Furtivo Speakeasy unveils Puerto Rico’s first Japanese brunch
Furtivo Speakeasy, the Calle Loíza bar and culinary space inspired by 1920s aesthetics, is debuting Puerto Rico’s first Japanese brunch, merging two culinary traditions in an inventive new concept.
The à la carte menu was created by Puerto Rican chef Joseph Maldonado and features nine dishes that combine Japanese techniques with Caribbean flavors. Highlights include fluffy pankēki with pistachio butter or strawberry compote, matcha waffles with karaage chicken and passionfruit syrup, bao bao, onigiri, guava-and-cheese dumplings, and tamagoyaki, a slightly sweet and fluffy, rolled Japanese omelet.
Another standout is the Hiyayakko — Smoked Mango & Tofu, which balances textures and flavors with silky tofu, purple cabbage, and smoked mango.
“When designing this menu, I thought about how food can be a bridge between cultures,” Maldonado said. “The tamagoyaki reminds me of the discipline and precision of Japanese cuisine, while guava and cheese dumplings are pure Caribbean and Puerto Rican nostalgia. My intention is for each dish to tell that story of union: the refinement of Japan and the vibrancy of our island.”
Owner Wilfredo Torres said brunch has been part of Furtivo’s vision since opening.
“On my trip to Japan, I was inspired by their gastronomy: the precision, the aesthetics and the respect for ingredients,” Torres said. “When I returned, together with our chef, we created a menu that preserves the authenticity of Japan with a Latin and Caribbean touch. It’s an experience that connects cultures and reflects Furtivo’s essence.”
The brunch is complemented by 12 cocktails and a curated tea selection featuring matcha, kombucha and artisanal teas from Hisoka Na Japanese Tea Garden, located in Furtivo’s patio.
