Finca Madre & the Costa Rican Highlands
Botanical Garden
Finca Madre is a rare fruit forest and botanical garden, that offers a unique "Airbnb experience" tour. The Canyon House is also available for guests.
Canyon House: https://www.airbnb.com/h/finca-madre-fruit-hunter-canyon-house
Airbnb Fruit Hunter Experience Tour: https://www.airbnb.com/experiences/124239?guests=1&adults=1&s=67&unique_share_id=3faea166-04c9-4ecd-a66b-c09ad2b75697
If you are a "fruit geek" arrange for this Fruit Hunter Airbnb Experience while you are in the area: https://www.airbnb.com/experiences/124239?guests=1&adults=1&s=67&unique_share_id=3faea166-04c9-4ecd-a66b-c09ad2b75697
Finca Madre
If you are a "fruit geek" arrange for this Fruit Hunter Airbnb Experience while you are in the area: https://www.airbnb.com/experiences/124239?guests=1&adults=1&s=67&unique_share_id=3faea166-04c9-4ecd-a66b-c09ad2b75697
City/town information
Towns to visit in the Central Highlands
Grecia is a small pueblo located 22 km northwest of Alajuela. It is mostly known and recognized for the red-roofed Catholic Church in the town center which was shipped in from Belgium in the 19th century. Las Cataratas de Los Chorros waterfalls are located approximately 5 kilometers south of town. Visitors can swim in a hole beneath the 2 falls and there are picnic tables as well.
26 người dân địa phương đề xuất
Grecia
Grecia is a small pueblo located 22 km northwest of Alajuela. It is mostly known and recognized for the red-roofed Catholic Church in the town center which was shipped in from Belgium in the 19th century. Las Cataratas de Los Chorros waterfalls are located approximately 5 kilometers south of town. Visitors can swim in a hole beneath the 2 falls and there are picnic tables as well.
Sarchi is home to the highest population of crafters, woodworkers, and artisans in Costa Rica. Within this small town, there are over two hundred such shops. There are also many small restaurants and the town is surrounded by coffee fields. Sarchi makes a great half-day trip and is a magnet for local artisans.
63 người dân địa phương đề xuất
Sarchi
Sarchi is home to the highest population of crafters, woodworkers, and artisans in Costa Rica. Within this small town, there are over two hundred such shops. There are also many small restaurants and the town is surrounded by coffee fields. Sarchi makes a great half-day trip and is a magnet for local artisans.
Located along the outskirts of San Jose, Escazu is considered by many to be Costa Rica's greatest city, comparable to any modern city in the world with modern buildings, services, and infrastructure. It’s an affluent suburb, located on a hillside overlooking San Jose and Heredia. Escazu is home to an American-style Multiplaza that is the largest shopping mall in Costa Rica. Visitors can enjoy its diverse restaurants, nightlife, and shopping for anything from computers to the latest fashions.
22 người dân địa phương đề xuất
Escazu
Located along the outskirts of San Jose, Escazu is considered by many to be Costa Rica's greatest city, comparable to any modern city in the world with modern buildings, services, and infrastructure. It’s an affluent suburb, located on a hillside overlooking San Jose and Heredia. Escazu is home to an American-style Multiplaza that is the largest shopping mall in Costa Rica. Visitors can enjoy its diverse restaurants, nightlife, and shopping for anything from computers to the latest fashions.
HEREDIA-POAS
The Poas Volcano and Heredia Highlands area is one of the most beautiful destinations in Costa Rica. This area is rich in culture with traditional coffee plantations and typical Costa Rican old-world charm. The area is also home to rainforest, cloud forest and rolling green mountains, making it one most unique destinations in Central America.
8 người dân địa phương đề xuất
Heredia
HEREDIA-POAS
The Poas Volcano and Heredia Highlands area is one of the most beautiful destinations in Costa Rica. This area is rich in culture with traditional coffee plantations and typical Costa Rican old-world charm. The area is also home to rainforest, cloud forest and rolling green mountains, making it one most unique destinations in Central America.
Turrialba is one of the least visited, yet most exciting destinations in Costa Rica. This area is an adventurers' paradise with spectacular scenery in all directions. The rolling green hills and the volcanoes that surround the pueblo make it unique, even by Costa Rican standards. World-class canyoneering and whitewater rafting, archaeology, culture, and the volcano are all great reasons to visit this area.
8 người dân địa phương đề xuất
Turrialba
Turrialba is one of the least visited, yet most exciting destinations in Costa Rica. This area is an adventurers' paradise with spectacular scenery in all directions. The rolling green hills and the volcanoes that surround the pueblo make it unique, even by Costa Rican standards. World-class canyoneering and whitewater rafting, archaeology, culture, and the volcano are all great reasons to visit this area.
San Jose is the capital city of Costa Rica and the namesake of the country’s largest international airport. The population of the city and surrounding suburbs is nearly 400,000. It is situated in the middle of Costa Rica in the Central Valley with routes that lead to all of the various regions of the country. Many Finca Madre visitors will travel just 45 minutes to the city to enjoy the Historic District and various museums. The National Museum is open to the public and presents a good layout of ancient to present-day cultures, displaying how Costa Rica has evolved over the decades and centuries. San Jose is also home to several interesting religious landmarks and works of art. Points of interest include The Metropolitan Cathedral, John Paul II sculpture, and even the Our Lady of Solitude Church.
San Jose has many markets, shops, restaurants, and nightlife. The Central Market is a large open area containing small independently operated booths for higher-end souvenirs. Locals generally create the items and are proud to display and sell them. After shopping, one can enjoy a bite to eat at one of the many outdoor cafes or restaurants.
57 người dân địa phương đề xuất
San José
San Jose is the capital city of Costa Rica and the namesake of the country’s largest international airport. The population of the city and surrounding suburbs is nearly 400,000. It is situated in the middle of Costa Rica in the Central Valley with routes that lead to all of the various regions of the country. Many Finca Madre visitors will travel just 45 minutes to the city to enjoy the Historic District and various museums. The National Museum is open to the public and presents a good layout of ancient to present-day cultures, displaying how Costa Rica has evolved over the decades and centuries. San Jose is also home to several interesting religious landmarks and works of art. Points of interest include The Metropolitan Cathedral, John Paul II sculpture, and even the Our Lady of Solitude Church.
San Jose has many markets, shops, restaurants, and nightlife. The Central Market is a large open area containing small independently operated booths for higher-end souvenirs. Locals generally create the items and are proud to display and sell them. After shopping, one can enjoy a bite to eat at one of the many outdoor cafes or restaurants.
Alajuela is the second-largest city in Costa Rica. It is known as one of the safest and cleanest cities in Central America and is nicknamed the City of Mangoes. Alajuela is not only one of the most important cities in Costa Rica due to its size, but also because it is the actual home of Juan Santamaria International Airport. The most popular attraction near Alajuela is the Poas Volcano.
20 người dân địa phương đề xuất
Alajuela
Alajuela is the second-largest city in Costa Rica. It is known as one of the safest and cleanest cities in Central America and is nicknamed the City of Mangoes. Alajuela is not only one of the most important cities in Costa Rica due to its size, but also because it is the actual home of Juan Santamaria International Airport. The most popular attraction near Alajuela is the Poas Volcano.
Try looking up QuePasaGrecia dot com for some great local recommendations on all kinds of things including Real Estate, Restaurants, and Articles.
Grecia Real Estate
Try looking up QuePasaGrecia dot com for some great local recommendations on all kinds of things including Real Estate, Restaurants, and Articles.
Sightseeing
Poas Volcano National Park – The Volcano in the Cloud Forest. Poas Volcano National Park is one of the most visited national parks in Costa Rica as the volcano crater geyser is one of the biggest in the world. Sitting over 2000 meters in elevation, visitors get a chance to experience a volcano in the cloud forest.
401 người dân địa phương đề xuất
Poás Volcano
Poas Volcano National Park – The Volcano in the Cloud Forest. Poas Volcano National Park is one of the most visited national parks in Costa Rica as the volcano crater geyser is one of the biggest in the world. Sitting over 2000 meters in elevation, visitors get a chance to experience a volcano in the cloud forest.
