Story

I came from Patagonia, Argentina—more specifically, from Bariloche, which is why the restaurant is called Bari. It’s the affectionate way we refer to that city.

They were truly two completely opposite worlds. Patagonia, with its vastness, its mostly cold climate, and its tranquility, compared to Puerto Rico, in the Caribbean; vibrant, warm, full of joy and movement. That transition was not only geographical, but also one of identity. Yet becoming part of the Island was not difficult at all. Little by little, that unmistakable energy of Puerto Rico began to grow within me, and I started to feel that I belonged.

The bridge between my Patagonia and Puerto Rico, between two very different ways of seeing the world, was truly transformative for me and my family.

After a few years, I decided that it was important to focus on my education. It gave me concrete tools and opened the door to the possibility of having my own business, to once again become the protagonist of my own present and future. Instead of depending on opportunities created by others, I began creating my own. Having my own business gave me financial independence, confidence in my own judgment, autonomy, and the opportunity to prove my leadership abilities once again.

Every achievement helped strengthen my self-esteem and break through the stereotypes of what a woman can or cannot do, especially in an industry as demanding as gastronomy. Personally, I was going through a very difficult moment in my life, but I needed to prove to myself that at 50 years old, it was still possible to start over.

The idea of blending what the business already was, an Argentine-style artisanal pizzeria, with traditional Puerto Rican dishes was quite innovative. It allowed us to differentiate ourselves from other restaurants in the area. We wanted to offer something truly unique by bringing together two incredibly rich culinary traditions.

I knew we had succeeded when we began attracting such a diverse audience: lovers of Argentine pizza, fans of Puerto Rican food, and, of course, tourists who are always eager to discover new flavors.

I was able to create a cultural bridge, a way of celebrating my roots while opening ourselves up to new gastronomic creations. All of this takes place in a quintessentially colonial setting, inside a historic building filled with the history and nostalgia of those who helped shape this wonderful Old San Juan, with a courtyard that feels like a hidden gem, a peaceful place to pause and breathe.

Old San Juan is undoubtedly one of the most emblematic and character-filled places in the Caribbean. I would describe it as a mosaic of history, culture, and everyday life.

There is something truly special about the energy of Old San Juan, a beautiful combination of nostalgia and vitality. Its cobblestone streets, the intense colors of its buildings, the flower-filled balconies… all of it creates an atmosphere that feels welcoming, almost magical.

But there is also a modern pulse: street art, innovative restaurants, and music spilling out onto the streets from every corner. That combination of past and present is what captivated me so deeply. I feel connected to its history, while at the same time, I am part of a place that is always alive, constantly evolving, dynamic, and full of strength.