10 Best Culebra Restaurants to Try in 2023
Welcome to the beautiful island of Culebra, Puerto Rico, where pristine beaches meet an exciting culinary scene! In this guide, we’ll take you on a gastronomic adventure through some of the best Culebra restaurants on the island. From delicious fish tacos to vegan delights, you’ll be spoilt for choice as you explore the diverse flavors Culebra has to offer. So let’s dive in and discover the mouthwatering dishes waiting for you!
Key Takeaways
Indulge in a unique fusion of Puerto Rican and Caribbean cuisines with tantalizing dishes from Susie’s & Caracoles Restaurante!
Experience the most amazing fish tacos in Culebra at Zaco’s Tacos & Moncho’s BBQ for an unforgettable culinary experience.
Enjoy budget friendly options like Pandeli, The Homeless Dog Cafe & Come y Vete for delicious late night bites!
Flamenco Beach Eateries
Flamenco Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters and soft, white sand, is not only one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, but also a great place to grab a bite. A day of sunbathing and swimming can be perfectly rounded off with a variety of food options that range from local cuisine to international dishes.
The atmosphere at Flamenco Beach Eateries is fun and relaxing, with a cool vibe perfect for unwinding after a day in the sun. Some of the best restaurants in the area include Dinghy Dock Restaurant, Heather’s Pizza, and Blac Flamingo Coffee, offering delicious food and fully equipped kitchens, BBQ grills, and even some private areas for a more intimate dining experience.
At Flamenco Beach Eateries, you can enjoy a variety of delicious meals with a stunning beach backdrop. Some options include:
Empanadas
Grilled fish
Pizza
Other fast food items
No matter what you’re craving, there’s something to satisfy every appetite at Flamenco Beach Eateries.
Fish Tacos in Culebra
A visit to Culebra is incomplete without indulging in the island’s mouth-watering fish tacos. Seafood lovers will find themselves in paradise as they savor the amazing flavors at popular spots like Zaco’s Tacos and Moncho’s BBQ.
Zaco’s Tacos is known for its fair to high prices and modest outdoor seating right outside the restaurant. Meanwhile, Moncho’s BBQ offers a fantastic combo meal, including their delicious chicken tacos and oven pork or chicken BBQ with rice, yellow rice, or yuca. Just be cautious with their beefsteak with onions, as it can be a bit heavy on salt and vinegar.
For those with an appetite for fish tacos, both Zaco’s Tacos and Moncho’s BBQ promise a memorable culinary experience. With wonderful selections and reasonable prices, you won’t be disappointed when you visit these delightful eateries.
Vegan and Vegetarian Delights
Culebra caters well to those in search of plant-based meals. At Culebra Coffee, you’ll find fresh vegan food options that are both healthy and delicious. Their popular dishes include:
Avocado toast
Quinoa salad
Veggie burger
Green smoothies
Their avocado toast is a must-try for anyone visiting the island.
If you’re a vegetarian, Moncho’s BBQ also offers tasty options like:
rice
beans
veggies
mashed yuca
Their fried fish is a popular choice for non-vegetarians. For those with specific dietary requirements, it’s always a good idea to bring your favorite snacks or food staples when traveling to Culebra.
Seize the opportunity to relish good food in the form of a wholesome and satisfying meal at either Culebra Coffee or Moncho’s BBQ. These restaurants offer fantastic vegan and vegetarian options that cater to all tastes and preferences.
Breakfast Joints
A hearty breakfast is the perfect start to a day of exploring the beautiful island of Culebra. Local favorites like Pandeli and Culebra Coffee are perfect spots to enjoy traditional Puerto Rican dishes and freshly brewed coffee.
Culebra Coffee is a Puerto Rican-owned cafe. They specialize in the finest 100% Puerto Rican coffees. They serve espresso in all forms. Their hot coffee selection is immense, and their cold brew and iced coffee are both delicious. With healthy, fresh, and vegetarian/vegan options for breakfast and lunch, you can enjoy a delightful meal with a view of the beautiful Caribbean Sea.
Pandeli, a bakery and one of the best restaurants in Culebra, serves typical Puerto Rican breakfast staples like:
sandwiches
eggs
pancakes
wraps
pastries
coffee
Their omelet and delicious Cuban sandwich are highly recommended. Despite the staff being a little rudely enthusiastic, the outdoor seating area is a great place to enjoy your meal.
Caribbean Flavors
Culebra, located not far from San Juan, presents a unique fusion of flavors, blending Puerto Rican and Caribbean cuisines. Restaurants like Susie’s and Caracoles Restaurante offer a delightful dining experience, allowing you to savor the taste of the Caribbean.
Susie’s restaurant, renowned for its fried snapper dishes, is a must-try when in Culebra. The open-air atmosphere and comfortable outdoor seating make it a perfect spot to enjoy a delicious meal.