THIS ATTRACTION MAY BE OFFICIALLY CLOSED AND NOT MAINTAINED USE CAUTION IF YOU DECIDE TO GO … This is a beautiful nature preserve with trails through jungle terrain to a scenic waterfall and wonderful spots to swim.
26 người dân địa phương đề xuất
Los Chorros Municipal Recreative Park
THIS ATTRACTION MAY BE OFFICIALLY CLOSED AND NOT MAINTAINED USE CAUTION IF YOU DECIDE TO GO … This is a beautiful nature preserve with trails through jungle terrain to a scenic waterfall and wonderful spots to swim.
Food scene
Restaurants local(ish) to Finca Madre… always check to see if these restaurants are still open, often they have a FB page and check internet info. Happy eating and have fun! Xo We shop for food at Compre Bien in Grecia a lovely full service market.
The salads and main dishes are fresh and delicious, no pun intended. Spacious and comfortable seating.
Delicias del Patio
Autopista Bernardo SotoThe salads and main dishes are fresh and delicious, no pun intended. Spacious and comfortable seating.
Hard to believe how good this pizza is and they deliver right to Finca Madre in Plantation Estates - at 10 PM!
Top Pizza
Hard to believe how good this pizza is and they deliver right to Finca Madre in Plantation Estates - at 10 PM!
Review by Cynthia Gilmore
Nortico 23 is located 500 mts south of the gimnasio of Santa Gertrudis Norte in front of B&B Garden Grecia.
There is a great variety of dishes on the menu but I really like the Surtida de tacos. Delicious and well prepared. Live music is offered on some dates.
Phone is 8321 4745. Contact is : Ronald Alfaro Gomez.
Hours are Tuesday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m,
Friday through Sunday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m
Posted 9/7/2023
Nortico23
Review by Cynthia Gilmore
Nortico 23 is located 500 mts south of the gimnasio of Santa Gertrudis Norte in front of B&B Garden Grecia.
There is a great variety of dishes on the menu but I really like the Surtida de tacos. Delicious and well prepared. Live music is offered on some dates.
Phone is 8321 4745. Contact is : Ronald Alfaro Gomez.
Hours are Tuesday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m,
Friday through Sunday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m
Posted 9/7/2023
Review By Lynn Conti
This is a hidden gem in Grecia, and some of the best food we've had in all of Costa Rica.
We've read the comments from others noting that it's expensive, and yes, it’s not cheap, but it's still an excellent value for the quality and uniqueness of the food, the superb preparation and presentation, and the beautifully designed space. Clearly, they get it in every category. We had an excellent meal with super fresh Peruvian ceviche, delicious vegetarian tostadas, and perfectly prepared salmon skewers (pinchos) with grilled pineapple.
And then there was the slightly smoky margarita, exactly as I had ordered- not too sweet. I don't think reservations would be needed but I'm sure they would take them if you prefer. I would describe it as upscale gastronomy. It's a unique dining experience for Grecia. Perfect for date nights and special occasions.
We will definitely be back!
Located across from the metal church and town square, north side.
Reverdecer
Monday- Thursday 12-9 Friday- Sunday 12-11
posted 9/7/2023
Reverdecer
Review By Lynn Conti
This is a hidden gem in Grecia, and some of the best food we've had in all of Costa Rica.
We've read the comments from others noting that it's expensive, and yes, it’s not cheap, but it's still an excellent value for the quality and uniqueness of the food, the superb preparation and presentation, and the beautifully designed space. Clearly, they get it in every category. We had an excellent meal with super fresh Peruvian ceviche, delicious vegetarian tostadas, and perfectly prepared salmon skewers (pinchos) with grilled pineapple.
And then there was the slightly smoky margarita, exactly as I had ordered- not too sweet. I don't think reservations would be needed but I'm sure they would take them if you prefer. I would describe it as upscale gastronomy. It's a unique dining experience for Grecia. Perfect for date nights and special occasions.
We will definitely be back!
Located across from the metal church and town square, north side.
Reverdecer
Monday- Thursday 12-9 Friday- Sunday 12-11
posted 9/7/2023
Recommended by Jennifer Schubert
Punto y Coma is family business founded in 2020. The restaurant was opened during the pandemic and started as a “to go” business and had 4 people working - now through the years that number has increased up to eleven.
The work team is characterized by having professional people in charge; the baker chef (my husband) for example, has over twenty years of experience and the main chef (Wendy Céspedes Solís) over ten, and both share the passion about the cooking. Their restaurant has a dynamic menu, which means they try to change and add some new dishes every certain time, of course keeping the high quality that identifies Punto y Coma. The menu has also been created to satisfy everybody´s need, from the young ones to the older ones, so it´s possible for the customers to find burgers, salads and even different kinds of desserts (the burgers are the top sellers). No alcohol available.
Find them on FB.
posted 7/10/2023
Restaurante y Cafeteria Punto y Coma
Recommended by Jennifer Schubert
Punto y Coma is family business founded in 2020. The restaurant was opened during the pandemic and started as a “to go” business and had 4 people working - now through the years that number has increased up to eleven.
The work team is characterized by having professional people in charge; the baker chef (my husband) for example, has over twenty years of experience and the main chef (Wendy Céspedes Solís) over ten, and both share the passion about the cooking. Their restaurant has a dynamic menu, which means they try to change and add some new dishes every certain time, of course keeping the high quality that identifies Punto y Coma. The menu has also been created to satisfy everybody´s need, from the young ones to the older ones, so it´s possible for the customers to find burgers, salads and even different kinds of desserts (the burgers are the top sellers). No alcohol available.
Find them on FB.
posted 7/10/2023
Review by Don Davis
Enrollato is a new restaurant in downtown Sarchi. The food was great and included creative ingredients that were well-prepared and served with great attention. The restaurant has a comfortable atmosphere and seats about 35. The menu includes a nice selection of: poke bowls, burgers, sandwiches, wraps, and sopa Azteca. Enrollato also has great hot/cold coffee drinks, wonderful fruit drinks and spectacular desserts. Enrollato offers dine-in, take out, and delivery.
(Note: there are currently no taxes charged due to Enrollato's unique tax classification as a "cafeteria." ALSO, the service is good, but there is NO 10% SERVICE FEE charged, either. So, be sure to add a tip.)
Open from 12-9pm Thursday-Tuesday (closed Wednesday).
Located on Avenida 2 between Ferreteria M. Ledezma and Pets Shop Sarchi.
Find them on FB
posted 6/2/2023
Enrrolato
Review by Don Davis
Enrollato is a new restaurant in downtown Sarchi. The food was great and included creative ingredients that were well-prepared and served with great attention. The restaurant has a comfortable atmosphere and seats about 35. The menu includes a nice selection of: poke bowls, burgers, sandwiches, wraps, and sopa Azteca. Enrollato also has great hot/cold coffee drinks, wonderful fruit drinks and spectacular desserts. Enrollato offers dine-in, take out, and delivery.
(Note: there are currently no taxes charged due to Enrollato's unique tax classification as a "cafeteria." ALSO, the service is good, but there is NO 10% SERVICE FEE charged, either. So, be sure to add a tip.)
Open from 12-9pm Thursday-Tuesday (closed Wednesday).
Located on Avenida 2 between Ferreteria M. Ledezma and Pets Shop Sarchi.
Find them on FB
posted 6/2/2023
Review by Diane Cooner
I watched the evolution of this new eatery for much of 2022. First it was just 2 buses. Then the buses got nice paint jobs, a platform went in between them to create an open space that became the bar, the inside of one bus was converted to tables and seats, the other became the kitchen. The result is El Chante Gastrobus, one of Grecia’s newest restaurants and occasional music venues.
They have a full bar and lots of choices on the varied menu, the prices are reasonable and a good value, from 3800 for the Casado up to 12,000 for full dinners. I went for the basic Casado or daily plate, with grilled chicken (and rice, salad with tomato, plantain, fried egg). It was excellent! My lunchmates enjoyed Sopa Azteca (chicken/tortilla soup in a tomato base), and the breaded chicken Casado. Empty plates/bowls all around! I went for the limonada with hierba buena (spearmint, excellent), but everyone else went for the maricuya fruit drink, which is creamy and tart/sweet. This is the basic batido that is fruit mixed with ice and either milk or water.
