If you’ve ever found yourself wandering the vibrant, mural-splattered streets of Santurce in San Juan, Puerto Rico, you’ve likely felt that specific kind of hunger. It’s not just "I need a snack" hunger. It’s the "I need a cold local beer, a decent sandwich, and a place where I don’t feel like a tourist" kind of hunger. That is exactly where 787 Market & Cafe fits into the local ecosystem.
Most people walk past it at first. It looks like a standard convenience store from the outside, maybe a bit more polished than the average colmado, but it’s the interior soul that keeps the neighborhood coming back. This isn’t a high-end bistro with white tablecloths and tiny portions. It’s a hybrid. It’s a bodega that grew up and realized it could make a killer cup of coffee and a sandwich that actually rivals the fancy spots in Condado for half the price.
What 787 Market & Cafe Actually Is (and Isn't)
Honestly, calling it a "market" is a bit of an understatement, though you can definitely grab a gallon of milk or some dish soap if you’re staying in a nearby Airbnb. But the "cafe" side? That’s the heartbeat. Located on Calle Loíza, this spot acts as a buffer between the gritty, authentic roots of Santurce and the newer, more polished wave of development hitting the area.
You’ll see locals stopping in for their morning café con leche—and let’s be real, the coffee in Puerto Rico is a high bar to clear, but they do it well here. Then, by 2:00 PM, you see the shift. The vibe changes. It becomes a hangout. You’ve got people working on laptops, artists from the nearby galleries taking a break, and travelers trying to figure out which beach to hit next.
The menu doesn't try to reinvent the wheel. It focuses on what people actually want to eat when it’s 85 degrees and humid. We’re talking about hearty wraps, fresh salads that don't look like they came out of a plastic bag, and sandwiches that use actual, crusty bread.
Why the Location Matters So Much
Calle Loíza is legendary. Historically, it was the commercial artery of the neighborhood, and after years of ups and downs, it’s currently in a massive renaissance. 787 Market & Cafe sits right in the thick of it. If you walk two blocks one way, you’re at some of the best street art in the Caribbean. Two blocks the other way, and you’re hitting the sand at Ocean Park.
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This location means they have to cater to everyone. They can’t just be a high-end deli because the locals would stop coming. They can’t just be a dusty corner store because the new residents wouldn't find what they need. They found this middle ground. It’s comfortable. It’s accessible. It’s basically the neighborhood’s living room.
The Food: No Fluff, Just Flavor
Let’s talk about the turkey sandwich. It sounds boring, right? Every cafe has one. But at 787 Market & Cafe, they do this thing with the seasoning and the bread-to-meat ratio that just works. It’s a "no-nonsense" approach.
They also lean heavily into the "healthy-ish" side of things, which can be surprisingly hard to find in a land dominated by delicious fried mofongo and alcapurrias. If your arteries need a break, their bowls and salads are a legitimate lifesaver.
- The Breakfast Options: They serve breakfast all day, or at least late enough that it doesn't matter. The egg sandwiches are solid.
- The Beverage Selection: This is where the "market" part shines. They have a massive cooler of craft beers, local juices, and those specific Puerto Rican sodas you can't find stateside.
- Vegan/Vegetarian Friendly: They actually have options. Real ones. Not just "we took the ham off the salad."
People often ask if it’s expensive. Kinda. It’s more than a roadside chinchorro, but it’s significantly cheaper than the tourist traps on the main San Juan strips. You’re paying for the quality and the fact that you can sit in the AC for an hour without anyone giving you the side-eye.
The Myth of the "Tourist Trap"
There is a common misconception that anything on Calle Loíza with a clean logo is a tourist trap. That’s just not true here. You can tell by who is standing in line. When you hear more Spanish than English at the counter, you know the pricing and the quality are staying honest. 787 Market & Cafe has managed to stay a local favorite despite the rising popularity of the street.
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The Logistics: What You Need to Know Before You Go
Don't expect a massive parking lot. Parking in Santurce is a blood sport. If you’re driving, be prepared to circle the block five times or just pay for a spot in a nearby private lot. Better yet? Take an Uber or walk.
The service is "island time" adjacent. It’s not slow, but it’s not a New York City deli where they scream at you if you don't have your order ready in three seconds. Relax. Talk to the person behind the counter. They usually have the best recommendations for where the live music is happening that night.
A Note on the "Market" Side
If you are staying in an Airbnb nearby, this place is your best friend. While the "SuperMax" grocery store isn't too far away, getting there is a hassle. 787 Market & Cafe stocks the essentials.
- Local hot sauces (the good stuff, not the tourist bottles).
- Decent wine selection for the price.
- High-quality sunblock (because you will burn).
- Actual fresh produce, though the selection is small.
How to Get the Most Out of Your Visit
If you want the real experience, go on a Tuesday or Wednesday morning. It’s quiet. You can grab a seat by the window and just watch the neighborhood wake up. It’s a different world than the weekend rush when everyone is heading to the beach.
Order the iced coffee. Seriously. They don't just dump hot coffee over ice; they actually brew it right. Pair it with a Mallorca—that sweet, powdered-sugar-covered bread—if they have them fresh. It’s the quintessential Puerto Rican breakfast experience balanced with a modern cafe vibe.
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Navigating the Menu Nuances
Sometimes they have daily specials that aren't on the main board. Ask. The staff is usually pretty proud of whatever the kitchen cooked up that morning. Also, if you’re looking for a specific local beer, check the very back of the cooler. They often tuck the smaller local brewery cans away from the front.
Why This Place Still Matters in 2026
The landscape of San Juan is changing fast. A lot of the old-school spots are being replaced by corporate chains or "concept" restaurants that feel like they could be in Miami or LA. 787 Market & Cafe feels like Puerto Rico. It’s named after the area code for a reason. It holds onto that identity.
It’s the kind of place that reminds you why you traveled in the first place. You don't want a generic experience. You want to see how the locals live, what they eat, and where they hang out. This is that spot.
Actionable Insights for Your Visit
- Walk, don't drive: Save yourself the stress of Santurce parking.
- Check the hours: They aren't open 24/7 like a gas station; they have specific cafe hours that can shift on holidays.
- Bring a reusable bag: If you're stocking up on market items, it's just easier.
- Try the local brands: Don't buy the Lay's chips. Buy the local plantain chips or the Puerto Rican coffee beans to take home.
- Use it as a base: Start your morning here, then walk down Calle Loíza to see the murals and end up at the beach.
If you’re looking for a place that bridges the gap between a quick grocery run and a high-quality lunch, you’ve found it. It’s simple, it’s consistent, and it’s a genuine slice of Santurce life. Skip the hotel breakfast and head here instead. You'll get a much better feel for what San Juan is actually about.
Don't overthink your order. Whether it’s a simple wrap or a heavy-duty espresso, they generally don't miss. Just grab a seat, enjoy the air conditioning, and soak in the neighborhood energy before heading back out into the Caribbean sun.