Meanwhile, at Caracoles Restaurante, you’ll find Puerto Rican dishes like mofongo, churrasco, and tostones. The food is great, and the atmosphere is fun, with stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. Just be prepared for a long wait time, so plan accordingly if you need to catch a ferry at the ferry terminal.
Seafood Extravaganza
Seafood enthusiasts will find a true extravaganza at Dinghy Dock Restaurant and Harspoon’s on Culebra. Known for their fresh catches and mouthwatering dishes, these eateries are perfect for treating yourself to a seafood feast.
Dinghy Dock Restaurant boasts an awesome ambiance, offering American and Caribbean cuisine. Many people love ordering crab cakes and grilled tuna from their menu. These items are very popular with customers. Keep in mind that reservations are recommended, as the wait time can be long.
Harspoon’s, on the other hand, offers a delightful atmosphere and fresh fish dishes. Reservations are required, so plan ahead to enjoy a memorable seafood experience at this popular spot.
Coffee and Cafes
Cozy cafes like Blac Flamingo Coffee and Cafeteria Sanquel provide the perfect setting for relaxation, serving quality coffee and light bites. These cafes offer a laid-back atmosphere, making them ideal for taking a break from exploring the island.
Blac Flamingo. Coffee is well-known for its absolutely amazing breakfast. With its delicious coffee and delightful ambiance, it’s a must-visit when in Culebra.
Cafeteria Sanquel, on the other hand, offers delicious scrambled eggs and toast for breakfast, along with premium orange juice. Though the staff can be a bit rude, the food is well worth trying when visiting from the main island.
Dining with a View
Savoring a meal against a picturesque backdrop is an unbeatable experience. Waterfront restaurants like Heather’s Pizza and El Caobo provide a memorable dining experience, allowing you to savor your meal while taking in the stunning surroundings.
Heather’s Pizza offers delicious Italian/American food in a casual dining setting. With three outdoor seating tables, booths, a few tables, and a long bar inside, you can enjoy a meal while admiring the beautiful scenery.
UPDATE: Permanent Closed. El Caobo is an amazing waterfront restaurant offering a plethora of delicious seafood dishes. The atmosphere is casual and relaxed, with amazing views of the Caribbean Sea that will make your dining experience truly unforgettable.
Late-Night Bites
Culebra is well-prepared to cater to your late-night cravings. Eateries like The Homeless Dog Cafe and Come y Vete offer a variety of dishes and drinks to keep you going, even when the sun goes down.
The Homeless Dog Cafe is a popular late-night spot, with its cozy atmosphere making it the perfect place to enjoy a late-night snack.
Come y Vete, you can indulge in some comfort food like a small pizza pastelillo or empanadilla and coffee. Though not the healthiest option, it’s perfect for satisfying those late-night cravings and enjoying a cozy evening on the island.
Budget-Friendly Options
Budget dining doesn’t necessitate a compromise on taste. Affordable restaurants like Moncho’s BBQ and Pandeli offer delicious meals at reasonable prices, allowing you to enjoy the flavors of Culebra without breaking the bank.
Moncho’s BBQ is a budget-friendly option, offering Mexican food with excellent service and good indoor seating. Their tasty dishes will leave you satisfied and ready to explore the island without worrying about your wallet.
Pandeli, another budget-friendly option, is well-known for its bakery and delicious Puerto Rican breakfast staples. With great value for money, Pandeli is an excellent choice for those looking to save on dining expenses while still enjoying amazing food.
Summary
In conclusion, Culebra offers a diverse and exciting culinary scene that caters to all tastes and preferences. From beachside eateries to cozy cafes, there’s something for everyone on this beautiful island. Whether you’re a seafood lover, a vegan, or simply looking for a delicious meal with a stunning view, Culebra’s restaurants won’t disappoint. So pack your bags and get ready to embark on a gastronomic adventure that you’ll never forget!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Culebra Island worth it?
Culebra Island is definitely worth it! From gorgeous beaches and calming waters to active marine life, you won’t regret visiting this Puerto Rican paradise.
Can you get around Culebra without a car?
Yes, you can definitely get around Culebra without a car as there are plenty of options such as rental cars, golf carts and publicos (shared taxis/shuttles) to help you get around!
Taxis are also available at the ferry terminal and outside the airport.
Is Culebra touristy?
Culebra’s stunning beaches, colorful culture and architecture make it an anti-tourist destination – perfect for sunning, windsurfing and diving without the hassle of large hotels or flashy vacation bells and whistles.
It’s a place where you can relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the Caribbean without the crowds. The island is small enough to explore on foot, and the locals are friendly and welcoming. There are plenty of activities to keep you busy, from snorkeling and kayaking to horseback riding and hiking.
What are some must-try dishes in Culebra?
Head to Culebra and don’t miss out on the delicious fish tacos, fried snapper dishes, and vegan avocado toast – you won’t regret it!
Are there any budget-friendly restaurant options in Culebra?
Yes, Culebra has some great budget-friendly restaurants!
Moncho’s BBQ and Pandeli offer delicious meals at great prices.