RESTAURANT GUIDE

The Sarong Goddess' (aka Vicki Skinner)
COSTA RICA EATS RESTAURANT GUIDE

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RESTAURANT GUIDE

RESTAURANTS – ESCAZU & BEYOND

(“D” = Places that deliver)

VICKI/Sarong Goddess’ FAVS

Ambiance: Le Monastere

Americana: OLD WEST • TIME OUT TAVERN • THE PUB

Argentinian (Steak): Sunday at THE PUB & the little Argentian Food stand on the corner up in Centro Escazu

BBQ: TEXAS BBQ

Burgers: TIME OUT TAVERN • THE PUB

Cheap: CASANA DE LALY

Chinese: El Rey

Cool/Unique: CAFE DES ARTISTAS • OASIS • BUENA TIERRA • ROBIN’S COCINA / LA COCINA DE ROBIN - ROBIN’S KITCHEN •

Delivery: COUNTRY DELI

Fish & Chips (British-style): Friday Nights at THE PUB

Healthy/Organic/Semi-Vegetarian: OASIS & Buena Tierra

Hotdogs: PERRO LOCO

Ice Cream - CAFE TORINO’s gellato

Indian: TANDOORI PALACE’S ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT BUFFET

Isreali / Kosher: LITTLE ISREAL

Mexican: Antojitos

Pastries: ROBIN’S COCINA / LA COCINA DE ROBIN - ROBIN’S KITCHEN

Pies: ROBIN’S COCINA / LA COCINA DE ROBIN - ROBIN’S KITCHEN

Romantic: Le Monastere

Tipico/Tico Food: COUNTRY DELI • CASANA DE LALY

Vic's Pick's!!!: COUNTRY DELI

View: Le Monastere Vegetarian

ALFRESCO

LOS ANTOJITOS (2-289-9700 / 2-288-5301 / http://LosAntojitosCR.com / Catherine@LosAntojitosCR.com) – VIC’S PICKS!! Just about EVERYONE I know that’s been here, especially recently, has said they felt that this was their FAVORITE MEXICAN RESTAURANT in Costa Rica (myself included & I’m a tough judge being from Southern Calif. & having a business in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico for over 12 years hence I KNOW GOOD Mexican!! I had a guest recently eat/drink their margaritas there EVERY DAY during his 5 day stay!!)! They have AWESOME KICK TUSH MARGARITAS (make sure to have Mui Caliente/Hottie Wilbur make them for you as he’s the BEST [though make sure to ask him [in Spanish only] to make them Vicki's FAVORITE WAY - FRESH, on the rocks & no salt!!]). Wilbur or any one of the other sweetie food servers will take GOOD care of you (I’m sure even BETTER if you send them HUGS from Vicki!!). MY FAVS – They make the BEST TORTILLA CHIPS I’ve EVER HAD (they're made FRESH there & VERY light - almost like flour) & GREAT Salsa, Fajitas, Tasty Tortilla Soup & Lomito Suizo with cheese. DELIVERY/EXPRESS. LATE DINING. KIDS PLAY AREA. PATIO/ALFRESO & indoors dining. NON-SMOKING AREAS!!! HOURS: Mon.-Tues. 11:30am-10pm, Wed. & Thurs. 11:30am-11pm. Fri. & Sat. 11:30am-11:30pm. Sun. 11:30am-10pm & they’re open MANY Holidays (though NOT Samana Sante/Easter). LOCATION: Escazu (San Rafael) – on Calle Vieja (just west of El Rey Chinese restaurant)

ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT (see also “Sunday Brunch Buffets”)

TANDOORI PALACE - Pozos de Santa Ana (2-582-0416 / http://TandooriPalaceCR.com / info@TandooriPalaceCR.com) - The food was good though quite spicy for an ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT BUFFET. Lunch included - 2 starters, 3 meat dishes, 3 vegetable dishes & rice pudding for dessert. The artwork on the walls & ceilings fabulous & inspiring! I hear the OWNERS arequite nice & from Pakistan (via Canada) & speak English.

HOURS: Mon.-Sat. noon-10pm. Lunch Buffet (7,500-c) – noon-2:30pm. Dinner Buffet (10,000-c) - Tues.-Sun. 6-9pm.

LOCATION: Centro Comercial Vistana West/Oeste #14 (the same shopping center as Taco Bell (south of Automercado) – On the road from Santa Ana towards Belen, across from Matras.

BEEF / BRAZILIAN - Fogo Brasil - San Jose – 100 mts. East of Datsun Agency (2-248-1111 / http://FogoBrasil.com [the website doesn’t seem to work]/ ventas@FogoBrasil.com) - A CARNIVORS HEAVEN & ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT!!! A typical BRAZILIAN STEAKHOUSE where they walk around with big scewers of meat & shave it off onto your plate!! Things like Steak, chicken, lamb, pork, fraldinha, feijoada, guarniciones, maminha, costela. They even have a SALAD BAR!! (drinks & dessert NOT included). $25-adults, kids 6-11- 1/2 price, under 6-free. HOURS: Daily - noon-11pm

ITALIAN & SALADS – ROCCO’S BUFFET– San Jose-Sabana Sud/South - GREAT selection of PIZZA, PASTA with white & red sauce, GREAT SALAD BAR & Dessert (drink NOT included). Literally ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT!! COST: 5,000. DIRECTIONS: On the old road/Calle Vieja on the South side of Sabana Park, on about 1 block south of the Comptrolaria/pyramid building in old English Tudor house on the corner.

CHICKEN - RostiPollo - Escazu – San Rafael - 2750-c Lunch Buffet Mon.-Fri.

White House - The Capitol Grill - Escazu (San Antonio) (2-288-6362 / http://WhiteHouseCostaRica.com / marketing@WhiteHouseCostaRica.com) - VERY upscale/expensive/$$$$$. They have a WONDERFUL SUNDAY BRUNCH BUFFET BRUNCH (ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT) – includes a glass of CHAMPAGNE!! PRICE: $13,500 (about $25) (kids 1/2 price). HOURS: Brunch - 11am-3pm. AWESOME VIEWS of the WHOLE Central Valley!!! My only comments is let’s just say – this isn’t a “family” place (read into it as you desire). They also have a Vegas-style CASINO (2-588-0064-casino / http://CasinoJaz.com) with the highest limits & odds in CR (the “girls” that “hang” here are VERY high-end!!!). HOURS: 6pm-2am. CIGAR BAR in a distinguished living room setting with leather sofas & a 42” plasma tv. HOURS: 7am-11pm. ATV & Harley Davidson rentals & tours, transfers in a Hummer or Ford Excursion & Helicopters. They also have a “Spa” though based on my experience having a facial there before, let’s just say it’s more geared towards tourists (both in rates & quality) – HOURS: 9:30am-5pm. DIRECTIONS: WAYYYY up the hill - 600 mts. South of the cemetery.

CHINESE - D- Villa Bonita - Rohrmoser – 1 block south, 75 mts. West of the U.S. Embassy behind PeriMercado (2-232-9855 / 2-220-2477 / http://VillaBonita.com) - CHINESE (Cantonese & Szechuan) including Peking Duck, DIM SUM & VEGETARIAN. ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT BUFFET with SUSHI, DIM SUM & other Chinese dishes - SUN. - noon-4pm – 6,500 (plus drinks). DELIVERY (they’ll go practically anywhere in the Valley is sounds like including Carriari, Escazu, Santa Ana+) 11am-3pm & 6-10pm. LARGE SPACE for events. HOURS: Daily 9am-Mid. (note: I’ve been here – done that - & would NOT go back again but IF I did, the Dim Sum would ONLY be what I would go back for – especially for the Sun. Buffet).

AMBIANCE (see “Cool / Funky”)

AMERICANA – GRINGO

OLD WEST (2-282-9210) - Rock & Roll Pollo’s former wonderful chef Elkin has opened this new resteraunt in what was Azucar. HOURS: 8am-1am (kitchen - Mon.-Sat.-8am-midnight, Sun. 8am-11pm]). LOCATIONS: SANTA ANA - Calle Vieja - 2 blocks/200 meters before/East of the Red Cross/Cruz Rojo, on the LEFT side of the road heading Westbound (towards Piedades/Ciudad Colon) – across the street from the cemetary.

Time Out Tavern & Deli & Sports Bar – San Rafael de Escazu (2-289-3217 / 8-836-3058 / twitter.com/TimeOutTavern / TimeOutEscazu@gmail.com) – on Country Club Road (off Calle Vieja) - 500 meters up from Calle Vieja - South of the Costa Rica Country Club on the Left - The sign isn't up yet so look for the tan doors with the black columns & swinging saloon doors in between two dental clinics & caddy corner from Magia Verde Vivera/Nursery - This bar/tavern/SPORTS BAR has REALLY TASTY FOOD (some of the BEST I’ve found in CR), REALLY GOOD Char-broiled BURGERS (I went one night I was sick & ate JUST the meat – no bun, veges or condiments & it was REALLY GOOD!! 3,400-3,700-c including a CHILI BURGER!!!), NIGHTLY SPECIALS plus MON.-MEATLOAF. TUES.-MEXICAN. FRI. FISH & CHIPS!! Tasty CHILI con Carne. They have the BIGGEST selection of sandwiches I’ve found in CR (3,700-c on average)! Here’s a tiny sample of the sandwiches they offer: PHILLY CHEESESTEAK (4,200-c), Rocky Marciano - This is sure to knock out your hunger - Chicken Breast pan fried & topped with Provolone Cheese & Red Sauce served on a Fresh Italian Roll (our famous Chicken Pam). Dallas Cowboy - This must be the love it or hate it sándwich - Chicken Breast pan fried & topped with BBQ Sauce, Sliced Ham, & Pepper Jack Cheese served on a Fresh Italian Roll. They have many of Standard sándwich fare with FUN names!! 3,500 gets you an even BIGGER sandwich: El Duque - You don't have to go to Cuba to get one of these famous sandwiches - Roasted Pork, Ham, Dijon Mustard & Swiss Cheese on a French Roll pressed & baked. The Hog - This sandwich can find a spot on the legendary offensive line of the 80's. Russ Grimm & Mark May move on over. Thin Sliced Virginia Ham, Roasted Pork, & Bacon piled on a Croissant topped with Swiss Cheese, Mayo, Lettuce & tomato. The Fat Bastard - Head Sandwich Bastard - Smoked Turkey, Virginia Ham, Bacon, & Swiss Cheese with Lettuce, tomato & herbed mayo on a grilled croissant. SPORTS BAR with 13 flat screens TVs with 7 DirecTV feeds from the States, 2 Dish Network feeds from the States, and 2 Sky TV feeds. We offer more sports options than any other spot in the country. We carry all of the NFL games on Sundays. We are also your best option for NHL and NBA. They have the standard cervezas/beers as well as Stella Artois - Belgian Lager - EXCELLENT, Smirnoff Ice - Malt Liquor, Miller Light, Corona. Check Prices are on the higher end but QUALITY ain’t cheap! HOLIDAYS: Thanksgiving – 10,500/12,000. OWNERS: Hola to Steven, his wife Jae & Glen.

DELIVERY: Thurs.-Tues. 11am-7pm (1,000-colones+).

HOURS: Bar - Daily 11am-2am. Food Served till 1 A.M

BRAD’S GRILLE & SPORTS BAR (2-582-0724 / 2-582-0725 / http://BradsGrille.com / info@BradsGrille.com / Facebook, Twitter) - BREAKFAST, AMERICANA, SPORTS BAR (GIANT Screen!!), good BURGERS (100% beef) – 5,500-6,500 (Juicy Lucy has the cheddar cheese INSIDE the patty!!) including CHILI BURGER & a BLUE CHEESE BURGER & MiniBurgers [ala White Castle-ish] – 2-2,500, 4-4,000, 6-6,000), Nachos-4,300 (add chicken or chili for 1,000/ea), BUFFALO WINGS (6-4,500, 12-7,000, 18-10,000), Potato Skins (4-3,500, 6-5,000), Fried Calamari-5,300, Sampler Platter (Buffallo Wings, Pulled Pork Eggrolls, Potato Skins, Hand-Breaded Chicken Tenders)-11,000, CHILI-Cup-2,000, Bowl-3,200, FRENCH ONION SOUP Cup-2,000, Bowl-2,500. SANDWICHES: BBQ Pull-Pork 6,000, Chicken Salad 4,300. FISH TACOS-5,500. BBQ RIBS 8,000/14,000, FILET MIGNON-10,500, Pork Chops (marinated in garlic & citrus juices)-8,500. Grilled Salmon-8,500, Boston FISH & CHIPS-8,000. Pastas–4,200-8,500 (FETTUCINI ALFREDO-3,500/5,500). A large SALAD selection (including BLUE CHEESE DRESSING, Chinese Chicken Salad & Taco Salad [3,000-4,500+])–3,000-5,500. DESSERTS: NY CHEESECAKE-4,300, BIG SUNDAE-3,900, APPLE PIE a la mode-3,900, Key Lime Pie-3,200, EVENTS: Monday Night Football (NFL & College), Nintendo Wii VideoGame Room (upstairs) LIVE MUSIC Fri. & Sat. 9-11pm. HOLIDAYS: HALLOWEEN. SPECIALS: FREE MEAL the month of your BIRTHDAY (when you register with their Birthday Club). OWNER: George “Brad” Bradbury. LOCATION: Pozos de Santa Ana/Lindora – Plaza Momentum (across from AutoMercado). CC. DELIVERY: Daily Mon.-Fri. 11am-3pm & 6-9:30pm, Sat. 11am-3pm, 6-10pm, Sun. 11am-8pm to Escazu (only to Laureles), Santa Ana, Belen. HOURS: Mon.-Wed. 7am-11pm. Thurs.-Sat.7am-1pm, Sun. 7am-10pm-ish.

PERRO LOCO – Escazu (San Rafael) (2-288-1445) – Centro Comercial el Cruce - just before/north of the Scotia split on the right (just after the Shell Station, Pops & next door to Quiznos). NOW ALSO - SANTA ANA - 50 mts. West of Herrare (?) gas station – in a kiosk in FRONT of Bar Amigos. HEREDIA - Calle 9 & Avenida 5 & 7 - 100 mts North of Gran Papa Restaurant & just up the road from McDonalds & Burger King. COMING SOON – ALAJUELA!!!

I ALWAYS start CRAVING HOT DOGS about a month or two before the start of Baseball Season & luckily I have Perro Loco nearby!!! YUMMMM BIG THICK weenies like Mexicano (chili dog), German (with kraut) & MORE from 1,000-1,200-c!! They even happily do a combo for you (I LOVE chili on half & kraut on the other half!!)!! Canned sodas 500-c. CHEAP EATS!! LATE NIGHT EATS!! OWNER: Leigh. HOURS: Mon.-Tues. noon-8pm. Wed.-Sat. noon-4AM, Sun. 4-10pm. Open many holidays.

As well as the tasty hot dogs, the Santa Ana location is also also serving Texas-style Smoked & B'bqued Brisket, Chorizo, Chicken & Pork Sandwiches for 1,500-c. HOURS: Sun.-Thurs. noon-10pm. Fri. & Sat. noon-2am.

