Deshistoria: Birra & Empanadas — Restaurant in San Juan

There were 4 types of empanadas today: beef (carne de res), chorizo, mushroom (setas), and ham&cheese. They're displayed on one of the walls next to the bar so you can easily see which ones they have each day.

The bar looks cool and lively, and it's right in Old San Juan downtown.

We ordered a beef and a chorizo, a tap beer (local) and a light coke.

The reason of my score is not so much that the food or the service were bad, but the fact that this little food costed $17.91 I am shocked because most reviews mention the good prices, but "good price" or "cheap" really depends on where you come from or how much you're willing to pay for different things.

I'm guessing that the empanadas were $6 each, the beer must have been $5 and the coke $1.50. I say guessing because the prices aren't listed anywhere. No menu, no sign, no QR code and no receipt. When I asked to pay, they just brought the payment terminal with the price.

I speak Spanish, but not from the Caribbean, so they still knew we were tourist. I don't know if they charge based on your looks, I don't want to accuse them of that. But I'm just shocked that so many people said the prices were good...

In Spain, this whole meal would have been around $7, maybe $10 in a sit down bar. I'm from Spain. Empanadas are kind of finger food/fast food/food on the go.

In NY/NJ, where I live, you can also easily find empanadas for $3-6, $6 being more at a sit down restaurant, definitely not at a bar or casual setting.

They do have a sign with prices for cocktails all-day happy hour that show most drinks for $5-6 (including piña colada), so it's also shocking that the empanadas are not priced relative to the alcoholic drinks!

TL;DR nice atmosphere, cool bar, good for getting drunk maybe, but don't come too hungry or you'll end up paying a lot of money. $18 without tip for 2 empanadas, a beer, and...

From the moment you step into Birra in the vibrant heart of San Juan, Puerto Rico, you know you're in for a treat. This bustling eatery isn't just a restaurant; it's an experience, a delightful journey through flavors and an atmosphere that captures the essence of the city.

Let's start with the star of the menu: the empanadas. Calling them 'the best' might sound like an exaggeration, but at Birra, it's a statement of fact. Each empanada is a masterpiece, perfectly crispy on the outside, with a filling that’s rich, flavorful, and soul-satisfying. Whether you're a fan of traditional fillings or looking for something a bit more adventurous, Birra has an empanada to tantalize your taste buds.

But Birra isn't just about the food. It's about the environment. There's an energy here that's hard to define but impossible to miss. The atmosphere is vibrant and welcoming, making it the perfect backdrop for everything from a casual meal out with friends to a special celebration. The staff contributes to this ambiance, with service that’s as warm as the Puerto Rican sun.

Located in the heart of San Juan, Birra captures the spirit of Puerto Rico in every aspect. It's a place where memories are made and where you’ll find locals and tourists alike soaking in the lively atmosphere. Whether you're visiting San Juan or a resident, Birra is a must-visit spot.

In conclusion, Birra is more than just a restaurant; it's a cornerstone of the culinary scene in San Juan, a place where every meal feels like a celebration. If you're looking to capture the essence of Puerto Rico's vibrant culture and cuisine, make your way to Birra. Trust me, you'll be planning your next visit before you even finish...

Absolutely amazing. We figured we'd chosen the right place when folks who were clearly both local and regulars kept stopping in on their way to & from work. It's a small, hole-in-the-wall style place which sometimes has a bit of a wait depending on available seating and what happens to be in or out of the oven, but absolutely worth it. Lots of charm, both from the place itself and the fella running things. We tried the full variety of empanadas, but the veggie was my favorite. It was such a rich, delicious flavor with a perfectly light crispy outside and soft middle. The beer I was recommended was tasty and refreshing, and my friends raved about some of the cocktails and managed to beg a loose recipe off the bartender (though some are made with extremely specific local ingredients that will be impossible to re-create perfectly). Stop in if you can, enjoy every moment, and then get up and continue your day in this lovely city so the seats free up for the next group of hungry...