The Gastrobus serves everything from bocas to full-on meals - daily plate, ceviche, burgers, sandwiches, soups, salads, steaks. The food was excellent, the service was excellent (our waiter spoke English, the owner does not, except for ‘Thank You!’).
The restaurant is located at the back of the large corner public parking lot, 2 blocks north of the main (west) entrance to Grecia’s Central Market, so there is plenty of guarded parking at 600 colones per hour. Free street parking also available.
Phone: 6265-7653 and FB
posted 3/28/2023
El Chante Gastrobus
Review by Diane Cooner
I watched the evolution of this new eatery for much of 2022. First it was just 2 buses. Then the buses got nice paint jobs, a platform went in between them to create an open space that became the bar, the inside of one bus was converted to tables and seats, the other became the kitchen. The result is El Chante Gastrobus, one of Grecia’s newest restaurants and occasional music venues.
They have a full bar and lots of choices on the varied menu, the prices are reasonable and a good value, from 3800 for the Casado up to 12,000 for full dinners. I went for the basic Casado or daily plate, with grilled chicken (and rice, salad with tomato, plantain, fried egg). It was excellent! My lunchmates enjoyed Sopa Azteca (chicken/tortilla soup in a tomato base), and the breaded chicken Casado. Empty plates/bowls all around! I went for the limonada with hierba buena (spearmint, excellent), but everyone else went for the maricuya fruit drink, which is creamy and tart/sweet. This is the basic batido that is fruit mixed with ice and either milk or water.
The Gastrobus serves everything from bocas to full-on meals - daily plate, ceviche, burgers, sandwiches, soups, salads, steaks. The food was excellent, the service was excellent (our waiter spoke English, the owner does not, except for ‘Thank You!’).
The restaurant is located at the back of the large corner public parking lot, 2 blocks north of the main (west) entrance to Grecia’s Central Market, so there is plenty of guarded parking at 600 colones per hour. Free street parking also available.
Phone: 6265-7653 and FB
posted 3/28/2023
by Irina Just
For us oldtimers, this restaurant is in the same location as the former “Cilantro” followed by other restaurants. I hope it is not a bad omen because this place deserves to stay open. For those who don’t know where it is located: a couple of doors south of the downtown Pali, on the west side of the street. There’s a public parking lot right across.
For one, the décor is lovely - inspired by “días de los muertos” - Mexican colors, paint and style. Even Stephanie, the waitress, looked like a young Frida Kahlo. She does speak English.
The menu is extensive and fast: tex/mex and Mexican; no liquor (yet?). They only opened in August. There were 5 of us, and everyone enjoyed their chosen dish. As a birthday surprise, the chef lit the torch and made crème brulée right at our table.
They do have the occasional live entertainment in the evenings.
Phone:
Hours: 11AM - 10 PM Monday, Wednesday through Saturday;
Sunday 11AM - 9 PM; closed Tuesdays.
They are on FB under La Nacheria Costa Rica.
posted 8/22/2022
La Nacheria
by Irina Just
For us oldtimers, this restaurant is in the same location as the former “Cilantro” followed by other restaurants. I hope it is not a bad omen because this place deserves to stay open. For those who don’t know where it is located: a couple of doors south of the downtown Pali, on the west side of the street. There’s a public parking lot right across.
For one, the décor is lovely - inspired by “días de los muertos” - Mexican colors, paint and style. Even Stephanie, the waitress, looked like a young Frida Kahlo. She does speak English.
The menu is extensive and fast: tex/mex and Mexican; no liquor (yet?). They only opened in August. There were 5 of us, and everyone enjoyed their chosen dish. As a birthday surprise, the chef lit the torch and made crème brulée right at our table.
They do have the occasional live entertainment in the evenings.
Phone:
Hours: 11AM - 10 PM Monday, Wednesday through Saturday;
Sunday 11AM - 9 PM; closed Tuesdays.
They are on FB under La Nacheria Costa Rica.
posted 8/22/2022
by Irina Just
Right downtown Grecia, yet very quiet, on the north side of the park, is a hidden gem of a restaurant - a lovely secret garden called “Vuelta al Mundo” - freely translated into “trip around the world”. This charming restaurant is part of “Mangifera” hostel. The restaurant is in a tropical courtyard, making it safe outdoor seating during these Covid-times.
The owners of both, the hostel and the restaurant, are a tico and his Dutch wife (who speaks fluent English).
Hours: 12 until 9:30 Wednesdays through Sundays; closed Mondays and Tuesdays.
They often have live music on the weekends, but I have never been there in the evening [Editor's note: music caters to the youth!]
Their large menu consists of a plethora of international dishes, individually prepared. I’ve been there several times, trying a different dish every time - and none disappointed. The atmosphere is lovely and Danouck, the Dutch owner, is charming and very accommodating. They serve beer, wine and liquor plus a variety of natural juices.
posted 8/22/2022
Vuelta al Mundo
by Irina Just
Right downtown Grecia, yet very quiet, on the north side of the park, is a hidden gem of a restaurant - a lovely secret garden called “Vuelta al Mundo” - freely translated into “trip around the world”. This charming restaurant is part of “Mangifera” hostel. The restaurant is in a tropical courtyard, making it safe outdoor seating during these Covid-times.
The owners of both, the hostel and the restaurant, are a tico and his Dutch wife (who speaks fluent English).
Hours: 12 until 9:30 Wednesdays through Sundays; closed Mondays and Tuesdays.
They often have live music on the weekends, but I have never been there in the evening [Editor's note: music caters to the youth!]
Their large menu consists of a plethora of international dishes, individually prepared. I’ve been there several times, trying a different dish every time - and none disappointed. The atmosphere is lovely and Danouck, the Dutch owner, is charming and very accommodating. They serve beer, wine and liquor plus a variety of natural juices.
posted 8/22/2022
by Irina Just
Il Vesuvio is a bit off the beaten path for those not living in or near Los Angeles de Grecia - but it is well worth the kilometer or 2 up the Los Angeles-El Cajón Road. For us in Cajón, it is the nearest rstaurant and often our destination for pizza and wine/beer.
Once in Los Angeles, it is easy to find as it sits on the road right across from the school with a big round visible sign .
They are closed on Mondays and don't open until 6 pm Tuesday through Friday, when they close at 10 pm. Hours on the weekend are noon to 10 pm. We prefer to go around 4 PM either Saturday or Sunday, when we get their patio to ourselves, enjoying outdoor seating and Italian ambience.
Their pizza menu is extensive and we haven’t had a bad one yet. They are very accommodating and helpful, even agreeing to use ingredients we brought (anchovies) to add to their pizza Marguerite. The owner is from Italy, lending authenticity to the restaurant.
They recently added live entertainment on weekends.
Find them on FB - ask for express delivery to your home after 6pm.
posted 8/22/2022
Vesuvio Pizzeria y Más
by Irina Just
Il Vesuvio is a bit off the beaten path for those not living in or near Los Angeles de Grecia - but it is well worth the kilometer or 2 up the Los Angeles-El Cajón Road. For us in Cajón, it is the nearest rstaurant and often our destination for pizza and wine/beer.
Once in Los Angeles, it is easy to find as it sits on the road right across from the school with a big round visible sign .
They are closed on Mondays and don't open until 6 pm Tuesday through Friday, when they close at 10 pm. Hours on the weekend are noon to 10 pm. We prefer to go around 4 PM either Saturday or Sunday, when we get their patio to ourselves, enjoying outdoor seating and Italian ambience.
Their pizza menu is extensive and we haven’t had a bad one yet. They are very accommodating and helpful, even agreeing to use ingredients we brought (anchovies) to add to their pizza Marguerite. The owner is from Italy, lending authenticity to the restaurant.
They recently added live entertainment on weekends.
Find them on FB - ask for express delivery to your home after 6pm.
posted 8/22/2022
Recommended by Diane Cooner
Just before you arrive at Isabel's restaurant in San Luis, there is another restaurant across the street that is worthy of your attention - Restaurante Elmirador. This place has been there for 40 years, however the restaurant is under new management and now has an extensive menu, very reasonably priced, along with a large, covered open-aired dining space (protected by those strong ridge winds). The view of the Central Valley is spectacular - arrive early to get a table! After the sun goes down the place is packed. Ample onsite (not street) parking with a watchy-man as well.
