's varied meat and pasta menu even offers a parrillada for two, all at affordable prices. Children have their own menu offerings from churrasco to ravioli and spaghetti. The restaurant is located at #A-3 4th St. Urb. Parkside in San Patricio and opens every day from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Master Card, ATH and other cards accepted. For more information please call (787) 793-6809.

BAMBUDDHA

From the Buddha statues and terracotta warriors to chef Ernesto López's scallops in spicy peanut sauce, Bambuddha is a little piece of Asian culture. Enjoy shrimp or chicken paté, Mongolian beef, or spinach dumplings; round the meal off with chocolate and pistachio fondant or the restaurant's Bambuddha coffee. Located at 2444 Isla Verde Ave. , Bambuddha opens all week, from noon to midnight. For information, call (787) 728-8989 or (787) 728-8663. Valet parking available. All credit cards accepted.

BUDATAI

Located inside the Ritz Carlton Hotel in Isla Verde, BLT is the “it” spot for Kobe beef, but there's a bit for everyone in this modern-milieu restaurant and lounge. Carnivores can feast on juicy porterhouse, sirloin and New York strip steaks and dip them in creamy béarnaise, Roquefort, peppercorn and other sauces. Poultry is also available and their raw bar serves oysters, clams and all the classic raw seafood delicacies. BLT opens Tuesday through Sunday and accepts Visa, MasterCard, Amex and ATH. (787) 253-1700.

COLADAS

Inspired by the island's own quintessential frozen drink, Coladas blends authentic Puerto Rican cuisine and an extensive menu of piña/fresh-fruit coladas to create a singularly
fun experience. Sporting a full-service bar, cozy eating environment, and of course the Coladas Terrace, this hot new restaurant is sure to appeal to tourists and locals alike. Conveniently located within the Holiday Inn Hotel in Isla Verde, the restaurant provides ample parking and valet services. Visa, Mastercard, American Express and ATH are accepted. For more information, call (787) 444-7778.

KOCO

A Caribbean island setting awaits all who enter the doors of Koco, located at the San Juan Hotel & Casino in Isla Verde, the new restaurant from the OOF! Restaurant Team. At Koco, opened in January, executive chefs Sylvia Senat and Linton Romero create what they call Modern Caribbean Cuisine. Guava-braised shortribs or boneless spare ribs, glazed with a pineapple BBQ sauce, with a side of coconut risotto, batata mash or yucca fries are a few of the choices on the menu. For information, call (787)791-7078. Parking at the hotel. Visa, MasterCard and American Express accepted.

MARMALADE

Fashionable Marmalade is famous for its lounge area, restaurant and wine bar, not to mention delicious dishes, which include things such as harrisa-rubbed swordfish and cumin-roasted Virginia lamb. Open weekly, and located at 317 Fortaleza St. , Old San Juan. (787) 724-3969. La Cochera parking structure is close by. Visa, MasterCard, ATH and American Express.

PAYÁ

The hip Payá caters to young professionals who enjoy the unique décor that makes it a great place to mingle with colleagues and friends. Owned by renowned chef Wilo Benet, the menu includes delicious rice dishes, Latin-Asian stir-fries and sandwiches. It is located at City View Plaza in San Juan . It is open Monday trough Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. For more information, please call (787) 782-7292.

PIKAYO

Pikayo rocked the island's gourmet scene back when it opened in 1990, and so far it has continued to serve new global-mix cuisine, a fusion of exotic ingredients from international dishes and traditional Puerto Rican flavors. Open Monday through Saturday. Located inside the Puerto Rico Museum of Art. (787) 721-6194. Parking at the museum. Visa, MasterCard, ATH and American Express accepted.  

RED

The Normandie Hotel has added yet one more hip venue to their list. RED: Raw, Enticing and Decadent is a seductive restaurant specializing in sizzling tapas. Minimalist décor adds to its lounge ambiance and dim lighting makes this classy haunt ideal for intimate dinners or post-work partying. Normandie's Executive Chef Raúl Correa created its “Latin Vibe Cuisine” tapas menu by blending Caribbean and international flavors. Some peculiar dishes are the lobster nachos with Gouda cheese, the taco pato and the morcilla crêpes (no joke!) All major credit cards accepted. RED opens from 6 p.m. to 1 a.m. all week. Call (787) 729-2929; ext. 1083.