TEXAS BBQ Co. (2-231-0025 / 8-882-9139-English / http://CRBbq.com) - “Costa Rica’s Only Real Texas Bbq!” VICKI’S FAV!!! PLACE FOR RIBS!!! This is a cute little hole in the wall (though REALLY REALLY CLEAN!!). YUMMM Texas-style RIBS (2-2,800-c) & b’bque at pretty decent prices. COMBOS include 2 sides (unless indicated) - Sliced Brisket–3,000 (1/2 kilo-8,000-c), 1/4 Chicken-2,000-c, Tejano Sausage-2,000-c, Ribs-2,800-c, Combo with 2 items-3,500-c or if one of the items is ribs – 4,000 (MY FAV - Sausage & Ribs). Sandwich ComboS (1 side) - brisket or sausage–2,000-c. Sandwiches (one side) – Sliced Brisket 1,600-c, Chopped Brisket 1,500, Tejano Sausage 1,200-c, Combo Sandwich with all 3 &2 side & drink 2,000-c. FRITO PIE (Fritos covered with chopped brisket, beans & b’bque sauce) 2,000-c. Family Packs – 1/2 kilo brisket OR 1/2 kilo sausage OR Chicken 4 quarters with 3 large sides, 1 side bbque sauce – 8,500/ea. (feeds 3-4). Double it all - 14,000-c. OR Kilo sausage, 6 sides, 2 sides bbq sauce, 1/2 Kilo – Sliced brisket – 8,000, chopped brisket – 6,000, ribs – 5,000, sausage - 2,800). SIDES (potato salad, cole slaw, rice, Texas-style beans [though I always ask for bbque sauce on it to make it more like “baked beans” as I know them vs. Tico beans] or mashed potatoes): Reg. 500-c, Med. 700-, Large 1200. DESSERTS - PEACH COBBLER 700-c – with ice cream 1,000-c. LEMONADE (REALLY GOOD!!! 500-c), bottled sodas 800-c. DELIVERY / EXPRESS - 1,000+ (free within the Sabana Sur area) though give him more notice if possible if further away. CATERING. Part owner Juan Carlos Ortiz did his b’bque training at Wells Branch Bbq in Austin, TX (the other partner Cody also owns Max's American Bar around the corner on Calle Vieja & if you have friends that aren’t carnavors, you can order from their menu as well & they’ll bring it over!!). HOURS: Thurs.-Tues. 8am-8pm. LOCATION: 150 mts. South of the Contraloria (it is on the Left with a yellow & red sign. Tell them Vicki sent ya!!!

Applebee’s - Heredia - Plaza Bratsi near La Universal, Tienda Rosabal - next to Paseo de las Flores

Outback Steak House - Escazu – Plaza Itzkazu - MEGA EXPENSIVE!!!

Denny’s - San Jose – Irazu (by the Best Western) or the airport (http://DennysCostaRica.com) - AMERICANA BREAKFAST (at LOTS MORE than in the States!!!) But they have a special now – If you’re a member of Denny’s Fan Club, buy a Gr& Slam or All American Slam & on your next visit, receive ONE FREE!! Valid Mon.-Sat. 6am-9pm till March 15, ‘08. 24/7.

JR House of Ribs (2-223-0523 / 2-256-0991 / 8-839-2259 / http://JRRibs.com / info@JRRibs.com) - SAN JOSE (Barrio Amon) – Avenida 11 y Calle 7 contigo Simon Blvd. By the zoo - LIVE MUSIC many times. RIBS from 4,990-9,990, GRILLED Fajitas 6,990-7,990-c, BURGER 2,990, BBQ Sandwich 3,490. . DESSERTS - PECAN PIE 2,490-C, Apple Pie, Brownie – 1,490, ONION SOUP 1,990-c, ONION RINGS 2,490, WINGS 2,490-c, Cheese fries 2,490-c, TEXAS GARLIC BREAD 1,490-c. LUNCH SPECIAL – Mon.-Fri. noon-3pm – Combos with 2 sides & drink starting at 3,500+. SPECIAL – use your Credomatic card & save 25% or save 15% using your BAC card. They also have a finca with a pool that you can rent for special events in La Garita

Mac’s American Bar (2-231-3145 / http://MacsAmericanBar.com) AMERICANA, SPORTS BAR, POOL TABLE, LIVE MUSIC on Tues. & Wed. Owned by thepartner of TX-BBQ so you can get thei r DELISH food from there also!! LOCATION: 70 mts East of the Controloria – across from Sabana Park South

ARGENTINIAN (see “Steaks”)

EL NOVILLO ALEGRE - Parrillada Argentina - (http://RestauranteNovilloAlegre.com / ParrillaDa@racsa.co.cr) - YUMMMMMMMMMMM!!!!! REALLY GOOD QUALITY STEAKS (& other options including tasty seafood)!! I had a steak with Port Wine – one of the BEST steaks I’ve EVER tasted & HUGE (prices are high but their portions are large). OWNER: Che. HOURS: Mon.-Sat. noon-3pm & 6:30-10:30pm, Sun. noon-9pm.

Escazu – NEW LOCATION – now located where Sumari was – on the West/right side of the street about 300 mts. From the Scotia Split (heading up towards Centro Escazu) – across from the old Changos (they used to be by Sorretto’s) (2-288-4995)

Santa Ana - off the Pista – on the road hearding towards the airport - 200 mts. North of AutoMercado (2-203-4753) - I hear this location even has a playground for kids.

Curridabat - Plaza Freses diagonal to Pop’s (2-524-0353)

CATERING (2-282-3242)

SPECIAL OFFER: They often have discounts when using some local credit/debit card.

THE PUB - Escazu Centro - up the Hill from the Scotia Split heading towards Escazu Centro. When you get to the place where you MUST turn Right because it turns into a one-way street (I’ve never noticed a notice that’s it’s one-way) the road curves – go RIGHT – it’s RIGHT THERE on your RIGHT (look for the green Heineken awning & "THE PUB" sign (2-288-3062 / http://CostaRicanLifestyles.com/thepub.html / ThePubCR@yahoo.com) - This cozy hole in the wall watering place is a BIG expat hangout though there are also quite a few Ticos here (most of which speak some English)! They have a GOOD menu with LOTS of variety (including Pub Grub & tasty wings!! http://CostaRicanLifestyles.com/thepubmenu.html ! This is a GOOD place to celebrate (hence the food) some of the gringo (U.S. & Canadian) holidays! NEW OWNERS: Gary & Nadine (they’re all from Modesto).

NIGHTLY SPECIALS:

Mon. - Meatloaf & Mashed Potatoes & Broccoli 3,200.

Fri. Night & Sat. ALL Day (till they run out) - British-style FISH & CHIPS (though it’s made with talapia but they have the GOOD “chips”/THICK fries!!!)!! The BEST I've found so far in CR - 3,200!!

Sun. - Argentinian Grill - Flamed grilled!! I had a PERFECTLY cooked & seasoned STEAK for around 4,500!!!! It comes with Salad, Baked Potato & Chimichurri.

HAPPY HOUR: Mon.-Thurs. 6-8pm 500-c Imperial, Pilsen, Rock Ice, Imperial Light, Pilsen 6.0, Rock Ice Lemon. 2x1 Shots on Jose Cuervo & Johnny Walker Red.

HOURS: Daily 11am-2pm. Kitchen 11am-MID!!

BAGELS

D-Bagelmen’s (http://BagelmensCR.com) – Escazu (San Rafael - across the street from TGIFridays - In the same strip mall as Haagen Das) (2-289-4616) & Plaza Fiorenzia (home to Soda Tapia) – on the road just north of Paco Plaza heading towards MultiPlaza-Guachipelín (2-228-3210) – BAGELS (I LOVE their Salmon, Cream Cheese & Capers!!!), BREAKFAST, SMOOTHIES, PASTRIES. COFFEE. Soups, Salads, Sandwiches. WiFi. HOURS: 7am-9pm. DELIVERY 7am-5pm. OTHER LOCATIONS: San Antonio de Belen (2-293-5900) • Curridabat (2-234-1034) • Cariari (2-239-1462) • San Pedro (1-800-212-1314) • Plaza Florencia (2-228-3210) • Corporate Office: 2-224-2432

Boston Bagel - Pavas (Robin’s Cosina in Escazu carries them)

BBQUE

TEXAS BBQ Co. (2-231-0025 / http://CRBbq.com) - “Costa Rica’s Only Real Texas Bbq!” YUMMM Texas-style RIBS (2-3,000-c) & b’bque at pretty decent prices. Combos include 2 sides (potato salad, cole slaw, rice, Texas-style beans or mashed potatoes), Sliced Brisket (8-8,000, 1/4 Chicken 2,500-c, 1/2 Chicken 3,500, Tejano Sausage 2,000-c, Combo of 2 of 2 items - starts at 3,500-c (MY FAV!! I get Sausage & Ribs with EXTRA EXTRA of their tasty sauce which is a bit more). Sandwiches (one side) – Sliced Brisket 1,600-c, Chopped Brisket 1,500, Tejano Sausage 1,200-c, Combo 2,000-c. Chorizo Wrap – 1,200-c, FRITO PIE (Fritos covered with chopped brisket, beans & b’bque sauce) 2,000-c. Family Packs for 3-4 6,000-10,000-c, 5-8 people 10,000-19,000-c. Sides include Potato Salad, Texas Style Beans (though I always ask for bbque sauce on it as it’s not like “baked beans” I know without it), Cole Slaw, Mashed Potatoes. DESSERTS - PEACH COBBLER 700-c. LEMONADE. DELIVERY / EXPRESS in the Sabana area (though he may deliver to the Escazu/Pavas area if you give him enough notice [like a couple+ hours & especially for larger orders]). CATERING. Part owner Juan Carlos Ortiz did his b’bque training at Wells Branch Bbq in Austin, TX (the other partner Josh also owns Max's American Bar around the corner on Calle Vieja). HOURS: Thurs.-Tues. 8am-8pm. LOCATION: 150 mts. South of the Contraloria (it is on the Left with a yellow & red sign. A small hole in the wall [yet TOTALLY new & REALLY REALLY CLEAN!!) Tell them Vicki sent ya!!!

new Texas BBQ is opening in Cariari. This morning a van of people went to test the smoke pit for a trial run & tasting. A guy from Puriscal who owned BBQ restaurants in the states is opening one here so he can have his BBQ again.....rumor goes.

BREADS - (also see “Pastries”)

CAFE TORINO - Escazu (San Rafael) - Calle Vieja - in Plaza del Rio - 700 mtrs oeste/west of Mas x Menos OR 100 meters East of Calle Country Club (2-288-4476 / 2-288-4473 / Torino@racsa.co.cr) - Their restaurant (with dining upstairs, in the back or out front ALFRESCO) features REALLY GOOD ITALIAN pastas, Soups, Salads & SANDWICHES. They have a GOOD DELI right there which even has homemade pastas to go & LOTS MORE including tasty BREADS (make sure to have Richard take care of you! He’s the tall cutie/sweetie that speaks Good English)!! Downstairs & in the back (to your Left) they have tasty Italian Gellato/ ICE CREAM – especially their MINT CHIP & the Berry one (no dairy in the berry!) plus some othe r the other tasty/gourmet flavors along with tasty PASTRIES (including CARROT CAKE, a more real tasting Key Lime Pie, German Chocolate Cake, Boston Cream Pie, Chocolate Croissants & now DONUTS (Christian speaks good English)!! Here they even have a FULL BAR (they also have alcohol for sale). They have a WONDERFUL BIG GOURMET MARKET/selection of imported goodies like REAL Maple Syrup, mustards, candies, things like pesto or sun-dried tomatoe paste in a tube, pastas, jams, crackers & cookies, wines & LOTS MORE!! Things I’ve not found elsewhere in CR! They’re THE PLACE for old style foreign/imported Christmas favorites. Christian (who also speaks good English) is there to help you in this area! They have FREE WiFi. HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 8am-7pm (lunch noon-3pm). Sat. 8:30am-6pm. (they’re across the street from The Fountains Guesthouse so if you’re in the area – stop by & say “Hola!” to Vicki 8-378-6679

LITTLE ISREAL / (aka PITA SOL) KOSHER DELICATESSEN (http://KosherFoodCosatRica.com / 2-228-9775 / 2-262-5425-fax / 2-237-3935-office / PitaSol1@hotmail.com) - I LOVE THIS STORE!!! WOW on what I found!! FRESH RYE BREAD on Thurs. FRESH PITA BREAD! Their deli carries Falafels (to heat up yourself [FRESH - pre-cooked, frozen or a mix to make yourself]); MANY forms of Herring – from fresh to jarred or frozen; Chopped Liver; Hummus; Tahini (I LOVE it mixed with honey – a healthy sweet!); Bubacanusch; Feta Spread & more! They have sum YUMMMMMY tongue-gasmic (a Katrina word) gourmet chocolates. Frozen Blintzes (made fresh in their main store). Also spices & LOTS of other goodies!!! They will have the standards (Potato Knish & Giffelta Fish+) – fresh for Rosh Hashana. OWNER: Penina

HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 10am-7pm, Sat. 10am-6pm (the bakery/homemade items are delivered around 10:30am for the freshest!! Closed only on Yum Kippur (& standard Tico holidays)

LOCATION: Now ONLY located in Escazu (San Rafael) in Plaza Laureles (home to Spoons) on Calle Vieja - about 50 meters East of the U.S. Ambassador's house & about 250 meters East of Paco Plaza.

BREAKFAST

CafE des Artistas - Escazu (San Rafael) (http://cafe-de-artistas.com / 2-288-5082). AWESOME place for BREAKFAST!! Eggs Benedict, U.S. style homemade cinnamon rolls. WONDERFUL FUNKY/COOL/ARTSY AMBIANCE! DETAILS CHANGING!!

HOURS: Mon. -Sat. 8am-6pm & Sun. 8am-4pm. LOCATION: 100 mt. east of Plaza Rolex (PR is opposite Rosti Pollo on the right/East hand side of Calle Vieja as you go up towards Scotiabank). As soon as you turn the corner beside the Rolex Plaza (CitiBank) & crest the first hill, you'll see the Cafe on the left next to the Mosaic store - Tallercito!!

Waffle Place - Escazu – across from AutoPlaza near MultiPlaza (new mall?) - The owner spent two and a half years in Belgium and became addicted to Belgian waffles. He does for waffles what Suzanne does for crepes in Momentum – offers up a variety of sweet and savory options. He also serves paninis, soups in yummy bread bowls and an array of desserts.

Chez Christophe Pasteleria Panaderia Francesa –VERY tasty French pastries in a French Café type of setting! BREAKFAST

San Rafael (2-228-2512) –75 mts. Sur/south of Paco Plaza. HOURS: Tues.-Sat. 7am-7pm, Sun. 8am-6pm.

Curridabat 224-1773) – 50 mts. Oeste/west of Pops. HOURS: Tues.-Sat. 8am-9pm, Sun. 10am-9pm.