We opted for ribeye steak and fajitas - both arrived quickly and were excellent. El MIrador also has a selection of mixed cocktails and beers. They have occasional live music on the weekends (with more to come!).
I had planned to go to another well-regarded local eatery, but at the last minute decided to try El MIrador - I was not disappointed! We will be going back for sure, this may become a Favorite Place.
Open daily from 11am - 10pm.
You can see their menu on FB
Posted 1/22/2022
Restaurante El Mirador
Recommended by Diane Cooner
Just before you arrive at Isabel's restaurant in San Luis, there is another restaurant across the street that is worthy of your attention - Restaurante Elmirador. This place has been there for 40 years, however the restaurant is under new management and now has an extensive menu, very reasonably priced, along with a large, covered open-aired dining space (protected by those strong ridge winds). The view of the Central Valley is spectacular - arrive early to get a table! After the sun goes down the place is packed. Ample onsite (not street) parking with a watchy-man as well.
We opted for ribeye steak and fajitas - both arrived quickly and were excellent. El MIrador also has a selection of mixed cocktails and beers. They have occasional live music on the weekends (with more to come!).
I had planned to go to another well-regarded local eatery, but at the last minute decided to try El MIrador - I was not disappointed! We will be going back for sure, this may become a Favorite Place.
Open daily from 11am - 10pm.
You can see their menu on FB
Posted 1/22/2022
Recommended by QuePasaGrecia dot com…. Located at the top of the hill in northeast Grecia near the municipal water tank. (Casa Nosstra’ (2 ‘s’s) for menu and directions.)This open-air restaurant and bar with great views of Poas and San Isidro was started by some of the former employees of La Casa de Miguel and their menu has many similarities. We’ve eaten there a number of times. They have a nice menu selection, the prices are good value and the food and service have always been excellent.(If you are a hamburger aficionado, better give theirs a try. We doubt you’ll be disappointed.)
See their FB page for map, phone, etc -
Casa Nosstra
Recommended by QuePasaGrecia dot com…. Located at the top of the hill in northeast Grecia near the municipal water tank. (Casa Nosstra’ (2 ‘s’s) for menu and directions.)This open-air restaurant and bar with great views of Poas and San Isidro was started by some of the former employees of La Casa de Miguel and their menu has many similarities. We’ve eaten there a number of times. They have a nice menu selection, the prices are good value and the food and service have always been excellent.(If you are a hamburger aficionado, better give theirs a try. We doubt you’ll be disappointed.)
See their FB page for map, phone, etc -
by Diane Cooner
New Favorite Place! Like many others, I had been watching the grounds developing for this new restaurant and nursery, located on the side street behind Rosvil market, near the Tribunales and feria in Grecia. I finally made it there for a celebratory lunch last month and I was not disappointed.
The service was not fast but I didn't want it to be. The grounds are lovely, it was like being on vacation at a beautiful garden resort - lots of little private dining areas, with gardens and clever garden art everywhere, I was happy to not be rushed out!
Los Jardines offers a full menu, appetizers thru desserts, vegetarian plates, beer & wine, even kids' meals. I enjoyed a rib-eye panini sandwich - fresh homemade panini, excellent rib-eye, with my favorite drink, limonada con hierba buena. The arrangement was artistic, the portion was not huge, I was not daunted by the prices.
They also serve organic coffee and are into eco-education and practices, which is really refreshing.
The nursery is small but I can see that it has potential to grow. This is a work in progress and as they opened during the pandemic it doesn't seem that the owners are too concerned about obstacles. For the time investment alone in the garden, I think they're in it for the long haul. I look forward to enjoying the restaurant and grounds many times in the future.
Tons of monitored parking 25 meters west of the grounds on the corner, they recently planted a row of trees for shade on the street side. Don't forget to tip the watchie-man. Truly, it's like taking a mini-vacation in the middle of town. Give it a try!
Closed on Monday. Find their menu and hours on FB.
posted 4/4/2021
Los Jardines Vivero y Café
by Diane Cooner
New Favorite Place! Like many others, I had been watching the grounds developing for this new restaurant and nursery, located on the side street behind Rosvil market, near the Tribunales and feria in Grecia. I finally made it there for a celebratory lunch last month and I was not disappointed.
The service was not fast but I didn't want it to be. The grounds are lovely, it was like being on vacation at a beautiful garden resort - lots of little private dining areas, with gardens and clever garden art everywhere, I was happy to not be rushed out!
Los Jardines offers a full menu, appetizers thru desserts, vegetarian plates, beer & wine, even kids' meals. I enjoyed a rib-eye panini sandwich - fresh homemade panini, excellent rib-eye, with my favorite drink, limonada con hierba buena. The arrangement was artistic, the portion was not huge, I was not daunted by the prices.
They also serve organic coffee and are into eco-education and practices, which is really refreshing.
The nursery is small but I can see that it has potential to grow. This is a work in progress and as they opened during the pandemic it doesn't seem that the owners are too concerned about obstacles. For the time investment alone in the garden, I think they're in it for the long haul. I look forward to enjoying the restaurant and grounds many times in the future.
Tons of monitored parking 25 meters west of the grounds on the corner, they recently planted a row of trees for shade on the street side. Don't forget to tip the watchie-man. Truly, it's like taking a mini-vacation in the middle of town. Give it a try!
Closed on Monday. Find their menu and hours on FB.
posted 4/4/2021
Review by Lou Kritz
Looking for that "go to place" where you can get a pleasant lunch, a light snack, or a full dinner? You may just find it at Más Q' Sabor. The name of this Tex-Mex special place means "more than flavor", and their tag line is "Always Fresh." Proprietor Johnny Lara, along with his wife, Karol Murillo, and an excellent and very competent staff, have worked to provide a widely varied menu that is always fresh and provides a dining experience that has great flavor, but much, much, more.
Here's just a sampling of the truly unique menu you will have to scrutinize. Begin with an appetizer and you'll notice the Mexican theme right away in the Taquitos Rancheros, Sopes, and Quesadilla Supreme. It then broadens out with Peruvian Ceviche and Shrimp Cocktail. Next add freshly house-made Cream of Squash or Azteca Tortilla soup. For salad, the selections are a Taco Salad, Caesar Chicken, the delicious House, and an Asian Salad.Hankering for a burger? The tough decision must deal with the house special Más Q' Sabor Burger, a Santa Fe Grilled Chicken Burger, and a Milanesa Chicken Sandwich. Also, think about the newly-added Bean Burger, designed to please the vegetarians and vegans.
Trying to stay authentic with the Mexican format? Zarapes, Enchiladas, Burritos Chimichanga and Ranchero style, Tacos Dorado, Al Pastor, and Asada, and Fish Tacos Ensenada are just part of the list that offers delectable choices.
For a more filling dinner experience the Seafood and Grill menu will serve. Parillada, a delightful combination of marinated sirloin steak and chicken, with an additional shrimp option, plus sides to round out the meal, will fit the bill. Other choices include Fajitas Mixtas, Peruvian Sirloin Strip, a Fish Filet, and the Pescado ala Diabla, with a tangy hot sauce, and accompaniments of beans, white rice, and veggies.
There are also Executive Meals, which allow you to decide on various options, and a full compliment of Rice and Pasta dishes that are not only filling, but so savory that you'll come back for more. Desserts, again all fresh and house-made. They range from a Strawberry/Nutella-filled Crepe, Lime Pie, and Deep-Fried Ice Cream and are only part of the line-up.
The drink list includes specialty Limonadas, Fruit Smoothies, Ice Tea and the best fresh-brewed coffee this side of the nearest volcano. There is also a liquor selection of craft beers, wines by bottle or glass, and liquor-based cocktails.
Más Q' Sabor offers everything made fresh with great flavor, and their secret ingredient, nourishment, to provide an experience not usually found in such a reasonably priced restaurant. From a light lunch to a multi-course dinner, it's a value here. They've even thought of vegetarians and vegans by adding appropriate items or adjusting your favorites to your program requirements. And, children get special attention with the Children's Menu and an attention to portion size.
