In the heart of the Bay Area, La Perla stands as a beacon of authentic Puerto Rican cuisine, bringing the vibrant flavors and rich culinary traditions of the East Bay. As one of the region’s few Puerto Rican restaurants, La Perla specializes in traditional, labor-intensive dishes like mofongo and pasteles that transport diners straight to the streets of San Juan.

The restaurant’s journey began in a small convenience store, where founder José Ortiz first introduced the community to his beloved Puerto Rican recipes. From these modest beginnings, La Perla blossomed into a cherished establishment in Oakland’s Dimond District, where for over three years it served authentic dishes like its signature mofongo—fried green plantains topped with succulent shrimp or crispy fried chicken—and perfectly seasoned roasted pork shoulder with arroz con gandules.

The spirit of Puerto Rico comes alive in La Perla’s intimate dining space, where the sounds of salsa legends create the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable dining experience. The establishment’s commitment to authenticity extends beyond the kitchen—La Perla is proud to be a cornerstone of the community, with José Ortiz dedicating over three decades to mentoring local youth and advocating for Latino businesses and entrepreneurs.

Now situated in the Castro Valley Marketplace, La Perla continues its mission of sharing Puerto Rican culture and cuisine with the Bay Area. Each meal served is an invitation for guests to experience the warmth, flavor, and tradition of Puerto Rican hospitality.