San Juan’s vibrant food and drink scene just keeps getting better, and the latest proof is La Identidad, a bar that’s only six months old and already making waves. Nestled in Calle Cerra, a hub for innovative dining, La Identidad has quickly gained a reputation for its spectacular cocktails, creative menu, and welcoming atmosphere. It’s even been nominated for a James Beard Award, a huge accomplishment for such a young establishment.

La Identidad stands out for its meticulously crafted drinks. Their cocktail menu doesn’t just list ingredients; it tells a story. Each description helps you choose the perfect drink, and every sip confirms the care and creativity behind their concoctions.

I started with the Mi Ultima Palabra, a bold and creative cocktail with mezcal, lime, genepy, grapefruit, and topped off with a habanero and Tajin lollipop. This one drink is a showstopper! It reminded me of a spicy margarita but with a sophisticated twist. The lollipop added a fun, interactive element, balancing sweet, smoky, and spicy notes beautifully. This was a perfect way to kick off the night. 

Next up was the Juniper Paradise, a delightful blend of gin, pineapple, basil, vanilla, cardamom, and a basil air topper. This light, floral, and refreshingly unique cocktail felt like a walk through a summer garden.

Great cocktails deserve great food, and La Identidad does not disappoint. Their menu is playful, bold, and incredibly well-executed. So of course, we couldn’t leave without trying a few of the options. We started with the Crocantes de Atun. This dish was so good that I had to order more! A mix of tuna, spicy mayo, sweet plantain, and chives, served over a crispy sticky rice cake. The textures and flavors were incredible making this dish a must-try.

Next we tried the Crujiente de Portobello. This dish completely surprised me, and I fell in love with it. A massive, crunchy, breaded portobello mushroom, served over a salad of strawberries, gorgonzola, and walnuts, finished with a balsamic vinegar and lemon dressing. The balance between the earthy mushroom, sweet fruit, tangy cheese, and nutty crunch was unexpected and absolutely delicious.

Our final dish of the night was the Rellenitos de Butifarra but unfortunately these were my least favorite. The sweet potato and potato balls stuffed with pork sausage, tomato, and piquillo aioli sounded great on paper, but the ratio of stuffing to potato felt off. They were good, but not as impressive as the other dishes.

What truly sets La Identidad apart is its atmosphere. Owners Edrick Colón and Stephen Alonso have crafted a space that exudes warmth and energy. Whether you’re popping in for a quick drink or planning a night of cocktails and bites, you’ll feel right at home. La Identidad is a fantastic addition to Calle Cerra. If you’re in San Juan and want to experience a place that celebrates flavors, creativity, and hospitality, La Identidad is a must-visit.