Johnny and his team are located on Avenida 1 in Grecia right next door to the correos, or post office. The restaurant opens at 12:00 o'clock noon, and is open into the evening hours for dinner and evening treats, six days per week from Tuesday through Sunday, and closed on Monday. Call for hours or delivery.
updated 4/4/2021
8 người dân địa phương đề xuất
Masqsabor
Calle 2 Lucas FernándezReview by Lou Kritz
Looking for that "go to place" where you can get a pleasant lunch, a light snack, or a full dinner? You may just find it at Más Q' Sabor. The name of this Tex-Mex special place means "more than flavor", and their tag line is "Always Fresh." Proprietor Johnny Lara, along with his wife, Karol Murillo, and an excellent and very competent staff, have worked to provide a widely varied menu that is always fresh and provides a dining experience that has great flavor, but much, much, more.
Here's just a sampling of the truly unique menu you will have to scrutinize. Begin with an appetizer and you'll notice the Mexican theme right away in the Taquitos Rancheros, Sopes, and Quesadilla Supreme. It then broadens out with Peruvian Ceviche and Shrimp Cocktail. Next add freshly house-made Cream of Squash or Azteca Tortilla soup. For salad, the selections are a Taco Salad, Caesar Chicken, the delicious House, and an Asian Salad.Hankering for a burger? The tough decision must deal with the house special Más Q' Sabor Burger, a Santa Fe Grilled Chicken Burger, and a Milanesa Chicken Sandwich. Also, think about the newly-added Bean Burger, designed to please the vegetarians and vegans.
Trying to stay authentic with the Mexican format? Zarapes, Enchiladas, Burritos Chimichanga and Ranchero style, Tacos Dorado, Al Pastor, and Asada, and Fish Tacos Ensenada are just part of the list that offers delectable choices.
For a more filling dinner experience the Seafood and Grill menu will serve. Parillada, a delightful combination of marinated sirloin steak and chicken, with an additional shrimp option, plus sides to round out the meal, will fit the bill. Other choices include Fajitas Mixtas, Peruvian Sirloin Strip, a Fish Filet, and the Pescado ala Diabla, with a tangy hot sauce, and accompaniments of beans, white rice, and veggies.
There are also Executive Meals, which allow you to decide on various options, and a full compliment of Rice and Pasta dishes that are not only filling, but so savory that you'll come back for more. Desserts, again all fresh and house-made. They range from a Strawberry/Nutella-filled Crepe, Lime Pie, and Deep-Fried Ice Cream and are only part of the line-up.
The drink list includes specialty Limonadas, Fruit Smoothies, Ice Tea and the best fresh-brewed coffee this side of the nearest volcano. There is also a liquor selection of craft beers, wines by bottle or glass, and liquor-based cocktails.
Más Q' Sabor offers everything made fresh with great flavor, and their secret ingredient, nourishment, to provide an experience not usually found in such a reasonably priced restaurant. From a light lunch to a multi-course dinner, it's a value here. They've even thought of vegetarians and vegans by adding appropriate items or adjusting your favorites to your program requirements. And, children get special attention with the Children's Menu and an attention to portion size.
Johnny and his team are located on Avenida 1 in Grecia right next door to the correos, or post office. The restaurant opens at 12:00 o'clock noon, and is open into the evening hours for dinner and evening treats, six days per week from Tuesday through Sunday, and closed on Monday. Call for hours or delivery.
updated 4/4/2021
by Alisa Dillingham
Looking for a NEWish restaurant in Grecia? Well, look no further...we have SUSHI! And it is called, Sushi Arte by Musashi. If you are wondering what Musashi is, that is the name of the sister restaurant located in San Ramon.
What I love about our little town of Grecia, is the variety of restaurants you can eat in and enjoy. Now, I will tell you that our little SUSHI restaurant is an experience. If you are looking for a grab and go kinda of place, this is not it. Even if you call ahead, you may have an experience in waiting for your food. The good part of this experience is that the food is amazing. The talented Jesus, (the owner and head sushi chef), takes his time and serves you up an amazing display of sushi with an even better taste. His fish is fresh and the quality is superb.
Besides having sushi and sashimi, Sushi Arte has teriyaki dishes, rice dishes, temaki rolls, tempura, soups and salads. It is a small and intimate place located on the corner of Calle Carmona and Calle 4. (that it is 400 metros sur de Servicentro Alvarado y Molina). But, the easy directions are that Sushi Arte is located on the same street as Peri Mercado, so if you are driving down Calle 4 towards Paca Laca, it is one street back, on the corner before you get to Paca Laca on the right hand side. They have a nice big black sign hanging outside . Since the streets are one way, you will either park on Calle 4 or turn left onto Calle Carmona. They also are on FB, Sushi Arte.
I will tell you that I recommend you call and make reservations, Jesus and his wife Evelyn both speak english. And if possible, order a few rolls, so when you arrive you have something to nibble on while you place your main order. The restaurant only holds 15 people, so space is limited.
I do hope that you all enjoy our Sushi restaurant here in Grecia, my little family of 5 attempts to go about every month. And, I will tell you that having 3 healthy growing boys that love SUSHI, this is a treasure and a true find and a great addition to our menu choices here in Grecia. Oh, and by the way, they have Take Out too. Sushi Arte Hours - Monday - Saturday 11:30 am til 10:00 pm
posted 3/6/2019
Sushi Arte Grecia
by Alisa Dillingham
Looking for a NEWish restaurant in Grecia? Well, look no further...we have SUSHI! And it is called, Sushi Arte by Musashi. If you are wondering what Musashi is, that is the name of the sister restaurant located in San Ramon.
What I love about our little town of Grecia, is the variety of restaurants you can eat in and enjoy. Now, I will tell you that our little SUSHI restaurant is an experience. If you are looking for a grab and go kinda of place, this is not it. Even if you call ahead, you may have an experience in waiting for your food. The good part of this experience is that the food is amazing. The talented Jesus, (the owner and head sushi chef), takes his time and serves you up an amazing display of sushi with an even better taste. His fish is fresh and the quality is superb.
Besides having sushi and sashimi, Sushi Arte has teriyaki dishes, rice dishes, temaki rolls, tempura, soups and salads. It is a small and intimate place located on the corner of Calle Carmona and Calle 4. (that it is 400 metros sur de Servicentro Alvarado y Molina). But, the easy directions are that Sushi Arte is located on the same street as Peri Mercado, so if you are driving down Calle 4 towards Paca Laca, it is one street back, on the corner before you get to Paca Laca on the right hand side. They have a nice big black sign hanging outside . Since the streets are one way, you will either park on Calle 4 or turn left onto Calle Carmona. They also are on FB, Sushi Arte.
I will tell you that I recommend you call and make reservations, Jesus and his wife Evelyn both speak english. And if possible, order a few rolls, so when you arrive you have something to nibble on while you place your main order. The restaurant only holds 15 people, so space is limited.
I do hope that you all enjoy our Sushi restaurant here in Grecia, my little family of 5 attempts to go about every month. And, I will tell you that having 3 healthy growing boys that love SUSHI, this is a treasure and a true find and a great addition to our menu choices here in Grecia. Oh, and by the way, they have Take Out too. Sushi Arte Hours - Monday - Saturday 11:30 am til 10:00 pm
posted 3/6/2019
By Judy Burnham
Cinco 20 Grill is a wonderful new restaurant in downtown Grecia. Directly across from exit side of the new bus station. On the corner, it has black chain link fence surrounding it and the restaurant is built with shipping containers, painted black, and pallets.
They paid special attention to details in this restaurant.
Awesome food and not expensive. Grilled meats, salads and desserts. They have wonderful pasta's too. They will give you a menu, and you go up to order the food. Room for lots of people. Indoor and outdoor.
It has it’s own parking lot. Highly recommended.
Open Thursday - Sunday, 12pm-8:30pm. Their FB page is: cinco20 grill
updated 10/27/2021
Cinco20 Grill
By Judy Burnham
Cinco 20 Grill is a wonderful new restaurant in downtown Grecia. Directly across from exit side of the new bus station. On the corner, it has black chain link fence surrounding it and the restaurant is built with shipping containers, painted black, and pallets.
They paid special attention to details in this restaurant.
Awesome food and not expensive. Grilled meats, salads and desserts. They have wonderful pasta's too. They will give you a menu, and you go up to order the food. Room for lots of people. Indoor and outdoor.
