San Juan Private Food Tour with 7 Tastings of Authentic Flavors

Puerto Rico , United States

San Juan Private Food Tour with 7 Tastings of Authentic Flavors

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Immerse yourself into hundreds of years of history through food in the Puerto Rican capital of Old San Juan. The city has acted as the gateway to the Caribbean for over 500 years and its rich culinary scene tells the story of the many cultures and traditions that influenced it.

You'll sip on the pride of Puerto Rico, its amazing local coffee which has been grown and brewed on the island for centuries. You'll taste local sandwiches made on artisan sweet bread, the national dish of Puerto Rico hailed by locals and celebrities worldwide, and a sweet treat to cool you down on a sunny San Juan day. With over 5 local tastings, your appetite is sure to be satisfied while taste buds will experience the best of this rich and unique culinary scene.

As a private tour, everything works around you! It's a much more intimate and cozy experience.

Available options

San Juan Private Food Tour with 7 Tastings of Authentic Flavors

What's included

Locally Grown and Brewed Coffee

Bacalaitos – crispy golden salted cod fritters.

Freshly Squeezed Fruit Juice

Our Signature Secret Dish !

Mofongo – Puerto Rico’s iconic plantain and garlic dish.

Empanadilla – perfectly fried turnover with savory filling.

Mallorca Pastry – fluffy, sweet bread dusted with sugar.

Detailed itinerary

Meeting location where we'll start our journey into the culinary history of San Juan.

See the outside of the imposing castle at the edge of Old San Juan.

See the street known for making San Juan one of the most fun and vibrant cities in the topics.

Pass by one of the oldest houses in Puerto Rico intended to be the home to the explorer Ponce de Leon.

Stop 5

Stand on the massive walls of the city and witness the door that hundreds of years of explorers and merchants passed through into Old San Juan.

Stop 6

View the nearly 500 year old fortress and home of the Puerto Rican governor

This mini home was once the narrowest house in the world

Stop 8

Visit the oldest and most grand catedral on the Island

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please note: the itinerary and menu is subject to change, based on the locations’ availability, weather, and other circumstances.

Please ensure to contact us in advance of the tour for any dietary requirement, to ensure we can cater for them the best we can.

This tour involves a fair amount of walking; comfortable shoes are recommended.

Meeting point

We will meet at Plaza Colon. Look for your guide holding an orange umbrella near the fountain on the south end of the plaza across from the Teatro Alejandro Tapia y Rivera.

Important notes

• We kindly ask our guests to be at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before the departure time to check-in with their guide.
• Our Secret Food Tours Guide will have an orange umbrella at the meeting point for easy recognition.

• Please ensure to contact us in advance of the tour for any dietary requirement, to ensure we can cater for them the best we can. [sanjuan@secrettours.com]
• This tour involves a fair amount of walking; comfortable shoes are recommended.
• We regret that we are unable to accommodate guests with wheelchairs or any impairments requiring special assistance.
• Gratuities to guides providing excellent service are appreciated.

• The legal minimum age for drinking alcohol is 18 years old.
• Please note: the itinerary and menu is subject to change, based on the locations' availability, weather, and other circumstances.

About Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is a vibrant Caribbean island offering a unique blend of Spanish, African, and American cultures. Known for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and rich history, it's a destination that caters to both adventure seekers and those looking to relax.

Top Attractions

Old San Juan

A vibrant historic district with colorful Spanish colonial buildings, cobblestone streets, and historic forts. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit for history and culture lovers.

Historical Half day to full day Free to explore, attractions may have entry fees

El Yunque National Forest

The only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System, offering lush greenery, waterfalls, and hiking trails. It's a paradise for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

Nature Full day Free entry

Bioluminescent Bays

Puerto Rico is home to three bioluminescent bays, where the water glows with millions of tiny plankton. It's a magical experience that should not be missed.

Nature Evening tour Moderate to Expensive (tour prices vary)

Culebra and Flamenco Beach

Flamenco Beach on Culebra Island is consistently ranked among the world's best beaches, with its crystal-clear waters, white sand, and stunning views.

Beach Full day Free entry, ferry and flights have fees

Ponce Historic District

Ponce is known as the 'Pearl of the South' and offers a rich history, beautiful architecture, and cultural attractions. The historic district is a great place to explore.

Historical Half day to full day Free to explore, attractions may have entry fees

Must-Try Local Dishes

Mofongo

A traditional dish made from mashed plantains mixed with garlic, olive oil, and pork cracklings, often served with meat or seafood.

Main Dish Contains pork, can be made vegetarian

Lechón

Slow-roasted pork, often cooked over an open fire and seasoned with a variety of spices. It's a staple at celebrations and gatherings.

Main Dish Contains pork, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Alcapurrias

Fried fritters made from a mixture of grated green bananas, yautía (taro root), and seasoned with garlic, onions, and chicharrón (pork cracklings).

Appetizer/Snack Contains pork, can be made vegetarian

Tostones

Twice-fried green plantains, often served as a side dish with meals. They have a crispy exterior and a soft, starchy interior.

Side Dish Vegan, gluten-free

Popular Activities

Hiking in El Yunque National Forest Snorkeling and diving in Culebra and Vieques Kayaking in bioluminescent bays Zip-lining and canopy tours Beachcombing on Flamenco Beach Sunbathing and swimming in Isla Verde Spa and wellness treatments Yoga and meditation retreats

Best Time to Visit

December to April

This is the dry season with pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and beach trips. The island is bustling with tourists during this period.

24-29°C 75-84°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish, English
Widely spoken: Spanish, English
English: Widely spoken, especially in tourist areas

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Atlantic Standard Time (AST), UTC-4

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in certain areas and situations

Puerto Rico is generally safe for travelers, with a low crime rate in tourist areas and a welcoming and friendly local population. However, it's important to exercise caution in certain areas and situations, especially at night and in isolated locations.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure
• Use reputable tour operators and transportation services
• Be cautious when using ATMs and credit cards

Getting there

By air

Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport • 3 km from San Juan
Rafael Hernández Airport • 7 km from Aguadilla

By bus

San Juan, Ponce, Mayagüez

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and convenient for traveling between cities, but schedules can be infrequent and routes may not cover all areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old San Juan Condado Santurce Isla Verde La Placita de Santurce

Day trips

Vieques Island

1.5-hour ferry from Ceiba or 25-minute flight from San Juan • Full day to overnight

Vieques is a beautiful island known for its bioluminescent bay, pristine beaches, and wild horses. It's a great place to relax, explore, and enjoy nature.

Culebra Island

1.5-hour ferry from Ceiba or 30-minute flight from San Juan • Full day to overnight

Culebra is a small, laid-back island known for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and laid-back vibe. It's a great place to relax, snorkel, and enjoy the natural beauty.

El Yunque National Forest

45 minutes from San Juan • Full day

The only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System, offering lush greenery, waterfalls, and hiking trails. It's a paradise for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

Festivals

Festival de las Mascaras • February Ponce Carnival • February Fiestas de la Calle San Sebastián • January

Pro tips

Visit during the shoulder season (May-November) for fewer crowds and lower prices, but be prepared for higher temperatures and humidity
Rent a car to explore the island's diverse attractions and regions at your own pace
Try local dishes and ask for recommendations from locals and restaurant staff
Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to show respect for the local culture and language
Book accommodations and tours in advance, especially during peak season and holidays