Miramar

Dining neighborhood with James Beard-nominated restaurants and local food scene. Safe for eating alone, no beach or real nightlife.

Between Condado and Old San Juan overlooking the lagoon, this is where local food people and knowledgeable visitors go for good meals without tourist crowds. James Beard-nominated chefs run intimate restaurants - modern Puerto Rican, Japanese fusion, everything in between. Canvas rooftop has lagoon views for brunch, Casita Miramar does traditional food in a house with a patio. During the day it's residential and professional. Energy picks up at dinner when restaurants fill with dressed-up San Juan residents. Safe to walk around though quieter than beach areas and more local. Restaurants speak English since they get foodies from everywhere, but you'll hear more Spanish than in tourist zones. Dining alone works well, especially at chef's counters or bar seating where you can watch the kitchen. No beach, limited nightlife beyond dinner - people come for the food then go elsewhere. For travelers who care about eating well and want San Juan's food scene without tourist traps.