The Most Romantic Restaurants in San Juan

The dazzling decor, in a makeshift clam shell; the setting, on a pool of water with the ocean waves practically lapping at your feet; the destination, at the swank and stylish Renaissance La Concha in Condado; and the sophisticated cuisine helmed by chef Dayn Smith, all make Perla a unique, sumptuous, and intimate restaurant. 

If you want a special night out in a place designed to impress, I recommend Perla (which means "Pearl").

Maybe it's the Pan-Asian Caribbean fusion theme, (you have to try the duck nachos here). Maybe it's the smoky, intimate, red-hued atmosphere, which lends itself to huddling over a table and sharing a delicious meal. Or maybe it's the location, on Fortaleza Street in Old San Juan.

Whatever the reason, we love the sensual vibe at Dragonfly, which remains cozy even as it stays bustling and ever-popular with the locals. And the excellent menu doesn't, romantic decor, and extensive cocktail menu doesn't hurt. 

Fortaleza Street has some of the best restaurants in the city, but only one of them made it on this list: Trois Cent Onze, or 311. Unlike its flashier, hipper neighbors, this French stalwart maintains a quiet elegance and a serenity often bereft in the frenzy caused by the popular eateries in Old San Juan's most popular dining destination.

The restaurant also keeps to itself when it comes to its cuisine; that is, it is strictly and purely French, rather than a fusion of Puerto Rican and Mediterranean flavors. If you want to go the extra mile, opt for the vintner's dinner, in which the chef will pair a different wine with each course. In Old San Juan, 311 is refreshingly far from the maddening crowds.