We kept seeing this place on Wrightsville Avenue but only recently got around to checking it out.  Glad we did.

Danny Keegan is both chef and owner of this spot.  He’s also someone who wants to introduce folks to the meals he helped his mother prepare as well as to other delights from Central and South America.  After growing up in Puerto Rico he eventually made it to Johnson and Wales University in Charleston and then to Wilmington to open San Juan Cafe inFebruary, 2010.  His little cafe features a bar area in the front room and a small dining room in back.

Well, the sign did say Latin America so we “forced” ourselves to try the Margaritas and Mojitos.  A great start although you might ask them to go light on the sugar if you’re not into sweet mojitos.  I suspect everyone has their own opinion about the right mix of mint and sugar.

For dinner, I had the Steak and Black Bean Burritos.  They hit the spot.  There’s something about the way that good black beans combine with steak and guacamole.  Others in our party were more adventurous and tried the Mofongo Steak.  Mofongo is a mashed green plantain stuffed with either steak or shrimp.  Another member of the party tried the Chile Rellenos.  They seem to have disappeared off the plate.

San Juan’s wine list is not its strength but the Nugan Cabernet is good and a bargain.

This is not the place if you are seeking “haute cuisine.”  But it is a good neighborhood place where you can enjoy your company, won’t be rushed and will be pleased with the meal.  And the tab won’t break the bank.  So lean back and have that second mojito.

One note: the meals could be a bit warmer when they come out.  Ours were warm but not hot.  I prefer that they come out hot and then let them cool to my preferred temperature.

The Star News also reviewed this restaurant and you can find that review here and another one here.

You can return to the restaurant page here: Restaurants Guide