When you’re on vacation Mondays are no longer the dreaded beginning of the weekly 9 to 5 drudgery. So to add some spice into the kick off day, we’ve put together a list of fun, musical things to do every “lunes” in Puerto Rico. A lot of restaurants and other venues close on the early days of the week but the ones we list here make the most of Monday night and create unique experiences that differ from their usual offerings.
Big Band Mondays- Metropol Restaurant, Isla Verde
Imagine dinning just steps away from a 17 piece Big Band directed by a Grammy winning music virtuoso. One after one, jazz classics and latin jazz tunes fill the small dinning room while enthusiasts soak up the solos and the expertly directed band. Humberto Ramírez, one of Puerto Rico’s most talented musicians, producers and arrangers has led his band almost every Monday night since 2008. This experience is highly sought after and reservations are essential. A bit of planning is also involved since you have to call at least three weeks ahead to make sure you get a seat. 787-791-4046 There’s no cover charge, just a $35 per person minimum consumption.
Bomba and Plena- La Terraza de Bonanza- Av. Eduardo Conde, Santurce
If you’re into live afro-latin music, this is your Monday night paradise. An open air restaurant with inexpensive drinks, local food favorites and a street hangout in Santurce. This is an authentic very local environment that attracts an international crowd. Get ready to dance to the contagious beats in front of the band or even out on the street. The bands usually begin around 8pm with a couple of sets through the night. Fun place and fun people.
Salsa Mondays at El Shingaling at La Factoria- Old San Juan
Around 10pm on Monday night the band starts up, the dancers gather and salsa music takes over. La 51, the house band founded by the late great Roberto Roena and Tempo Alomar keeps the music going as locals and visitors imbibe the legendary cocktails at one of the Top 50 bars in the world. As an added bonus you can visit the other rooms, each with their own vibe and unique music. A 3 for 1 special! Sundays are also salsa nights just in case you need a double dose.
