The Market Square in Santurce is a slice of typical Puerto Rico. Located across the Baldorioty de Castro highway (on the other side of Condado) on Dos Hermanos and Capitol streets in the blue-collar neighborhood of San Juan, Santurce Market is a picturesque plaza with a colorful central building in front of sculptures. avocado giants. Inside there is a traditional market where, during the day, you can find fruits, vegetables, herbs and other local products. Around the market, local inns or restaurants, and bars line the square.
From Thursday to Sunday, La Placita transforms into a busy, lively and boisterous street party.
Why should you go
If you want to experience the flavor and atmosphere of Puerto Rico, the Plaza is as authentic a destination as I can recommend. During the day, come and see the products at the local stalls, try a fresh smoothie or fruit juice, or dine in one of the small restaurants that serve Creole food .
And if you want to hang out with the locals at night, you’ll find plenty of them at La Placita; so many, in fact, that parking here is nearly impossible on weekends, and you’ll want to come and go by taxi. Cheap drinks, loud music, and a friendly social atmosphere make this a fun place to relax and mingle.
Where to go in the Market Square:
There are many decent places to eat, drink and sail in La Placita. These are some of my favorites:
- El Coco de Luis , located on Dos Hermanos and Capitol streets. This small restaurant serves inexpensive meals and its specialty whiskey and coconut water cocktail.
- Tasca el Pescador is located right in front of the main building on Calle Dos Hermanos. You can’t miss the neon sign or the bright green building; This is probably the best place in La Placita for tasty fresh seafood.
- José Enrique is hidden inside an indescribable house on a quiet corner of Duffaut Street, one block from the main square. This small place, just for dinner, is revered by the locals for its delicious local food that is much more creative and exclusive than you might imagine.
- Fat Tuesday , on Dos Hermanos street, in front of the main building in the square, anchors the night scene in La Placita from Wednesday to Sunday. Come for the DJs and the daiquiris.
