Panadería España -- Food That Feels Like Home…read more
This place was absolutely beautiful and honestly overwhelming in the best possible way. I don't even know how else to describe it. From the pastries, ceviche, sandwiches, soups, and coffee -- everything looked incredible, and I genuinely did not know what to order.
I ended up ordering almost one of every pastry. The man helping me was so kind and patient, probably thinking "this tourist is ordering the whole bakery," lol. I explained that we were on our way to El Yunque, and he even recommended items that would hold up well in the car for a few hours, which I really appreciated.
Then we ordered sandwiches and coffee -- a pastrami and a Cuban. Let me say this clearly: I LOVE a Cuban sandwich, and this was hands down the best Cuban sandwich I have ever eaten. Perfectly pressed, flavorful, fresh, and absolutely unforgettable. The coffee was delicious, fresh, and hot.
We loved it so much that we went back again the next day for empanadas, pork soup, and chicken soup. Both soups were amazing, but the chicken soup was my favorite. It came with a few pieces of bread, and honestly... we need to talk about this bread for a second. It was light and crispy on the outside, soft and almost cloud-like on the inside, and the flavor was unbelievable. The hint of butter and garlic added such a perfect touch.
And that chicken soup? It tasted like something straight out of someone's grandmother's kitchen -- comforting, homemade, and full of flavor. It felt like home in a bowl.
Oh, and yes... I got another Cuban sandwich.
If you are visiting Puerto Rico, Panadería España is a MUST. Come hungry because you are going to want everything.