First, the weather was overcast with a possibility of showers that never materialized, justifying our definition not to lug an umbrella along.
Second, our guide, Lorna of “The Spoon Experience,” was energetic, easy to understand and helpful in guiding our group of ten Marina passengers around the cobbled streets and hilly sidewalks.
The actual food at our four stops wasn’t very exciting, but the servings were generous.
Our plate here consisted of mildly spiced pot-roast-like beef and a scoop of rice.
We were also served Pina Coladas, which Lorna told us were invented in San Juan.
We admired the multicolored buildings in the neighborhood, and were only a little surprised to learn there are strict regulations in place to govern what colors the owners may paint their homes and other buildings.
Our second restaurant featured empanadas and another rum drink named after the indigenous Taino people.
We checked out various plazas and viewpoints in between restaurants.
Our penultimate stop was supposedly the oldest restaurant in the Americas, which a quick internet search revealed was a dubious claim. Still, it’s definitely been in business for awhile and we’ll concede it’s the oldest restaurant in Puerto Rico, founded in 1848.
We tried another appetizer and another rum drink, neither of which did a lot for us.
Our final stop was basically a Gelato stand, whose owner featured Espresso poured over a choice of Gelato. Cold and tasty, if not particularly Puerto Rican.
After that it was back to Marina just in time, as the sun came out from behind the clouds.
Don’t get us wrong. It was a pleasant outing with a friendly and knowledgeable guide, but it didn’t reveal any memorable new dishes.
Last night we managed to return for dinner at Red Ginger. Now that was memorable. Our shared appetizer plate was the envy of the table.
The Duck-Watermelon Salad was even better than the first night’s version. More duck? More watermelon? Yes!
The mains, everything from Lobster Pad Thai to lightly battered Dover Sole Tempura, were terrific.
Most of us found room for dessert including one of Brian’s favorites, Japanese Togarashi, a soft ice cream topped with chili salt.
Two more sea days and nights before we dock in Miami and return to reality.
2 comments:
Looks delicious!! Your weather is also way better than mine!
It was mixed but never cold.
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