Mamacita's

Description:

• It is highly likely that this dive will become your hangout during your stay on Culebra. You can even room here, but it's noisy at night, especially on Saturday when the conga drummers rattle the joint. The island food is good and affordable, enough so to attract expats, locals, and visitors.

  Lunch fare is simple, mostly rice and beans type fare, but at night the menu improves considerably, especially if you opt for the locally caught and perfectly grilled seafood. The steaks, although imported, are also a good choice if you've got a large appetite. The house drink special is an Iguana Colada. After you've consumed it, you can always ask what's in it.

  If you like to stay up late, you can ask to rent one of the simply furnished bedrooms, 10 in all, each with a private bathroom with shower. Rooms are colorfully decorated, the older units with murals. Two are suites with kitchenettes, but our favorite is the Crow's Nest on the top floor, opening onto a panoramic view. Rates are $89 double, or $105 to $125 suite.

• © Frommer's 2012

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Recommended 2010