Food Network Experiences Puerto Rico On $40 A Day.

Rachael Ray, star of the Food Network’s hit show, “$40 a Day”, found herself immersed in authentic Latin culture and cuisine in a recent episode filmed on the U.S. tropical island of Puerto Rico.

Puerto Rico provided the backdrop for an episode full of culinary exploration. Surrounded by centuries-old buildings and fortresses, Rachael strolled through the cobble-stoned streets of Old San Juan in search of great food while aiming to prove it is possible to enjoy gourmet food on a budget.

Rachael’s day brought her to some of Puerto Rico’s best restaurants and most popular attractions. For breakfast, Rachael visited La Bombonera (259 Calle San Francisco, Old San Juan; Tel: 787-722-0658), which has offered exceptional homemade pastries, sandwiches and Puerto Rican coffee since 1902. After breakfast, Rachael visited Castillo de San Felipe del Morro, or “El Morro” Fortress. From this site, strategically built on the San Juan Bay in 1539, soldiers fought-off attacks by both the English and the Dutch and kept the colonial powers from capturing the island.

For lunch, Rachael received a tip from a local resident who directed her to a place that serves generous portions of authentic Puerto Rican food perfect for her budget. Once she arrived at La Casita Blanca (351 Tapia Street, Villa Palmeras, San Juan; Tel: 787-726-5501), or little white house, she admired the quaint setting and friendly service while dining on lunch. Shortly after lunch, Rachael visited the Bacardi Rum distillery (http://www.Bacardi.com; Tel: 787-788-8400), where she toured the facility, learned the rum making process and enjoyed a flavorful rum drink at the Cuban bar.

For dinner, Rachael visited Aguaviva (364 Calle La Fortaleza, Old San Juan; Tel: 787-722-0665), voted one of the 75 best new restaurants in the world in 2003 by Conde Nast Traveler. She admired the hip restaurant design, decor and open kitchen while enjoying great seafood with a Latino-Caribbean flair.