Puerto Rico is on the global culinary stage. Sottovento Ristorante has earned two nominations at the 2026 World Culinary Awards, recognizing its fine dining experience and commitment to culinary excellence.
SAN JUAN — Sottovento Ristorante, located at the Royal Sonesta San Juan in Isla Verde, has been nominated in two categories at the 2026 World Culinary Awards, earning international recognition for its culinary excellence.
The restaurant will compete for Caribbean’s Best Fine Dining Hotel Restaurant 2026 and Puerto Rico’s Best Hotel Restaurant 2026, placing the Puerto Rican-led concept among the region’s top hotel dining destinations.
Sottovento is led by local entrepreneurs Juan Lastra, Ramón Díaz, Carlos Beltrán and Alfonzo Fontánez, whose vision combines contemporary Italian cuisine with locally sourced ingredients, curated wines and signature cocktails.
Over the past year, the restaurant has expanded its culinary profile through collaborations with internationally recognized chefs and mixologists. Among its standout events was a special dinner featuring Chef Carlos Gaytán, the first Mexican chef to earn a Michelin star.
The World Culinary Awards recognize excellence across the global gastronomy, hospitality and tourism industries. Winners are selected through a combination of public voting and votes from hospitality and culinary professionals.
