You will find many great restaurants, mainly alongside the street on the lefthand side of the church near downtown La Fortuna, below are our favorites. Gluten-free and vegetarian options are routinely available and most restaurants will offer vegetarian option. Average lowest cost for a meal for one person is $10 USD, not including drink.
1. Best Authentic Costa Rican Dining: Soda Rodriguez
Soda Rodriguez is a beloved local spot known for its traditional dishes and warm atmosphere. Once a modest soda, it now offers flavorful casados and fresh, locally-sourced seafood. With a welcoming environment and attentive service, it’s the perfect place to enjoy genuine Costa Rican cuisine.
2. Best Ambiance: Selva Rústica
Selva Rústica offers a unique dining experience nestled in La Fortuna’s rainforest. Known for its farm-to-table cuisine, the restaurant blends rustic charm with fresh, local ingredients. It’s ideal for a romantic dinner or group outing, featuring everything from traditional dishes to innovative creations that celebrate Costa Rican flavors in an enchanting setting.
3. Best All-Day Breakfast: Open Kitchen
Open Kitchen is perfect for all-day breakfast lovers. Known for its delicious French toast and coffee, this spot offers a range of tasty options, from Nutella pancakes to avocado toast. With a cozy atmosphere and a menu featuring local and international favorites, it's a great start to any day in Arenal.
4. Best Hamburgers and Value: Avenida 333
Avenida 333 serves some of the best hamburgers and chicken fingers around. Their house burger and chicken fingers, paired with a tropical smoothie, are standout choices. With late-night hours, it’s a go-to spot for a satisfying meal when other places are closed.
5. Best Restaurant with Live Music: Lava Lounge
For delicious drinks, great food, and lively music, Lava Lounge is a top choice. Enjoy local dishes while talented musicians perform, creating a vibrant atmosphere. The bar offers a range of cocktails, from tropical to classic, making it a perfect spot to experience Costa Rica’s Pura Vida lifestyle.
6. Best Restaurant to Relax and Hang Out: Picnic by La Roca
Picnic by La Roca is ideal for a relaxed meal on its cozy patio terrace. This new gem in La Fortuna offers al fresco dining with gourmet sandwiches, fresh salads, and desserts made from local ingredients. The comfortable setting is perfect for unwinding, working, or enjoying drinks with friends.
7. Best Dinner and Menu: Travesía
Travesía offers an exceptional dining experience with dishes that blend traditional Costa Rican flavors and modern techniques. Located in the heart of town, this charming restaurant serves stunningly presented, fresh, local ingredients. With a focus on sustainability and a welcoming ambiance, Travesía is perfect for a special date night. Reservations are recommended due to limited seating.
8. Best Italian Restaurant: Italianissimo
Italianissimo delivers an authentic Italian experience in La Fortuna. With handmade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and flavorful risottos, it captures Italy’s rich culinary traditions. The diverse wine list and attentive service make dining here a memorable experience, ideal for satisfying your Italian food cravings.
9. Best Presentation and Date Night Spot: LA Street Gastro Fusion
LA Street Gastro Fusion stands out in La Fortuna for its inventive take on traditional Costa Rican fare. This vibrant eatery combines local ingredients with global culinary techniques to create unique, flavorful dishes that delight the palate. Its chic ambiance and friendly staff make it an ideal destination for those seeking a modern twist on classic flavors.
10. Great Costa Rica Cuisine: Sabores Lulú
For authentic Costa Rican flavors, Sabores Lulú is the top choice. Popular with both locals and visitors, this restaurant started as a small soda counter and has grown due to high demand. The cozy ambiance and friendly service make it perfect for enjoying traditional dishes with a modern twist, like savory casados and fresh seafood. With gluten-free and vegetarian options available, it’s a must-visit for a true taste of Costa Rica.
While this is not an all-inclusive list of the amazing restaurants in La Fortuna, these are the ones we have returned to time and time again during our stay here. Follow our Instagram account @Visit_LaFortuna for more tips on where to eat and dine during your visit, as we are constantly updating daily on great restaurants we discover in La Fortuna.
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