It has it’s own parking lot. Highly recommended.
Open Thursday - Sunday, 12pm-8:30pm. Their FB page is: cinco20 grill
updated 10/27/2021
By Dave Murray
For the past couple of years, shoppers at the farmers’ market (the feria) in Grecia have enjoyed the bakery products offered by Esau Herrera who sells various types of breads, bagels, croissants, large pretzels, cookies, pies, etc. all of which are produced in his bakery in Atenas. He can also offer Canadian bacon, regular bacon and hams on special order.
The bakery in Atenas has included a small retail outlet, but recently that has changed.
Esau still comes to the Grecia feria but he has moved his Atenas restaurant, Crema y Nata, to a new and much better location in downtown Atenas. There, the menu has expanded and the accommodations are delightful. The menu includes custom sandwiches, salads, coffees, daily specials and more. All the breads and other products are available as well. Ample seating is in a very pleasant covered courtyard.
The new Crema y Nata is open daily from 7:00am to 6:00pm. It is located in a strip mall in Atenas that is easy to find on Waze. If you don’t use Waze, take the back road from Grecia to Atenas through Santa Eulalia. When you get to the flashing light at Route 3, go straight uphill for two and a half blocks and look for the sign on the left. If you get to the Stop sign, you went too far.
Crema y Nata makes a trip to Atenas worthwhile in itself.
Updated 10/28/2021
6 người dân địa phương đề xuất
Crema y Nata
Calle 2By Dave Murray
For the past couple of years, shoppers at the farmers’ market (the feria) in Grecia have enjoyed the bakery products offered by Esau Herrera who sells various types of breads, bagels, croissants, large pretzels, cookies, pies, etc. all of which are produced in his bakery in Atenas. He can also offer Canadian bacon, regular bacon and hams on special order.
The bakery in Atenas has included a small retail outlet, but recently that has changed.
Esau still comes to the Grecia feria but he has moved his Atenas restaurant, Crema y Nata, to a new and much better location in downtown Atenas. There, the menu has expanded and the accommodations are delightful. The menu includes custom sandwiches, salads, coffees, daily specials and more. All the breads and other products are available as well. Ample seating is in a very pleasant covered courtyard.
The new Crema y Nata is open daily from 7:00am to 6:00pm. It is located in a strip mall in Atenas that is easy to find on Waze. If you don’t use Waze, take the back road from Grecia to Atenas through Santa Eulalia. When you get to the flashing light at Route 3, go straight uphill for two and a half blocks and look for the sign on the left. If you get to the Stop sign, you went too far.
Crema y Nata makes a trip to Atenas worthwhile in itself.
Updated 10/28/2021
Recommended by Dan Pent
This is all about Chicharrones, the pork dish known nationally here.
Las Orquideas (the orchids) recently moved into their new location from up in San Isidro which was very hard to get into! There are still signs that will lead you up there along the road - don’t believe them! His restaurant is well known by many locals as the best chicharrones when up in San Isidro. It is family run, most of staff speak some degree of English.
They are open Thursday and Friday starting at 5pm and at 12 noon Saturday and Sunday closing at 9pm. They do serve alcohol and have a large gravel parking area. It is located on the road leaving Grecia passing the CoopeVictoria on the road toward Santa Gertrudis Norte and on to Alajuela. After passing the Coope cemetery, cross a small bridge and you will find the restaurant on your right. The sign has a little piggy on it. It is a rustic log style building with family-style setup.
You can get a plate of chicharrones for one, two or for four. We got the one for four which costs 15,000 colones. The plate for two is 9000.00. On your plate you will get a huge amount of dry rubbed pork chunks, chips covered with refried beans and chips covered with potatoes salad, corn tortillas and lemon wedges. Four people will be hard pressed to finish it all. For 5,000 colones we also tried their shrimp plate which is beer batter style fried and very tender inside. We tried the ceviche dish which is made from Corvina (sea bass) the best for ceviche dishes. It was very good, you can get a small single dish or a larger dish for two. We have now been back 5 times! Yummy yummy! If you like chicharrones one of the best and a nice atmosphere!
Updated 10/28/2021
Chicharronera y Marisquería Orias
Recommended by Dan Pent
This is all about Chicharrones, the pork dish known nationally here.
Las Orquideas (the orchids) recently moved into their new location from up in San Isidro which was very hard to get into! There are still signs that will lead you up there along the road - don’t believe them! His restaurant is well known by many locals as the best chicharrones when up in San Isidro. It is family run, most of staff speak some degree of English.
They are open Thursday and Friday starting at 5pm and at 12 noon Saturday and Sunday closing at 9pm. They do serve alcohol and have a large gravel parking area. It is located on the road leaving Grecia passing the CoopeVictoria on the road toward Santa Gertrudis Norte and on to Alajuela. After passing the Coope cemetery, cross a small bridge and you will find the restaurant on your right. The sign has a little piggy on it. It is a rustic log style building with family-style setup.
You can get a plate of chicharrones for one, two or for four. We got the one for four which costs 15,000 colones. The plate for two is 9000.00. On your plate you will get a huge amount of dry rubbed pork chunks, chips covered with refried beans and chips covered with potatoes salad, corn tortillas and lemon wedges. Four people will be hard pressed to finish it all. For 5,000 colones we also tried their shrimp plate which is beer batter style fried and very tender inside. We tried the ceviche dish which is made from Corvina (sea bass) the best for ceviche dishes. It was very good, you can get a small single dish or a larger dish for two. We have now been back 5 times! Yummy yummy! If you like chicharrones one of the best and a nice atmosphere!
Updated 10/28/2021
Recommended by Teresa Deshech
Really great Thai food, and good prices. Authentic Thai food so close to home, I'm looking for ways to make sure they succeed. It is called Savory a la Thai. Run by a local couple, he's Tico and - no surprise - she's from Thailand.
It is really good thai food that has a lovely, nuanced flavor profile. It is a family run business, and the cook is a Thai lady who creates her own curry mix via growing things like fresh lemon grass in her garden, and even makes her own fish sauce.
You can either order it tico style, or Thai style. We ordered THAI style, and got the yellow curry and the Phad Thai, and both were great. The ingredients were really fresh.
By Reservation Only at this time - see their FB page for directions - about 1/2 drive northwest out of San Ramon.
They speak english and spanish, and of course, Thai! 6012-7722
Updated 10/27/2021
PS mention Paul Zink sent you and appreciate the food
Savory a la Thai
Recommended by Teresa Deshech
Really great Thai food, and good prices. Authentic Thai food so close to home, I'm looking for ways to make sure they succeed. It is called Savory a la Thai. Run by a local couple, he's Tico and - no surprise - she's from Thailand.
It is really good thai food that has a lovely, nuanced flavor profile. It is a family run business, and the cook is a Thai lady who creates her own curry mix via growing things like fresh lemon grass in her garden, and even makes her own fish sauce.
You can either order it tico style, or Thai style. We ordered THAI style, and got the yellow curry and the Phad Thai, and both were great. The ingredients were really fresh.
By Reservation Only at this time - see their FB page for directions - about 1/2 drive northwest out of San Ramon.
They speak english and spanish, and of course, Thai! 6012-7722
Updated 10/27/2021
PS mention Paul Zink sent you and appreciate the food
Recommended by Greg Pekas
We ate at this great place last week, and wanted to share...If you want an UNDER-priced and OVER-served meal that is wonderfully cooked with fresh ingredients, you really need to dine at Chirinquitos del Rio, just outside of Grecia on the old road to Alajuela. Consider this: (2) Filet Mignons with potato and vegetable (2) Vino Blanco (2) Ron Centenario. Total bill: 18,100 colones! The steaks were done to perfection and we'll be back!
Updated 10/27/2021
Chirinquitos del Río
Recommended by Greg Pekas
We ate at this great place last week, and wanted to share...If you want an UNDER-priced and OVER-served meal that is wonderfully cooked with fresh ingredients, you really need to dine at Chirinquitos del Rio, just outside of Grecia on the old road to Alajuela. Consider this: (2) Filet Mignons with potato and vegetable (2) Vino Blanco (2) Ron Centenario. Total bill: 18,100 colones! The steaks were done to perfection and we'll be back!
