El Barril de la Mulata — Restaurant in Ponce

First, this is a very popular place. When you first walk in, there will be a line (possibly extending into the dining area). You are in the right place. Hop into the line and look at the menu above the drink fridge. When it's your turn to order, don't feel pressure. The server will kindly answer questions and give the generic recommendation that everything is good here. It is, so don't worry too much about what you get. Pay and find a seat if you can.

The food is prepared fresh and delivered relatively fast. Highly recommend for small groups (less than 6).

The only drawback to our visit it that the restaurant is dim but the windows are bright so there was a harsh contrast trying to look at half the table. Otherwise, the shipping/Caribbean theme fits the relaxed and...

So good, so authentic and cheap! We stopped for lunch and knew we made a good choice as we watched a dozen people order in the minutes we were trying to make out the menu. The cashier was kind enough to explain the menu to us and make recommendations.

For $5 each, we each received an entree (carne mechada or fried chicken -more like mainland rotisserie, but still delicious) with a service of vegetable rice and plantains (tostones or seared). Added a can of soda for $1. Best $6 lunch ever.

Food was great and servings were large enough...

Lunch here was our best dining experience in Ponce. My Spanish is limited and the staff was very patient in helping me understand the menu. For travelers: expect a menu that changes daily, and order and pay at the counter. We were blown away by the prices. There were none listed, so we didn't know what to expect. Our lunch for two with generous portions was only $13! We will absolutely return if ever in...