D-Azafran - Santa Ana (2-203-7126 / 2-203-7137) • Rohrmoser - Plaza Mayor (2-220-2008 / 2-296-2883-fax) (http://AzaFranCR.com / Azafran@racsa.co.cr) - HOURS: Daily 9am-4:45pm. DELIVERY. BREAKFASTS (8-8) – typical Tico-style – 810-1,745-c, PASTRIES (18!) – 700-1,405-c, SANDWICHES (14) – 1,830-2,290-c, SALADS (10) – 1,650-3,360-c, ITALIAN PASTAS (19) - 2,605-5,400-c, Soups - 1,215-1,900-c+. ALFRESCO

Soda Tapia

Robin’s Cosina

Cafe Te Con Te - Escazu (San Rafael) (2-288-5028) – Dine ALFRESCO/outside or inside. LARGE menu (I especially LOVE their Beef Stroganoff) & a good SALAD menu. LOTS of tasty PASTRIES, DESSERTS & BREADS. BREAKFAST including Eggs Benedict (($6++. A small side of Gallo Pinto is 800-c, a side of pancakes is 1,500-c & the full order is around 3,800-c, a side of bacon is 1,016-c. HINT: Food ain’t cheap here but I have found you can eat for MUCH cheaper if you order A la Carte!). Not cheap. Beer & Wine only. CREDIT CARDS. HOURS: Daily 8am-7pm (they’re across the street from The Fountains Guesthouse & the House of Self Empowerment so if you’re in the area – stop by & say “Hola!” to Vicki 8-378-6679). DIRECTIONS: Calle Vieja - in Plaza del Rio - 700 mtrs oeste/west of Mas x Menos or 90 mts Este/East of the Calle Country Club light.

White House - The Capitol Grill - Escazu (San Antonio) (2-288-6362 / http://WhiteHouseCostaRica.com / marketing@WhiteHouseCostaRica.com) - VERY upscale/expensive/$$$$$. EXCELLENT quality STEAKS (Black Angus USDA). They have a WONDERFUL SUNDAY BRUNCH BUFFET BRUNCH (ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT) – includes a glass of CHAMPAGNE!! PRICE: $13,500 (about $25) (kids 1/2 price). HOURS: Brunch - 11am-3pm. Restaurant 7am-11pm. AWESOME VIEWS of the WHOLE Central Valley!!! My only comments is let’s just say – this isn’t a “family” place (read into it as you desire). They also have a Vegas-style CASINO (2-588-0064-casino / http://CasinoJaz.com) with the highest limits & odds in CR (the “girls” that “hang” here are VERY high-end!!!). HOURS: 6pm-2am. CIGAR BAR in a distinguished living room setting with leather sofas & a 42” plasma tv. HOURS: 7am-11pm. ATV & Harley Davidson rentals & tours, transfers in a Hummer or Ford Excursion & Helicopters. They also have a “Spa” though based on my experience having a facial there before, let’s just say it’s more geared towards tourists (both in rates & quality) – HOURS: 9:30am-5pm. DIRECTIONS: WAYYYY up the hill - 600 mts. South of the cemetery.

Maple Leaf Café (2-221- 6127 / 8-703-9297 / Raul.Farah@yahoo.com) - They serve BREAKFAST all day long. They claim to serve the best STEAKS (Don Fernando’s) in San Jose (6,000-c includes taxes/service one side dish [baked potato, vege] & salad), GREAT BURGERS (3,000-c come with french fries, onion rings or another side dish) & their most popular thing has turned out to be their "GREEK SALAD" (though they use Blue Cheese instead of Feta). Currently no liquor license but you can bring your own or they can run to the liquor store nearby for you. HOURS: Currently Mon.-Sat. 8am-8pm (but will change to be open on Sun. once they get their liquor license). OWNER: Raul Farah. LOCATION: San Jose-Downtown – Avenida 1 y Calle 5 -SW corner near Parque Morazan (nice views of the park from the balconies), facing the Holiday Inn (where the old Nashville South used to be).

BRUNCH

CafE des Artistas - Escazu (San Rafael) (http://cafe-de-artistas.com / 2-288-5082). AWESOME place for BREAKFAST!! Eggs Benedict, U.S. style homemade cinnamon rolls. WONDERFUL FUNKY/COOL/ARTSY AMBIANCE! Watson’s the sweetie to take care of you (in English!!). LIVE MUSIC - JAZZ BRUNCH usually the 2^nd or 3rd Sun. of month - 11am-1pm-ish. HOLIDAYS: They are open most holidays. OWNER: Bill Hill billhill98290@yahoo.com HOURS: Mon. -Sat. 8am-6pm & Sun. 8am-4pm. LOCATION: 100 mt. east of Plaza Rolex (PR is opposite Rosti Pollo on the right/East hand side of Calle Vieja as you go up towards Scotiabank). As soon as you turn the corner beside the Rolex Plaza (CitiBank) & crest the first hill, you'll see the Cafe on the left next to the Mosaic store - Tallercito!!

BUFFET (see “All You Can Eat”)

BURGERS

Time Out Tavern & Deli & Sports Bar – San Rafael de Escazu (2-289-3217 / 8-836-3058 / TimeOutEscazu@gmail.com) – on Country Club Road (off Calle Vieja) - 500 meters up from Calle Vieja - South of the Costa Rica Country Club on the Left - The sign isn't up yet so look for the tan doors with the black columns & swinging saloon doors in between two dental clinics & caddy corner from Magia Verde Vivera/Nursery - This bar/tavern/SPORTS BAR has REALLY TASTY FOOD (some of the BEST I’ve found in CR), REALLY GOOD Char-broiled BURGERS (I went one night I was sick & ate JUST the meat – no bun, veges or condiments & it was REALLY GOOD!!), NIGHTLY SPECIALS plus MON.-MEATLOAF. TUES.-MEXICAN. FRI. FISH & CHIPS!! Tasty CHILI con Carne!!! They have the BIGGEST selection of sandwiches I’ve found in CR (you can see samples of their Sandwich menu from their previous sandwich shops website)! Here’s a tiny sample of the sandwiches they offer: Rocky Marciano - This is sure to knock out your hunger - Chicken Breast pan fried & topped with Provolone Cheese & Red Sauce served on a Fresh Italian Roll (our famous Chicken Pam). Dallas Cowboy - This must be the love it or hate it sándwich - Chicken Breast pan fried & topped with BBQ Sauce, Sliced Ham, & Pepper Jack Cheese served on a Fresh Italian Roll. They have many of Standard sándwich fare with FUN names!! 3,500 gets you an even BIGGER sandwich: El Duque - You don't have to go to Cuba to get one of these famous sandwiches - Roasted Pork, Ham, Dijon Mustard & Swiss Cheese on a French Roll pressed & baked. The Hog - This sandwich can find a spot on the legendary offensive line of the 80's. Russ Grimm & Mark May move on over. Thin Sliced Virginia Ham, Roasted Pork, & Bacon piled on a Croissant topped with Swiss Cheese, Mayo, Lettuce & tomato. The Fat Bastard - Head Sandwich Bastard - Smoked Turkey, Virginia Ham, Bacon, & Swiss Cheese with Lettuce, tomato & herbed mayo on a grilled croissant. SPORTS BAR with 11-42" High Definition LCDs and 2- 32" with all the new TV's being 1080 dpi.Satelite Dishes & Amnet (they claim to have THE MOST sports shows!!). They have the standard cervezas/beers as well as Stella Artois - Belgian Lager - EXCELLENT, Smirnoff Ice - Malt Liquor, Miller Light, Corona. Check Prices are on the higher end but QUALITY ain’t cheap! OWNERS: Hola to Steven, his wife Jae & Glen.

DELIVERY: Thurs.-Tues. 11am-7pm.

HOURS: Bar - Daily 11am-2am. Food Served till 1 A.M.

CAFÉ / DELI

D -TIMES SQUARE (formerly Wall Street Restaurant, Bar & Deli) (2-288-3544 / [don’t speak Spanish? Call his mom Susy at 8-398-0758 / SolomonHane@hotmail.com) - San Rafael – now located in the plaza behind Pops by the Shell Station - Deli, a nice SALAD menu (not as large as they had at Wall Street but if they have the ingredients, they’ll make it for you!!). I LOVED their Santa Fe Salad which is now called the SouthWestern & the dressing is now ranch but you can ask for their salsa limon & cilantro & they’ll be happy to make it for you. FULL/LARGE Menu, good burgers, sandwiches (though they’re on the smaller side), many SOUP selections, DESSERTS (including NY Cheesecake). Former Wall Street owners Salomon & Suzy’s son Henry (of Henry’s Bar) has taken this over!!! DELIVERY. HOURS: Tues.-Sun. 11am-3pm & 6-10pm (closed Mon.)

Giacomin (http://PasteleriaGiacomin.com / ) - Pastries, chocolates, cakes, flavored truffles like Cognac, ron, whisky, Cointreau+, Quiche Lorraine, pastry sandwiches, their famous PIZZA. Desserts like CHOCOLATE MOUSE, Croissants, Tiramizu++

Escazu (Bello Horizonte) (2-288-3381 / 2-288-3382) - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 10am-7pm. DIRECTIONS: Heading up the hill from Scotia towards Centro – turn Left at Toycos (just before you MUST turn right to go into Centro). Go down 250 meters East.

Pozos de Santa Ana (2-203-5312 / 2-203-5315) - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 9am-8:30pm, Sun. 10am-7pm DIRECTIONS: In front of Lindora - 200 mts north of AutoMercado

San Pedro de Montes de Oca / Los Yoses (2-224-3463 / 2-234-2551) - HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 8am-noon & 2-7pm, Sat. 8am-noon & 2-6:30pm

Dirección: costado este Automercado Los Yoses (600 oeste Fuente de la Hispanidad)

San Jose Centro (2-221-5652) - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 8:30am-2pm & 2-6:30pm. DIRECTIONS: 75 mts north of the main Post Office

Henry’s Beach / Sports Café & Grill – Escazu (San Rafael)– Centro Comercial Plaza San Rafael – Upstairs - on Calle Vieja (2-289-6250) - I hear they have GOOD BURGERS!!! Bar food plus a full menu. HAPPY HOUR – 2x1 5-8pm. Giant projection screen, more thana dozen tvs, Satellite tv. Owner Henry now also owns Times Square!! HOURS: 4pm-2am (including restaurant!!!)

D-Spoons – Café (Sandwiches range from 550-2190 colones; Salads [a good size list of 10 from Thai, Cesar, Nicoise +] from 1,590-2,990 colones ; rice dishes; Pastas like Lasagna 2,920 colones; Pastries from 270-810 colones; Appetizers from 260-950 colones; Breakfast from 590-2,380 colones). DELIVERY

Alajuela (2-443-3100 / 2-443-3200) - DELIVERY Mon. Sat. 10am-6pm

Escazu-San Rafael– Plaza Laureles (2-288-3145 / 2-288-3147) – DELIVERY - Daily 9am-5pm. HOURS: Sun.-Thurs. 8:30am-9pm & Fri. & Sat. 8:30am-10pm

Heredia (2-260-1333 / 2-260-2666) DELIVERY – Daily 9am-8pm

Pavas (2-296-1670 / 2-231-3330). DELIVERY Mon.-Fri. 8am-8pm, Sat. & Sun. 9am-5pm

Rohrmoser – Plaza Mayor (2-231-2000/231-3147). DELIVERY Mon.-Fri. 9am-5pm.

Real Cariari (2-239-1016 / 2-293-3826) - DELIVERY Mon.-Sat. 9am-5pm

San Jose – Ave. Central (2-221-6702 / 2-255-2480). DELIVERY Mon.-Fri. 8:30am-5pm, Sat. & Sun. 9am-5pm.

Calle Central (2-257-7444 / 2-258-3215) DELIVERY 9am-5pm

Plaza del Sol (2-224/1304 / 2-225-1163) DELIVERY 10am-6pm

TerraMall (2-278-6660 / 2-278-7656) - DELIVERY Daily 11:30am-7:30pm

Zapote (2-225-0938 / 2-283-2042) DELIVERY – Sun.-Fri. 8am-7pm. Sat. 9am-5pm

Fitzgerald Coffee – Plaza Itskatzu (2-288-1633) - They blend their own coffee with beans from CR & Brazil & Arabica beans. They have over 30 different coffees to choose from like Cappuccino; espresso; café latte; mochas; Irish coffee & exotic coffees laced with liqueurs, flavored syrups & spices ranging from $1-$6! Tasty treats like For breakfast enjoy a BAGEL, hash browns, eggs, pancakes & wraps. A unique item – “The Fitz Salmon” – a generous portion of smoked salmon served on a slicke of fresh pineapple – interesting & tasty. Prices start at $1.50. Desserts are under $3. Menu prices INCLUDE that tax & service though it’s not mentioned on it. WiFi. HOURS: Daily 6am-10pm

William's Restaurante – Santa Ana - 25 meters south of the La Bruja Super Licoreras (2-282-6658) - very reasonably-priced delicious breakfast & lunch in this REALLY clean restaurant

CASADO

(a Tipico FULL plate with rice, beans, usually a platano, salad & then chicken or pork chop, or lomito/beef or fish at REALLY REALLY CHEAP prices (usually under 2,000-3,000-colones!!)

COUNTRY DELI Restaurante y Salon de Eventos (http:// [coming soon] / 2-288-1028 / 8-815-1161 /TatyMendez74@hotmail.com) - A VIC’s PICK!!! Join your hosts Tatiana (Taty) Mendez (she speaks GOOD English!!!) & her mom at their NEW RESTAURANT - Country Deli Restaurante & Salon de Eventos!! Taty & her mom used to run this little “soda” out of their garage off the side street by my home & I was SOOOO BUMMED when they closed over 2 years ago but we’re BLESSED to have them back in the neighborhood!!! Their food is SOOOOO TASTY (& I’m not normally a big fan of “Tipico Tico food” [not being a rice & beans kinda gal!!]) & they’re REALLY SPECIAL PEOPLE!!! Their menu is TASTY TIPICO TICO FOOD dishes & sometimes they'll have some things prepared on a FLAME GRILL!!! You have GOT to try their Corn "Bread" that is the BEST - Linguasmo/TongueGasmic (better get it early though as a guy that just had lunch there the day I first went loved it SOOOO MUCH that he bought EVERY PIECE they had left to take home (or perhaps to share with his co-workers as he works right across the street!!)!!! CHEAP LUNCH SPECIAL: CASADA SPECIALS include an Entree, rice, beans, vegetables, plantanos, salad AND a natural drink - JUST 2,400-colones!!! EXPRESS / DELIVERY!! This space is a GREAT LARGE SPACE to hold EVENTS like a baby shower, wedding, meeting, etc. on Saturdays & Sundays! CATERING!! WiFi TEMPORARY DETAILS: http://SarongGoddess.smugmug.com/Other/Country-Deli-Restaurant-Escazu/12687889_hDRCx / http://LivingLifeInCostaRica.blogspot.com/2010/06/country-deli-restaurante-y-salon-de_8692.html / http://Facebook.com/#!/album.php?aid=2066491&id=1364767178 PLEASE tell ALL your friends about them& until their website & Facebook page are up, email me atCostaRicaResourceGuide@gmail.com for notification of their upcoming SPECIALS that will be EXCLUSIVELY for their Supporters!!! HOURS: Monday-Fri. 8am-9pm (but if you're there around 7:30am they'll I'm sure let you in!!). Saturdays & Sundays are reserved for PRIVATE EVENTS!!! LOCATION: Escazu (San Rafael) - 200 mts. West of the Scotia Split. Across the street from Plaza Colonial & next door to Burger King. That beautiful ivy covered building where Bio__ Floristeria used to be. Make sure to tell them VICKI SENT YOU!!!! (& report back to me YOUR experience!!)

