There’s a lot of travel between Puerto Rico and New York, and that Nuyorican influence is evident in the pizza on the island. Big slices with simple toppings are a mainstay, but you can also find gourmet pizza with toppings such as spinach and mushroom blend, or try something new like a pizza ring. It’s always a good time for pizza, and Puerto Rico has many from which you can choose.
Located on a hillside on Highway 100 in Cabo Rojo, Johnny’s Pizza is a lovely outdoor pizza place with a delightful family atmosphere. Nestled among mango trees, you can order at the counter and then grab a table. Climb the stairs to their newly-built deck for an even better view. Their pizza is traditional thin-crust New York-style, but they do occasionally have special flavors such as pulled pork and pineapple. Kids love the pizza ring and the garlic knots.
Papa’s is famous for their humongous pizza that covers a table for eight, and their enormous calzone named JAWS. The pizza isn’t just big, it’s delicious with a soft, chewy crust and a great sauce. Papa’s is also known for their pizza designs, using the toppings and cheese to come up with creative images including Ricky Martin or Pac-Man. Papa’s chefs have also competed in the World Pizza Games. Dine in, carry-out or have it delivered, it’s always delicious.
You can find some great pizza at food trucks around Puerto Rico, and Jorge’s Pizza in Ponce is one of the best. Located at one of the entrances to Villa del Carmen, Jorge’s is made fresh to order, or you can call ahead and pick it up. Bring a bottle of wine and a candle and make it a romantic evening at the picnic table.
When you are visiting Old San Juan and you want to try a unique pizza experience, head to Pirilo Pizza Rustica. You can get traditional pizza toppings, but for something different with a taste of Puerto Rico try the Pirilo Pizza topped with ground beef and sweet plantains. Their menu is out of this world with new combinations. If you like mushrooms, try the Mucho Mushroom that has a white wine garlic sauce instead of a traditional red sauce. Into cheese? Order the 7 Quesos: mozzarella, provolone, cheddar, muenster, manchego, swiss and ricotta. They also have restaurants in Ocean Park and Dorado.
Competidor’s Pizza in Bayamon has more than 60 different pizzas on their menu, so you can go back time and time again and never have the same thing twice. Many visitors like the Competidor’s Special, but try them all.
Enjoy breathtaking views of the mountains, specialty drinks called El Leñazo made with fresh fruits from the island and a special pizza recipe that creates a unique culinary experience. Their pizzas are cooked in a wood oven, so the crust is crisp on the outside and soft and chewy inside and has a flavor of its own that complements the rest of the dish. El Campo es Leña is only open on weekends, so take a day trip there to take a break from the hectic world.
Located on the beautiful island of Vieques, Williams is a great place to stop and grab a pizza to take to the beach, or calm the hunger after the beach while you wait for the ferry. Delicious pizza that everyone can enjoy and very reasonable prices.
Consider staying at Villa Taina in Boqueron for your next visit to Puerto Rico. Spend the day at Boqueron Beach, or travel to one of the other amazing beaches on the southwest coast of PR. Villa Taina also has a supermarket on-site, offering some of the best pizza you will find on the island. This pizza is one of the secret gems on the island that you do not want to miss.
If you are cruising around Aguadilla at night with friends, make sure you stop for pizza at Cofo’s food truck. Cofo’s sets up in the evening in a parking lot in Aguadilla, so it is perfect for those late night munchie attacks and their prices are easy on the wallet.
