El Batey

El Batey is a bar located on Calle del Cristo in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico, housed in an 18th-century Spanish colonial building. Established in 1961, it is characterized by its graffiti-covered walls, informal atmosphere, and focus on beer and rum-based drinks.

El Batey
El Batey in 2013
Restaurant information
Established	1961 (1961)
Street address	101 Calle del Cristo
City	San Juan
State	Puerto Rico
Postal/ZIP Code	00901

Description

El Batey is a bar situated on Calle del Cristo in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico.^[1][2] It occupies an 18th-century Spanish colonial building directly across from the Hotel El Convento.^[1][2] The structure features a red brick exterior, rectangular doors, and sidewalk-level windows protected by iron bars.^[1] A simple white overhang extends above the entrance.^[1] Inside, the layout includes a main bar area, a side room with tables, and a small interior patio.^[1][2] The walls are densely covered with signatures and graffiti left by visitors, and the decor includes a non-functioning jukebox and mismatched tiles.^[1][2]

The establishment is characterized by its dim lighting, loud music, and framed photographs commemorating former regulars.^[1] Additional features include dollar bills pinned to lamps and a pool table for patrons.^[1][2]

Menu

The bar specializes in beer and rum-based drinks.^[1] Offerings include the El Batey-style Cuba Libre, a variation of the traditional cocktail with a stronger rum-to-cola ratio.^[3] Medalla Light beer and Don Q rum are also commonly served.^[2][3] In recent years, a written menu has been introduced, listing cocktails such as the Rum old fashioned, made with Ron del Barrilito rum, and La Guagua Voladora, a sour cocktail featuring Averna and Campari.^[1] Payments are processed using a vintage cash register, as the bar does not accept credit cards.^[2][3]

History

El Batey was established in 1961 and has remained operational since its inception.^[1] The term Batey is derived from the Taíno language, referring to the central plaza in Taíno settlements.^[1] These plazas were often used for gatherings, celebrations, and games.^[1] In 1966, David Jones, a former U.S. Navy sailor, became its owner and managed it until his death in 2015.^[1][3] During his tenure, the bar became known for its distinctive ambiance and the tradition of patrons leaving graffiti on its walls.^[1][2]

In the 1960s and 1970s, the bar attracted both locals and tourists, including members of The Rolling Stones. Its atmosphere provided an alternative to mainstream nightlife and established its reputation as a gathering spot for those seeking a unique experience.^[2]

After Jones' death, the bar faced challenges, including Hurricane Maria in 2017 and an extended closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic in Puerto Rico.^[1] In 2017, Jones’ daughters enlisted Mario Seijo, a bartender with previous ties to El Batey, to manage the establishment.^[1] Seijo and his partner, Bianca Declet, took over operations and aimed to preserve the bar's character.^[1][2] The pandemic caused a 14-month closure, but the bar eventually reopened with a new team.^[1]

Reception

El Batey is noted for its unconventional atmosphere and historical significance.^[1][2] Its graffiti-covered walls, absence of modern amenities, and loud music appeal to those seeking a non-traditional nightlife experience.^[1][2] Some visitors may find its decor sparse. Others appreciate its role as a reflection of Old San Juan's cultural heritage.^[1][3]