Panificadora Pepín

We stopped here on the way to visit family in Rio Piedras. This visit was just to pick up pan de aqua and pan de piquito for our dinner. The bread was so fresh and warm when we received it. It smelled so good. I wasn’t sure if it was going to make it to the house. We resisted the temptation and had it at dinner time. It was delicious.
We were told that this is the bakery to go to for bread and the traditional Puerto Rican mallorcas. You’ve probably already had a Pepin Mallorca at your favorite breakfast spot. These mallorcas are mass produced and distributed to many restaurants on the island. You can also order them online. It’s a little pricey being that shipping and handling is more than the cost of the product. It’s still a good option every once in a while.
Just be aware that these are not the same as the ensaïmada de Mallorca. The Puerto Rican version is more like a sweet bread than a pastry. I’ve had both. I prefer the pastry version better. With that said, the PR mallorcas are perfect for breakfast (soft & thick). I enjoyed them for breakfast throughout our stay in Puerto Rico.

Exceptional mallorcas. I’m told the mallorca caribeña is the best, but they did not have it available when I went. The pan de agua (similar to Italian bread) is also delicious, as were the sweeter variety of pastries. We didn’t try the pan integral (sandwich bread) but I’m told that is very good. They also had Cuban bread available. We purchased some whole bean coffee and it is very, very good.
Parking is very limited. Your best bet is to park at the TOTAL gas station next door and walk over to Pepín. Prices are all very reasonable.