La Concha Resort Marks 65th Anniversary with Levant as its New Mediterranean Dining Destination in San Juan

Published on September 11, 2024

La Concha Resort, the premier beachfront lifestyle retreat in San Juan, is excited to unveil its new culinary venture, Levant. This innovative restaurant, guided by the esteemed Chef Michael White, marks a significant advancement for both the resort and San Juan’s dynamic food scene. Scheduled to open this fall, Levant highlights La Concha Resort’s continued property-wide improvements as part of the resort’s 65th anniversary celebrations, adding a new chapter to its storied legacy. Levant is set to become a top destination for both locals and visitors, elevating the standard of fine dining with a truly exceptional experience in the heart of San Juan.

Levant will be located within the iconic Perla building, a seashell-shaped architectural gem designed by the celebrated architect Mario Salvatori in 1958. This floating marvel, renowned for its striking design and engineering excellence, will provide a stunning backdrop for Levant’s unique dining experiences. The venue will seamlessly integrate Mediterranean elegance with breathtaking Caribbean views, creating a memorable ambiance for guests.

Chef Michael White, a luminary in the fine dining realm, will bring his inventive and sophisticated culinary creations to Puerto Rico with Levant. His illustrious career includes accolades such as a James Beard Award and five Michelin stars. Chef White’s experience spans top restaurants like Spiaggia in Chicago and Marea in New York. Drawing inspiration from his European and Mediterranean travels, his menu at Levant will offer an exceptional fusion of his signature style and global influences, promising a distinctive and unforgettable gastronomic journey. For those seeking an extraordinary dining experience, Levant is poised to become a standout addition to San Juan’s culinary landscape.

“Our vision for Levant was to create a restaurant where guests and locals can savor the authentic tastes of the Mediterranean while enjoying the beautiful beachfront setting of La Concha Resort,” said Rolando Padua, President of Paulson Puerto Rico. “The addition of Levant marks a significant step in the evolution of La Concha Resort into an Autograph Hotel, aligning with a collection of distinctive and meticulously curated hotels designed to make a lasting impact and marking the first of its kind in Puerto Rico. We are confident that our visitors will be enchanted by the restaurant’s décor, lively ambiance, and exceptional culinary selections. This notable expansion solidifies La Concha’s reputation as a top-tier destination, consistently raising the bar for elegance and outstanding hospitality.”

Situated along the sparkling Caribbean coastline, Levant will transport diners on a culinary journey through the Mediterranean. Drawing inspiration from the seafaring traditions of fishermen, traders, and explorers, the menu will celebrate the rich flavors and ingredients of Spain, Italy, Greece, and beyond. Each dish is rooted in centuries-old customs, offering an authentic taste of the Mediterranean’s diverse culinary heritage. Complementing the food is a carefully selected wine list highlighting Mediterranean vineyards, alongside signature cocktails infused with the vibrant and aromatic essence of the region, ensuring an elevated yet accessible dining experience.

Designed by Celano Design Studio Co. with branding by AgenCe Design Co., Levant’s interiors pay tribute to the glamour of the 1950s, when the original restaurant was built. The mid-century modern aesthetic is seamlessly blended with Mediterranean influences, creating a unique sense of place at La Concha Resort’s beachfront location. Nautical motifs, combined with luxurious touches such as white oak, ocean-blue tiles, and artwork by local artist Angel Colon, set the tone for the refined yet welcoming atmosphere. Guests are greeted by a stunning bar at the entrance, leading to the serene and sophisticated main dining area. With natural stone from the Mediterranean, breezy materials, and panoramic ocean views, the space is designed to captivate, while Murano glass lamps, original to the venue, cast light on the iconic ceiling, reminiscent of the shimmering waters outside. Levant promises a chic and inviting setting, perfect for savoring Chef Michael White’s bold creations while enjoying unobstructed views of the Atlantic.

Levant’s grand opening will breathe new life into the beloved Perla building, further cementing La Concha Resort’s status as the leading lifestyle destination in the Caribbean. This historic architectural gem, recognized as a national landmark, will once again shine as a must-visit destination in Puerto Rico. Levant joins a lineup of recent property enhancements, including the tranquil Elemara Spa & Salon and the lively Tekka Bar: Handroll & Sake, adding to the resort’s impressive array of luxury offerings.