After a day of trekking around the enormous Volcan Arenal, there are likely only two things you want: a soak in a nearby hot spring and a good meal. Luckily, La Fortuna is a tourist haven, and there’s no shortage of restaurants. Find Mediterranean fare, Peruvian dishes, great sushi, elevated Costa Rican cuisine, and more—most within short walking distance from the main square—with this list._x000D_
## A Culinary Journey Through La Fortuna: A Deeper Dive into Delightful Dining
La Fortuna, a vibrant town nestled in the shadow of the majestic Arenal Volcano, isn’t just a haven for adventure seekers. It’s also a culinary paradise, boasting a diverse range of restaurants that cater to every palate. From traditional Costa Rican fare to international flavors, La Fortuna offers a dining experience as rich and varied as its stunning landscapes. Let’s embark on a more detailed exploration of some of the most enticing eateries in this charming town.
### Café Mediterraneo: An Italian Oasis with a View
Slightly removed from the bustling heart of the town center, but still conveniently accessible, sits the beloved Café Mediterraneo. This popular osteria is a haven for those seeking authentic Italian flavors, with a particular emphasis on wood-fired pizzas and freshly made pasta. The aroma of baking dough and simmering sauces wafts through the air, creating an inviting and comforting atmosphere.
While the pizzas are undeniably a star attraction, with their perfectly charred crusts and generous toppings, the pasta dishes are equally compelling. Each strand is lovingly crafted, ensuring a delightful texture and the perfect canvas for the accompanying sauces. But the culinary offerings extend beyond these Italian staples. Even a seemingly simple Caesar salad is elevated to new heights with fresh, crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and perfectly seasoned croutons.
Vegetarians will find themselves well catered to, with a surprising array of options that showcase the versatility of Italian cuisine. The green fettuccini, a vibrant dish made with avocado and tomato, is a testament to this, offering a refreshing and flavorful alternative to heavier meat-based sauces.
For those craving a more traditional Italian experience, the spaghetti and meatballs are a hearty and satisfying choice. The meatballs are tender and flavorful, and the sauce is rich and robust. Other pasta dishes featuring meat and bacon sauces are also available, providing a spectrum of options to suit every taste. To complement your meal, the restaurant boasts a respectable wine list, with Chilean reds that pair exceptionally well with the savory pasta dishes.
After indulging in the main course, be sure to save room for dessert. A perfectly prepared espresso or cappuccino is the ideal way to conclude your meal. And if you have a sweet tooth, the tiramisu is a classic choice that never disappoints. For a more adventurous dessert experience, consider the banana ice-cream crepes or the unique pizza dough with Nutella and almonds. These innovative creations are sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
During the day, the patio at Café Mediterraneo offers breathtaking views of the iconic Arenal Volcano. As you savor your meal, you can bask in the beauty of the surrounding landscape, creating a truly unforgettable dining experience. Located on the 702 highway, just 500 meters from the town center and the Catholic church, Café Mediterraneo is easily accessible and promises a delightful culinary journey.
### Chifa la Familia Feliz: A Peruvian-Chinese Fusion Fiesta
For a truly unique and memorable dining experience in La Fortuna, look no further than Chifa la Familia Feliz. This restaurant dares to blend the distinct flavors of Peruvian and Chinese cuisine, creating a fusion that is both surprising and satisfying. The result is a menu that is packed with innovative dishes that showcase the best of both culinary worlds.
Here, you’ll find Peruvian twists on classic Chinese staples, such as fried wontons and sweet and sour pork. These familiar dishes are elevated with the addition of Peruvian spices and ingredients, creating a flavor profile that is both comforting and exciting. The traditional Peruvian dishes are just as enticing, offering a glimpse into the rich culinary heritage of the country. The *causa rellena*, a mashed potato dish mixed with yellow pepper paste and filled with chicken, vegetables, or shrimp, is a must-try. Its creamy texture and savory filling make it a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
One of the highlights of dining at Chifa la Familia Feliz is the personal touch provided by Chef Martin. Known for his warm hospitality, Chef Martin often tours the dining room, engaging with guests and offering personalized recommendations based on their preferences. This personal attention makes diners feel welcomed and valued, adding to the overall dining experience.
Vegetarians will also find plenty to love at Chifa la Familia Feliz. The menu features a good number of veggie options, all explicitly labeled for easy selection. This makes it easy for vegetarians to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal without having to worry about hidden ingredients.
Before diving into dinner, be sure to treat yourself to a pisco sour, the quintessential Peruvian cocktail. This refreshing and tangy drink is the perfect way to start your meal and get your taste buds ready for the culinary adventure that awaits. Located diagonally across from the Alamo Rent a Car, Chifa la Familia Feliz is a convenient and unforgettable dining destination.
### Don Rufino: Elevated Costa Rican Cuisine with a Conscience
Don Rufino stands out as one of the premier dining establishments in La Fortuna, not only for its exquisite cuisine but also for its commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing. This restaurant goes above and beyond to ensure that its ingredients are of the highest quality and that they are produced in a responsible manner.
The beef served at Don Rufino comes from local farms that raise grass-fed cattle, ensuring that the animals are treated humanely and that the meat is of exceptional quality. The seafood is locally caught and sustainable, helping to protect the delicate marine ecosystem. And the vegetables are labeled “organic,” guaranteeing that they are free from harmful pesticides and chemicals.
The food at Don Rufino can be best described as “elevated surf and turf.” The menu features classic steakhouse staples such as New York strip, filet, and rib-eye steaks, all cooked to perfection. The seafood selections include locally caught trout, Pacific jumbo shrimp, and grilled octopus, all prepared with creativity and flair.
What truly sets Don Rufino apart are its unique side dishes. The arracacha root puree is a creamy and flavorful alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. The pickled fennel adds a touch of acidity and brightness to the meal. And the purple corn polenta is a visually stunning and delicious addition to any plate.
As one of the fancier restaurants in La Fortuna, Don Rufino comes with fine-dining prices. However, the quality of the food and the exceptional service make it well worth the investment. This is the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion or to enjoy a formal evening after a long day of exploring the volcano. Don Rufino also offers six different prix fixe menus, allowing you to sample a variety of dishes at a set price.
Located in La Fortuna town center, just one block east of the park, Don Rufino is easily accessible and promises a memorable culinary experience.
### Flying Tomato: A Vegetarian and Vegan Paradise
For vegetarians and vegans visiting La Fortuna, the Flying Tomato is an absolute must-visit. This all-vegetarian restaurant, which is primarily vegan, is a true gem, offering a diverse and innovative menu that goes far beyond the typical veggie burger.
The menu at the Flying Tomato is dynamic and ever-changing, reflecting the availability of fresh, local ingredients. You’ll find a variety of local plates, such as fried plantains with black beans and guacamole, as well as creative twists on international dishes like veggie sushi rolls. They even offer a vegetarian version of *gallo pinto*, the traditional Costa Rican breakfast dish, substituting tofu for the eggs while retaining the black beans and rice.
The owners of the Flying Tomato are passionate about sourcing the freshest ingredients possible. They purchase their ingredients daily, ensuring that every dish is made with the highest quality produce. The restaurant itself is located in the owners’ home, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Whether you’re a dedicated vegetarian or an omnivore looking for a break from the meat-heavy Costa Rican cuisine, the Flying Tomato is a fantastic choice. The food is delicious, the atmosphere is charming, and the prices are reasonable. Located in La Fortuna town center, on Av. 333, the Flying Tomato is a culinary haven for plant-based diners.
### Kappa Sushi: Fresh Flavors from the Sea
Don’t let its unassuming exterior fool you. Kappa Sushi, marked by a bright red sign, is a tiny sushi bar that packs a punch when it comes to flavor and quality. This is the place to go in La Fortuna for the freshest and best-prepared sushi.
The menu at Kappa Sushi focuses on the classics, such as nigiri, gyoza, and a variety of traditional rolls. Each piece is meticulously crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients, ensuring a delightful and satisfying experience. Kappa Sushi offers a welcome alternative to the meat-centric staples of Costa Rican cuisine.
In addition to the classic sushi offerings, Kappa Sushi also features some creative vegetarian and vegan dishes. The crispy coconut teriyaki tofu is a standout, offering a flavorful and satisfying option for those who prefer plant-based meals.
Located in La Fortuna town center, just north of the park, Kappa Sushi is a hidden gem that should not be missed.
### La Parilla de Maria Bonita: A Carnivore’s Delight with a Lebanese Twist
*Parilla*, the Latin American version of barbecue, is a celebration of grilled meats, and La Parilla de Maria Bonita in La Fortuna is a paradise for carnivores seeking an authentic and satisfying experience. The restaurant offers a wide variety of grilled meats, from sausage platters and stuffed pork to Black Angus skirt steak and St. Louis Style ribs.
What sets La Parilla de Maria Bonita apart is its surprising Lebanese influence. In addition to the grilled meats, you’ll also find a selection of veggie-friendly Mediterranean options, such as falafel, tabbouleh, and fattoush salad. This unique combination of cuisines makes La Parilla de Maria Bonita a truly memorable dining destination.
Despite being a smaller establishment located just a couple of blocks off the city center, La Parilla de Maria Bonita is big on flavor and atmosphere. Located in La Fortuna town center, 100 meters south of Banco Popular, this restaurant is a must-visit for meat lovers and those seeking a taste of Lebanon.
### Marisquerias Snapper’s House: A Seafood Extravaganza
As its name suggests, Marisquerias Snapper’s House is a seafood restaurant, and it excels at serving up colorful and creative plates of Costa Rican seafood with a Caribbean flair. The open-air eatery offers a breezy and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a delicious meal.
The menu is extensive and features a wide variety of seafood dishes, including ceviche, *arroz con camarones* (shrimp rice), fried tilapia, avocados stuffed with shrimp in seafood sauce, and rib-eye surf and turf with langoustine. Many of the dishes are served with traditional Latin American and Caribbean staples like fried yucca and plantains.
If you only have one chance to dine at Marisquerias Snapper’s House during your stay in La Fortuna, be sure to order the red snapper. It’s a local favorite and a true testament to the restaurant’s culinary expertise.
Located in La Fortuna town center, just one block south of the park, Marisquerias Snapper’s House is a seafood lover’s paradise.
### Nene’s Restaurant: A Menu That Has It All
Nene’s Restaurant, open for lunch and dinner, is a local favorite that comes alive with creative plates of fried, steamed, and broiled fish and flambéed seafood. The menu is extensive, featuring everything from shrimp cocktails and ceviche to arroz con pollo, pasta, and burgers.
For those craving meat, Nene’s also offers solid grilled steaks and chops. And for dessert, be sure to try a Tico staple like tres leches cake or *flan de coco* (coconut flan). The restaurant also boasts a solid wine list featuring blends, cabs, pinots, and Chilean and Argentine standouts like Malbec and Carménere.
Located in La Fortuna town center, 50 meters north of Farmacia El Pueblo, Nene’s Restaurant offers something for everyone.
### Rancho Perla: Authentic Costa Rican Fare in a Natural Setting
Rancho Perla has been serving up hearty Costa Rican fare for years, and it’s one of the most renowned eateries in town without breaking the bank. Some popular dishes on the menu include tuna ceviche, beef *casado* with plantains, and some of the best steaks in the area.
What makes Rancho Perla truly special is its open-air location on the edge of town, adjacent to a lush forest. As you enjoy your meal, you might just spot a sloth hanging from the nearby trees, adding a touch of magic to your dining experience.
Located on the northwest edge of town, next to Arenal Backpackers Resort, Rancho Perla offers a truly authentic Costa Rican dining experience in a beautiful natural setting.
### Soda La Parada: A Taste of Traditional Costa Rica
In Costa Rica, *sodas* are traditional eateries, typically family-run and often found on the side of the road. These humble establishments offer a taste of authentic Costa Rican cuisine at affordable prices. One great soda in La Fortuna is Soda La Parada.
This unassuming eatery boasts an extensive menu heavy on the favorites like steaks, pork chops, grilled chicken, and various rice dishes. The menu goes on and on, featuring everything from pasta and pizza to burgers, seafood, and even fruit smoothies. They also offer vegetarian plates here.
Located in La Fortuna town center, on the park, Soda La Parada is the perfect place to experience traditional Costa Rican cuisine in a casual and welcoming atmosphere.
B-519