La Casona de Laly (2-288-5807 [every time I call this I get a fax]) - Located in a 200 year old pueblo home with a cool open, VERY tipico interior, big aquarium & a bunch of caged birds located in Centro Escazu - the heart of the REAL part of Escazu!! I'm not a rice & beans (Tipico Tico) food kinda food BUT, I LOVE THIS PLACE!!! EVERYTHING I’ve had here was been REALLY TASTY!!!!!! It is CONSISTENTLY HANDS DOWN THE BEST TICO RESTAURANT I’VE FOUND & BY FAR my FAV spot to go for Tipico Tico food as it’s GOOD & REALLY REALLY CHEAP with food like MY FAV - #9 - a REALLY TASTY CASADAS with fish (I LOVE mine La Plancha/grilled with LOTS of Ajo/garlic for ONLY 1,800-c [around $3!!]!!), chicken or beef or pork chops grilled, fried or with garlic – YUMMMMM – & here they’re only 1,300-1,800-c!! They have a BIG menu ranging from Bocas/appitizers starting at 880-c to 4,300 (averaging 1300-1700-c - I LOVE their CEVICHE (1,800-c) & their Fried Yucca [it's mushed up]). I’m not a fan of their guacamole (I don’t believe they use Haas which to me makes a good guac but I’ve known others that really like it). Recently I treated a friend for her birthday (big spender me!!!) & she had one beer, I had a club soda, we split a YUMMMM ceviche, patagonias, I had the casada with chicken (rice, rice, beans, salad, platano!!) & she had the chile relleno PLUS they gave her a nice size piece of b'day cake!! $14!!!!!!!!!!!! They have the BEST MARGARITAS I've EVER had (& my other business is in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico & I'm from Southern California hence I KNOW GOOD margaritas!!!), BUT they ain't cheap (I believe they're around 2,800-c/$4.85). Check out the fun painted wall in the women’s bathroom (I haven’t checked out the men’s so maybe they have something). HOURS: Tues.-Sat. 11am-11pm., Sun. 11am–6pm. Sun. 11am–6pm. ONLY closed New Years Day (Jan. 1) & the Thurs. & Fri. before Easter. LOCATION: Escazu (Centro) - Go directly up the hill at the Scotia Split. At the sign that says "no Hay Paseo" - veer to the Right. Go 2 blocks & it’s the terra cota corner restaurant on the Right. Or 200 meters north of the church/Musmany. Park on your Right just after the restaurant or on the street (remember to tip the car guard).

Empanadas Argentinas Boquitas - Escazu Centro (2-288-1896 / 2-288-2811) - up the hill from the Scotia split – a stand on the corner right where it turns into a one-way north-bound street. Casado includes meat, beans & rice, salad & natural juices - 1,550 colon. Tasty cheap food in a casual st& setting!! HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 7am-5pm, Sat. 7am-1pm. Owner: Mary. NICE workers – Carmen & Lucita.

CHARMING (see “Charming” & “Cool “Funkie”)

CHEAP

La Casona de Laly (2-288-5807 [every time I call this I get a fax]) - Located in a 200 year old pueblo home with a cool open, VERY tipico interior, big aquarium & a bunch of caged birds located in Centro Escazu - the heart of the REAL part of Escazu!! I'm not a rice & beans (Tipico Tico) food kinda food BUT, I LOVE THIS PLACE!!! EVERYTHING I’ve had here was been REALLY TASTY!!!!!! It is CONSISTENTLY HANDS DOWN THE BEST TICO RESTAURANT I’VE FOUND & BY FAR my FAV spot to go for Tipico Tico food as it’s GOOD & REALLY REALLY CHEAP with food like MY FAV - #9 - a REALLY TASTY CASADAS with fish (I LOVE mine La Plancha/grilled with LOTS of Ajo/garlic for ONLY 1,700-c [around $3!!]!!), chicken or beef or pork chops grilled, fried or with garlic – YUMMMMM – & here they’re only 1,300-1,800-c!! They have a BIG menu ranging from Bocas/appitizers starting at 880-c to 4,300 (averaging 1300-1700-c - I LOVE their CEVICHE (1,800-c) & their Fried Yucca [it's mushed up]). I’m not a fan of their guacamole (I don’t believe they use Haas which to me makes a good guac but I’ve known others that really like it). Recently I treated a friend for her birthday (big spender me!!!) & she had one beer, I had a club soda, we split a YUMMMM ceviche, patagonias, I had the casada with chicken (rice, rice, beans, salad, platano!!) & she had the chile relleno PLUS they gave her a nice size piece of b'day cake!! $14!!!!!!!!!!!! They have the BEST MARGARITAS I've EVER had (& my other business is in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico & I'm from Southern California hence I KNOW GOOD margaritas!!!), BUT they ain't cheap (I believe they're around 2,800-c/$4.85). Check out the fun painted wall in the women’s bathroom (I haven’t checked out the men’s so maybe they have something). HOURS: Tues.-Sat. 11am-11pm., Sun. 11am–6pm. ONLY closed New Years Day (Jan. 1) & the Thurs. & Fri. before Easter. LOCATION: Escazu (Centro) - Go directly up the hill at the Scotia Split. At the sign that says "no Hay Paseo" - veer to the Right. Go 2 blocks & it’s the terra cota corner restaurant on the Right. Or 200 meters north of the church/Musmany. Park on your Right just after the restaurant or on the street (remember to tip the car guard).

CAFÉ JIRATABLES - 380-2042 / sanjoo2076@yahoo.com) - VEGETARIAN VEGETARIAN INDIAN dishes at GOOD/CHEAP PRICES. Also, SoyaBURGERS. HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 8:30am-8pm. LOCATION: Bario California – in front of KFC & Theatre Iratables. OWNER: Mukande

CHICKEN

D- POLLO MALE a La Leña (2-228-0623) - Escazu (Centro) - MANY have told me (& I agree!!) it’s the BEST Roasted (coffee wood) chicken around! I can say it’s the best I’ve found! Male 1 - 1/4 of a chicken with 1 small side dish, 2 tortillas & a 12 oz. Drink - 1,600. Male 2 - 1/2 of a chicken with 2 small side dishes, 5 tortillas & two 12 oz. Drink – 3,100. Male 3 - one chicken with 2 large side dishes, 5 tortillas & a one 2-liter drink – 4,700. Male 4 - 2 chickens with 4 large side dishes, 10 tortillas & a one 2-liter drink – 8,500. Tasty homemade tortillas. Side dishes like frijoles molidos/black beans, pasta salad with asparagus or vinegar - yummmm & 600 for a large cup or 350 for a small cup!! DELIVERY (2-55 colones). HOURS: Tues.-Sat. 10am-9pm, Sun. 10am-8pm, Closed Mon. DELIVERY 11:30am-2:30pm & 5-9pm. Hola to Mauricio (who speaks GREAT English!!). LOCATION: 100 mts. East & 50 mts. South of the Post Office/Correo. NOTE: I’ve heard recently their prices have JUMPED UP!!

TACO TICO - For me, this Soda has REALLY TASTY FRIED CHICKEN!!! Say hola to the guapo

D-RostiPollos (2-218-1212) - DELIVERY.

D-Pollos Campero (2-256-6363) - DELIVERY.

D-KFC – Escazu - DELIVERY.

CHINESE

D-Chinese Rohrmoser - Rohrmoser (the last restaurant before you turn down the road leading you to Pavas Airport (2-291-3655) - The best Chinese restaurant I’ve found so far (not that that’s saying much). HOURS: 11am-9pm

D- VILLA REY – Escazu (San Rafael) (2-289-5028 / 2-228-4950) - Calle Vieja / Old Santa Ana Road, 200 meters west of the Colonial Plaza in Escazú, on the right side of the road if you are coming from Scotia Bank. DELIVERY (during most open hours usually). HOURS: Mon.-Thurs. 11am-3pm & 6-11pm. Fri., Sat. & Sun. 11am-11pm

??? - SJ - Across from the Artisan Mercado - REALLY GOOD, DIM SUM, BUFFET weekdays at lunchtime around noon-1:30pm-ish.

TIN JO - San Jose – Downtown - Calle 11, Ave. 6-8 (2-221-7605 / 2-257-3622 / http://tinjo.com/tj/index.php?id=67 [the English version] / hola@TinJo.com) - Many feel it’s the best Asian food in CR – it’s DEFINITELY the most expensive!!! They have a HUGE menú with foods from Thail& (10 dishes – 4,000-c – Eggplant Curry & Vegetarian Green Curry, Chicken Curry in Coconut Milk 4,750-c, Fish Curry in Coconut Milk & Masaman Beef Curry 5,400-c. Shrimp & Pineapple Curry - 6,500-c, Pad Krapao’s – Chicken 4,500-c, 5,200-c – Beef or Shrimp, Pad Thai 3,500-4,200-c), India (2-4 dishes – Palak Paneer 3,800-c, Murg Masala 4,500-c, Vegetarian Curry 4,000-c, Masala Fish 5,000-c), China (Stir-Fry’s [8] 3,700-5,800-c, Sizzling Rices [3] 4,500-6,500-c, Sweet & Sours 4,500-5,200-c, Noodles/Chop Sueys, Chow Mein 3,500-3,650-c, Rices 3,250-4,600-c), Vietnam (2-2 dishes – Vietnamese Steamed Chicken 4,300-c, Steamed Fish 4,650-c), filipina (2-4 dishes – Spicy Ma Po Tofu 4,000-c, 4,500 – Filipino Adobo Pork & Shanghai Shao Hsing Pork with Anise) & Japan (8-8 dishes – Teriyaki’s – Chicken 4,350-c, Tuna 5,000-c, Tenderloin Beef 5,500-c, T-Bone 9,500-c, Tamarind & Lemon Grass Chicken 4,500-c, Grilled Fish Wrapped in Banana Leaf 4,800-c, Coconut Salmon 6,500-c) including SUSHI (only 6 choices ranging from 2,800 [vegetarian]-4,750-colones). They have an appetizer plate called Pou Pou Pum (they say it’s for 2) that includes shrimp & beef shish kabobs, banana leaf wrapped chicken, spare ribs & egg rolls, served overa live flame, with Thai cole slaw for 15,000/$30??? They have a large VEGETARIAN menu ranging from 1,500-4,500-c. NOTE – their prices are $$$$$though they already INCLUDE the 13% tax & 10% service. DIM SUM all-day on Sun. HOURS: 11:30am-3pm, 5:30-10pm

Casa China (the Chinese Association’s Restaurant) – San Jose - I’ve seen – ON 23^rd St. slightly north of Avenida 10 - desde la TEXACO de Avenida Diez, 200 al este, encima de la cuesta, mano izquierda & Avenida 10 & Calle 23 or 25 – up the hill on the East side of San Jose - THE BEST Chinese restaurant around including Traditional Hong Kong DIM SUM (Laurie went here & had 14 dishes & it was under $25!!!) & Excellent Cantonese Style Congee (thanx yegroup!). HOURS: 8am-11pm.

D-Isla Verde – Rohrmoser (2-296-5068) - DELIVERY.

D-Lotus – Escazu (San Rafael) (2-228-8105 / 2-228-8091) - 90 mts. NW Paco Plaza - CLOSED.

Chancay - Escazu – Plaza Itzkazu – on the north side of the Pista where Outback is (2-289-6964) - A combo of traditional PERUVIAN food along with CHINESE with many Peruvians & Tico’s dining here. Tasty dishes – Ronda de Mariscos Caliente – breaded squid, shrimp, octopus, parmesan shells with a special sauce; Tiradito Chancay is fish, shells, shrimp with 3 different sauces (ala sushi-ish?); Causa de Pollo – Potato with chicken & avacado; Golosa is a tasty appetizer. Chinese dishes like a special Chinese Rice (Chifa) goes well with Cerdo Agridulce (pork in a tamarindo sauce with pineapple with special Chinese vegetables [sounds like a sort of Sweet & Sour Pork]); Pollo en Saalsa de Ostion is a speciality dish. Finish with the Peruvian dessert Suspiro a la Limeña (not something to share – keep it for YOURSELF!!!) (THANX to http://groups.yahoo.com/group/escazunews for sharin’). Attentive OWNERS Patricia (a former beauty queen, tv news reporter, entrepreneuer) & Macho. Reservations are suggested.

King’s Garden - San Jose – above Mas x Menos-Sabana – frente Hotel Corobici (2-255-3838 / 2-233-9003) - DIM SUM, CHINESE - Daily 11am-3pm (small selection). HOURS: 11am-11pm

Don Wang - San Jose – Downtown - Calle 11, & Avenidas 6 & 8 - 100 meters East - 150 meters North, diagonal from the Lucho Barahona Theater (http://DonWangRestaurant.com /233-6484 / 2-223-5925) - They say authentic CHINESE (Szechuan, Canton, Peking), Taiwan, VEGETARIAN, DIM SUM (you order off the menu instead of them walking around where you get to pick). 2 doors North of Tin Jo & VERY similar but a bit cheaper. Dishes range from 850-8,000 (plus tax). Menu in Spanish, English & Chinese. AIR CONDITION. LARGE SPACE (up to 130). HOLIDAYS – ALL!!! 365 days a year!!! PARKING: We offer a free parking-hour in the following parking lots: PARQUEO MUSICAL: located on 8th Avenue, between 11th & 13th Streets. PARQUEO BILLY MURILLO: located 25 mts North from the restaurant. PARQUEO LA ORQUlDEA: located 50 mts South & 100 West from the restaurant. OWNERS: Denia Arguello Jimeniz & her Chinese Chef/hubby. HOURS: Mon. 8am-3pm & 6-11pm, Tues.-Sat. 8am-11pm, Sun. 8am10pm.

Cantones Express (2-228-7175 / 2-228-7176) – Escazu (San Rafael) – Costado norte de la Bomba Shell (the Shell Gas station). HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 11am-3:30pm & 5:30-10:30pm. Sat. & Sun. 11am-11pm.

D- Villa Bonita - Rohrmoser – 1 block south, 75 mts. West of the U.S. Embassy behind PeriMercado (2-232-9855 / 2-220-2477 / http://VillaBonita.com) - CHINESE (Cantonese & Szechuan) including Peking Duck, DIM SUM & VEGETARIAN. ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT BUFFET with SUSHI, DIM SUM & other Chinese dishes - SUN. - noon-4pm – 6,500 (plus drinks). DELIVERY (they’ll go practically anywhere in the Valley is sounds like including Carriari, Escazu, Santa Ana+) 11am-3pm & 6-10pm. LARGE SPACE for events. HOURS: Daily 9am-Mid. (note: I’ve been here – done that - & would NOT go back again but IF I did, the Dim Sum would ONLY be what I would go back for – especially for the Sun. Buffet).

