Culinary U became popular during the pandemic when they offered virtual cooking classes with professional chefs like Javier Pacheco, Raul Correa, and more. They'd deliver the kits to your residence and you'd follow along live on Facebook. Since the pandemic they opened up a brick and mortar in Santurce, across from the Metro Cinemas and walking distance from La Placita de Santurce. In addition to being a restaurant they also have a small market on site where they sell gourmet items and meats.
We came here to celebrate my sister in law's birthday. It coincided with an industry party. The lights were dimmed, a DJ pass spinnning, and most of the tables had been removed. So we didn't get a full dining experience. Still, we had fun. They some pretty good beer choices in the fridge and a nice wine cellar, but I decided to get some cocktails. The Smoked Old Fashioned was very solid, although not very smokey. The Billonario and Del Campo were cool and refreshing and the Parchita was nice and sweet. The bartenders know what they're doing.
As for food, a friend had recommended the dumplings. He was not wrong. They were the best thing we ate. That said, the pork belly bao buns and salmon dish were also top notch. I'm definitely coming back for more.
The building has a parking garage. read more