Restaurants in Costa Rica

Costa Rican cuisine is greatly varied and offers a diverse range of restaurants that cater to different tastes and budgets.

Here are some of the types of restaurants that can be found in Costa Rica:

Sodas

These small, casual restaurants serve traditional Costa Rican cuisine at affordable prices. They are often family-owned and operated and are a great place to try local dishes like Gallo Pinto, Casado, and Ceviche. If you want to try the country´s authentic typical dishes, these are the right places to visit.

Fine-Dining

These restaurants provide a luxurious dining experience at premium prices. It is where you can try various national and international cuisines. Later in the article, we will suggest some of the city’s most popular fine-dining dining restaurants.

International Cuisine

You will find international restaurants in Costa Rica, including Italian, Japanese, Thai, and Mexican.

Seafood

Many seafood restaurants offer a variety of dishes, including Ceviche, grilled fish, and seafood stews.

Cafés and bakeries

Costa Rica has a strong café culture, so if you are a coffee lover, you can find many options to taste authentic, good Costa Rican coffee.

Food trucks and street food

Costa Rica has many gastronomic markets where you can try national and international food.

Most popular restaurants in San Jose

The list of restaurants to go to in San Jose is infinite. However, to make it easier, here is a list based on online ratings and reviews of the best restaurants in the area:

Grano de Oro restaurant

Grano de Oro is a highly regarded restaurant in San Jose’s heart. The restaurant offers various options ranging from appetizers and salads to entrees and desserts. Some popular dishes include seared ahi tuna, grilled octopus, and duck confit. They also offer an extensive wine list, cocktails, and spirits.

El Patio del Balmoral restaurant

El Patio del Balmoral restaurant serves a variety of authentic Costa Rican specialties and international dishes in a casual and relaxing setting. Their menu includes meat and seafood dishes, pasta, risotto, soups, and salads. An extensive selection of beer, wine, and cocktails is also available.

La Esquina de Buenos Aires restaurant

La Esquina de Buenos Aires also offers excellent dishes, including empanadas, choripán (Argentinean sausage sandwich), grilled meats, and seafood. The restaurant’s specialty is its high-quality cuts of beef. They also offer a wide selection of Argentinean wines and cocktails to pair with your meal.

Taj Mahal restaurant

Taj Mahal is a popular Indian restaurant located in San Jose. This restaurant offers a variety of classic Indian dishes, including curries, biryanis, tandoori meats, and vegetarian options. Taj Mahal also provides a variety of drinks to pair with your meal, including Indian beers, lassi (a yogurt-based drink), and masala chai (spiced tea).

Silvestre restaurant

The Silvestre restaurant offers a range of dishes that constantly changes, depending on what’s fresh and in-season. The most popular items include Ceviche, grilled octopus, and duck confit. Their menu also includes a selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes.

Mirador Ram Luna

Mirador Ram Luna is a popular restaurant located on a hilltop overlooking the city of San Jose. The restaurant’s menu is based on delicious Costa Rican cuisine, including Gallo Pinto (a rice and beans dish), Casados (a platter of rice, beans, salad, and meat or fish), and Ceviche. Their menu also offers a selection of international dishes. The Central Valley´s panoramic view is stunning.

This is a list of some of the most popular restaurants. However, there are plenty of other options available. We can help you find the perfect restaurant depending on your preferences.

Entertainment, Traveling - 01.31.2024