La Bombonera
La Bombonera (259 Calle San Francisco, Old San Juan) — You can’t miss the stained glass and gorgeous Moorish-style tilework on the facade of this local café, which was established in 1902. In the window you’ll see piles of freshly baked pastries. Inside there’s a long counter with salmon-colored stools and a wall lined with booths in the same interesting shade. This local landmark is extremely popular in the morning—particularly on Sunday. It’s most famous for its mallorcas, a sweet pastry that’s grilled and buttered, as well as delicious café con leche. The rest of the menu spans simple sandwiches to hearty local dishes, including asopao (a stew with rice and seafood or chicken)—all this even though the food is only average and the seemingly overworked waiters give the appearance of having worked here since the day it opened.