More than 500 years of complex history shines through in Puerto Rico’s cuisine — a dynamic mix of Spanish, African and Indigenous culinary traditions. Many of Puerto Rico’s most famous dishes focus on hearty starches, like plantain and yuca, infused with the herby flavours of the island’s favourite condiment, sofrito. Restaurants across the historic capital, San Juan, give a fine-dining twist to classic dishes such as tostones (fried green plantains) and sorrullos (corn fritters). On the coast, no-frills kiosks churn out crispy arepas and spiced alcapurrias fritters. And although it’s tempting to fly in and flop on Puerto Rico’s numerous beaches, you’d be missing much of the island’s raw beauty — it’s well worth winding your way up into the mountainous centre, where you’ll find traditional haciendas growing and serving impeccable coffee.