2 Best Restaurants in Vieques and Culebra, Puerto Rico

Overlooking the Caribbean in Esperanza and geared to tourists, this longtime, open-air favorite has playful rain-forest murals climbing its walls. Claim a spot at one of the curvy, teal-colored, concrete tables or under an umbrella out front, and order the red snapper sandwich (popular at lunchtime) or the jerk chicken. Salads are excellent, including the Caribbean (field greens with mango, avocado, and plantain), but be sure to save room for the namesake dish: deep-fried bananas with finger-lickin' hot honey sauce. When the sun goes down, Bananas is one of the hot spots on this side of the island.

This unassuming lunch spot is a favorite for locals. They serve classic Puerto Rican dishes from a takeout counter with generous servings at an affordable price. You can dine in or take your food to-go.