Five Great Places for an Intimate Dinner

Sometimes we crave a place where we can just sit, talk, listen to soft music, and enjoy a good, satisfying meal and drinks, usually with someone significant to us. The spots where maddening crowds hang out, and even play their own music over the one already playing is not an option. So, here are five top places to enjoy a peaceful and more or less quiet dinner. Here’s my take on that, in no particular order.

• Vistas – This is a beautiful place in the center of Ponce, high above the city skyline. You can enjoy spectacular views of El Vigía and Castillo Serrallés and all this town’s antique architecture. It has two levels with outdoor terraces and seating. It’s a nice place to hang out and enjoy their delicious cocktails and wine selection. That said, the food is spectacular. It’s an innovative menu, not your run-of-the-mill food. The service is excellent, the ambient music is agreeable, and the experience is so cool. See gallery.
• Salt and Pepper – This is a hidden gem in the town of Manatí, off the beaten path. Chef Mike Fierro, a lauded paella champion for many years in Puerto Rico offers a menu full of his culinary creations and his take on several Puerto Rican staples. They have a good wine selection, scrumptious desserts, and the nicest servers. It’s quiet and comfortable, a setting where you can spend a good while hanging out on a date or a special occasion…or any day, really. See gallery.
• Merced – A beautiful setting inside this old building with a lot of character, lends itself to indulge in fine dining in the northern town of Barceloneta. The cuisine here is unique and creative. Don’t expect the usual Puerto Rican faves like rice and beans or mofongo. The desserts are spectacular. This is an elevated experience. The cocktails are superb and it also boasts an array of fine wines. The ambiance lends itself and has been used for proposals and other romantic surprises. See gallery.
• Encantos – Here is a combination of Sabor y Rumba. The place sits in the town of Morovis. A rather large space with an elegant dining area and a separate bar with live music on weekends is the setting for exquisite food. I had the osso bucco, which is very difficult to find in this area. Not only did I find it, but it was so tender and tasty. Also, there is a good wine selection and a fabulous bartender preparing cool cocktails. The atmosphere is smooth and classy but in a rustic ambiance. As good food goes, this is a great option: creative chef, eclectic menu, and comfort food. It’s a nice place to hang out for a while in a relaxing setting. See gallery.
• Marisquería Jíbara – In the town center of San Sebastián lies this quaint corner building, an ancient structure, that is warm and inviting. The name is deceiving because it’s not only seafood but fine cuts of beef and pork, too! They offer a huge wine selection on the second floor and a huge whiskey selection right at the entrance, behind a glass divider and shelving; a truly spectacular display. The food is high-quality. The menu varies, so it is written on a huge chalkboard on an inside wall. Everything is unique to the place, from the appetizers, through the magnificent main courses, to the mouth-watering desserts. Just try it, it’s intimate and exciting. The service is excellent, in accordance with the whole culinary experience. See gallery.

Whether you’re in the mood for love or just in the mood to chill and have a nice quiet evening, here you have several options. There are many more, so stay posted and check out what’s next. Enjoy!!

Photo Gallery

Vistas

Salt & Pepper

Merced

Encantos

Marisquería Jíbara