At Bella Isla Café, the pernil takes more than six hours to cook. The recipe behind it has been passed down through three generations of a Chelsea family.

Rosaivette Baez grew up in Chelsea. Today, she and her family run the Puerto Rican café on Washington Avenue. According to Discover Chelsea, she works alongside her mother preparing dishes based on recipes passed down from her grandmother.

For someone trying Puerto Rican food for the first time, there are plenty of ways to start. The menu includes mofongo, made with seasoned mashed plantains; empanadillas; and tripleta sandwiches filled with pork, steak, and chicken. The family's pernil gets its flavor from ingredients including garlic, sofrito, and achiote before its long, slow cooking.

The city's guide also mentions vegetarian and gluten-free empanada options, although customers with dietary needs should confirm ingredients and availability directly.

Discover Chelsea highlights coffee brought in from Puerto Rico and homemade vanilla or coconut flan. Together, these dishes tell a story of family traditions that remain part of Chelsea's food scene.

The café's online menu also includes breakfast, soups, sandwiches, and desserts, making it an option for a quick morning stop or a meal to take home.

Bella Isla's online ordering site offers pickup and delivery, while a separate catering page handles inquiries for gatherings.

Visit: 181 Washington Avenue, Suite A, Chelsea.

Phone: (617) 884-1184

Hours: Monday–Saturday, 6 a.m.–8 p.m.; closed Sunday.