RISTORANTE TUSCANY

Ristorante Tuscany 's personable staff, led by Executive Chef Celso Pinto, serves exquisite Italian dishes unlike those of any other Italian eatery. Chef Pintos's menu reflects an elegant fusion of rustic northern Italian cuisine with the flavorful Boricua slow-cooking techniques. Savor intricate flavors such as tender classic Ossobuco with al dente saffron risotto, succulent shrimp scampi tossed in delicate angel hair pasta, and many other delectable dishes. Ristorante Tuscany is located at the San Juan Marriott Resort and Stellaris Casino in Condado. (787) 722-7000 Ext. 6219.

SIRENA

Located at the Courtyard by Marriott in Isla Verde, Sirena offers scrumptious Caribbean fusion cuisine. Patrons can begin their meals with specialty cocktails or a refreshing ceviche. For a main entrée, they can choose from such selections as Macademia breaded sea bass filet, pigeon peas risotto or grilled New York steak. Sirena also has a good number of fine desserts, freshly ground coffee and aged rum to finish the evening on a sweet note. For more information, call (787) 791-0404; ext. 6120.

AGUAVIVA

Stepping into Aguaviva is like sinking into the waters of the Caribbean Sea . Tiles simulate waves, jellyfish hover below tall ceilings and dim-blue illumination mimics the tranquility of a swaying ocean. Their delectable seafood menu entices with ceviches and seafood plates. Aguaviva's complete raw bar also offers all types of oysters. BBQ'd giant shrimp served over basmati rice mampostea'o is one of the reasons the locale is always jam-packed. The restaurant is located at 364 Fortaleza Street and opens Monday through Thursday. Visa, MasterCard, Amex and ATH are accepted. (787) 722-0665. No reservations are required.

CHEF ALEX BISTRO CATALINA

Specializing in traditional and Mediterranean food, Chef Alex's is a popular spot for romantic dinners, corporate events and other celebrations. Savor dishes such as organic chicken stuffed with sausages, Fontanne cheese and amarillos with a vegetable casserole. Located in sleepy Cayey, the restaurant opens Wednesday through Sunday. (787) 263-4499. Parking available. Visa, MasterCard, ATH and American Express accepted. 

DON TELLO

Located at #36 Nereidas Ave. in Cataño, this criollo palace is the perfect spot for the big family—abuela and all with its ample main hall, activity room and the best view of the San Juan Bay in town. Its specialty is the pechuga rellena al tello, bacon-wrapped chicken breast, and the children's menu offers both American and Puerto Rican fare. The restaurant opens Tuesday through Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Doors close at 9 p.m. on Wednesdays, at 10 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays, at 11 p.m. Friday is Karaoke night and Sunday there is trio music. Master Card and other cards accepted. (787)788-6607. No reservations necessary.

EL GALEÓN

For years, this recently remodeled restaurant has been the meeting place for power-tripping lawyers, but not just because of their delicious croquetas. Try their crocante de rapé with boletus mushrooms; it's a rare treat. El Galeón is located at 352 Hostos Ave. and opens all week. (787) 274-8526. Valet parking available. Visa, MasterCard, ATH and American Express accepted. 

LOS PIONEROS

For classic Mexican food, try Los Pioneros Taquería Mexicana, located on #1115 Jesús T. Piñero Avenue . Tacos and burritos made of beef or chicken are offered at this authentic Mexican taquería, where the décor transports guests to a small pueblo in Mexico . This family-oriented restaurant has a little bit for everyone. Parents will love its affordable prices and children will love the opportunity to eat with their hands. Master Card, ATH and other cards accepted. For more information, please call (787)781-6495.

MARGARITA'S RESTAURANT

This cozy family Mexican restaurant mimics a cantina, with tall, arched walls in colorful tones and a Mariachi band that plays on the weekends. Margarita's offers a variety of typical Mexican appetizers and meat plates drenched in spicy sauces. The Volcán
Yuca–Tán, mashed yucca stuffed with chicken, and beef or shrimp fajitas, are some of their specialties. The restaurant also offers a few low-fat options. Honoring its name, the restaurant serves some of the best Margaritas in town as well as tasty piña, parcha and guanabana coladas. Opens seven days and accepts Amex, Visa and MasterCard. (787) 792-0283.

PERLA

The luxurious Perla has a wine cellar with over 4,000 wines and about 1,000 different labels to choose from. The new restaurant is located at La Concha Hotel in Condado and it is owned by celebrated Chef Dayn Smith, who confected the seafood and international food menu. Perla is open Sunday through Thursday from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Fridays and Saturday until 11 p.m.; and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. for brunch. Parking is located at the hotel. For reservations, call (787) 721-7575.

