Where to Eat in San Carlos: The Best Restaurants and Bars

April 9, 2018 Tambra Mccollister

Discover the best restaurant in San Carlos, Costa Rica including Taj Mahal Restaurant, Nau Sushi Lounge, Restaurante Grano de Oro, La Esquina de Buenos Aires, Restaurante Jurgen's, Park Cafe, Cafe Agua Azul, El Mirador Bar & Restaurant, Mantras Veggie Cafe and Tea House, La Terrasse French Cuisine
Things to do in San Carlos

1. Taj Mahal Restaurant

1 kilometer West of the Centro Comercial La Paco Escazú, Old road to Santa Ana., Escazu 10201, Costa Rica Reservations, Television, Wheelchair Accessible, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor Seating, Private Dining, Seating, Waitstaff, Parking Available, Street Parking, Validated Parking, Free Off-Street Parking, Highchairs Available, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Wine and Beer, Accepts American Express, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Digital Payments, Free Wifi Indian, Asian, Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options Lunch, Dinner, Drinks HK$235 - HK$471 +506 2228 0980
Excellent
67%
Good
23%
Satisfactory
8%
Poor
1%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 462 reviews

Taj Mahal Restaurant

1st Indian Restaurant in Costa Rica (estd. 2002) set up in a historic home (built in 1979) to enjoy The Royalty of vivid flavored food. The romance of ambiance and the symphony of flavors creates memorable feast for all the senses. Ethnic style beautiful decoration, Indian music and traditional hospitality makes one feel like a Royal. THE CUISINE OF MAHARAJAS Inspired by the feasting traditions of ethnic Indian kings and queens and using Nawab and Moghul cooking techniques from various states of India, chefs from India concoct timeless dishes; perfect for sharing and exquisite in their mastery of spice and flavor. SPECIAL DINING For a true Indian feast, book special dining in one of the private rooms or banqueting Darbaar – ideal for corporate dinners, groups and events. UNFLASHY, CAREFULLY HONED RECIPES INSPIRED BY INDIAN PALACES’ KITCHENS Vegan and gluten free selections. Certified 5 Star property by Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT).

Reviewed By susanmullins2018 - Los Angeles, California

Whether you want a quiet peaceful spot for dinner for 2 or a place where you can bring 16 of your friends or business associates, it will always warm, peaceful and friendly. Even with a party that size you can still hear each others conversations....MoreThank you for your compliments and being a regular guest at Taj Mahal. Indeed, we love to serve all; individuals, couples, families, groups and events. Looking forward to welcoming you again, soon. Do try our Fridays special - Indian Dance and Flavorful dining.. Namaste

2. Nau Sushi Lounge

facing Multiplaza Escazu, Escazu 11856-1000, Costa Rica Seating, Waitstaff, Parking Available, Validated Parking, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Accepts American Express, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Free Wifi, Takeout, Valet Parking, Accepts Credit Cards Japanese, Sushi, Asian, Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options Lunch, Dinner HK$78 - HK$196 +506 2208 2148
Excellent
80%
Good
13%
Satisfactory
3%
Poor
2%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 501 reviews

Nau Sushi Lounge

Green and white hues and modern furniture signal the ultra-cool ambiance in Nau Lounge, a trendy Asian inspired drinking and eating spot off the lobby. Enjoy fresh sushi and sashimi from the bar while lounge music fills the air in this chic, contemporary lounge setting

Reviewed By Nino F

Super fresh food and original taste. Great experience with family and friends, easy location and good pricesDear Nino F, Thank you very much for sharing your experience with us. We feel very happy knowing you enjoyed your visit. It is always a pleasure to serve you; we hope you come visit us very soon. Best regards, Ricardo Menendez General Manager

3. Restaurante Grano de Oro

Calle 30, Avenida 2 y 4 | #251, San Jose 10107, Costa Rica Outdoor Seating, Private Dining, Seating, Waitstaff, Parking Available, Validated Parking, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Free Wifi French, Latin, European, Costa Rican, International, Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Brunch, Late Night HK$196 - HK$785 +506 2255 3322
Excellent
72%
Good
21%
Satisfactory
4%
Poor
2%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 1 reviews

