All-inclusive Resorts Puerto Rico Food and Drinks

🌴 All-Inclusive Resorts Puerto Rico Food and Drinks: My Honest Experience

I’ll admit it the first time I booked an all-inclusive resort in Puerto Rico, I had one thing on my mind: food. Okay, maybe two food and drinks. I mean, if you're going to splurge on a tropical getaway, the least you expect is unlimited mojitos and meals that don’t taste like microwaved mystery meat, right?

Well, what I found surprised me in both good and not-so-great ways. So if you're wondering whether Puerto Rico’s all-inclusive resorts live up to the hype when it comes to dining, this is my no-fluff, first-hand account of exactly that.

🥘 So… Is the Food at All-Inclusive Resorts in Puerto Rico Actually Good?

Short answer? Mostly yes with a few caveats.

I stayed at two different resorts: Wyndham Grand Rio Mar and Copamarina Beach Resort. Each had a distinct vibe, but both were labeled “all-inclusive” in some way.

🍽️ Here’s what I noticed about the food:

• Variety is solid, but not gourmet.

• Local Puerto Rican dishes like mofongo, arroz con gandules, and lechón show up on the menu which I loved!

• Buffets are common, especially for breakfast and lunch.

• Dinner often had more elevated options, sometimes requiring reservations.

There was this one night I had red snapper with garlic butter and plantains that seriously made me pause mid-bite. It was that good. But then again, there were mornings where the scrambled eggs felt… suspiciously rubbery. 😅

My Takeaway: If you're a hardcore foodie looking for a Michelin experience, this isn't it. But if you want flavorful, satisfying meals with a tropical twist, you’re in luck.

🍹 Unlimited Drinks? Let’s Talk Cocktails, Coffee & Coconut Water

Okay, now let’s get to what really matters on vacation the drinks.

Most all-inclusive Puerto Rican resorts offer a basic open bar, and it usually includes:

• Local rum (and trust me, Puerto Rican rum is elite)

• Piña coladas 🍍🥥 (they claim it was invented here!)

• Beer and wine

• House cocktails (mojitos, daiquiris, rum punch, etc.)

But here’s where it gets tricky:
Some drinks are included, but premium brands often cost extra. So while your Bacardí and Don Q are flowing freely, that fancy bottle of Johnnie Walker Blue? Not so much.

Also worth noting:

• Coconut water straight from the source? Available at beach bars and honestly so refreshing.

• Coffee is everywhere, and it’s GOOD. Puerto Rico has a legit coffee culture so grab a café con leche any chance you get.

What I Learned: The drink options are more than enough for most people. Just don’t expect a full craft cocktail bar unless you’re in a premium suite.

🍍 What’s the All-Inclusive Food Schedule Like? Can You Snack All Day?

One of my biggest concerns was: Will I ever go hungry? (Spoiler: I didn’t.)

Here’s the usual food schedule I experienced at both resorts:

• Breakfast: 7:00 AM – 10:30 AM (Buffet or à la carte)

• Lunch: 12:00 PM – 2:30 PM (Casual dining, poolside grills)

• Dinner: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Multiple venues, some reservation-only)

• Snacks: Available mid-day at beach shacks or lobby cafés

Oh, and room service was included at one resort but not the other. Pro tip: always check what’s included in your version of “all-inclusive.”

And yes, there was late-night pizza, and I don’t regret it.

💸 Is It Really Worth It to Go All-Inclusive Just for the Food and Drinks?

If you’re doing the math, let’s break it down:

• Average cocktail: $10–$14

• Average entrée at a resort: $25–$40

• Snacks, water bottles, coffee? They add up fast

So, if you plan on eating three full meals a day, sipping cocktails by the pool, and grabbing snacks without worry, then yes going all-inclusive saves money.

But if you're more of a “light breakfast and explore local eateries” kinda traveler? Maybe not.

My Tip: I used the resort meals for convenience and then ventured out a couple of nights for some legit street food. Best of both worlds.

🤔 What Surprised Me Most About the Food and Drink Scene?

I’ll be real I didn’t expect to enjoy the local dishes as much as I did. A lot of all-inclusive resorts in other countries water things down to suit tourists’ palates.

But here? I had:

• Empanadillas filled with crab meat

• A spicy chicken pastelón (kind of like a Puerto Rican lasagna)

• And even a coquito-flavored dessert during the holiday season pure heaven 🥥🎄

Also, shoutout to the bartender who taught me how to say "cheers" in Spanish “¡Salud!” He even let me mix my own piña colada. That moment alone made the trip memorable.

📍 Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Puerto Rico for Food & Drinks (From My Stay + Research)

If food and drinks are high on your priority list, here are my personal picks:

1. Wyndham Grand Rio Mar

• ✅ Massive breakfast buffet
• ✅ Beachfront cocktails
• ✅ Several dining options (Italian, steakhouse, Puerto Rican)

2. Copamarina Beach Resort

• ✅ Farm-to-table vibes
• ✅ Strong focus on local cuisine
• ✅ Smaller, more intimate atmosphere

3. Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve

• ✅ Modern and upscale
• ✅ Swim-up bar & mojito station
• ✅ Multiple specialty restaurants (but some aren't included watch for that!)

🧳 Should You Book It?

If you’re still on the fence, here’s my honest take:
If you want the freedom to eat and drink without constantly pulling out your wallet, go for it. Especially in Puerto Rico, where the local flavors are delicious and the hospitality is warm.

But just keep your expectations realistic. Not every meal will blow your mind. Some dishes may be a little underwhelming. That’s okay it’s part of the adventure.

I really think you should try it at least once. Go all-inclusive, sip that piña colada by the ocean, and just enjoy the moment.

✨ Final Thoughts: My Takeaway

Would I do it again? Absolutely.
Would I plan every meal around the resort? Nope.
But as someone who values convenience, culture, and cocktails, Puerto Rico’s all-inclusive resorts offered exactly what I needed a relaxing, flavorful escape.

Next time, I’m bringing my stretchy pants.

✅ Based on personal experience and research. Always check your resort’s latest dining inclusions, menus, and policies. Availability may vary by season.

FAQ About All-Inclusive Resorts Puerto Rico Food and Drinks

1. Are there true all-inclusive resorts in Puerto Rico?

Puerto Rico doesn’t have traditional all-inclusive resorts like those in Mexico or the Dominican Republic. However, many resorts offer optional meal and drink packages that provide a similar experience, including buffet meals, à la carte dining, and open bars.

2. What types of food are included in Puerto Rico’s resort packages?

Guests can enjoy international buffets, Puerto Rican specialties, seafood grills, sushi bars, and Mediterranean cuisine. Resorts like Wyndham Grand Rio Mar and St. Regis Bahia Beach offer diverse menus across multiple restaurants.

3. Are alcoholic beverages included in all-inclusive packages?

Yes, most packages include unlimited cocktails, beer, wine, and non-alcoholic drinks. Premium liquors may require an extra charge. Poolside bars, beach bars, and lobby lounges are common features.

4. Do Puerto Rico resorts accommodate dietary restrictions?

Many resorts offer gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options. Guests can request special meals or accommodations in advance. Room service menus may also include lighter or allergen-friendly choices.

5. What’s a popular local dining spot near Puerto Rico resorts?

Roka Dura in Orocovis is a well-known restaurant offering grilled meats, local wines, and mountain views. It’s a great off-resort option for authentic Puerto Rican flavors.