RESTAURANTE CASA RIJOS

Good ol' home cooking is this restaurant's specialty. Think of the place as the perfect rustic rancho with a side order of great chisme. Restaurante Casa Rijos opens Monday through Saturday and is located at 1058 Nueva Palma Street in Trastalleres, Santurce. (787) 725-6304. Parking available. Visa, MasterCard, ATH and American Express accepted. 

EAST

East Sushi Bar in Condado offers a cozy and friendly atmosphere; perfect for a night out with friends, lovers or small gatherings. Traditional Japanese fare is the order of the day, along with an extensive list of specialty cocktails made with plum wine, Japanese rice wines, and sake. Add to these East's delicious Asian sangria, prepared with rare Japanese fruits. East at Condado was the first to create the now famous sushi pizzas; the dough is made of sushi rice, with various toppings. The larger East Asian Bistro at Plaza Guaynabo offers a more family oriented atmosphere, also serving sushi and Teppanyaki. Opens seven days a week. For more information please call East Sushi Bar at (787)721-8883 or East Asian Bistro at (787) 620-8088.

CAFÉ BARCELONA

Skilled Chef Jordi Quintero prepares a succulent array of Mediterranean and Catalan dishes and tapas. Traditonal paella and carne a la brasa and seafood are some of the dishes on the menu. Homemade sangría and desserts are also some of the restaurant's specialties. A lunch special is available for $7.95, Tuesday to Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Get a free tapa for every beer, cocktail or glass of wine from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Café Barcelona is located at 1144 Roosevelt Ave. in Puerto Nuevo. (787) 783-0363. Parking is available. All major credit cards are accepted.

KITCHEN 198

Kitchen 198 is all about the “gastro bistro” concept, in which gastronomic delights are dished up in a casual atmosphere with European flair and good prices. Main entrées range between $7 and $18. Savor Mediterranean cuisine favorites or dishes with South American and Caribbean flair. Kitchen 198 is located on 198 between Federico Acosta and Calaf streets in Hato Rey, opening every day at 11:30 a.m. and is even available for a late dinner on Saturday night, closing at 2 a.m. Valet Parking Available. For more information please call (787) 296-8037.

LATITUDES

Located at 553 César González Ave. in Hato Rey, Latitudes fine dining is served in a pleasant casual ambience. Chef Jesús Nieves has launched a new menu that offers delicious a variety of plates with more sabor, including the Montevideo Steak and Beijing Chicken. There is also a wider variety of appetizers, ranging from beef and chicken satay skewers served with a homemade peanut sauce; shrimp with garlic butter sauce and white wine to fish nuggets rolled in Japanese breadcrumbs with chili sauce, just to name a few. For reservations or more information please call (787)764-9830.

OPIUM ASIAN CUISINE

The recently inaugurated Opium Asian Cuisine, conveniently located at 74 Condado Ave., offers a perfect combination of traditional Asian dishes in a sophisticated atmosphere. In addition to traditional Asian fare prepared by chef Kenny NG, Opium's extensive menu includes a variety of drinks and cocktails created by renowned bartender Lou Crespo. Valet parking is available. Accepts all major credit cards.  (787) 289-1888.

VARITA

Located in the Condado Plaza Hotel and Casino, Chef Wilo Benet's new restaurant, Varita, offers excellent meals in a comfortable and casual setting. Blending Southern comfort food with Puerto Rican flair, the dishes include a huge range from ribs, mac and cheese and smoked pizza to pernil a la varita, arroz con gandules, pasteles and morcilla. The ribs are specially prepared with Benet's special barbeque sauce, or mojito. The restaurant has its own parking and valet parking service. (787) 723-VARITAS. Accepts all major credit cards.

ALQUIMIA BISTRO CLUB

Alquimia Bistro Club is already known for its unique blend of Mediterranean Cuisine
and Caribbean flavors, along with live entertainment. Choose from a wide variety of appetizers including sausage confit, or shrimp dumplings in leek sauce; mouth-watering entrées and a vast wine list. Dance the night away with live tropical music and live performances by renowned local and international artists. Located at the Gallery Plaza in Condado, Alquimia opens Monday through Sunday, from noon to 2 a.m. For information call (787)982-1555. Parking available, Visa, Master Card and American Express accepted.