Tropical Restaurant, San Juan

My husband and I dined at Tropical, which is located across the street from the Marriott Hotel on Ashford Avenue in Condado. We had an excellent dinner. The restaurant serves Puerto Rican and Cuban dishes. I had the pork tenderloin with congri (black beans an rice), and yuca (a root vegetable). My husband had a skirt steak, also very good. Prices were very reasonable. The place has a lively atmosphere and service was very good.

Food was fine, place was clean, and drinks were acceptable, BUT THE VIEW IS OUTSTANDING. Ask for a table in back. The ocean runs into a pristine tide pool just outside the windows. You're dining just a few feet from the best the Puerto Rican shores can offer.

Favorite Dish: Hacienda doesn't look like much of a restaurant, and the food/drink is nothing to write home about. Enjoy a "Barcardi Beach" or Mojito while you take in the ocean breezes. Ask for the chips and salsa (VERY SPICY AND DELICIOUS!). Stick with light fare on the Mexican or Puerto Rican side of the menu.

Typical Cuban fare, tasty meat dishes and yummy black beans and rice, and ice cold beer and pina coladas, served in a casual, tropical style restaurant. Friendly staff.

Favorite Dish: Smoked chicken, delicious, succulent, smoky flavor served with black beans and rice and fried plantains. It is a great combination of savory and sweet!