Spend a day eating around…Santurce (Calle Cerra Edition)

We are heading out just a bit (like a 2-minute walk) away from Miramar and entering Santurce. I love Santurce, and I love even more how much it’s grown and become a culinary hub of San Juan. 

No wonder many people come to Santurce to enjoy quality food or have a nice chill night out with their friends. Here are the places you must visit in Santurce, specifically Calle Cerra. 

Pekó Pekó

She’s an icon; she’s a star. As a lover of ramen, I cannot recommend this place more. I especially love their “meat lovers” ramen. The vibes are so chill, great for lunch or a relaxed dinner with friends. The only downside to this restaurant is because it’s so good, you may see a huge line outside and have to wait for a table. Unfortunately, they don’t take reservations. However, I recommend visiting a bit off-peak times (so go around 12:45 for lunch on a weekday instead of noon on a weekend). I can’t guarantee a lesser waiting time, but trial and error is pivotal here. Nevertheless, the incredible food is absolutely worth waiting for a table.   

Peccas

Puerto Rico’s weather has been on fire recently. And sometimes it is necessary to have some ice cream. Peccas is the perfect place to cool off after a hot sunny day. An interesting fact about Peccas is that they offer nice (non-alcoholic) and naughty (alcoholic) ice creams. I tried both their gin lavender and strawberries and champagne, and I was happy! Both flavors were amazing! Highly recommend stopping by.  

La Disquera Bar

Calle Cerra is known for their laid-back yet highly intricate bar scene. You’ve heard me rave about Machete (which I will talk about soon), and like Machete, there are a few other bars that made me fall in love with this street. La Disquera is one of these fantastic bars. Think of this bar as a mix of chic 60s architectural design with a record store. Their drinks are incredible (Frenchman in Tokyo speaks to me), and I adore the little commentary below each drink.  

El Axolote 

This simple and delicious Mexican restaurant is located in a small but cozy space. El Axolote is perfect for a quick bite with delicious tacos and even better drinks. I love the small interior that creates this unique setting for a chill dinner with friends before hitting the bars. If you’ve noticed anything, this street is AMAZING for bar hopping.  

Mr. Kukis 

If you're looking for another sweet treat, Mr. Kukis is perfect for you! Some of my favorite cookies include macadamia and salted caramel praline cookies. These cookies will make you beg for a glass of water in the best way possible. 

Antillano

Another very relaxed bar. With its ample space, I love this space for big groups. I especially love their Caribbean and Puerto Rican-inspired cocktails. The vibes are immaculate, and such an excellent place for friends and family with incredible drinks. They also have so much variety I can guarantee you will find something for everyone.    

Machete 

The icon of the show. I love this place, and you may have seen it a few times on my IG. I cannot speak more highly of a place. I love the vibes, the drinks, and the people working there—a must-visit place in my books. Order the C.C. Collins!  

Galería 

Another iconic bar with excellent bar food and fabulous drinks. This place also has quite some space with chairs and a bar in the middle. Amazing vibes to sit in the bar, order a few bites and enjoy fantastic cocktails. 

Dosis Café

Café, Café and even more café. I love this place and have mentioned it in my Cultura Cafecina article. Such a fantastic spot for a chill morning, do some quick work with incredible coffee and then hit the street to enjoy more of la Calle Cerra. 

Don't forget to pin this post for later reference!