COMFORT FOOD

NIGHTLY SPECIALS:

Mon. - Meatloaf & Mashed Potatoes & Broccoli 3,200.

Sun. - Argentinian Grill - Flamed grilled!! I had a PERFECTLY cooked & seasoned STEAK for around 4,500!!!! It comes with Salad, Baked Potato & Chimichurri.

HAPPY HOUR: Mon.-Thurs. 6-8pm 500-c Imperial, Pilsen, Rock Ice, Imperial Light, Pilsen 6.0, Rock Ice Lemon. 2x1 Shots on Jose Cuervo & Johnny Walker Red.

HOURS: Daily 11am-2pm. Kitchen 11am-MID!!

COOL / FUNKY PLACE (see “Charming”)

CafE des Artistas - Escazu (San Rafael) (http://cafe-de-artistas.com / 2-288-5082). AWESOME place for BREAKFAST!! Eggs Benedict, U.S. style homemade cinnamon rolls. WONDERFUL FUNKY/COOL/ARTSY AMBIANCE! Watson’s the sweetie to take care of you (in English!!). BOOK EXCHANGE. LIVE MUSIC - JAZZ BRUNCH usually the 2^nd or 3rd Sun. of month - 11am-1pm-ish. HOLIDAYS: They are open most holidays. OWNER: Bill Hill billhill98290@yahoo.com (tell him Vicki sent ya). HOURS: Mon. -Sat. 8am-6pm & Sun. 8am-4pm. LOCATION: 100 mt. east of Plaza Rolex (PR is opposite Rosti Pollo on the right/East hand side of Calle Vieja as you go up towards Scotiabank). As soon as you turn the corner beside the Rolex Plaza (CitiBank) & crest the first hill, you'll see the Cafe on the left next to the Mosaic store - Tallercito!!

OASIS (8-835-8992 / 2-288-4604 / http://OasisCoffeeShop.blogspot.com / OasisCoffeeShop@yahoo.com / http://facebook.com/home.php#/pages/Escazu-Costa-Rica/Oasis-Coffee-Shop-and-Fusion/121911445520?ref=ts)

A REALLY tasty & NEW RESTAURANT!!! A predominately VEGETARIAN menu along with some fish, chicken & egg dishes – a more TASTY, European/Fusion, standard HEALTHY fair with nice presentation!

DAILY SPECIAL - an Entree with soup or salad – usually around 3,200 & add chicken or fish - +500-c (served throughout the day [or when they run out])! – KID-FRIENDLY. BOOK EXCHANGE. DELIVERY (in the area for a fee). Cash only.

OWNERS: Mario Bello (former chef at Earthly Delights in Cuidad Colon) & Stephanie McPhail (tell her Vicki sent ya).

HOURS: Tues- Sat. –10:30-8pm, Sun. 11am-5pm. Closed Mon. LOCATION: Escazu (San Rafael)-Trejos Montelegre – the street a block behind KFC – the east side of Hotel Maria Alexandra near where the art supply/classes store used to be. Getting there driving – from the main street where McDonald's turn West into the street at Vivero Exotica & Rosti Pollo are (it's a one-way street. Turn left at the first street, cross over the street that you would normally turn left on to get back onto the main road (by where KFC is) & it’s 1/2 way down on the Left.

Buena Tierra Coffee Shop/Organic Cafeteria & Market (http://BuenaTierraOrganicMarket.blogspot.com / 8- 950-5930 / BuenaTierra.Organica@gmail.com ) - In their COOL UNIQUE PLACE (the tables are made out of tree stumps!!)/coffee shop they serve breakfasts and lunches all made with high quality ingredients, organic and natural. Home made cakes, organic coffees and teas, take-home our gourmets dishes or just order them, buy cosmetics and biodegradable cleaning products. TASTY FOOD with NICE presentation!! DAILY SPECIALS: 3,000-3,500-c - includes soup, rice, beans, salad and an entrée & Natural drink. All our ingredients are 99% ORGANIC. HOURS: Mon-Thurs-8am-5pm, Fri-8-6pm, Sat-9am-2pm. LOCATION: Escazu (Centro) - one block South/up the hill from the main entrance of San Miguel Catholic Church in Centro Escazu in the new Buena Tierra shopping center. It is a green 2-story building decorated with amazing mosaics made by artist Rebeca Fernández (who has her workshop here).

ROBIN’S COCINA / LA COCINA DE ROBIN - ROBIN’S KITCHEN - Escazu’s Sweet Spot (sprinkled with savories!)!!! (2-228-3407-store (Spanish) / 8-382-4412-Robin/English (leave a message) / CosinaDeRobin@hotmail.com) - Here you can buy their tasty treets by the piece or whole (PIES, CAKES+) like MY FAVS - her TONGUEGASMIC Passionfruit/Maracuya Pie (the same one she sells in AutoMercado) & the BEST Pecan Pie I have EVER tasted (most I’ve had you can cut the sugar with a knife! Not Robin’s!! Her’s is NOT sickie sweet - it’s PERFECT!! I am NOT a coffee drinker or liker but she has a Chocolate/Mocha Pie that is XTACY!!! Also fresh Mango/Creamcheese Pie (YUUMMMMM!!!!!! Seasonally), Strawberry Pie (seasonally), Apple Pie, Coffee/Toffee Pie, Lemon Tarts, Cheesecake, Muffins, Cakes like Chocolate, Cinnamon Pound Cakes, Apple Cake, Lemon Pound Cake+. She carries Mini-Baguettes & BOSTON BAGELS. She has DAILY LUNCH SPECIALS including a Sandwich as well as Soup & I've often see their TASTY Chicken Enchiladas (some of the BEST Enchiladas I’ve tasted!!) or Lasagna, Stuffed Eggplant on the menu that are REALLY TASTY!! Quiche & Salads. She also carries Empanadas+++. HOLIDAY DESSERTS: Thanksgiving - Pumpkin Pie, the BEST Pecan Pie I have EVER tasted!!, Apple Pie, Pumpkin Cheesecake. Christmas - Pumpkin Pie, the BEST Pecan Pie I have EVER tasted!!, Moist Ginger Cake, Christmas Cookies & IF she can find the cranberries this year - Apple/Cranberry Pie! (make sure to order as much in advance as possible before she can't make any more or runs out!!). You can also special order/have her make custom pies, cakes, cookies, muffins, etc. including Wedding Cakes, Birthday Cakes or whatever YOU Desire (with 24-48 hour notice)!!! BOOK EXCHANGE. WIFI. OWNER: Robin (tell her Vicki sent ya). HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 7am-6pm, Sat. 7am-5pm. DIRECTIONS: Escazu (Centro) - From the Paco Plaza - go up the hill to Escazu Center (do NOT take the road to Le Monastere). At the “T” (Snoopy Bar & the Cemetary) turn LEFT. Go down 3 blocks (before the block in the middle of the road). Parking is on the street or in the lot across the street.

Pozos de Santa Ana (2-203-5312 / 2-203-5315) - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 9am-8:30pm, Sun. 10am-7pm DIRECTIONS: In front of Lindora - 200 mts north of AutoMercado

San Pedro de Montes de Oca / Los Yoses (2-224-3463 / 2-234-2551) - HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 8am-noon & 2-7pm, Sat. 8am-noon & 2-6:30pm

Dirección: costado este Automercado Los Yoses (600 oeste Fuente de la Hispanidad)

San Jose Centro (2-221-5652) - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 8:30am-2pm & 2-6:30pm. DIRECTIONS: 75 mts north of the main Post Office

CREPES

Viva la Crepa - Escazu – San Rafael-Plaza Atlantis (home to the new Auto Mercado) (2-588-1805 / 2-588-1776) - CREPES in good size portions like Arreglado de lechon - a REALLY tasty puffy pastry; Spinach & ricotta crepe; ham & cheese; VEGETARIAN & more. Soups include Asparagus Soup & a very rich Onion Soup & a light Cream of Mushroom are all served in a bread bowl. As well as crepes, they also have Argentinian Empanadas, Breaded Veal,& variety of Salads, Pitas & Waffles Dessert are of course MY FAV crepe filled with Nutella as well as crepes with apples & cinnamon & more!

CUBAN

_________ del Mar - Plaza Itskazu - TASTY Cuban food (especially their Cuban Sandwich

Club Cubano - Guachipelin-Escazu (2-215-2001) - Leg of Por, Arroz con Pollo, Rabo Encendido, Paeilla, Boliche, Congris, Cuban Sandwiches. HOURS: Tues.-Sun. 10am-10pm (closed Mon.). LIVE MUSIC & DANCING: Fri. 9:30pm+ (warning – it’s LOUD & 97% couples [but cool as there were some kids there!])

DELI

KOSHER CENTER DELI, GRILL, BAKERY - Rohmoser – road to Pavas – diagonal to La Artistica (2-232-2991 / 2-290-2058) - NEW! Pastrami, Pressed Beef, Salami, Turkey & Corned Beef SANDWICHES, Special HOT DOGS, Cold Cuts, New York Deli Style. ISREALI CUISINE, DESSERTS+ HOURS: Mon.-Thurs. 10am-6pm, Fri. 10am-2pm, Sun. 10am-4pm.

DELIVERY – “EXPRESS”

Country Deli - Escazu (San Rafael)(2-288-1028 / 8-815-1161)

Azafran - Rohrmoser - Plaza Mayor (2-220-2008 / 2-296-2883-fax) (http://AzaFranCR.com / Azafran@racsa.co.cr) - HOURS: Daily 9am-4:45pm. DELIVERY. BREAKFASTS (8-8) – typical Tico-style – 810-1,745-c, PASTRIES (18!) – 700-1,405-c, SANDWICHES (14) – 1,830-2,290-c, SALADS (10) – 1,650-3,360-c, ITALIAN PASTAS (19) - 2,605-5,400-c, Soups - 1,215-1,900-c+

Bagelmen’s (http://BagelmensCR.com) – Escazu (San Rafael - across the street from TGIFridays - In the same strip mall as Haagen Das) (2-289-4616) & Plaza Fiorenzia (home to Soda Tapia) – on the road just north of Paco Plaza heading towards MultiPlaza-Guachipelín (2-228-3210) – BAGELS (I LOVE their Salmon, Cream Cheese & Capers!!!), BREAKFAST, SMOOTHIES, PASTRIES. COFFEE. Soups, Salads, Sandwiches. WiFi. HOURS: 7am-9pm. DELIVERY 7am-5pm. OTHER LOCATIONS: San Antonio de Belen (2-293-5900) • Curridabat (2-234-1034) • Cariari (2-239-1462) • San Pedro (1-800-212-1314) • Plaza Florencia (2-228-3210) • Corporate Office: 2-224-2432

Burger King - Escazu (San Rafael) (Delivery/Express 258-9999 / 2-257-7777 – 9=English / 2-258-9900) - They’re partnered with Papa John’s. DELIVERY 8am-10pm. HOURS: 8am-10pm.

Café Arena – Escazu (San Rafael) (2-288-275 / 2-288-2583) - BREAKFASTS – 1150-2450-c, SALADS 1800-3000-c, LUNCH – Special of Day 2700, Casadas 2200-3000-c – in general, 1300-3000-c. SANDWICHES 1900-2050-c. (all prices are the price for Express). DELIVERY. LOCATION: Paco Plaza next to Arena Trek Gym. HOURS: 8am-10am & noon-3pm.

Cantonese Express – Escazu (San Rafael) (2-228-7175 / 2-228-7176) - CHINESE. LOCATION: Just before/North the Bomba Shell (Shell Gas station) - on that side street at the store that sells the rock things - before/North of the Scotia Bank Split. Next to Tzu Jan

Che Rica (2-228-2630) - 11:30am-11:30pm

Domino's - CLOSED BUT – re-opening around the end of Nov. ’09 On the East end of San Jose.

Dos x Uno (2-281-2121 / 800-621-2121) -

Entre PansCafe / POPS (800-099-9999) - POPS “gourmet” COFFEE & PASTRIES place! SANDWICHES 1550-3600-c (Cubano), Coffees, Cappuccinos, Latte’s, Frappes, etc. – 300-100-c), Fruit Frappe 900-c, HOT CHOCOLATE 800-1100-c PASTRIES (brownies 700-c, Chocolate Chip Cookies 600-c , Galletas 600-Cheese Cake 1600-c, MUFFINS like BLUEBERRY or Chocolate Chip 900-c & MORE!! DELIVERY. HOURS – Daily - 8am-10pm, OOPS – Sun.-Thurs. 9am-10pm, Fri. & Sat. 9am-mid.

Isla Verde – Rohrmoser (2-296-5068) - CHINESE. DELIVERY

La Cafeteria Comida Sana (2-228-1140 / 8-802-5252) - Escazu (San Rafael – 25 mts East of Almacen White House). - TICO food - BREAKFAST (1200-1400-c), DELIVERY, SALADS 1400-2000-c, LOTS of JUICES (2-600-900-c), SANDWICHES 1150-2200-c), Combos – 2200-c. HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 7am-3pm, Sat. 7:30am-2:30pm

LA FONDA MEXICANA – Escazu (Centro) (2-288-0543) - Tasty & pretty good prices on MEXICAN dishes!! DELIVERY (8-800-c). HOURS: Daily 11am-11pm. LOCATION: Across the street (on the North side) of the park.

