The town of Blandón has been seasoned with the authentic flavors of the Island with its new restaurant called Sazón. I’ll come back to that a little later, but first I want to talk about the gastronomy of Puerto Rico, since it connects all of this story.
Last month I traveled to the island of Puerto Rico and found myself observing the businesses a little more than usual and I think it was because I realized that Sazón reminded me a lot of the island. I realized why I enjoy the gastronomic experience in Puerto Rico so much. Of course, there are obvious facts such as its beautiful beaches in the background, palm trees, the fantastic diversity of places, landscapes and our culture. But there are other reasons why I want to share with you, my readers, why I enjoy it so much.
You may or may not know that Puerto Rico is thriving in the culinary world. I recommend that during your visit, be sure to schedule a food tour if you’re not sure what to eat. It is also necessary to rent a car and travel around the island as you will experience many food festivals, high quality restaurants, but at the same time if you are on a budget there are many food trucks and kiosks all over the island with plenty of fresh and local flavors, where sometimes you eat even better food.
But these are my top three reasons why I enjoy dining in Puerto Rico. First, as an island, they have access to fresh tropical ingredients. Secondly, there are many talented people who strive to highlight the food, I mean sometimes it seems like culinary art and they do it without compromising the flavors of the food. Thirdly, they have the kind of customer service that makes you feel right at home. Those three reasons, especially when combined, are like a magical experience. If you know me well, I hate it when someone yells NEXT and doesn’t make eye contact with you while you’re ordering food. For me it’s not just about not wanting to cook at home, but when I go out it’s also about the experience.
Now back to Berks County. About two months ago we made a friendly connection with the owners of the new Sazón restaurant in Blandon, Pa. (Sazón in Spanish means Condiments). After trying the food, we couldn’t help but recommend it to thousands of our friends on social media. I’m going to mention some of my favorites. For appetizers I like the ceviche, the tempura shrimp, and the croquettes. For the main course, I like the stuffed mofongos and I love the seafood stuffed famous Red Snapper, we Puerto Ricans call it “Chillo.” As an accompaniment I like “arroz masposteado” which means rice and beans mixed together with some other condiments, or yucca covered with onion, sometimes yuca is also called cassava. And don’t worry if you want to eat healthy yet flavorful, they have many things you can try that would not compromise your diet, such as salmon, fish, shrimp, ceviche, and salads.
So, if you can’t travel for now, you’ve never tried authentic Puerto Rican food or you think Puerto Rican food is just white rice, beans and fried foods, then you travel to Sazón Restaurant to meet their wonderful work team and have a culinary experience. We love the creativity that Chef Benito and his team have brought from the island to Berks County. Nothing like eating authentic, elegant and great-tasting tropical flavors that pay homage to our Latin culture. I’m sure our ancestors are proud that we are spreading our roots and letting others taste the food and talent we bring.
Let’s not forget good service, because the food may be good, but if the service isn’t, you may never go back. That is where I introduce you to Jeymar & Jonathan, they are the perfect combination when serving us. They know the true meaning of providing you with an excellent dining experience. Enjoy, drink a piña colada, and tell them that Rosa from Palo sent you!
Sazón Restaurant
504 Main St, Blandon, PA 19510
Rosa Julia Parra
CEO & Founder of Palo Magazine
