There has to be a reason that people come from all over the Island to experience this amazing restaurant up in the mountains of Utuado. It might just be the history behind the location in the central region of Utuado. This restaurant was originally opened in 2022 as Pueblo Viejo 419 Gastrobar and has since shortened to PV 419 Gastrobar. It is built on the site of one of the first hydroelectric plants on the Island back in the late 1800’s. The dramatic, historic entranceway features the restored remnants of the Spanish brick walls. Maybe the reason people flock to this place could be the positive energy left behind, you never know…
An experience you’ll want to repeat
Whatever the reason you arrive, the food will definitely keep you coming back. The flavors here are a unique blend of Puerto Rican favorites with a distinctive Peruvian touch. Fresh ingredients abound and eating here is akin to taking a culinary tour of Utuado. Martiza, the delightful owner, has made it a point to source as many items as possible locally. The savory pasteles that accompany the Arroz Pueblo Viejo are made by a local grandmother just down the street. The passion fruit comes from a neighbor’s backyard and the breadfruit, malanga and plantains are from local farms.
Puerto Rican food meets South America
Your main choices will come from a menu full of all time favorites. Choose between steaks, fish, chicken and different pasta and rice dishes such as risottos that you can combine with a variety of proteins. The paella with churrasco and chorizo sausage is a favorite of many. It’s a hearty dish that is both satisfying and tasty. Portions are generous and satisfying. You can order the Peruvian Chaufa with seafood or chicken and churrasco. If you’re into hot sauce, make sure you try some of their delicious Peruvian options. Very flavorful and just the right amount of heat.
Before you even look at the menu, however, you should ask about the daily specials. These are prepared according to what’s in season and sometimes, in sync with the weather. Any rainy day may feature a delicious sancocho or hearty, traditional stew of local produce and meat.
The sweet side of PV 419 Gastrobar
Finally, at the end of your meal an awesome surprise awaits your taste buds. The desserts at PV 419 Gastrobar are simply a must. Best of all, every time you come there’s probably going to be a new creation for you to try. Suspiro Limeño de Parcha or a peruvian style mousse with a touch of passion fruit is one of the favorites. A Strawberry Tres Leches topped with Cookies and Cream ice cream is outstanding. Most regulars ask about the dessert options even before they order their entrees.
Utuado is full of spectacular destinations
Another reason could be that a visit to PV 419 Gastrobar is the delicious culmination of an experience at one of the many attractions in the area. The more popular ones include the Cañon Blanco or White Canyon. This unique, easily accessed geological formation is made up of granite boulders that have been worn over the millennia by the Caonillas River. You can swim in the many pools or just lounge on the rocks. There are even some Taíno petroglyphs etched into some of the boulders. The close by Tanamá river is considered Puerto Rico’s natural adventure park. You can take a body rafting tour and experience amazing canyons and more. The Caguana Ceremonial Park is one of the Caribbean’s most important Taíno Indian ceremonial centers and features a ball court and many carved stones.
It’s easy to fall in love with Utuado and PV 419 Gastrobar
The entire mission of PV 419 Gastrobar is to help you enjoy your time with them. If you suddenly have a craving for a particular combination on your plate, if they can make it happen consider it done. They are also very accommodating when it comes to food allergies, any dietary restrictions and will even make suggestions or create unique combinations for you. Just let them know when you order and they’ll be more than happy to please.
The staff add another dimension of enjoyment to your experience at PV 419 Gastrobar. You can tell they truly enjoy doing a good job and their smiles and willingness to please really make a difference. Martiza, the owner does a really good job of making sure everything runs smoothly and keeps the restaurant squeaky clean and well stocked.
The full bar can prepare everything form smoky Old Fashions with local rum to tasty frozen concoctions. Mojitos, Aperol Spritz and Lavender Martinis are also among their specialties.
A bit of Utuado’s history
The town of Utuado has experienced two eras of population growth. The first was a gold rush in the 17th century and the second was a black gold or coffee “rush” in the 19th century. Many families took up residence in this mountain town during these eras. Today extended families come back to visit and PV 419 has become one of their favorite destinations. On any given day you will find groups of families celebrating a birthday, baptism, anniversary and more. It makes for a very festive environment full of different generations enjoying their time together.
What to expect
If you want to celebrate life, PV 419 Gastrobar is open Thursday to Sunday for both lunch and dinner. On weekends reservations are definitely suggested although they always try to accommodate walk-ins. If the place is full there’s usually a couple of spots available at the bar. If the weather is right they offer outdoor seating and on Saturdays you might enjoy some good live music. The entrance is at the back, right off the ample parking lot.
PV 419 Gastrobar, Utuado
(939) 438-0419
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/GgSwm1cnVqgS65wm6
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PV419Gastrobar
Learn more about Utuado attractions: https://placestogopr.com/places-for-nature-and-adventure/outdoor-adventure/
