David and Cindy Cruz are the hardworking owners of Rice-n-Beans Puerto Rico. Located on Wesley Chapel Blvd, next to Pinebrook at The Grove plaza, this husband-and-wife duo has been building their legacy for over 20 years. They also run DC Accounting and recently opened a new Rice-n-Beans Express in Lutz.
When they took over the old Cody’s Roadhouse, they found a spacious, unused patio area. In November, they transformed that space into “El Patio,” a beautiful dining area where guests can now enjoy the full Rice-n-Beans menu along with a great selection of craft cocktails and drinks.
Dining at Rice-n-Beans is a treat. Known for their authentic Puerto Rican and Latin dishes, the restaurant has quickly become a favorite in the area. Patrons rave about favorites like crispy beef empanadas. The Antojitos Puertorriqueños platter includes an array of delicious bites, like chicken empanadas and alcapurria—a flavorful fritter made from root vegetables and beef.
Other must-try items include:
- Tostones rellenos de carne: Fried plantains topped with tender steak and a tangy tomato salsa.
- Mofongo relleno de langosta: Twice-fried plantains served with lobster tail and shrimp.
- Churrasco steak: This tender steak is served with chimichurri sauce and sweet plantains.
For seafood lovers, options abound, including whole red snapper and a delightful mariscada, featuring a medley of seafood over saffron rice.
Don’t miss their jibarito sandwich—made with crispy fried plantains instead of bread, filled with steak or chicken, and topped with savory garlic mayo. It’s a flavor-packed choice that perfectly represents Puerto Rican cuisine.
For dessert, the flancocho—a chocolate cake layered with Puerto Rican flan—is a must-try. It’s rich, delicious, and pairs wonderfully with café con leche.
Rice-n-Beans offers more than just great food. The restaurant features weekend entertainment, including DJ music and live performances. Check the schedule for events and activities.
Rice-n-Beans Puerto Rico is located at 27405 Wesley Chapel Blvd and is open from 11 a.m. to midnight on Saturday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday, and for dinner Tuesday through Friday from 4 p.m. until 9 or 11 p.m. depending on the day. El Patio opens at 5 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and at noon on Sundays.
