Puerto Rican cuisine, also called cocina criolla, developed over centuries by blending ingredients and techniques from indigenous Taíno people, Spanish colonizers, and African traditions. Later, influences from American culture also made their way into the island’s kitchens. This melting pot of flavors created the rich and diverse Puerto Rico famous food culture that people travel across the globe to experience.

What makes Puerto Rican meals special is their use of fresh, local ingredients such as plantains, yuca, rice, beans, pork, and seafood. Add in the island’s signature seasoning blends like sofrito—a mix of onions, peppers, garlic, cilantro, and olive oil.

Famous Foods of Puerto Rico You Should Try

1. Mofongo

Mofongo is the classic dish which is made from mashed green plantains mixed with garlic, pork cracklings (chicharrón), and olive oil. It’s typically shaped into a bowl and filled with meat, seafood, or vegetables.

Mofongo is hearty, savory, and beloved by locals and visitors alike. You can find it in street food stalls as well as in restaurants.

2. Arroz con Gandules – The National Dish

Arroz Con is the national dish of Puerto Rico. This dish possesses rice, pigeon peas, and pork, which are all cooked together with sofrito and spices.

The smoky flavor of the pork and the earthiness of the pigeon peas make this one of the most famous Puerto Rico foods you can’t leave without trying.

3. Lechón Asado

Puerto Rico is known for slow-roasted pork, which is known as lechón asado. Entire pigs are marinated with spices, then roasted for hours over an open flame. The result is tender, flavorful meat with crispy skin.

Lechón is so popular that towns like Guavate have become known as la ruta del lechón (the pork highway), where you’ll find dozens of roadside eateries serving this specialty. For meat lovers, this is among the best food to try in Puerto Rico.

4. Pastelón – Puerto Rican Lasagna

Pastelón is a sweet and savory casserole similar to lasagna. Ground beef, cheese, and spices are sandwiched between the plantain layers, creating a sweet and savory combination that surprises first-time tasters.

Pastelón represents how Puerto Ricans creatively use plantains in many of their dishes, making it one of the popular Puerto Rican meals worth tasting.

5. Alcapurrias – Street Food Favorite

Alcapurrias is considered the famous steet food in Puerto Rico which most people preferred. These are made from green plantains or yuca, filled with seasoned meat, and then deep-fried until golden brown.

Alcapurrias are perfect for a quick snack. Their crunchy outside and flavorful filling make them one of the island’s most-loved bites.

6. Bacalaitos

Bacalaitos are thin, crispy fritters made with salted codfish. They’re seasoned with herbs and spices, fried until golden, and served hot.

Bacalaitos are especially popular at festivals and beaches, offering a salty, crunchy treat that’s a true taste of Puerto Rican food culture.

7. Pasteles 

Puerto Rican pasteles are made from grated green bananas, yautía (a root vegetable), and sometimes pumpkin, stuffed with pork, and wrapped in banana leaves before being boiled.

They’re usually prepared in large batches for Christmas and special occasions, making them one of the famous foods of Puerto Rico tied to tradition and family.

8. Asopao

Asopao is a comforting dish often described as Puerto Rico’s version of gumbo. The most popular variety is asopao de pollo (chicken), but you’ll also find seafood versions.

9. Tostones 

Plantains are central to Puerto Rican cuisine, and tostones are one of the simplest yet tastiest ways to enjoy them. Green plantain slices are fried, smashed, and fried again until crispy. They’re usually served as a side dish with garlic dipping sauce or as a base for toppings like shrimp or pork.

10. Tembleque

Tembeque is coconut pudding, and this is a famous dessert in Puerto Rico. This coconut milk pudding, thickened with cornstarch and topped with cinnamon, is smooth, creamy, and refreshing.

It’s especially popular during Christmas but can be found year-round. For anyone with a sweet tooth, tembleque is among the most famous Puerto Rican food desserts.

Puerto Rican Drinks to Try Alongside

Food in Puerto Rico is often paired with refreshing drinks. Don’t miss:

• Coquito: Coconut-based holiday drink similar to eggnog.

• Piña Colada: Puerto Rico is the birthplace of this world-famous cocktail.

• Medalla Light: the island’s popular local beer.

Best Places to Try Puerto Rican Famous Food

• Local Festivals: Food festivals showcase everything from bacalaitos to asopao.

• Roadside Kiosks: Especially along Luquillo Beach, you’ll find some of the best Puerto Rican street food.

• Family-Run Restaurants: Known as fondas, these small eateries serve home-style meals full of authentic flavors.

Ready to Experience Puerto Rico Beyond the Beaches?

Food is one of the most authentic ways to connect with Puerto Rico’s culture. From iconic dishes like mofongo to family traditions around arroz con gandules, every bite tells the story of the island’s heritage.

Schedule a call today, and let’s talk about how Puerto Rico can fit into your lifestyle.