Lauren´s Gourmet Box Lunches – Escazu (Los Anonos) (2-588-2525 / http://BoxLunchesCR.com-English / http://LoncherasEjecutivas.com- Spanish / Lauren@LoncherasEjecutivas.com) - WRAPS (2-2700-2800-c), Hot Entrees (Bourbon Chicken 2200-c, Beef Stroganoff 2400-c [I ordered a small one of these the day I found out about them & it came to me nice & hot, she was happy to replace the rice with veges for me, it came with a plastic fork & knife decoratively placed over a napkin wrapped in plastic with 2 little candies taped to it. TASTY!!!], Roast Beef with Herb butter & mashed potatoes 3400-c, Talapia with Caper sauce 3400-c, Chicken Dijonnaise 3400-c), deli sandwiches (2-2000-2600-c), SALADS (1700-2800-c [including , Thai Chicken Curry, an Italian Grill & even CAESAR SALAD!]) & Desserts (2,500-c). Reserve at least 45 min. before you’d like it delivered. This is GREAT for a Meeting/Party!! You can order & pay online with CREDIT CARD even. DELIVERY (they’ll deliver even if just one item. The Delivery Fee starts at 750+-c Delivery Fee) & Take-Out. HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 8am-4pm

Los Antojitos (2-289-9700 / 2-288-5301) – VIC’S PICKS!! Just about EVERYONE I know that’s been here, especially recently, has said they felt that this was their FAVORITE MEXICAN restaurant in Costa Rica (myself included & I’m a tough judge being from Southern Calif. & having a business in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico for over 12 years hence I KNOW GOOD Mexican!! I had a guest recently eat/drink their margaritas there EVERY DAY during his 5 day stay!!)! They have AWESOME KICK TUSH MARGARITAS (make sure to have Mui Caliente/Hottie Wilbur make them for you as he’s the BEST [though make sure to ask him [in Spanish only] to make them Vicki's FAVORITE WAY - FRESH, on the rocks & no salt!!]). Wilbur or any one of the other sweetie food servers will take GOOD care of you (I’m sure even BETTER if you send them HUGS from Vicki!!). MY FAVS – They make the BEST TORTILLA CHIPS I’ve EVER HAD (VERY light) & GREAT Salsa, Fajitas, Tasty Tortilla Soup & Lomito Suizo with cheese. DELIVERY/EXPRESS. LATE DINING. KIDS PLAY AREA. PATIO/ALFRESO & indoors dining. NON-SMOKING AREAS!!! HOURS: Mon.-Thurs. 11:30am-2:30pm & 6-9pm. Fri. & Sat. 10:30am-9pm. Sun. 11:30am-9pm & they’re open MANY Holidays (though NOT Samana Sante/Easter). LOCATION: Escazu (San Rafael) – on Calle Vieja (just west of El Rey Chinese restaurant)

Lotus – Escazu (San Rafael) (2-228-8105 / 2-228-8091) - 90 mts. NW Paco Plaza - EXPENSIVE CHINESE - CLOSED

McDonald’s - Escazu (San Rafael) (2-286-0101) - DELIVERY - Breakfast ONLY Sat. & Sun. 8-11am. Regular menu -11am-9pm. HOURS: 8am-11pm

MURO-Ji - Escazu (San Rafael) – (2-228-2863 / 2-228-1992 / http://dondecomocr.com/restauranteA.aspx?idRest=243) - Tasty & some creative SUSHI dishes. Not cheap. DELIVERY. ALFRESCO (& inside) in a nice ultra contemporary plaza. HOURS: Mon.-Fri. Noon-3:30pm & 5:30-11pm, Sat. - Noon-11pm, Sun. Noon-9pm. LOCATION: Plaza Florencia (home also to Bagelman’s) - 200 Mts. North of Paco Plaza, on the road to MultiPlaza.

Papa John’s - Escazu (San Rafael) (Delivery/Express 258-9999 / 2-257-7777 – 9=English [Renee] / 2-258-9900) - PIZZA They’re partnered with Burger King. DELIVERY. HOURS: 8am-10pm. - All Zones

Pizza Hut - (2-290-9595 - for All Zones. Harold speaks GREAT English!) - PIZZA. DELIVERY

POLLO MALE a La Leña (2-228-0623) - Escazu (Centro) - MANY have told me (& I agree!!) it’s the BEST Roasted (coffee wood) chicken around! I can say it’s the best I’ve found! Male 1 - 1/4 of a chicken with 1 small side dish, 2 tortillas & a 12 oz. Drink - 1,600. Male 2 - 1/2 of a chicken with 2 small side dishes, 5 tortillas & two 12 oz. Drink – 3,100. Male 3 - one chicken with 2 large side dishes, 5 tortillas & a one 2-liter drink – 4,700. Male 4 - 2 chickens with 4 large side dishes, 10 tortillas & a one 2-liter drink – 8,500. Tasty homemade tortillas. Side dishes like frijoles molidos/black beans, pasta salad with asparagus or vinegar - yummmm & 600 for a large cup or 350 for a small cup!! (2-550-c). HOURS: Tues.-Sat. 10am-9pm, Sun. 10am-8pm. DELIVERY HOURS 11:30am-2:30pm & 5-9pm. Hola to Mauricio (who speaks GREAT English!!). LOCATION: 100 mts. East & 50 mts. South of the Post Office/Correo.

Pollos Campero (2-256-6363) - DELIVERY. CHICKEN

Pollos del Monte – Escazu (San Rafael) - Asada’s – Medium 2545-c, small 1295-c, large 4995-c, Enyucaditos with Cheese 4 pieces 925-c, Med-8 pieces 1495-c, Grande 11 pieces 1795-c, SALADS from 1375-1975-c or with Chicken from 2300-2775-c, Grilled Chicken 2945-c, Special 2695-c, Crepe with Chicken 2695-c, various Chicken Filets 3145-c, Fajitas 3095-c, Nachos 3145-3345, Lomito de Pavo 3645-c, Family Combos 8845-9495-c, Individual Combos 2925-c, BURGERS 2295-2795-c, SANDWICH – Super Sandwich – Don Pancho or the Don Alfredo – 1295-c. DESSERTS – Tres Leches, Flan de Coco, Tiramisu 750--c,

Pupusas Salvadorenas Nana (2-228-2463) – Escazu (San Rafael) - Authentic SALVADORIAN food like Pupusas (my interpretation is it’s like a Salvadorian Empinada) for 800-c, Casadas 1500-c, Arroz con Pollo 1400-c, Tortilla Soup 1500-c, Tamales or 450-c, Chalupas – 1000-c, Quesadillas 1000-c, Chorreadas 500-c, Platanos with Cheese 600-c, Fried Yuca 600-c Chicharron with Yuca 1600-c, “Taco’s” (more like what we call Taquitos & they say Mexican style for 1800-c), SALADS 1500-c. DELIVERY (2-650-850-c). HOURS: Daily 11:30am-8:30pm. LOCATION: On the East side of the street of the road heading up the hill to Centro Escazu – across the street from ScotiaBank.

RostiPollos - Escazu (San Rafael) (2-218-1212 / 2-256-6336) - DELIVERY. CHICKEN. LOCATION: Just South of TGIFridays & across from Vivero/Nursury Exotica.

Sushi Matsuri - Pozos de Santa Ana (2-75 mts South of Auto Mercado) (2-203-6868) & Curridabat (2-600 mts. South Plaza Cristal – Pops) (2-280-5522) - SUSHI & JAPANESE. DELIVERY

Taj Mahal (2-228-0980 / http://TheTajMahalRestaurant.com / TajMahal@racsa.co.cr) - INDIAN. NICE ambiance & they even have a Peacock Garden. Quite expensive!! WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE. DELIVERY. COURTESY SHUTTLE. HOURS: Tues.-Sat. noon-3pm & 6-11pm. Sun. 1-9pm. Also in Panama City. OWNER: David. DIRECTIONS: 1km/ 1/2 mile West of Paco Plaza on the North side of the streets.

DELIVERY: Thurs.-Tues. 11am-7pm.

HOURS: Bar - Daily 11am-2am. Food Served till 1 A.M.

TZU JAN - Restaurante Vegetariano y Cafeteria (2-289-4695) – San Rafael de Escazu - Some REALLY TASTY unique CHEAP (under 2,000-c on average) VEGETARIAN dishes that you would SWEAR had meat in it!! They have LUNCH SPECIALS that range from 2,500-3,500-ish that give you a combo of LOTS of goodies!! VERY FILLING!! I ESPECIALLY LOVE #29 - Romalacha/beets that seem like sausages!! YUMMMM!! DELIVER! HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 10am- 7:30pm (CLOSED on Sun). LOCATION: Just before/North the Bomba Shell (Shell Gas station) - on that side street at the store that sells the rock things - before/North of the Scotia Bank Split.

Villa Bonita - Rohrmoser (2-232-9855 / 2-220-2477 / http://VillaBonita.com) - CHINESE (Cantonese & Szechuan) including Peking Duck, DIM SUM & VEGETARIAN. ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT BUFFET with SUSHI, DIM SUM & other Chinese dishes - SUN. - noon-4pm (I was NOT impressed – especially with the sushi) – 6,500 (plus drinks). DELIVERY (they’ll go practically anywhere in the Valley is sounds like including Carriari, Escazu, Santa Ana+) 11am-3pm & 6-10pm. LARGE SPACE for events. HOURS: Daily 9am-Mid. (note: I’ve been here – done that - & would NOT go back again but IF I did, the Dim Sum would ONLY be what I would go back for – especially for the Sun. Buffet). LOCATION: They are literally 1 block south, 75 mts. West of the U.S. Embassy behind PeriMercado with a Chinese design exterior.

Villa Rey – Escazu (San Rafael) (2-289-5028 / 2-228-4950) - CHINESE – Thanx to Carol Weams, I ESPECIALLY LOVE #86 – their Cashew Chicken!! DELIVERY (during most open hours usually). Hola to Freddy & Alberto. HOURS: Mon.-Thurs. 11am-3pm & 6-11pm. Fri., Sat. & Sun. 11am-11pm LOCATION: Calle Vieja / Old Santa Ana Road, 200 meters west of the Colonial Plaza in Escazú, on the right side of the road if you are coming from Scotia Bank.

DON FERNANDOS!!!!! el Especialista en Carnes (http://CarnesDonFernando.com)

I LOVE LOVE LOVE THIS PLACE!!!! Their meats are ORGANIC (they’re awaiting official certification) but NO animal is more than 20 months old (this helps with their guarantee to be tender & disease-free) & NONE are fed anti-biotics or things like that & there’s very litle corn in their diet!! It’s BY FAR the MOST BEAUTIFUL meet I’ve found in this country!!! Natural – NO CHEMICALS, animals matured naturally, curying takes15-20 days naturally. Their farms (located in La Fortuna near Arenal hence WONDERFUL rich l& the cattle is grazzing on) is VERY environmentally conscious.

THEY’LL PREPARE or GRILL YOUR MEATS FOR YOU!!!! THIS is MUI CHIVA (“cool”)!!! Whether it be a steak you picked from the case for lunch (They have a grill on the premise. NO fee for this & they have some prepared side dishes you can buy like fried yucca, romero potatos, potato salad, green salad from 500-700 colones) OR any of their meats including Prime Rib for that dinner party (or like me – you’re just not wanting to cook!!) - for a small fee (I think about 2-3% of the cost). They’ll prepare it for you PROPERLY – the way YOU like it!!!! Either go there & pick your cut/what you desire or you can fax/call it in (they need about a day for this) and DELIVERY is FREE with 10,000-c+ in purchases. FYI - Most of the staff I’ve found only speak Spanish.

Be it fresh, frozen or ready to eat meat of better quality than I’ve seen at markets BY FAR. They carry everything from Veal, Lamb, Beef, Pork, Chicken, Rabbit, Duck, Chorizo, Seasonal meats like TURKEY, whole HAMS+++!! In their deli section, they have the BEST Chimmy Churi dipping sauce I’ve EVER had (parsley, LOTS of garlic & what makes theirs so great I think is they use extra virginolive oil) – YUMMMMM (sometimes I just dip pieces of cooked chicken into it!!!)!!! They also carry cheeses like camambert 2,200/piece, feta (Roteborg) 2,995/piece, Pate (pork liver) 3,100/kilo), turkey pastrami 6,886/kilo & some other goodies. FYI - Most of the staff I’ve found only speak Spanish.

HOLIDAY FIXIN’S!! I sampled their side dishes like the Costa Rican version of Sweet Potatoes - Camote - 8,495-feeds 6, Potato/Apple Salad - 8,995-c/feeds 6, Pumpkin Pie (they don't grow "pumpkin's as we know them) - 9,995/feeds 8, Pecan Pie - 16,500/feeds 12, Apple Pie-9,995/feeds 8. For MY taste - their Mashed Potatoes (9,9950c - feeds 6) were the BEST I've EVER had (there was garlic in them!!!). COST: Cooked Meats: Pierna de Cerdo Asada Criolla - 15-17 lbs - 8,995-c, 25-30 lbs 8,995-c/kilo, Virginia Ham - 9,495-c/kilo - 2 or 5-kilo. Cooked: 5,000-c/kilo, Not Cooked: 3,500-c/kilo (don't quote me on the exact price as the guy I spoke with was a bit iffy with it). DISCOUNTS: Order/Prepay in full a couple weeks before & SAVE 10%!!

ESCAZU (San Rafael de) - ON Calle Vieja – 125 meters West of Mas x Menos in Plaza Colonial 2-289-9165-phone / 2-289-8171-fax HOURS: 8:30am-7pm. GRILL- Mon.-Thurs -11:30am-4pm, Fri. & Sat. 11:30am-9pm (closed Sun.)

POZOS DE SANTA ANA (“Lindora”) - Centro Comerial Vistana Este, Contiguo a Matra 2-282-0181 / 2-282-0182. They only grill on Sat. (with only 1 side dish) Mon.-Thurs. 11am-9pm, Sun. 11am-4pm

CURRIDABAT - Plaza Carpintera - contiguo a Aldesa Valores 2-271-3334

PINARES – Plaza Carpintera (2-271-3334) & Rincon Parrillero (2-272-5744)

TAMARINDO - Rincon Parrillero (2-653-2265)

CATERING (2-227-0245)

TV SHOW: Watch their tv show (in Spanish) “Cosina Alternative” on Channel 7 at 11am on Sat.

HOURS: Mon-Sat. 8:30am-7:30pm. GRILLING HOURS: Mon.-Thurs. 11am-3pm & Fri. & Sat. 11:30am-5pm (Pozos & Curridabat may still be just Sat. 11:30am-5pm).

AutoMercado Market has a GROCERY DELIVERY SERVICE - http://AutoMercado.co.cr

Mas x Menos Market has a GROCERY DELIVERY SERVICE (8-800-800-0722)

Express M@rt has a GROCERY DELIVERY SERVICE (http://expressmart.net / 2-286-6666 / 2-286-6662-fax) - FREE DELIVERY with 50,000+ colon purchase.

La Bruja LIQUOR Store - Escazu (San Rafael) – (2-228-6710) (JUST South of Auto Mercado) - LIQUOR. HOURS: 9am-noon. DELIVERY 1-10pm. Sabana (2-231-6863). Santa Ana (2-282-3326)

DESSERTS

Chez Christophe Pasteleria Panaderia Francesa –VERY tasty French pastries in a French Café type of setting! BREAKFAST

San Rafael (2-228-2512) –75 mts. Sur/south of Paco Plaza. HOURS: Tues.-Sat. 7am-7pm, Sun. 8am-6pm.

Curridabat 224-1773) – 50 mts. Oeste/west of Pops. HOURS: Tues.-Sat. 8am-9pm, Sun. 10am-9pm.

Rice ‘n’ Smile (2-288-6408 / http://RiceNSmile.com / http://twitter.com/ricensmile / info@RiceNSmile.com / http://Facebook.com/RiceNSmile)/ - They’ve reinvented rice as a dessert with about 25 version of Rice Pudding/ arroz con leche +++!! Everying from Coco Fashion, Limón Amapola, Strawberry’s a la Moda, Seducción de Cheesecake, Amaretto Protesta, ChocoMars Antique, Condensada de Higos (Figs), Zona Vainilla, Ronda de Ron con Pasas (Rum & Raisen), Café Cappuccino, Tiramisu Mortal, Avalancha de Dulce de Leche, Choco-Avellana, Caramel Apple, Splash de Menta-Chocolate (Mint Chocolate), Black & White de Galleta Oreo (Oreo Cookies), Mani-Mahi (Chocolate Peanut), Rompope, Churchill, Demencia de Chocolate. Sugar-Free (though they do use Splenda) - Ronda de Ron con Pasas (Raisen), Zona Vainilla. COST: 1,100-c / 3,500-c / 7,000-c. LOCATIONS: Escazu – MultiPlaza (2-201-5909) / Heredia - Centro Comercial Paseo de las Flores – a kiosc in the middle (2-560-4059) / Corp: Santa Ana – Fabrica de Produccion (2-582-0289) (they can do large size special orders!)