Updated 10/27/2021
Joe Richard recommends: “Atori” Sushi y Restaurante has moved next door and is now sharing a locale with the pizza restaurant (Pizza Macho) on the corner.
Now I’m no sushi connoisseur and I’m easy to please. California rolls make me happy. Today I went crazy trying something strange and hoping for the best. Pixsushi: Arroz panconizado, queso crema, aguacate, salmon, kanikama and masago for 4500 colones. Right, not your typical Japanese sushi. Kinda a Tico variation and there are several of them. No seaweed on this one, rather a crispy breaded exterior with a rice interior and all those little things piled on top. I loved it. There were eight good sized sushi accompanied by the traditional soy sauce and wasabi.
A sampling of the sushi plates:
California: Queso crema, Kanikama, aguacate and pepino. 3500 colones
Tuna Love: Queso crema, Kanikama, aguacate, pepino and cubierto de atun. 4000 colones
Ojo de dragon: Salmon, atun y kanikama tempurizados con cobertura de ajonjoli. 5500 colones
Atori has more traditional plates as well. Their entradas range from 2500 to 4000 colones for dishes like Ensalada Portobello, Ceviche, Salmon Wrap and Camaron Tempura. The hot plates are 3800 to 7000 colones for plates such as vegetable lasagna, Yakiton (pinchos de cerdo, pollo y camaron) and Salmon a la Naranja.
Stiven Alpizar, who speaks perfect English, was my waiter and was very efficient. My plate came ten to fifteen minutes after ordering and was beautifully presented. The owner, Josue Quesada, may have a hit on his hands. It certainly adds another favorite to my list of good places to eat.
Atori is open every day from noon to 10pm, except Tuesdays. 2444-1250
A tip of my sugekasa to Atori! Note: Atori is now co-located with Pizza Macho, 50 m north of the Grecia/San Jose bus station.
updated 10/28/2021
ATORI SUSHI
Joe Richard recommends: “Atori” Sushi y Restaurante has moved next door and is now sharing a locale with the pizza restaurant (Pizza Macho) on the corner.
Now I’m no sushi connoisseur and I’m easy to please. California rolls make me happy. Today I went crazy trying something strange and hoping for the best. Pixsushi: Arroz panconizado, queso crema, aguacate, salmon, kanikama and masago for 4500 colones. Right, not your typical Japanese sushi. Kinda a Tico variation and there are several of them. No seaweed on this one, rather a crispy breaded exterior with a rice interior and all those little things piled on top. I loved it. There were eight good sized sushi accompanied by the traditional soy sauce and wasabi.
A sampling of the sushi plates:
California: Queso crema, Kanikama, aguacate and pepino. 3500 colones
Tuna Love: Queso crema, Kanikama, aguacate, pepino and cubierto de atun. 4000 colones
Ojo de dragon: Salmon, atun y kanikama tempurizados con cobertura de ajonjoli. 5500 colones
Atori has more traditional plates as well. Their entradas range from 2500 to 4000 colones for dishes like Ensalada Portobello, Ceviche, Salmon Wrap and Camaron Tempura. The hot plates are 3800 to 7000 colones for plates such as vegetable lasagna, Yakiton (pinchos de cerdo, pollo y camaron) and Salmon a la Naranja.
Stiven Alpizar, who speaks perfect English, was my waiter and was very efficient. My plate came ten to fifteen minutes after ordering and was beautifully presented. The owner, Josue Quesada, may have a hit on his hands. It certainly adds another favorite to my list of good places to eat.
Atori is open every day from noon to 10pm, except Tuesdays. 2444-1250
A tip of my sugekasa to Atori! Note: Atori is now co-located with Pizza Macho, 50 m north of the Grecia/San Jose bus station.
updated 10/28/2021
Don Davis recommends:
If you haven’t tried local bar hopping Costa Rican style, get off the dime and give it a shot. It’s part of the culture and is usually a pretty cheap date and a fun night out.
Spain has tapas. Costa Rica has bocas. Bocas are inexpensive appetizer plates, soups and salads. The wife and I are partial to seafood and shrimp ceviches. You’ll find them on the menu of almost any local bar.
Duna's Bar is an icon in the small community of Barrio San Juan de Sarchi. It’s across from the school, next door to the church and above the tiny store. The food is good, the atmosphere is friendly and the bartender who has been there on the nights we’ve visited, Rudolfo, speaks English. Duna’s is open in the evening and closed on Mondays.
If you don’t know where Barrio San Juan de Sarchi is located, then directions to Duna’s Bar are a bit long. Here goes:
Directions coming from Grecia Drive past the Sarchi town square with giant carretta (on your right) just over 100 meters to the first street on your right and turn right onto the one-way street. (There is a new commercial building on one corner with a shoe store and on the other corner a boutique, “Eclipes,” and a small ferreteria, “Frosa” behind it on the one-way street.)
Directions coming from Naranjo Drive past the Sarchi futbol field (on your right) and through the intersection with the traffic signal to the next street on your left and turn left onto the one-way street. (There is a new commercial building on one corner with a shoe store and on the other corner a boutique, “Eclipes,” and a small ferreteria, “Frosa” behind it on the one-way street.)
Universal directions from this point to Duna’s Bar You will quickly pass a “Pali” market and the big orange and white communication tower both on the right. Follow the road—it goes straight for about 1/2 a kilometer (past “MCC” ferreteria on your left) and then turns sharply left just past the big “Beneficios La Eva” coffee exporter with a guard station and barricade. Keep left and up and around a hill with one “reductor” (speed bump) at the top. Keep right on the main road as it heads downhill and winds a bit more. You will come to a narrow bridge with the “CEDA” sign on your side. Just past the bridge take a sharp left up the hill and bear to the right. Go straight (north) at the top of the steep street there’s an intersection with a road bearing sharply to the left. Take it and go steeply up and curve to the right. At the top of hill you are in “downtown” San Juan de Sarchi and Duna’s Bar will be just past the futbol field and on your right across from the school.
Updated 10/28/2021
Dunas Bar
Don Davis recommends:
If you haven’t tried local bar hopping Costa Rican style, get off the dime and give it a shot. It’s part of the culture and is usually a pretty cheap date and a fun night out.
Spain has tapas. Costa Rica has bocas. Bocas are inexpensive appetizer plates, soups and salads. The wife and I are partial to seafood and shrimp ceviches. You’ll find them on the menu of almost any local bar.
Duna's Bar is an icon in the small community of Barrio San Juan de Sarchi. It’s across from the school, next door to the church and above the tiny store. The food is good, the atmosphere is friendly and the bartender who has been there on the nights we’ve visited, Rudolfo, speaks English. Duna’s is open in the evening and closed on Mondays.
If you don’t know where Barrio San Juan de Sarchi is located, then directions to Duna’s Bar are a bit long. Here goes:
Directions coming from Grecia Drive past the Sarchi town square with giant carretta (on your right) just over 100 meters to the first street on your right and turn right onto the one-way street. (There is a new commercial building on one corner with a shoe store and on the other corner a boutique, “Eclipes,” and a small ferreteria, “Frosa” behind it on the one-way street.)
Directions coming from Naranjo Drive past the Sarchi futbol field (on your right) and through the intersection with the traffic signal to the next street on your left and turn left onto the one-way street. (There is a new commercial building on one corner with a shoe store and on the other corner a boutique, “Eclipes,” and a small ferreteria, “Frosa” behind it on the one-way street.)
Universal directions from this point to Duna’s Bar You will quickly pass a “Pali” market and the big orange and white communication tower both on the right. Follow the road—it goes straight for about 1/2 a kilometer (past “MCC” ferreteria on your left) and then turns sharply left just past the big “Beneficios La Eva” coffee exporter with a guard station and barricade. Keep left and up and around a hill with one “reductor” (speed bump) at the top. Keep right on the main road as it heads downhill and winds a bit more. You will come to a narrow bridge with the “CEDA” sign on your side. Just past the bridge take a sharp left up the hill and bear to the right. Go straight (north) at the top of the steep street there’s an intersection with a road bearing sharply to the left. Take it and go steeply up and curve to the right. At the top of hill you are in “downtown” San Juan de Sarchi and Duna’s Bar will be just past the futbol field and on your right across from the school.
