Restaurants & Clubs June-2004, By:Travel and Sports Staff
Local Libations
Local Drinks: Piña Colada, Planter’s Punch, Cuba Libre, Coquito, Daiquiri, Medalla Light
In Puerto Rico, rum is the undisputed king of drinks. The blessed offspring of sugarcane is the main ingredient of a bevy of tasty tropical concoctions, including the piña colada, which was invented in Puerto Rico forty years ago and has since become an international sensation. It should come as no surprise that rum is the national beverage and Puerto Rico is the home of the Bacardi Distillery, the world’s largest rum-producing plant, which pumps out more than 100,000 gallons of the nectar of the Caribbean gods every day. There are also many other internationally known brands that hail from the Island, including Don Q, RonRico, Castillo and Captain Morgan Spiced Rum. More than two dozen brands of rum marketed locally come in a number of flavors including lemon, orange, raspberry, coconut and vanilla, among others.
Local rums come in several varieties and instantly give any cocktail a tropical flair. White or light rum is usually the driest and can easily replace gin or vodka in most all classic drink recipes. The more robust flavor of gold or amber rums, which are made with molasses, are an excellent substitute for whiskey and are often served on the rocks or with cola. The gold rums that are aged between four and six years or longer in wooden casks are called añejos. These aged rums, such as Barrilito, are so smooth and flavorful they are usually sipped straight up or on the rocks. You can take home as many as you please of these world-class rums that sell for as little as $4 a bottle
Piña Colada –Forty years ago this world-famous tropical cocktail was invented right here in San Juan. No visit to the Island would be complete without a celebratory sampling of the slushy, fruity frappe-style concoction made with Puerto Rican rum, pineapple juice and cream of coconut.
Planter’s Punch - The second-most-popular mixed rum drink among tourists and locals alike is a combination of dark Puerto Rican rum, dark-brown Jamaican rum, citrus juice and bitters, served over cracked ice.
Cuba Libre - This world-renowned cocktail may have originated in Cuba, but its roots are deeply grounded in Puerto Rico. This cooling local favorite is simply a rum and cola with a generous squeeze of lime.
Coquito – The rich and creamy Puerto Rican version of eggnog is the traditional drink at holiday time. Be careful, it may taste like a milkshake, but it packs a powerful punch.
Daiquiri – Whether blended or shaken, this cool, frosty and refreshing blend of fresh lime juice and sugar with a shot of light rum and plenty of crushed ice is a cooling accompaniment to the Caribbean sun.
Medalla Light - OK, no rum here, but the internationally recognized award-winning local beer is a must-try.
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Casa Grande Café 787-894-3939
Utuado. Jungle Jane's is located at Casa Grande Mountain Retreat. Dine on the veranda in a stunning mountain setting. Comidas criolla and more contemporary dishes are on the menu. Try homemade pasta and shrimp or grilled salmon in a mango-papaya sauce.
Grille Room, The 800-4-RIOMAR
Río Grande. Enjoy traditional fine dining in a warm and inviting club atmosphere with sensational views of our golf courses and the Ocean. Our steakhouse style menu features succulent steaks, chicken and fresh grilled seafood and an extensive wine list.
Liquid Bar at Tangerine 888-265-6699
Carolina: Isla Verde. "Liquid" is the Water Club's main bar and sizable lounge. Instantly discovered by the trend setters, "Liquid" is the fashionable "in" spot in a city famed for vibrant lifestyle and nightlife. There is a late night DJ to keep things going.
Marbella 800-4-RIOMAR
Río Grande. Enjoy spectacular buffets and traditional table service in a relaxed ocean-view setting. Sample a diverse menu, featuring everything from salads, soups, and sandwiches to fresh seafood and prime steaks.
Palio 800-4-RIOMAR
Río Grande. Our AAA Four Diamond award-winning restaurant incorporates authentic Tuscan flavors, rich spices, homemade pastas and the freshest meats, poultry and seafood into its Northern Italian menu. Reservations required.
SeaBreeze 800-4-RIOMAR
Río Grande. Dine al-fresco at this casual poolside restaurant, serving a full luncheon menu, snacks and tropical drinks. Casual dress or beachwear suggested.
Shimas 800-4-RIOMAR
Río Grande. Delight your taste for the Orient at our Asian Bistro and Sushi Bar, serving authentic Japanese sushi, plus a wide array of tantalizing dishes from the Far East. Reservations required.
Tangerine 888-265-6699
Carolina: Isla Verde. "Tangerine" serves American Asian cuisine overlooking the Atlantic and is the creation of well known Chef Nelson Rosado. "Tangerine" recently made the Conde Nast Traveler "Hot Tables" list of 75 of the most intriguing new restaurants in the world.
Wet Lounge and Sushi Bar 888-265-6699
Carolina: Isla Verde. Day and night, the rooftop exotic bar and lounge aptly named "Wet", with the best sushi bar on the island, offering a panorama of San Juan's most dazzling views, the vast expanse of the Atlantic and the buildings of the capital city.
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Platos Restaurant & Bar 787-791-6868
Carolina: Isla Verde.
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