Pozos de Santa Ana (2-203-5312 / 2-203-5315) - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 9am-8:30pm, Sun. 10am-7pm DIRECTIONS: In front of Lindora - 200 mts north of AutoMercado

San Pedro de Montes de Oca / Los Yoses (2-224-3463 / 2-234-2551) - HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 8am-noon & 2-7pm, Sat. 8am-noon & 2-6:30pm

Dirección: costado este Automercado Los Yoses (600 oeste Fuente de la Hispanidad)

San Jose Centro (2-221-5652) - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 8:30am-2pm & 2-6:30pm. DIRECTIONS: 75 mts north of the main Post Office

D -TIMES SQUARE (formerly Wall Street Restaurant, Bar & Deli) (2-288-3544 / [don’t speak Spanish? Call his mom Susie at 8-398-0758 SolomonHane@hotmail.com) - San Rafael – now located in the plaza behind Pops by the Shell Station - Deli, a nice SALAD menu (not as large as they had at Wall Street but if they have the ingredients, they’ll make it for you!!). I LOVED their Santa Fe Salad which is now called the SouthWestern & the dressing is now ranch but you can ask for their salsa limon & cilantro & they’ll be happy to make it for you. FULL/LARGE Menu, good burgers, sandwiches (though they’re on the smaller side), many SOUP selections, DESSERTS (including NY Cheesecake). Former Wall Street owners Salomon & Suzy’s son Henry (of Henry’s Bar) has taken this over!!! DELIVERY. HOURS: Tues.-Sun. 11am-3pm & 6-10pm (closed Mon.)

DIM SUM

The LARGEST selection of DIM SUM I've found (but ya get to make it yourself [so you can pig out as MUCH as you want & no one will see ya & it will probably be LOTS cheaper!!): SUPER SONY - Downtown/Centro San Jose - Calle 3, between Ave 8 y 10-Downtown (2-4 blocks Sud Plaza de la Culltura/National Theatre) (2-221-1263 / http://SuperSony.com / sschangl@racsa.co.cr ). It's predominately a store for Oriental products (Thailand, China, Japan [the most expensive products. See if they have non-Japanese products to save some $$], Taiwan) as well as some Middle Eastern goodies - run by a SOOOOO SWEET Taiwanese family (the Chang's - mom is Elena & just a doll)!!! But they have the LARGEST selection of DIM SUM I’ve EVER SEEN!!!! The adult kids speak GREAT English (make sure to get Carolina to help you & give her a BIG HUG from "Vallarta Vicki"!!!)!!! They have BY FAR the LARGEST Vegetarian selections I’ve EVER seen in my LIFE!! This is a mecca for Tofu & other delights. Baked tofu, Korean style veggie tamales, tofu dogs, tofu chicken, tofu shrimp & crab, bistek, fresh kimchee (HOT), & other "strange things" that will entertain your pallet. Bring a cooler if you plan to by frozen stuff (they have LOTS of options) but its OUTSIDE in the front deep freezer (per mrlee). I hear they provide MANY of the oriental products used at AutoMercado & other stores (which to me translates to those same products probably being cheaper at Super Sony!!). HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 8am-7:30pm, Sat. 8am-7pm, Sun. 9am-5pm

Dragon Oriental Restaurant - BEST DIM SUM. LOCATION: San Jose-Avenida 2 between Calles 7 and 9

CASA CHINA (the Chinese Association’s Restaurant) – San Jose - I’ve seen – ON 23^rd St. slightly north of Avenida 10 - desde la TEXACO de Avenida Diez, 200 al este, encima de la cuesta, mano izquierda & Avenida 10 & Calle 23 or 25 – up the hill on the East side of San Jose - Traditional Hong Kong DIM SUM (Laurie went here & had 14 dishes & it was under $25!!!) & Excellent Cantonese Style Congee (thanx yegroup!). HOURS: 8am-11pm.

King’s Garden - San Jose – above Mas x Menos-Sabana – frente Hotel Corobici (2-255-3838 / 2-233-9003) - DIM SUM, CHINESE - Daily 11am-3pm (small selection). HOURS: 11am-11pm

Tin Jo - San Jose – Downtown - Calle 11, Ave. 6-8 (2-221-7605 / 2-257-3622 / http://tinjo.com/tj/index.php?id=67 [the English version] / hola@TinJo.com) - DIM SUM all-day on Sun. Plus a HUGE menu of Asian goodies - Thailand, India, China, Vietnam, filipina & Japan,SUSHI & VEGETARIAN. They ain’t cheap. NOTE – their prices INCLUDE the 13% tax & 10% service. VERY pricey. HOURS: 11:30am-3pm, 5:30-10pm

DONUTS (most donuts I’ve found in CR are more cake like)

Donut Supreme - Escazu (San Rafael in same strip mall as ___ Dog near Sorretto’s), Tierra Mall, Cartago, Moravia, Carriari, San Jose, San Pedro Mall. HOURS: 9:30am-6pm

EVENT SPACE

COUNTRY DELI

EXPRESS (see “DELIVERY”)

FAST FOOD

D-McDonald’s (2-286-0101) - DELIVERY Breakfast ONLY Sat. & Sun. 8-11am. Regular menu -11am-9pm HOURS: 8am-11pm

D-Burger King - Escazu (San Rafael) (Delivery/Express 258-9999 / 2-257-7777 – 9=English / 2-258-9900) - They’re partnered with Papa John’s. DELIVERY 8am-10pm. HOURS: 8am-10pm.

Wendy’s - Pozos de Santa Ana, San Pedro Mall, Avenida Central -

Coupons at http://content-costarica.com/campaigns/wendys/200708/200708_0101.php

FILIPINA

Tin Jo - San Jose – Downtown - Calle 11, Ave. 6-8 (2-221-7605 / 2-257-3622 / http://tinjo.com/tj/index.php?id=67 [the English version] / hola@TinJo.com) - 4 dishes. Plus a HUGE menu of Asian goodies - DIM SUM all-day on Sun., Thailand, India, China, Vietnam, Japan,SUSHI & VEGETARIAN. They ain’t cheap. NOTE – their prices INCLUDE the 13% tax & 10% service. VERY pricey. HOURS: 11:30am-3pm, 5:30-10pm

FISH & CHIPS

NIGHTLY SPECIALS:

Mon. - Meatloaf & Mashed Potatoes & Broccoli 3,200.

Sun. - Argentinian Grill - Flamed grilled!! I had a PERFECTLY cooked & seasoned STEAK for around 4,500!!!! It comes with Salad, Baked Potato & Chimichurri.

HAPPY HOUR: Mon.-Thurs. 6-8pm 500-c Imperial, Pilsen, Rock Ice, Imperial Light, Pilsen 6.0, Rock Ice Lemon. 2x1 Shots on Jose Cuervo & Johnny Walker Red.

HOURS: Daily 11am-2pm. Kitchen 11am-MID!!

DELIVERY: Thurs.-Tues. 11am-7pm.

HOURS: Bar - Daily 11am-2am. Food Served till 1 A.M.

FRENCH

Petit Paris - Heredia - CLOSED? New owners Sandra & Stephane from France have freshened up the old place & are offering much of the same FRENCH menu like Seafood Soup - 1800-c, Plata a la Parisiana (2-2 kinds of pate with a small salad - 3000-c, Quiche Lorraine - 2500-c, Croquetas with shrimp - 2800-c, Crepa Rellena (with mushrooms, ham, cheese & a bechamel sauce) - 2800-c, Meat dishes - 3000-6000-c, Lenguado with a seafood sauce - 5000-c, Desserts - 1300-2300-c, glass of wine - 1000-c. HOURS: Mon. noon-5:30, Tues.-Sat. noon-10pm (closed Sun.)

FUNKIE (see “Charming” & “Cool”)

Cafe Castillo del moro - http://facebook.com/profile.php?id=529093395#/group.php?gid=52363188150 / 2-223-3116 / CafeMoro@racsa.co.cr) - LOCATION: Barrio Amon - Calle 3, Avenidas 11 y 13

Café de Artistes

oasis

Pozos de Santa Ana (2-203-5312 / 2-203-5315) - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 9am-8:30pm, Sun. 10am-7pm DIRECTIONS: In front of Lindora - 200 mts north of AutoMercado

San Pedro de Montes de Oca / Los Yoses (2-224-3463 / 2-234-2551) - HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 8am-noon & 2-7pm, Sat. 8am-noon & 2-6:30pm

Dirección: costado este Automercado Los Yoses (600 oeste Fuente de la Hispanidad)

San Jose Centro (2-221-5652) - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 8:30am-2pm & 2-6:30pm. DIRECTIONS: 75 mts north of the main Post Office

GERMAN / ALEMANA

Pam Pam Deli/Store – San Rafeal de Escazu – just East of Sorretto’s Market & Restaurant Los Anonos or West of the Los Anonos Bridge (on the west side) (2-228-7020 / http://TomTom.co.CR / bihrmansilla@racsa.co.cr / info@tomtom.co.cr) - I bought a REALLY TASTY prepared to-go of Pierna de Cerdo plus my FAV Spaetzle – YUMMMM!! LOTS of FRESH/HOMEMADE/NATURAL Wursts that use Tico meats but German spices!! Everything from Blutwurst (an Irish version of blood sausage), Bockwurst (smoked, coarsely ground, pale German veal sausage with pork, seasoned lightly with powders of mace, ginger, onion & parsley, plus eggs & milk. It is eaten with sweet mustard & Bock beer), Bratwurst (dark brown & spicy, literally means fried sausage. It is made of veal & pork strongly seasoned with caraway, ginger, mace & marjoram. It is frequently boiled in beer after smoking, before simmering or grilling. Dark German mustard goes best with it), Knackwurst (smoked pork or beef garlic sausage, short, plump & juicy, usually boiled & skinned, but may be grilled. The beef variety is a kosher style favorite, plated with hot sweet Russian mustard & sauerkraut), Polish Sausage/Kielbasa (fresh, uncooked & unsmoked sausage, made from pork, with a little beef and/or veal usually added for body. It is seasoned with salt, pepper, garlic, & sometimes a touch of marjoram. The Krakowska style is seasoned with pepper, allspice, coriander & garlic, packed into large casings & cooked in aromatic hot smoke), Vienna Sausage (wieners, frankfurters & hot dogs by different names. Many are filled with cereal as well as meat scraps) to Weisswurst (white sausage. It is delicate veal, bacon, cream & egg wurst from Munich, seasoned with parsley & lemon. Simmered & peeled, it goes well with sweet mustard on a hard roll). They also have rye bread, matjes herring & smoked eel (wursts descriptions from http://amcostarica.com/010705.htm). OWNERS: Lulu & Rudy & Claudia & Anthony. HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 8:30am-6pm

GREEK

Bishop's Castle - Barrio Amon. Great place for GREEK food!

Rohrmoser

Noda’s Greek Cafe (http://NodasGreekCafe.com / 8-335-2345 / nodacr@gmail.com) - This GREEK restaurant is coming soon to the Escazu/Santa Ana area Radial but in the meantime OWNER Noda’s treats are available for CATERING.

GRILL

NIGHTLY SPECIALS:

Mon. - Meatloaf & Mashed Potatoes & Broccoli 3,200.

Sun. - Argentinian Grill - Flamed grilled!! I had a PERFECTLY cooked & seasoned STEAK for around 4,500!!!! It comes with Salad, Baked Potato & Chimichurri.

HAPPY HOUR: Mon.-Thurs. 6-8pm 500-c Imperial, Pilsen, Rock Ice, Imperial Light, Pilsen 6.0, Rock Ice Lemon. 2x1 Shots on Jose Cuervo & Johnny Walker Red.

HOURS: Daily 11am-2pm. Kitchen 11am-MID!!

CASSAVA SPORTS RESTAURANT AND GRILL (2-228-1645 / 8-313-6603 / Cassava.grill@gmail.com) A casual yet REALLY NICE NICE more UPSCALE Restaurant & SPORTS BAR (I feel it’s like Henry’s or TGIFridays but with class & a higher class Latin clientele and a NICE OUTDOOR/ALFRESCA area located a bit above the street in a home on the fringe of Centro Escazu that serves everything from waffles to salads to steaks with tasty desserts like CHOCOLATE MOUSE, BANANAS FLAMBEE++. I believe outside they’re going to have a BUNCH of 80’s Video’s!!! On weekends they have an OUTDOOR GRILL!! NEW RESTAURANT!!! SPECIAL – Eat/Drink 10,000-colones worth & you can choose for FREE either an order of Wings, 2 national beers or 1 cocktail!!! HOURS: Tues. & Wed. 11am-MID., Thurs.-Sat. 11am-1AM, Sun. 11am-MID. OWNERS: Say Hola to Owners Jenn & Ermel (living out his lifelong dream) from Ecuador & their son Galan (they ALL speak GREAT English) & their son Derek (& the mui guapo manager Andres!!). LOCATION: Escazu (Centro) – 150 mts East of the former Shell gas station or another way is saying 250 mts East of the Church/Park.

GRINGO FOOD

D-McDonald’s (2-286-0101) - GOOD KIDS PLAY AREA!! DELIVERY Breakfast ONLY Sat. & Sun. 8-11am. Regular menu -11am-9pm HOURS: 8am-11pm

D-Burger King - Escazu (San Rafael) (Delivery/Express 258-9999 / 2-257-7777 – 9=English / 2-258-9900) - They’re partnered with Papa John’s. DELIVERY 8am-10pm. HOURS: 8am-10pm.

KFC - Escazu (San Rafael) - KIDS PLAY AREA

Wendy’s - Pozos de Santa Ana (I hear they have a GREAT KIDS PLAY AREA!!), San Pedro Mall (they have Express/DELIVERY – 253-1411 / 2-253-1135), Avenida Central -

Coupons at http://content-costarica.com/campaigns/wendys/200708/200708_0101.php

HAMBURGERS (see "BURGERS" above)

D-McDonald’s (2-286-0101) - DELIVERY Breakfast ONLY Sat. & Sun. 8-11am. Regular menu -11am-9pm HOURS: 8am-11pm

D-Burger King - Escazu (San Rafael) (Delivery/Express 258-9999 / 2-257-7777 – 9=English / 2-258-9900) - They’re partnered with Papa John’s. DELIVERY 8am-10pm. HOURS: 8am-10pm.

Wendy’s - Pozos de Santa Ana, San Pedro Mall, Avenida Central -

Coupons at http://content-costarica.com/campaigns/wendys/200708/200708_0101.php

HAPPY HOUR

NIGHTLY SPECIALS:

Mon. - Meatloaf & Mashed Potatoes & Broccoli 3,200.

Sun. - Argentinian Grill - Flamed grilled!! I had a PERFECTLY cooked & seasoned STEAK for around 4,500!!!! It comes with Salad, Baked Potato & Chimichurri.

