El Ikokal — Restaurant in Humacao

After eight days of offshore sailing, I took the crew to this restaurant, and it was an absolute hit. While the service was incredibly slow, the food quality and price point more than made up for it. This is the kind of true local gem I love—unpretentious, welcoming, and delivering way beyond expectations.

The atmosphere was inviting, the prices were reasonable, and the food was outstanding. The grilled grouper was spot-on, with a beautifully charred exterior and a tender, flaky interior. Every dish we tried impressed, but the real standouts? The grouper nuggets and the octopus salad.

The octopus salad was nothing short of spectacular. The octopus was sliced paper-thin, incredibly tender, and perfectly balanced by a light, tangy dressing that complemented every bite. Fresh, bright, and full of flavor, it was the kind of dish that makes you stop mid-conversation just to savor it.

Another crew member ordered the whole fried grouper, and it was melt-in-your-mouth perfection. Crispy on the outside, moist and flaky inside, it was a masterclass in how to fry fish just right. Served with beans, rice, and sweet plantains, it was a complete, satisfying meal that showcased the best of local flavors.

This is a place I’d recommend without hesitation, and I’ll...

El IkoKal food choice is so good! Price is great. We were so shocked we ordered 5 different plates and it came out to $50 even with fresh seafood . Red snapper plate is a must try!!!!! The octopus (seafood mix salad) is great. it’s like ceviche but a mixer of different seafood! rice is good. They have white or the yellow! All food were very flavorable . Highly recommend. Outside dining is a good spot . One of the cook came out to help us take our order since the front cashier didn’t understand english that great. overall great customer service . I would go back for the seafood because it’s priced a...

This is a great, local spot for a delicious seafood meal. I wouldn't say that it has cheap prices, but the prices were fair and the alcohol was not over-priced. It is a very, laid-back outdoor atmosphere where you feel the relaxed atmosphere of the Caribbean. The servers were very friendly and our wait time for the food was what I would expect, but not super long. My whole , garlic-fried red snapper (chillo) was excellent and my husband definitely enjoyed his pulpo (octopus) mofongo. Don't waste your time heading down to the fancier places at Palmas Del Mar and instead enjoy this...