634467 Mon Jul 06 17:50:42 -0700 2009 3 54 Caribbean 0 4834845 This was our wedding anniversary celebration. We relocated from the States last year to the west side of the island, so we wanted to stay away from traditional Comida Criollo**, which we can have any time. Over three days we had nine meals. Of those, these are really worth mentioning: Breakfast at La Bombonera, (259 Calle de San Francisco) Cavernous, fluorescent lit, replete with formica and vinyl. A little care-worn. PACKED with patrons. Why? - Mallorcas - a testament to the power of Sweet and Salty. Fresh, lightly eggy bread, buttered. Layered with a bit of ham and cheese. Griddled till gold, pressed hot and melty. Dusted with powdered sugar. Cheap. Heaven on a plate, sugar dust in my lap. Lunch at Pikayo, (Museo de Arte, Santurce) Having been three times in under a year, we are no longer making visits, but pilgrimages. Replete with fabulous, beautifully presented food in a spectacular room, each has been a treat. Highlights of this meal included an appetizer special of squid and chorizo in a light broth of cilantro, butter, garlic and white wine with slices of crisp green asparagus. A meaty and tender hunk of swordfish with a slick of tamarind fruit glaze and a crispy pan fried snapper fillet bathed in a smoky paprika sauce. For dessert we were sharing the ethereal chocolate soufflé. Instead of bringing the normal portion with two spoons, the kitchen very thoughtfully prepared two petite soufflés and presented them individually with small shots of crème anglaise. A nice touch. Bourbon Man, (a.k.a. my husband), had his usually menu-perusing drink, followed by bottled water. I was drinking Spanish Cava that I never learned the name of. A by-the-glass recommendation of the waiter; light and dry and well paired with the meal. But then again, wine with lunch is just about my favorite “on vacation” signifier. Dinner at Trois Cent Onze, (311 Calle Fortaleza) The Moorish tile and glass rosette on the front of the building only hint at what lies inside – a really pretty and comfortable dining room and one of the most well-prepared meals we’ve shared. One word to sum up the food, décor and staff? Genuine. The food, flawless without being precious. The décor, alluring without being pretentious. The staff, warm and helpful without being intrusive. We enjoyed everything, especially: Foie gras laced with raisins, honey and served with brioche toast. A Caribbean lobster tail broiled, split and sauced with a champagne beurre blanc. Lovely little rack of lamb, perfectly cooked medium rare and accompanied by a salpicon using local squash that’s been cubed and baked with broth, butter and herbs, finished with a touch of cream. For dessert we shared the crème brulée of the day - a nutty, sweet pistachio. Capped off by an outstanding glass of Sauternes. ** We made one exception to the traditional Puerto Rican food rule: El Jibarito, (280 Calle Sol) - The room is nothing special, the waitstaff can be indifferent, but if you want the real thing, this is it. The portions are big and inexpensive, the beer is cold, and if you visit PR without tasting their Mofongo de Yuca, you will have missed a real treat. Mon Jul 06 17:50:42 -0700 2009 1084138 cj530 1 4835733 love love this report..the mallorca's are pretty darn good...Instead of El Jibarito we went to Cafe Manolin and had a great lunch..thanks for making my mouth water... follow your www.antiguabliss.com Tue Jul 07 05:19:58 -0700 2009 4834845 27444 phelana 2 4868190 I'm suprised to see that you didn't visit Marmalade in Old San Juan....simply two cuts above the rest when it comes to quality cooking and wine service. We have moved here and have not found any restaurant even comparable to the whole experience of dinning. Really a must try for anyone who loves and appreciates food. Fri Jul 17 14:09:10 -0700 2009 4835733 1094534 siera 3 4991088 I second Marmalade. We just returned from San Juan yesterday and our meal at Marmalade was the highlight of our trip. Also the chef's presence in the restaurant's kitchen showed dedication to a unique dining experience. It was the only restaurant wherein the chef himself greeted his diners (as with the excellent Michelin starred restaurants we went to elsewhere). He is also very worldly and plays on different flavors. Excellent meal and would definitely return. Sun Aug 30 16:44:13 -0700 2009 4868190 183966 trvlcrzy