Where coastal San Juan's self-proclaimed aristocracy likes to chow down
By A Yahoo! Contributor, 12/21/08
Kasalta has morphed into a very unpleasant culinary experience over the short span of a few years. It's fine to get an overpriced coffee and pastry and while away the hours rubbing elbows with San Juan's self-proclaimed aristocracy, but anything more substantial purchased here will really nail your pocketbook. Despite rough economic times, the management has taken a reverse approach that attempts to cash in on local snob appeal. A quick glance at the deli counter is revealing enough. Unimpressive health slaw, potato and elbow macaroni salads all cost an alarming $15 a lb, thus vying for the universe's highest prices for these items. The cheese counter offers interesting and uninteresting imports at $20 to $40 a lb. Sandwich prices have doubled in the space of one year. High-end meals inflected with the owners' Galician influences will run you about $50 per person. Service is generally surly unless you are an attractive female, a well-heeled regular or sport a Lacoste shirt with erect collar, in which case you will be greeted as "socio" (partner). For a more authentic meal try Café Aniska two blocks away, or the Venezuelan Kasabe Café four blocks away on Calle LoÃza.