Carl’s

I’m giving this place 5 stars solely based on the quality of it’s mojitos. My girlfriend and I trapsed around old San Juan and the Condado looking for the best mojito. We probably tried about 20 different places over a 3 day period, and Carl’s mojito was the best of the bunch. This dark green concoction was perfectly made. The bartender took great care in muddling and pouring. I would recommend you stop in and sit at the bar for at least one drink. We were there early before the live Jazz (Piano and Bass) came on and we did not eat, so I can’t honestly comment on that. But the Mojito… out of this world. Enjoy.

Service was horrible. No hostess so you have to grab the attention of a waiter. Bartender was helping to serve because they were so shortstaffed and almost poured regular water on our sparkling water. Had to request a menu twice. Waiter was constantly answering the phone and playing hostess while pouring our wine. Very annoying place. Music was mediocre and patrons were standing around waiting for a table while the OWNER himself was leisurely taking up one of the tables and occassionally getting up to serve himself instead of attending to his guests. Food portions are very small. You may leave hungry after spending $ 200. Stay away. Another OSJ cruise tourist trap.

We came here for drinks on the front patio and had a few appetizers, not full dinner. THe service is very friendly, great English skills.
The mojitos are HANDS DOWN the BEST we had in Puerto Rico! The bartender knows his stuff. just enough ice to keep it cold, but not water it down. mint that was muddles to perfection, and good and stiff, but still very drinkable.
We had the plantain encrusted calamari with a secret dark sauce. It was divine. Its unlike most calamari, in that its a maybe 5 or 6 large rings, breaded in plantain crumbs and fried to perfect. They come out crisp and full of flavor.
We also tried the empanadas dish, although it is called something else but the name escapes me right now. It was an assortment of several kinds of empanadas. All were delicious and come with a sauce for dipping.
I would definitely recommend Carl’s, I believe they also have live jazz music on certain nights. But the front patio seating area is perfect for people watching and enjoying beautiful Puerto Rico.

Stopped by before heading back to the tourist area of San Juan.
The coke I ordered came quickly enough, but it was very diluted and not carbonated at all. The latte at another table definitely looked a lot better.
Good outdoor seating.