Visit La Factoria in Old San Juan for Mindblowing Cocktails

After strolling around Old San Juan in search of a bar that sparked our interest, we arrived at La Factoria.

La Factoria looks like any hole in the wall bar from the outside, but don’t be fooled. Once we arrived, I was served one of the best cocktails (dare I say THE best) I’ve ever had.

The bar has different themes, it’s a string of four sections divided by different doors, each with their own atmosphere and their own menu. The decor is interestingly funky. The first bar we walked in was the craft cocktail bar with a renovated garage feel. You can order one of the specialty cocktails listed on the chalkboard. This is the first time I had tasted a Mule (Get Lucky Mule) in my life, and for a while I actually thought they were a Puerto Rican drink. I also recommend the lavender cocktail (Lavender Mule) heavily. I have never had my mind so blown by a drink in my life.

Through the next set of doors was a wine bar. This room was much darker, smaller and more personal, with a speakeasy feel to it. The third room is dark with high top tables and candles, and is reserved for those who also plan to eat. The furthest room housed a DJ and a dance floor. You can spend all night at La Factoria without getting bored, it really feels like four different bars.

The bartenders were unbelievably friendly, helping show us where to visit during our stay in Puerto Rico on the map. The crowd is a mix of locals and visitors, with an emphasis on the locals. I never felt for one minute like I was at a tourist bar (unlike some of the Salsa bars that the cruise ship tourists head to). Although, this may change if La Factoria keeps getting great reviews!