HAPPY HOUR: Mon.-Thurs. 6-8pm 500-c Imperial, Pilsen, Rock Ice, Imperial Light, Pilsen 6.0, Rock Ice Lemon. 2x1 Shots on Jose Cuervo & Johnny Walker Red.

HOURS: Daily 11am-2pm. Kitchen 11am-MID!!

HEALTHY (see “Organic” & “Vegetarian”)

HOLIDAYS

See http://CostaRicaEatsGuide.com/HOLIDAY_DINING.html

HOT DOGS

ICE CREAM

(let’s just say, Costa Rica is NOT “known” for it’s ice cream!!)

POPS (2-289-5067) – Escazu (San Rafael) HOURS: Sun.-Thurs. 9am-10pm, Fri. & Sat. 9am-11:30pm

Café Frutopia (2-289-7732) – Escazu (San Rafael) - Centro Comercial el Lago - Smoothies & other fruity things

Haagen Dass (2-22-84260) - Escazu (San Rafael)– Centro Comercial Galeria San Rafael (where Bagelman & Ali Baba). Macademia Brittle, Rocky Road, Pralines & Cream, Vanilla Swiss Almond, Strawberry Cheesecake, Pineapple Coconut, Cookies & Cream, Coffee, Brownies Almond, Baileys, Rum Raisin +. 2 scoops with 2 toppings 1,800 colon, waffle cone 1,000 colon, 2 scoops 1,600 colon, 1 scoop in a cup 935 colon.

INDIAN

TANDOORI PALACE - Pozos de Santa Ana (2-582-0416 / http://TandooriPalaceCR.com / info@TandooriPalaceCR.com) - The food was good though quite spicy for an ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT BUFFET. Lunch included - 2 starters, 3 meat dishes,3 vegetable dishes & rice pudding for dessert. The artwork on the walls & ceilings fabulous & inspiring! I hear the OWNERS arequite nice & from Pakistan (via Canada) & speak English.

HOURS: Mon.-Sat. noon-10pm. Lunch Buffet (7,500-c) – noon-2:30pm. Dinner Buffet (10,000-c) - Tues.-Sun. 6-9pm.

LOCATION: Centro Comercial Vistana West/Oeste #14 (the same shopping center as Taco Bell (south of Automercado) – On the road from Santa Ana towards Belen, across from Matras.

Café Giratablate - San Jose (8-853-9889 / 8-380-2042 / Sanjoo2076@yahoo.com) – The flavors of this VEGETARIAN restaurant leans towards INDIAN like it’s OWNER Sanjey Kumar Patel (Rodrigo’s good friend!)

GANESHA - CLOSED-Heredia-Centro (8-8- 379-7951 / 8-8-880-9238 / RestauranteGanesha@yahoo.com) - IndiaN - Sunny & his CR wife Nohemy Neil

CAFÉ JIRATABLES - 380-2042 / sanjoo2076@yahoo.com) - VEGETARIAN INDIAN dishes at GOOD/CHEAP PRICES. Also, SoyaBURGERS. HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 8:30am-8pm. LOCATION: Bario California – in front of KFC & Theatre Iratables. OWNER: Mukande

Tin Jo - San Jose – Downtown - Calle 11, Ave. 6-8 (2-221-7605 / 2-257-3622 / http://tinjo.com/tj/index.php?id=67 [the English version] / hola@TinJo.com) - 4 dishes. Plus a HUGE menu of Asian goodies - DIM SUM all-day on Sun., Thailand, China, Vietnam, filipina & Japan,SUSHI & VEGETARIAN. They ain’t cheap. NOTE – their prices INCLUDE the 13% tax & 10% service. VERY pricey. HOURS: 11:30am-3pm, 5:30-10pm

INTERNATIONAL

(different types of food. Tend to be more upscale/expensive)

Bistango – Escazu – San Rafael - Paco Centro – where Bariloche and San Telmo used to be (2-288-5181) - OWNER: Mike Badalian has over 40 years in the food biz (including a popular restaurant in Hollywood)!

Le Monastere (2-228-8515 / 2-228-8516 / 2-289-4404 / http://monastere-restaurant.com / reservations@Monastere-Restaurant.com / RestaurantLeMonastere@gmail.com) – Set wayyyy at the top of the mountain in a former monestary Le Monastere I think is one of the MOST ROMANTIC restaurants with SPECTACULAR views I’ve found in CR so far (270-degrees!!)!! GREAT for ambiance!!! INTERNATIONAL cuisine (heavily FRENCH). Prices vary on how much you’re ordering as everything is ala carte but if you’re not having all the separate side like soup or salad & not drinking or having desserts – it can be fairly reasonably priced – especially for the setting!! What I ordered my last time - Soda 525, they have the BEST Ceasar Salad I’ve found in CR so far!! (2,495-c), Lomito a la Pimienta 6,896, Crema de Mariscos/Seafood Soup (LINGUASMO [tongueGasmic]) 2,895, Orden de Anchoas 2,250. They have CAVIAR, DUCK FOIE GRAS and Spicy Onion Marmalade, homemade DUCK PATE with Cognac & Hazelnuts (yummmm!!), Their house Le Monastere Salad has ROQUEFORT DRESSING, LOBSTER BISQUE, LOBSTER THERMIDOR, LEG OF LAMB, VEAL STEW, WILD BOAR STEW WITH TRUFFLES, ANGUS BEEF, VENISON, CHATEAUBRIAND, FILET MIGNON, LOTS OF SEAFOOD/FISH options, FRENCH ONION SOUP, FROGS LEGS, Fried Camambert in Blackberry Sauce. DESSERTS!! – CRÈME BRULEE (the BEST /most authentic Crème Brulee I’ve found here!!), CrêpeS Suzette, Tarte Tatin- caramelized apples over puff pastry, with Ice cream, Cherries Jubille, Chocolate Mousse, Chocolate as well as Orange Cointreau Soufflé, Chocolate Fantasy - delicate cake filled with hot chocolate!!! They have a HUGE WINE BAR offering over 300 selections. They have three separate areas to enjoy – one - the main restaurants where waiters assist you dressed as 19^th century French monks (and they express they would appreciate you dressing appropriately [nicer]), one a romantic bar with magnificent panoramic views of the Central Valley & LIVE MUSIC (Fri. & Sat.) from a grand piano in the entry & the Cantina La Cava (cave) – an intimate celler for drinks or more dining with a more casual menú & LIVE MUSIC Thurs., Fri. & Sat. nights. Guests are invited to enjoy Gregorian and classical music in the renovated chapel. HOLIDAYS: Christmas Eve, New Years Eve. Make sure to stroll the grounds & the chapel (which is still used for weddings & some religious ceremonies) while you’re waiting for your meal or after! HOURS: Le Monastére is open Mon.-Sat. 6:30pm-11pm. Cantina La Cava is open Mon.-Thurs. 6:30pm-MID. & Fri. & Sat. 6:30pm-2am!! Closed Sun., Dec. 25, Jan. 1. DIRECTIONS: Escazu (Monte Las Palomas) - From Calle Vieja (the Old Road between Escazu & Santa Ana) – turn South at the Western end of Paco Plaza and follow the signs WAYYYY up the hill to the Green Cross. Maria Dolores

La Luz – Santa Ana

SAGA - Escazu-San Rafael (2-289-6615 / http://SagaRestaurante.com / info@SagaRestaurante.com) - INTERNATIONAL. I CONSISTANTLY hear FABULOUS things about this restaurant - for quality of food, presentation, ambiance - the whole picture! They also have an EXCELLENT gourmet BAKERY (the owner Evelyn Leff is a pastry chef!)! Expensive. TRENDY. WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE. HOURS: Mon.-Sat.-noon-11pm. Sun. 10am-6pm. LOCATION: 400 mts. North of Paco Plaza on the road to Guachipelin - just south of the Dutch Ambassador’s House

IRISH

O’Connor’s Irish Pub – Pozos de Santa Ana (just north of Auto Mercado on the road heading towards the airport) (2-282-0199). SPORTS BAR with Satelite DISH, Amnet & Direct TV. POOL TABLES. LARGE SPACE (can hold 200-270 people). HOURS: Mon-Thurs. 4pm -1am, Fri. & Sat. 4pm-2am, Sun. 4pm-11pm

The Shannon - San Jose (Downtown) (2-222-0835 / NicaJKing@hotmail.com) – An authentic IRISH PUB with some IRISH FOOD. LIVE MUSIC once a month with Medival Celptic Group. HOLIDAYS: St. Patrick’s Day with Mulligan Stew 2,000-c (plus tip/tax). OWNER: Jim. LOCATION: Calle 9 between Avenida 1 & 3 [near Parque Morozan - 50 mts north of the Del Rey

ITALIANO

Sale e Pepe – Escazu (San Rafael) (behind POPS) (2-289-5750) - I’ve heard CONSISTENTLY POSITIVE things about this restaurant from people that have tried many of the ITALIAN restaurants here. HOURS: Mon., Wed. & Thurs. (CLOSED TUES.) Noon-3pm & 6-11pm, Fri. Noon-3pm & 6pm- MIDNIGHT, Sat. Noon-MIDNIGHT, Sun. Noon-10pm

CERRO’s - Escazu (San Antonio) (2-228-1831) - I CONSISTANTLY hear REALLY POSITIVE things about this restaurant!! Thin-Crust PIZZA, decent prices on pastas, ITALIAN. AMAZING VIEW of the Central Valley from the side patio. LOCATION: Near the catholic church (make sure to walk across the street from the AMAZING one block long WALL SCULPTURE Tribute to the Boyero’s/farmers (though I don’t think they have lights there at night).

Sole Mio - (2-288-1400) - Escazu (in the center a few blocks South of MultiPlaza across from AutoPlaza) Bruno Esposito from Brooklyn and his new restaurant, , in the new center a few blocks south of Multiplaza in Escazú, across the street from Auto Plaza. The menu offers New York style pizza, pasta, garlic rolls, homemade ravioli, homemade Italian sausage pizza topping, garlic rolls and daily specials that feature veal and chicken. His family is from Naples, where pizza originated in the 19th century, created by a baker with the same last name – Esposito.

Carutti - Escazu - I hear positive things about this restaurant. DIRECTIONS: heading up the hill from Scotia

PANE E VINO - I hear the thin crust PIZZA is what’s best here. DELIVERY?

Escazu - Plaza los Laurels (2-228-3030). HOURS: Mon.-Sat. noon- MIDNIGHT. Sun. Noon-10pm.

Escazu - Centro Comercial el Cruce (2-289-7325)

Pozos de Santa Ana - Vistana del Este Contiguo at AutoMercado (2-203-4158)

Rohrmoser - 200 mts. este - de la Embajada Americana (2-231-3917)

(also Curridabat-MultiPlaza Este 524-0965, Heredia – 300 mts. Oeste, 100 mts. Sur del Fortin 263-3350, TerraMall – La Vereda 278-7797, San Pedo – 500 mts oeste, 15 mts sur de Mas x Menos 280-2869, Real Cariari)

CERRO’s - Escazu (San Antonio) (2-228-1831) - I CONSISTANTLY hear REALLY POSITIVE things about this restaurant!! CHEAP, thin PIZZA. Beautiful VIEW of the Central Valley.

Il Padrino (http://IlPadrinoCR.com / 2-220-1614) - Rohrmoser - ITALIAN, Daniel share the Antipasto II – The Godfather – is for one but big enough for 2. good size portions. DIRECTIONS: On the road to Pavas in front of the Shell gas station.

Gino’s Pizza - Pozos de Santa Ana (2-282-3859) - ITALIAN, Many say it’s the best PIZZA they’ve had in CR – hey – we all have different taste. I have LOVED their Fettucini Alfredo (give it time to cool off if you don’t want to burn the roof of your mouth on!)!! It feels like a Italian Pizzaria with ALFRESCO dining! They don’t sell alcohol so BYOB (bring your own bottle. No corkage fee). DIRECTIONS: Get off the Santa Ana/Airport exit off the Pista & turn Right. At the first street (at el Lagar Hardware store) turn Right. Go to the end of the street & turn Left. It’s at the next corner on the Left corner (look for the red & white stripped awning).

Il Pomodoro - Escazu (San Rafael) (2-289-7470 / Pomodoro@racsa.co.cr) & San Pedro near the American Mall - ITALIAN though a limited menú focused on PIZZA & PASTAS. Nice AMBIANCE in the enclosed area in the back. DIRECTIONS: 100 mts. West of The U.S. Ambassadors House, next/west of the Vivero/nursery Agro Escazu – hidden on a little street (don’t blink) & just East of Paco Plaza. HOURS: Tues.-Thurs. 11:30am-11pm, Fri. & Sat. 11:30am-mid., Sun. 11:30am-10pm, Closed Mon.

Il Ritorno De Kentucky - San Jose- San Pedro (2-225-0543 / 8-827-4777) - Tasty Italian dishes (especial their Veal). LOCATION: 200 mts. South/Sur, Edificio Casa Italia

La Bariloche - Escazu-San Rafael - Centro Commercial Paco - A more upscale version of Argentinian restaurant that I LOVE SOOOO MUCH - El Novillo Alegre owned by the same people but with a totally different menu. Here you can even find escargot!

Los Spago – Santa Ana (located in the Terraflash strip mall – 100 mts north of the Red Cross/Cruz Roja (2-582-2121) - A trendy new (8-8/06) Italian/PIZZA restaurant has an extensive menu ranging from 20 hot & cold appetizers (from 2,200-3,950+), Pasta dishes like Jumbo shrimp in a pink sauce 8,600; Lasagna with Pesto 3,000,Truffle-stuffed Ravioli with butter & sage 3,600; Orecciette Baresi – made with anchovies & broccoli (from the seaport of Bari). PIZZA – Luna Rossa (Red Moon) pizza is one of the popular pizzas with Gorgonzola, Italian Sasage, Radicchio & tomato 3,100+. They also have Meat, lobster, shrimp & fish dishes (like the juicy salmon fillet with honey & mustard 6,100). How about a 21 item DESSERT menu like homemade ice cream, panna cotta (Italian Custard) with Amaretto; Crepes with Nutella & YUMMMY Tiramisu. HOURS: Wed.-Mon. Noon-3pm & 6-11pm. OWNER: Riccardo Rossi & Marco de Nando (a native of Veneto – in northern Italia) also runs the refined/romantic Da Marco restaurant at the entrance to the Italian-run Canal Grande Hotel in Piedades.

Mangiamo – Santa Ana - I hear positive things about this restaurant.

D-Azafran - Rohrmoser - Plaza Mayor (2-220-2008 / 2-296-2883-fax) (http://AzaFranCR.com / Azafran@racsa.co.cr) - HOURS: Daily 9am-4:45pm. DELIVERY. BREAKFASTS (8-8) – typical Tico-style – 810-1,745-c, PASTRIES (18!) – 700-1,405-c, SANDWICHES (14) – 1,830-2,290-c, SALADS (10) – 1,650-3,360-c, ITALIAN PASTAS (19) - 2,605-5,400-c, Soups - 1,215-1,900-c+. ALFRESCO

Bacchus – Santa Ana-Downtown (2-282-5441 / 2-203-6223 / bacchus@racsa.co.cr) – ITALIAN, trendy, expensive. WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE