The Parrot Club
The Parrot Club (363 Calle Fortaleza, Old San Juan) — Loud and lively, this place is intent on making sure everyone is having a good time. You’re likely to strike up a conversation with the bartender as you enjoy the signature passion-fruit cocktail or with a couple at the next table in the covered courtyard. Something about the atmosphere—laid-back Caribbean decor, including murals of palm trees—makes connecting easy. The menu has contemporary variations of Latin classics. You might start with the steak- and cheese-filled empanadas followed by seared shrimp served with a Peruvian-style crab and chorizo fried rice or roasted pork loin with sweet plantain and arroz mamposteao. There’s also a full kid’s menu available and live music, usually on Thursday and Saturday nights.