Updated 10/28/2021
Review by Lou Kritz
(Check to see if it’s still open!). A restaurant of the quality of Restaurante La Casa de Miguel deserves more than a one-visit review. So, after living in Grecia for over seventeen months, and dining there at least once every two weeks, and sometimes more often, I feel it’s time to laud this one of a kind place. It can honestly be considered the best restaurant in Grecia and the surrounding area. It’s not only become our favorite, but it’s become our go-to place to entertain visitors form the States. In our 40+ visits, we’ve sampled the Spanish/English menu in all categories.
It begins with fresh, crisp salads of simple greens, to chicken and tuna varieties, and a Capresse offering. Follow this with both cold and hot appetizers. Ceviche is delicious, with several types of Carpaccio and Tartar and several soups. Here you will find the house specialty, Ceviche La Casa de Miguel. If you even think you like ceviche, you must try this one. Sister-in-law Kim from Pennsylvania looked up long enough to say, “This is the best thing I’ve ever eaten.”
Serious entrees begin with a wide selection of pastas. Fruti di Mari, mixed seafood sauce, either white or red, over a choice of pastas. Boloñesa will make you forget the word “spaghetti.” Loraine can’t get past the Crema de Salmón con nuestra salsa de vodka, or as us gringos say it, “Salmon with vodka sauce.” Beef dishes run the gamut of a selection of locally raised cuts, including a Grilled Mixed Plate of beef, chicken, and chorizo, of course with excellent sides.
The imported beef menu includes Churrasco, Delmonico, New York Strip, a Porterhouse, and surprisingly, the best Grilled Outside Skirt Steak you’ve ever eaten. To say it melts in your mouth is an understatement. Or, If you prefer Mariscos, or seafood, choose any variety and it’s here, grilled, breaded, fried, or in cream sauce. There are both white and tomato sauces, and even a tempting Camarones Kung Pao shrimp dish.
There is chicken in no less than five presentations, topped off by the Cordon Bleu, that you will order when you return. Rice dishes go from the typical house rice to Rice with Shrimp. A small children’s menu follows the entrees, along with a large sandwich selection for lunch or a lighter dinner. Desserts, if you make it that far, include Starwberry Cheesecake, Pears in Red Wine Sauce, Chocolate Cake, and Passion Fruit Mousse. If you can’t make up your mind, go for the Flan de Coco, Coconut Flan. Outstanding!. All are made daily on-site and are exquisite.
Drinks available include the standard batidos, iced teas, fruit drinks, and hot tea. The coffee is top quality and individually brewed on order. There is a full bar with a large wine selection and an assortment of liquors that can be mixed.
A restaurant should be judged on its menu and food quality, ambience, service, and value. Miguel’s is tops in all categories. There is simply no other restaurant for kilometers around that offers this selection. Everything is fresh and hand-prepared on order. Enter the restaurant from the street and the ‘business end’ is up front. A large, quiet dining room is next, with the open-air veranda at the back, looking over a calm garden. There is no street noise, just the pleasant sound of the birds in the trees. Roy, the manager, and his staff speak both English and Spanish, are welcoming and warm.
Prices reflect the high quality of both the food and service, but are surprisingly reasonable for this level of dining experience. Simply put, it is well worth the price!
La Casa de Miguel is located on Avenida Central at the ‘top of town’ just three doors, or 50 meters west of the bomberos station. There is limited on-site parking. It’s open Tuesday through Thursday at 11:00AM to 9:00PM, Friday and Saturday, 11:00 am to 10:00PM, Sunday, 11:00am to 5:00 PM, and closed on Mondays.
Phone: 2444-6767
Updated 10/28/2021
8 người dân địa phương đề xuất
La Casa de Miguel
Avenida Central León Cortés CastroReview by Lou Kritz
(Check to see if it’s still open!). A restaurant of the quality of Restaurante La Casa de Miguel deserves more than a one-visit review. So, after living in Grecia for over seventeen months, and dining there at least once every two weeks, and sometimes more often, I feel it’s time to laud this one of a kind place. It can honestly be considered the best restaurant in Grecia and the surrounding area. It’s not only become our favorite, but it’s become our go-to place to entertain visitors form the States. In our 40+ visits, we’ve sampled the Spanish/English menu in all categories.
It begins with fresh, crisp salads of simple greens, to chicken and tuna varieties, and a Capresse offering. Follow this with both cold and hot appetizers. Ceviche is delicious, with several types of Carpaccio and Tartar and several soups. Here you will find the house specialty, Ceviche La Casa de Miguel. If you even think you like ceviche, you must try this one. Sister-in-law Kim from Pennsylvania looked up long enough to say, “This is the best thing I’ve ever eaten.”
Serious entrees begin with a wide selection of pastas. Fruti di Mari, mixed seafood sauce, either white or red, over a choice of pastas. Boloñesa will make you forget the word “spaghetti.” Loraine can’t get past the Crema de Salmón con nuestra salsa de vodka, or as us gringos say it, “Salmon with vodka sauce.” Beef dishes run the gamut of a selection of locally raised cuts, including a Grilled Mixed Plate of beef, chicken, and chorizo, of course with excellent sides.
The imported beef menu includes Churrasco, Delmonico, New York Strip, a Porterhouse, and surprisingly, the best Grilled Outside Skirt Steak you’ve ever eaten. To say it melts in your mouth is an understatement. Or, If you prefer Mariscos, or seafood, choose any variety and it’s here, grilled, breaded, fried, or in cream sauce. There are both white and tomato sauces, and even a tempting Camarones Kung Pao shrimp dish.
There is chicken in no less than five presentations, topped off by the Cordon Bleu, that you will order when you return. Rice dishes go from the typical house rice to Rice with Shrimp. A small children’s menu follows the entrees, along with a large sandwich selection for lunch or a lighter dinner. Desserts, if you make it that far, include Starwberry Cheesecake, Pears in Red Wine Sauce, Chocolate Cake, and Passion Fruit Mousse. If you can’t make up your mind, go for the Flan de Coco, Coconut Flan. Outstanding!. All are made daily on-site and are exquisite.
Drinks available include the standard batidos, iced teas, fruit drinks, and hot tea. The coffee is top quality and individually brewed on order. There is a full bar with a large wine selection and an assortment of liquors that can be mixed.
A restaurant should be judged on its menu and food quality, ambience, service, and value. Miguel’s is tops in all categories. There is simply no other restaurant for kilometers around that offers this selection. Everything is fresh and hand-prepared on order. Enter the restaurant from the street and the ‘business end’ is up front. A large, quiet dining room is next, with the open-air veranda at the back, looking over a calm garden. There is no street noise, just the pleasant sound of the birds in the trees. Roy, the manager, and his staff speak both English and Spanish, are welcoming and warm.
Prices reflect the high quality of both the food and service, but are surprisingly reasonable for this level of dining experience. Simply put, it is well worth the price!
La Casa de Miguel is located on Avenida Central at the ‘top of town’ just three doors, or 50 meters west of the bomberos station. There is limited on-site parking. It’s open Tuesday through Thursday at 11:00AM to 9:00PM, Friday and Saturday, 11:00 am to 10:00PM, Sunday, 11:00am to 5:00 PM, and closed on Mondays.
Phone: 2444-6767
Updated 10/28/2021
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The Central Highland areas are a must-see!
The Central Valley and Highlands of Costa Rica combine to make one of the most diverse regions of the country. The valley is home to the capital city, San Jose. The Central Highland areas which surround the valley can be described as off-the-beaten-path eco-tourist paradises. These hills and mountains are covered with rain and cloud forests, volcanoes, coffee plantations, and small farming villages. Turrialba is home to some of the best whitewater rafting and canyoning in the world. The emerald green rain and cloud forest-covered mountains of Heredia are spectacular.
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Don't forget your boots!
WEATHER AND PACKING LIST
Many consider the Central Valley of Costa Rica to be the most comfortable climate in the world with temperatures usually hovering in the upper 70s during the day and lower 60s at night. The rainy “green” season runs from May through November. However, on most days, the sun shines until early afternoon and heavier rains are generally during September through November. It’s beautiful year-round. Visitors should bring long pants, shorts, tee shirts, sweatshirts, waterproof hiking and walking shoes, a hat, rain and swim gear, bug spray, and sunblock. 💓