Cost: $$$
Description: Flor de Sal is a brand new, salt-embracing dining experience located beachfront in Dorado Beach, Puerto Rico. This open air restaurant sits on the water’s edge where the sounds of the waves and soft music set the tone for a fantastic evening ahead. I even caught a lightning storm one evening, but don’t worry, the restaurant has covering for the elements. Only open for dinner, the sunset is not to be missed at this casual, yet refined Italian-inspired restaurant. Every dish is kissed with the perfect salt (both in amount and type) to enhance the flavor – some dishes are even served on a salt block!
Deals: There are not any true “deals” here at Flor de Sal, but you are greeted with an amuse bouche to kick off an evening of amazing food, and the bread plate is so yummy (flatbread and a baguette served with balsamic, EVOO, and salt). The bread presentation was the best I have had in a very long time!
Tips & Hacks: Go with a friend and share everything! I went to Flor de Sal twice while I was in Puerto Rico and once I went by myself and once I went with a friend. Don’t get me wrong – going by myself was still a wonderful experience. I sat at the bar and was able to ask about every single thing going past me. But when I went with my friend, we were able to taste a lot more!
Dining: The menu incorporates locally sourced seasonal produce, fish, and meats. A really nice thing about their menu is they identify all allergens (including eggs, shellfish, dairy, soybeans, pork), gluten free options, and whether an item is vegetarian or vegan. They have a lovely mix of lighter items and heavy hitters to please all tastes, as well as a kid’s menu. Their cocktail and wine list is also extensive and highlights the local distilleries, but also has the classics as well.
Don’t Miss: It is hard to choose just one thing to say, “don’t miss,” but the meatball was truly out of this world. Slow cooked veal and pork meatballs with San Marzano Pomodoro DOP, Polenta with Parmigiano Reggiano DOP di Emilia, and Ricotta Pepato - a perfect mix of flavors.
If veggies are more your style, the Agnolotti Di Porcini Al Tartufo was decadent and just as hearty as a meat-based entrée. Perfect purses of umami with Wild Forest Mushrooms, Brown Butter, Sage, Toasted Pine Nuts, Porcini Au Jus, and Black Truffle.
Skip It: I love a good pasta, but the Ravioli Al Quattro Formaggi was just a little too rich for my taste. It has Parmigiano Reggiano DOP di Emilia, Pecorino Toscano DOP, Fondutta di Gorgonzola Dolce, Heirloom Baby Tomato Confit, Basil Oil, and Parmesan Dust and it was a lot to take in. My friend and I split the dish, and we were so glad we did. If you like super creamy, rich pastas, though, it will be right up your alley.