What began as an 18-year-old’s bartending job at a pizza place soon evolved into a true calling—one fueled by technique, creativity, and a deep connection to Puerto Rican culture. Today, five years and countless cocktails later, Alonso is behind the bar, with his business partner Edrick Colón, at Identidad Cocktail Bar—a 2025 James Beard Awards finalist for Best New Bar—where every pour, shake, and garnish transforms into a celebration of Boricua essence. At Identidad, cocktails become connections, and flavor becomes storytelling. In this Q&A, Alonso shares how Puerto Rico’s traditions inspire his creations, offers advice for newcomers to the Island’s culinary scene, and names a few of his favorite local spots to eat and drink.
Share Your Story
Tell us a little about your story and formation as a mixologist. Share your journey of becoming a mixologist in Puerto Rico.
What sparked your passion for bartending?
My passion for mixology started after five years in the industry. I began working as a bartender at a pizza place when I was 18. A few years later, I started in a cocktail bar, and that’s when my passion truly sparked. I discovered techniques and recipes I never imagined, and that’s when my passion truly sparked.
How would you describe your bar or gastronomic offering?
My cocktails reflect who I am and how I connect with customers. As long as you craft something with passion and quality ingredients, it’s bound to be delightful.
Identidad Cocktail Bar blends warm hospitality with Boricua culture, crafting innovative cocktails that spotlight Island ingredients and tell rich, layered stories.
Mixologist Culinary Journey in Puerto Rico: Exploring Culinary Paths.
Our culture is a blend of many influences, and that richness shows in our culinary creations. We use many seasonings, spices and techniques, and that’s the same for cocktails. We use fresh local ingredients that represent our cultural flavors. We can apply new techniques with a traditional recipe and it will change completely. It’s all about balance.
I have three cocktails that are my favorites in Identidad Cocktail Bar. One is Mi Última Palabra, which has a special meaning to me; Cochee Milk Punch, a fan favorite; Pineapple Vesper, my personal go-to martini.
Puerto Rican Cuisine Essentials
Quintessential Puerto Rican Dish
From your perspective, which dish quintessentially represents Puerto Rican cuisine and why?
For me, a quintessential plate that represents us is arroz con gandules (pigeon peas rice) and pernil (roasted pork).
Visitor's First Bite
What dish would you recommend to someone new to Puerto Rican cuisine?
You have to try pasteles!
First-Time Diner Tips
Do you have any advice for individuals dining in Puerto Rico for the first time?
Give a try to small local restaurants. Some are hidden gems.
Local Dining Favorites
Could you share a few of your favorite local eateries?
Cocina al Fondo, Vianda, Orujo, and Casita Blanca.
San Juan blends elements of the Old World with all the amenities of modern urban life.
Hometown Pride
Which municipality in Puerto Rico do you hail from? What do you cherish most about your hometown?
I’m from Old San Juan, a place full of culture and history. That’s where I learned about different types of restaurants, chefs, and bartenders. My hometown is a true cultural melting pot.
Local Exploration Recommendations
Where should visitors go, or what activities should they partake in when visiting your town?
Stop by Identidad so I can serve you a cocktail with a few jokes. Then, take a walk around Old San Juan to soak in the beautiful scenery.
Rapid Fire Questions
Discover Alonso's favorites!
Alcapurria de jueyes
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Puerto Rico’s beaches invite you to explore responsibly and embrace sustainability.
Boquerón Beach
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Cocina al Fondo
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Learn MoreWithout ketchup. Add pique (Puerto Rican hot sauce) instead!
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Discover one of Puerto Rico's most majestic sights at Cañón Blanco in Utuado.
The beach or the mountains, so I can relax.
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