The food of Puerto Rico is vastly underrated, and the best of that cuisine can be found in the heart of El Barrio at La Fonda Boricua. Was that Marc Anthony sitting across from New York Yankee Bernie Williams? This stylish, 75-seat former diner is a hangout for leaders of the local Latino community and beyond; politicians, artists, writers, musicians, and ballplayers convene for delicious Puerto Rican staples. Excellent choices include tender, succulent octopus salad; crispy chicharrónes of pork; slightly smoky arroz con pollo; garlic-laden lechon asado (roasted pork shoulder); thinly pounded citrus-marinated steak smothered with onions; rice and beans in many varieties; and that artery-clogging favorite, mofongo (fried mashed plantains with garlic and crispy pieces of pork rind). The diverse crowd also comes for the creative vibes encouraged by the engaging owners, brothers Jorge and Roberto Ayala who have adorned the restaurant with paintings from local artists, promote impromptu jams from visiting musicians, and foster an atmosphere of Latino sophistication. The portions are more than generous and the prices easily affordable. The only disappointment was the lack of variety for dessert; flan, though excellent, was the only option.