+1 803-569-6244
La Isla Bonita Restaurante, located at 1701 Percival Rd in Columbia, SC, is a vibrant gem for anyone craving authentic Puerto Rican cuisine. From the moment you walk in, you’re enveloped in the warm ambiance that perfectly mirrors the heart and soul of Puerto Rico. Whether you choose to dine inside or enjoy the inviting outdoor seating—ideal for larger groups—the atmosphere strikes a perfect balance between comfort and lively cultural authenticity.
The menu is a treasure trove of traditional Puerto Rican dishes, each bursting with rich, bold flavors that instantly transport you to the sun-kissed streets of the island. Standout dishes include the iconic Mofongo, a hearty mashed blend of green plantains or yucca root, expertly crafted and often paired with succulent Carne Frita. The El Jibarito Plantain Sandwich, with its unique combination of fried green plantains and savory fillings, is a must-try, as is the flavorful Arroz Con Gandules — yellow rice with pigeon peas that’s perfectly seasoned and tender.
For those seeking a satisfying meal that packs both flavor and tradition, options like Tostones Con Arroz Y Costillas and Fried Pork with Fried Yucca deliver a remarkable balance of crispy textures and savory meat, accented with fresh hot sauce to awaken your palate. The Cuban Sandwich, generously layered with roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, also remains a crowd favorite, highlighting La Isla Bonita’s mastery of classic Latin flavors.
Pair your meal with refreshing beverages such as Malta, Cerveza Medalla, or freshly made natural juices, each complementing the food’s vibrant tastes without overpowering them. Don’t miss the sweet crescendo of the meal with their Flan De Coco, a silky coconut custard that offers a rich and creamy finish.
Beyond the enticing dishes, what truly makes La Isla Bonita Restaurante special is the heartfelt hospitality. Customers consistently praise Angela and her dedicated team for creating a family-like atmosphere where guests feel genuinely welcomed. Large groups find the accommodating outdoor area perfect for lively gatherings, all while savoring impeccable service that adds to the overall experience.
Many have spoken about how the flavors and ambiance evoke nostalgia — a comforting reminder of home or a new place to create cherished memories. Whether you’re a lifelong Puerto Rican or simply an adventurous foodie, La Isla Bonita Restaurante invites you to taste the tradition, warmth, and passion behind every plate.
For exceptional Puerto Rican cuisine served with genuine care and an inviting spirit, La Isla Bonita Restaurante is a must-visit culinary destination in Columbia, SC. Call +1 803-569-6244 to reserve your table or order a feast to-go that will leave your family asking for more.
The food was excellent and took me back to the streets of Puerto Rico. The service was great. The menu options were on point. I loved the outdoor seating option because we had a large crowd of 20. The owner was very accommodating to our large group and welcomed us with open arms. I can't wait to go back for round 2!
Highly recommend. Amazing Puerto Rican food, Angela and her employees make you feel like you’re part of the family. I ordered a double Jibarito with steak and pork, I didn’t leave a drop of foo on the plate it was so good. And I took 3 plates Togo for the family. Food is always fresh and delicious l. So if you’re looking for good authentic Puerto Rican food with a welcoming atmosphere this is the place to go.
Amazing food and service. The owners are great. A new favorite for me.
My husband and I moved to SC from the Bronx a few years ago. If you know anything about NY, the Hispanic culture there is like nothing else. So as a Puerto Rican, being away from that along with being away from family can be hard. We came to this restaurant for the first time yesterday for a friend's birthday, and let me tell you, it was so nostalgic. The atmosphere. The decor. The food (delicious by the way, I'd been literally dreaming of mofongo since I moved here). The host was warm, welcoming, and funny. It felt like visiting abuela's house. As my husband put it, "It feels like home." I was also happy that it was allergy safe because I have a shellfish allergy and they assured me that they cook their seafood separately. We'll definitely be going again, and I just want to say to the owner, thank you for making us feel like family, and giving us a little piece of home away from home.
We ordered carryout while visiting for my friend Laura’s basic training graduation, and this place was such a highlight of our trip. The food was absolutely delicious with perfectly cooked meats, sweet plantains, tostones, and yellow rice that tasted just like home. The only thing missing was the Puerto Rican dipping sauce, but honestly everything was so flavorful it did not matter. The owner was kind, funny, and welcoming, and the staff had such cool, friendly attitudes. I came in with painted nails and felt right at home. They are definitely LGBTQIA+ friendly, which made the experience even better. We took our food back to the base for family day, and it meant so much to my friend since her wife is Puerto Rican. It felt like bringing a little piece of home to celebrate together. If you are in the area, do not miss this spot. Cozy, authentic, and full of love. We will be talking about this meal long after the trip.
Nice customer service, the lady was nice. Food tasted good as well.