The 10 Best Restaurants of La Fortuna

La Fortuna is a charming city in Costa Rica that has become famous for its spectacular natural wonders, such as the Arenal Volcano, the hot springs, and the lush rainforest. However, not many people know that La Fortuna also boasts a vibrant culinary scene that is worth exploring. In this blog post, we are going to share with you the 10 best restaurants of La Fortuna that we have tried and tested.

1. Don Rufino

Don Rufino is a high-end restaurant that serves contemporary Costa Rican cuisine with a twist. The menu features dishes made with local ingredients, such as the seared tuna with coconut curry and the grilled octopus with chorizo and chimichurri sauce. The ambiance of the restaurant is elegant, with a charming garden and a relaxing terrace.

2. Nene’s Restaurant

Nene’s Restaurant is a family-owned restaurant that offers a homely and welcoming atmosphere. The menu is full of delicious traditional Costa Rican dishes, such as the casado and the chifrijo. The portions are generous, and the prices are affordable.

3. La Choza de Laurel

La Choza de Laurel is a popular restaurant among locals and tourists alike. The restaurant serves a variety of dishes, including seafood, meat, and vegetarian options. The standout dish is the grilled chicken with plantains and black beans, which has become a signature dish of the restaurant.

4. Lava Lounge

Lava Lounge is a trendy restaurant that has a beautiful view of the Arenal Volcano. The menu features dishes inspired by Latin American cuisine, such as the ceviche and the empanadas. The restaurant also has a great selection of cocktails and live music performances.

5. Restaurante Benedictus

Restaurante Benedictus is a hidden gem that is located away from the main tourist area. The restaurant is known for its farm-to-table philosophy and its use of organic ingredients. The menu changes daily, depending on the availability of ingredients, but some popular dishes include the grilled beef tenderloin and the fresh pasta with shrimp and vegetables.

6. Café Mediterraneo

Café Mediterraneo is a cozy restaurant that serves Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. The menu features dishes such as the homemade pasta with pesto and the grilled lamb with tzatziki sauce. The restaurant also has a great selection of wines and desserts.

7. Restaurante Rancho Perla

Restaurante Rancho Perla is a rustic restaurant that is located in a beautiful garden setting. The restaurant is known for its grilled meat dishes, such as the ribeye steak and the beef skewers. The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable.

8. Soda Viquez

Soda Viquez is a traditional Costa Rican restaurant that serves hearty and flavorful dishes. The menu features dishes such as the olla de carne and the arroz con pollo. The restaurant has a casual and laid-back vibe, and the prices are budget-friendly.

9. Restaurante Lumbres del Arenal

Restaurante Lumbres del Arenal is an open-air restaurant that offers stunning views of the Arenal Volcano. The restaurant serves a variety of dishes, including seafood, meat, and vegetarian options. The standout dish is the mixed grill, which features a variety of meats and vegetables cooked over an open flame.

10. Restaurante San Bosco

Restaurante San Bosco is a charming restaurant that is located inside a historic building. The menu features dishes made with fresh and seasonal ingredients, such as the grilled prawns with mango sauce and the coconut rice with beans. The restaurant also has a great selection of local beers and wines.

Conclusion

La Fortuna is not only famous for its natural wonders but also for its vibrant culinary scene. Whether you are looking for traditional Costa Rican dishes or contemporary cuisine, La Fortuna has something for everyone. We hope that this list of the 10 best restaurants of La Fortuna will help you discover some delicious and memorable dining experiences.

Insider’s Guide to La Fortuna

La Fortuna, Costa Rica, is a charming city surrounded by lush rainforests and stunning waterfalls. It is famous for its adventurous outdoor activities like hiking, zip-lining, and hot springs. However, there is much more to La Fortuna than just adrenaline-pumping activities, and in this insider’s guide, we’ll explore some lesser-known but equally beautiful attractions and experiences that the locals enjoy.

Local Attractions

If you want to escape the typical tourist hotspots in La Fortuna, then we recommend exploring the Arenal Oasis Wildlife Refuge. It is a hidden gem that boasts a diverse range of flora and fauna such as monkeys, sloths, colorful birds, and reptiles. Another great spot is the La Fortuna Waterfall, which is a beautiful cascade of turquoise water shooting down from the rainforest-covered mountains. Here you can kayak or swim in the natural pool of the waterfall.

Dining Spots

When it comes to dining in La Fortuna, we highly recommend trying some of the local cuisine. Taste the delicious gallo pinto, a breakfast staple in Costa Rica that consists of rice, beans, egg, and tortilla. Also, try the casado, a typical Costa Rican dish that includes rice, beans, vegetables, salad, and a meat/fish option. Head to the Soda Viquez for a delicious local meal.

Cultural Experiences

If you want to learn about the city’s traditions and culture, then visit the El Salto Cultural Center. Here you can witness the performances of traditional folk dance and music representing Costa Rican culture. You can also participate in their workshops and learn about their artistic heritage.

Local History

If you are interested in history, then be sure to visit the Observatory Lodge & Spa, which had previously served as a scientific research center. It was the first site to measure the magnetic eruptions of the sun, and today, the site is preserved as a historical museum. You can learn more about this piece of scientific history and its contribution to space exploration.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Explore the Venado Caves, easily accessible from La Fortuna. You will be venturing inside caves with underground rivers, stalactites, and stalagmites. You will need to wear a headlamp to see your way around the cave’s dark corners. It’s an exhilarating experience, no doubt.

Finally, another great option is the Kalambu Hot Springs Water Park and Resort. It is an attraction that goes beyond indulging in hot springs. It is a water park with tons of water-themed activities, like kiddie pool, extreme water slide, wave pool, etc. It is a unique and fun experience that will surely entertain both the kids and adults.

La Fortuna is a magical city that offers much more than what meets the eye. Exploring these lesser-known spots and experiences will reward you with unforgettable memories, and we hope you have a wonderful time experiencing this paradise.