Iconic Puerto Rican Hotel Re-Opens, Debuts Swanky New Dining Option

 

juan jose cuevas
Chef Juan Jose Cuevas

Beginning October 16, the Condado Vanderbilt Hotel, will welcome clients to experience the legendary hotel’s dining, lounge and banquet facilities, helmed by Michelin-starred Executive Chef, Juan Jose Cuevas.

Built in 1919 by Frederick William Vanderbilt, the Condado Vanderbilt’s lavishness attracted royalty, heads of state, Hollywood stars and industry icons to the hotel’s dramatic perch on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean for almost half a century.

Nearly two decades since the hotel shuttered, the first phase of the Condado Vanderbilt, a historical Grande Dame hotel, reopens on Ashford Avenue following an extensive restoration.

Condado Vanderbilt’s fine dining restaurant, 1919, features a farm and ocean-to-table focus with a menu which emphasizes fish, shellfish and locally produced vegetables.

The chef is working with local farmers and foragers throughout the island to supply fruits, vegetables, wild greens, poultry, meats, etc. to the hotel. The restaurant’s design focuses on one expansive glass wall, which seemingly separates the dining room from the Atlantic Ocean.

Three large center chandeliers created with cascading mother of pearl discs are a focal point of the restaurant, which offers an intimate dining experience achieved by ample space between tables and artful lighting. While the design is contemporary in concept, designer Jorge Rossello, includes the use of various traditional elements such as richly upholstered tall wing chairs and backed benches, beveled mirrors and rich woods.

In addition to the restaurant, clients will enjoy Blu, a casual bistro; Vino Veritas Wine Bar; Marabar, Martini Bar & Lounge with ocean views and Fumidor, a cigar lounge. The hotel features extensive event and banquet facilities encompassing 30,000 square feet.

The second phase of the Condado Vanderbilt Hotel, which includes 323 guest rooms, will open in 2013. The hotel will offer clients a luxurious environment in an exclusive setting, filled with history and the nostalgia of past eras when the hotel was the social epicenter of San Juan.

Visit www.condadovanderbilt.com