Fodor's Expert Review Gallo Negro

Chef María Mercedes's menu has wide-ranging international influences—from Spain to Turkey to Korea—and includes small plates with flavors that can be difficult to find in San Juan. The menu changes frequently, but you will always find signature dishes like her Korean barbecue with daikon and kimchi, or duck breast in a ginger-and-acerola glaze on a bed of mushroom risotto. You are as likely to find Vietnamese pho or tonkotsu ramen as the popular list of tacos served every Tuesday. On weekdays, lunch consists of comida criolla favorites inspired by Chef Maria's mother. The small space is reminiscent of something you might find in Brooklyn. Besides great food, Gallo Negro offers more than 60 whiskeys at their bar; enjoy them neat or in a creative cocktail. (The area is not very welcoming at night, so opt for a taxi—about a five-minute ride from Condado.) They serve one of the best Sunday brunches in San Juan.