Discover the Best Restaurants in La Fortuna

Indulge in Delicious Eats at These Must-Try Culinary Spots 🍴

La Fortuna is a haven for foodies, offering an array of mouthwatering dishes that showcase the flavors of Costa Rica. From local specialties to international fare, this charming town has something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty breakfast, a delicious lunch, or a fancy dinner, La Fortuna has it all! Here are the best restaurants in La Fortuna that’ll take your taste buds on a journey you’ll never forget.

1. Restaurante Don Rufino 🍤

For an upscale dining experience, head to Restaurante Don Rufino, known for its high-quality seafood dishes. The elegant ambiance and top-notch service make it a popular spot for romantic dinners or special occasions. If you’re a seafood lover, don’t miss out on their signature shrimp and seafood dishes, which are expertly prepared with fresh ingredients.

Pro tip:

Make sure to try their famous ceviche!

2. La Parrilla de Maria Bonita 🍔

If you’re craving a juicy burger or a plate of sizzling fajitas, La Parrilla de Maria Bonita is the place to go. This casual eatery serves up classic American and Mexican dishes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. Enjoy your meal on their outdoor patio, which offers stunning views of the Arenal Volcano.

Pro tip:

Make sure to try their signature Maria Bonita burger, topped with bacon, avocado, and chipotle mayo.

3. Lava Lounge Bar & Grill 🍹

For a laid-back atmosphere and delicious cocktails, head to Lava Lounge Bar & Grill. This trendy spot offers a mix of international and local cuisine, with a focus on fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for a burger, a salad, or a plate of pasta, you’ll find something to love here.

Pro tip:

Don’t miss their happy hour specials, which include discounted drinks and appetizers.

4. Soda Viquez 🌮

If you’re looking for authentic Costa Rican cuisine, Soda Viquez is the place to go. This family-owned restaurant serves up traditional dishes like gallo pinto, casados, and empanadas, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make it a popular spot among locals and tourists alike.

Pro tip:

Make sure to try their homemade hot sauce, which adds a spicy kick to any dish.

5. Restaurante Benedictus 🥩

For a taste of fine dining, head to Restaurante Benedictus, located at the Arenal Kioro Suites & Spa. This upscale restaurant offers a menu of gourmet cuisine, with a focus on steak and seafood dishes. The stunning views of the Arenal Volcano and the surrounding rainforest make it a beautiful spot for a romantic dinner or special occasion.

Pro tip:

Save room for dessert—their chocolate fondant is a must-try!

6. Nene’s Restaurant 🍛

If you’re in the mood for something spicy, head to Nene’s Restaurant, known for its flavorful Indian and Thai dishes. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make it a popular spot among locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re in the mood for a curry, a stir-fry, or a noodle dish, you’ll find something to love here.

Pro tip:

Ask for their special spicy sauce to add some extra heat to your dish.

7. Soda La Hormiga 🍽️

For a taste of traditional Costa Rican cuisine, head to Soda La Hormiga. This casual eatery serves up classic dishes like arroz con pollo, tamales, and chifrijo, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The friendly staff and cozy atmosphere make it a great spot for a casual lunch or dinner.

Pro tip:

Make sure to try their chifrijo, a popular Costa Rican dish made with rice, beans, pork, and tortilla chips.

8. Restaurante La Choza de Laurel 🍽️

For a true taste of Costa Rican culture, head to Restaurante La Choza de Laurel. This rustic eatery serves up traditional dishes like casados, ceviche, and sopa negra, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The live music and traditional decor make it a fun spot for a night out.

Pro tip:

Make sure to try their ceviche, which is made with fresh fish and marinated in lime juice.

9. Restaurante Las Brasitas 🍗

For some of the best grilled meats in town, head to Restaurante Las Brasitas. This casual eatery serves up juicy, flavorful dishes like beef, chicken, and pork, all cooked to perfection over an open flame. The outdoor seating and friendly staff make it a great spot for a casual lunch or dinner.

Pro tip:

Make sure to try their churrasco, a popular Costa Rican dish made with grilled beef.

10. Soda La Parada 🍲

If you’re in the mood for a hearty, home-style meal, head to Soda La Parada. This cozy eatery serves up classic Costa Rican dishes like olla de carne, arroz con pollo, and picadillo, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The friendly staff and casual atmosphere make it a great spot for a no-frills lunch or dinner.

Pro tip:

Make sure to try their olla de carne, a traditional Costa Rican soup made with beef, vegetables, and plantains.

11. Restaurante Las Colinas 🍲

For a taste of traditional Costa Rican cuisine with stunning views, head to Restaurante Las Colinas. This charming restaurant is perched on a hilltop overlooking the Arenal Volcano and the surrounding rainforest, offering a picturesque backdrop for your meal. The menu features classic Costa Rican dishes like casados, arroz con pollo, and ceviche, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Pro tip:

Make sure to try their casado con pollo, a traditional Costa Rican dish made with rice, beans, plantains, salad, and grilled chicken.

12. Restaurante Mi Casa 🍝

For a taste of Italian cuisine in the heart of La Fortuna, head to Restaurante Mi Casa. This cozy eatery serves up classic dishes like pizza, pasta, and lasagna, all made with fresh, homemade ingredients. The friendly staff and laid-back atmosphere make it a popular spot for a casual dinner.

Pro tip:

Make sure to try their wood-fired pizza, which comes with a variety of toppings and a crispy, thin crust.

13. Restaurante La Ventanita del Cafe ☕

For a quick bite or a refreshing drink, head to Restaurante La Ventanita del Cafe. This charming cafe offers a variety of coffee drinks, smoothies, and snacks, all made with high-quality ingredients. The outdoor seating and laid-back atmosphere make it a great spot for a mid-day break.

Pro tip:

Make sure to try their iced coffee, which is made with locally grown beans and served with your choice of milk.

14. Restaurante El Tucán 🌮

If you’re in the mood for some authentic Mexican cuisine, head to Restaurante El Tucán. This casual eatery serves up classic dishes like tacos, burritos, and enchiladas, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The colorful decor and friendly staff make it a fun spot for a casual dinner.

Pro tip:

Make sure to try their fish tacos, which are made with fresh, local fish and a variety of toppings.

15. Restaurante & Bar La Cascada 🍹

For a truly unique dining experience, head to Restaurante & Bar La Cascada. This charming restaurant is located in the middle of a rainforest, next to a beautiful waterfall. Enjoy your meal while surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature, and take in the stunning views of the Arenal Volcano. The menu features a variety of international and local dishes, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Pro tip:

Make sure to try their signature cocktail, the Cascada Colada, which is made with coconut cream, pineapple juice, and rum.

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