Restaurante Grano de Oro

Restaurant Grano de Oro merges Costa Rican tropical with European cuisine under the expertise of our French chef Francis Canal. Once a simple cafe, this restaurant has evolved into one of San Jose’s finest dining establishments, frequented by locals and tourists alike.Specialty cocktails, classically presented dishes and delicious desserts are served in the charming ambiance of a magnificent period home with an elegant inner courtyard. The bilingual wait staff provides professional and friendly service. Service is offered throughout the day from 7 am to 10 pm. Restaurant, patio and bar are non-smoking

Reviewed By alfonso s

Very nice !! Food is good.Rations in the small side.High end place. Decoration and cleanness awesome. Located in within a hotel installation. Close to downtown San Jose. We also had a wonderful and quiet breakfast.

4. La Esquina de Buenos Aires

Calle 11 Av corner 4, in front of the Hotel Colonial | Detras de la Iglesia de la Soledad, San Jose, Costa Rica Takeout, Reservations, Seating, Waitstaff, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Wine and Beer, Digital Payments, Free Wifi Steakhouse, Latin, Argentinean, Soups, South American, Gluten Free Options Lunch, Dinner, Late Night HK$157 - HK$353 +506 2223 1909
Excellent
70%
Good
23%
Satisfactory
5%
Poor
1%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 2 reviews

La Esquina de Buenos Aires

Bienvenido a La Esquina de Buenos Aires Cuando llegas a esta casa centenaria del centro del San José de antes, es como llegar al Buenos Aires de mediados del siglo pasado. En su menú no solo encontrará, platos como la típica parrilla Argentina con sus cortes de carnes ya conocidos, sino también, excelentes pastas caseras donde se nota el aporte culinario que tuvo la gran inmigración Italiana. Dentro de sus entradas se destacan, las rabas (calamares fritos) camarones al ajillo, marlín ahumado y sus ocho diferentes tipos de empanadas. De la parrilla se destaca la entraña, punta de cuadril y la tapa de asado; sus pastas más pedidas o más buscadas son, los tres tipos de Canelones, los sorrentinos capresse y los ravioles de espinaca y gorgonzola. En los postres encontramos los infaltables, panqueque de dulce leche, de manzana y la elaboración artesanal de la Mouse de chocolate, helado de dulce de leche, higo con nuez y sambayon. Todo creado por el chef argentino Mauricio Cabado.

Reviewed By Ann2013Kay - New York

While on a business trip we got this place recommended by a local colleague and indeed this was the perfect choice for high quality meat, great atmosphere and very friendly and knowledgable staff. We had steaks which were perfectly to the point we had ordered (medium, medium rare, etc) and the Deserts (volcano cake eg) were very delicious too. Great place to spent a nice evening. Reservations absolutely required (easy via whatsapp).

5. Restaurante Jurgen's

San Pedro, 300 Norte Grupo Q, Los Yoses, San Jose, Costa Rica Reservations, Seating, Waitstaff, Validated Parking, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Free Wifi, Highchairs Available International, Vegetarian Friendly, Gluten Free Options, Vegan Options Lunch, Dinner, Late Night HK$157 - HK$314 +506 2283 2239
Excellent
71%
Good
22%
Satisfactory
4%
Poor
1%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 194 reviews

Restaurante Jurgen's

Reviewed By Jorge S - San Jose, Costa Rica

This has been a restaurant with long time in business, I heard lots of great comments but first time experience it. The place feels great cozy, relax, don't know why but transport me to the 70's . The waitress and general service was very professional and the same time friendly, food was well served, I tried the month menu and was happy, wines were good price. I told them we were celebrating a birthday and as surprise they brought a dessert and was quite nice. Prices were reasonable. A fully recomendant restaurant in the east.

6. Park Cafe

Av. de Las Americas, Calle 48, San Jose, Costa Rica Outdoor Seating, Seating, Waitstaff, Parking Available, Street Parking, Serves Alcohol, Wine and Beer, Accepts American Express, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Free Wifi, Reservations, Wheelchair Accessible, Accepts Credit Cards French, International, European, Gluten Free Options, Vegetarian Friendly Dinner HK$78 - HK$785 +506 2290 6324
Excellent
88%
Good
7%
Satisfactory
3%
Poor
1%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 305 reviews

Park Cafe

Please read important reservation information on our website before making your booking. Thank you.

Reviewed By Teresa268 - Halesworth, United Kingdom

My husband and I were in Costa Rica for the first time and on the recommendation of friends booked a table to experience the Park Café on our last night in the country. Firstly I should say that unlike most of the negative reviews posted,...MoreDear Teresa and Joe. Thank you for your visit, company and review. Always a pleasure to have people such as yourselves at home with us in Park Cafe. Best wishes. Richard, Ricardo and Louise

7. Cafe Agua Azul

Villas del Parque, Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica Takeout, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Waitstaff, Parking Available, Highchairs Available, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Free Wifi American, Latin, Bar, Seafood, South American, Central American, Costa Rican, Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options Lunch, Dinner, Brunch, Late Night HK$39 - HK$157 +506 2777 5280
Excellent
65%
Good
25%
Satisfactory
8%
Poor
1%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 2 reviews

Cafe Agua Azul

Reviewed By pollyspiks - Fairfax, Virginia

We enjoyed fresh fish and an amazing view from the restaurant. It was very crowded when we went there and the hostess was having a difficult time keeping track of who was waiting for tables, but other than that it was a wonderful dinner.

8. El Mirador Bar & Restaurant

Manuel Antonio National Park | Arenas Del Mar Beach & Nature Resort, Manuel Antonio 311-6350, Costa Rica Outdoor Seating, Seating, Waitstaff, Parking Available, Highchairs Available, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Free Wifi, Reservations, Wheelchair Accessible Central American, Costa Rican, Latin, Seafood, International, South American, Vegetarian Friendly, Gluten Free Options, Vegan Options Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch, Brunch, Late Night HK$78 - HK$471 +506 2777 2777
Excellent
79%
Good
15%
Satisfactory
4%
Poor
1%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 285 reviews

El Mirador Bar & Restaurant

El Mirador Restaurant is located near Arenas del Mar's reception area and pool, overlooking Espadilla Beach, Manuel Antonio National Park, and the Pacific Ocean. El Mirador—which means “the viewpoint” in Spanish—has an open air, covered interior dining area and outdoor Seating. Along with breathtaking views and gorgeous sunsets, our restaurant serves breakfast and dinner using fresh, local ingredients. Start your day with our complimentary breakfast: fresh fruits, homemade granola, warm muffins and breads, eggs, pancakes and of course, Costa Rican coffee. Our dinner menu includes highlights such as locally caught fish and other delicacies at this authentic full-service Costa Rican restaurant.

Reviewed By Hannah D

the food at arenas del mar's restaurant (el mirador bar and restaurant) is TO DIE FOR!! i did some research and found that costa rica was never known for good food, even though they have some amazing fruits, vegetables, and fish. One of the owners of arenas, dave, often visited a restaurant named blackfish outside of philadelphia owned by his friend and outstanding chef, chip. as luck would have it, we ended up meeting chip and his adorable wife amanda and their 4 kids while we were down there. chip completely revamped the food at arenas and y'all...whether you stay there or not, YOU MUST go eat there. i truly never had one bad meal... coconut milk chia pudding, mahi mahi, nachos, corn tortillas, spaghetti, pizza, you name it! it was all over the top good. not only the best food i had in costa rica, but some of the best food i've ever had period! they do a fabulous job of making it a great "foodie" spot with plenty of options for the picky family members too. you don't have to be staying at the resort (although we were) to eat here. if you are going to be anywhere NEAR here, do NOT miss a meal here.

9. Mantras Veggie Cafe and Tea House

200 metros Este, 25 metros Sur de la Rotonda del Farolito | Barrio Escalante, San Jose, Costa Rica Takeout, Seating, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Accepts American Express, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Free Wifi, Accepts Discover, Waitstaff, Reservations, Accepts Credit Cards Cafe, Costa Rican, Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options Lunch, Brunch, Breakfast HK$63 - HK$78 +506 2253 6715
Excellent
76%
Good
20%
Satisfactory
2%
Poor
1%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 235 reviews

Mantras Veggie Cafe and Tea House

Beauty and health come from within, at MANTRAS, we are making this a possibility. We have RAW, ORGANIC, VEGAN, VEGETARIAN, GLUTEN, DAIRY & SUGAR FREE options that are DELICIOUS on your soul!! The active enzymes that our food provides your body will allow it to always be at its prime level of energy, health and beauty. We support serving organically local fruits and vegetables using natural ingredients specializing in a diverse menu. We do natural cold press juicing, smoothies, kombucha and fermented foods. . We work with small producers and venders supporting our local economy. We have outdoor and indoor Seating, take large groups with or without reservation.

Reviewed By Lara S - Oxford, United Kingdom

We opted for this place after it being recommended in our Lonely Planet guide, and also because it happened to be really close to the hotel we were hosted. The neighbourhood is a lovely area with lots of independent cafes, restaurants and beer places.
We were in Mantras for lunch and opted for a big bowl (Fajitas Locas) and a Tico Sandwich with the soup of the day. The food was delicious and the size of the bowl was really big (but so good I finished everything!).
Then we tried a couple of the vegan cakes (one made of fruits and the other being the Tarta Chilena, and both were really good.
The price is quite honest for the quality you get as well, so I would definitely recommend it.

10. La Terrasse French Cuisine

Avenida 9 Calle 15 | Barrio Otoya, San Jose 20102, Costa Rica (Formerly La Terrasse Cuisine Française) Private Dining, Free Wifi, Reservations, Waitstaff, Wine and Beer French, Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options Lunch, Dinner HK$314 - HK$432 +506 8939 8470
Excellent
85%
Good
12%
Satisfactory
2%
Poor
0%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 517 reviews

La Terrasse French Cuisine

The restaurant La Terrasse French Cuisine is a concept of table d'hôtes of 12 covers. A private and personalized restaurant that offers you a unique experience to share with generosity the French gastronomy. An elegant place, chic ventage and romantic. The conviviality in the restaurant La Terrasse constitutes a tradition. The chef Patricia Richer receives you in a house of 1925 from Tuesday to Saturday with reservation and will have the pleasure to share with her clients a creative and contemporary French cuisine realized around organic products and the season.

Reviewed By satipatipatti - Atlanta, Georgia

Amazing. Dishes from Ardennes to Provence expertly crafted in Central America. Our respect goes to Chef Patricia Richer. Also to Gerald for his hospitality.
In discussing the absence of aperitifs and digestifs, Gerald said there are components of French cuisine that are just not available in quality in Costa Rica. I assume that this applies to many other ingredients, which makes it all the more amazing that Chef Patricia can put together the harmonious cuisine française that graces this establishment. The chef does not overstep what is permissible and our meal delivered what the menu promised.
Gerald successfully convinced my wife not to order scallops cooked to whiteness all the way through - some thing I have tried to do for years. Instead, he encouraged her to try the salmon. It was cooked through to her preference and had good taste, set off nicely against the pistachio garnish and served with a mild orange/turmeric sauce.
Besides the salmon, our meal consisted of chevre cheesecake, lamb shank, creme brulee and fondant de chocolate. We needed one wine to accompany all of these courses and complement or, ay least, not clash with them and Gerald came up with a light, fruity red, Gamay, I believe, that was a excellent companion to the whole meal. The entire wine list impressed me as being reasonably priced.
The chevre cheesecake appetizer had an uniform creaminess and a good mild lactic dairy taste nicely complemented by the tomatoes.
The honey and rosemary worked magic upon the perfectly done lamb shank and its gravy.
The caramel-throughout creme brulee was very good but,even so, we prefer the classic caramelized sugar crust with the vanilla custard.
The fondant de chocolate was absolutely delicious. We could not guess if the chocolate/cocoa was Guittard, Callebaut, or Valrhona. Turns out to be a local Costa Rican chocolate, and it was delicious.
Notable: it was not possible for my wife, for whom English is a second language, to communicate with Gerald, for whom English is also a second language, over the long-distance telephone to arrange, weeks in advance, an available time for our reservation; the understanding was just not there. No problem. The affable front desk of the Holiday Inn Aurola in San Jose called for us two nights before our desired date and got us our reservation.

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