Al Dente, San Juan Antiguo

Al Dente is a small Italian restaurant in Old San Juan. You walk in and there's a beautiful bar on the left with small overhead lighting. Walking in, there is a table displaying desserts and such. The place is small and quaint. Sofa seating against the wall with table and chairs on the outside. Appetizers are large and can be shared. We had fishballs which were delicious with a dipping sauce, risotto with seafood made perfectly and spinach rice balls which were also great. We ordered t different Homemade pastas which were to die for. We now know the portions are huge and can be shared -- even the pasta dinners. We took ours back to the Ritz and they heated for us the next day. Staff are efficient and courteous. We were on a tour that day and someone referred us and we mentioned their name to get a free glass of wine.

Upon entering Al dente you realize it's going to be a one of a kind dining experience. We were in town for a long weekend we made friends with the staff and the local clients. Highlight was the food. Your taste buds will be in for a treat.

We were in puerto rico for five nights. This was by far the best!!! restaurant that we had eaten at. The spinach rolls for an appetizer is wonderful. There desserts are out of this world. The owner was very kind and gracious. He spent alot of time going over the menu and just hanging out with us. We feel as though we made a friend in Old San Juan. We will be back!

Me and my wife have been there many times each visit to San Juan. Regardless of what we choose it's always perfect. Great food, great wine, great service and great atmosphere. Include "Al Dente" on your list of sites and things to do, my wife and I always do. Don't leave without a bite of their deserts, a perfect ending to a perfect meal.

The food is great. Great value ....the staff is a 5 star and yet confortable . The personal involvemet of the italian owner is what makes the difference. It is a most stop.

Exquisite pasta and wines. Don't miss the cheesecakes! Relaxing ambiance and great service. No wonder it's the oldest Italian Restaurant in Old San Juan, you must try it!

Food is average at best. My sons chicken was served raw in the middle and he was not properly served until well after the three of us were done eating. No apology, explanation or concession granted. No visit by chef and waiter was not personable. There is no doubt that we will not make a return visit.

The owner was a GREAT guy - he hung out with us, recommended the BEST menu items (what we should get at his restaurant and what we could get at any Italian joint). He's owned this restaurant for 15 years (if I recall correctly), which in a touristy place like PR is quite an accomplishment. His waitstaff was responsive and fast, but we hung out for a good 2-3 hours and never felt rushed. Their sangria was fantastic and seemed to get progressively stronger as the night went on. :) The garlic bread was stellar; their appetizers were all fantastic (and we had 4 or 5 of them)...good luck saving room for dinner. I'd recommend this place in a second.

The food was outstanding and owner was very gracious in recommending items from the menu. Artwork (by the owner's wife) added to the great ambiance of the restaurant.

Loved the food, loved the owner and the Mojitos were amazing! Thanks for the hospitality.