Specials
Late Meals and Food Options Near to the Pura Vida Hotel
It takes a long time to get anywhere in Costa Rica so leave plenty of time for your travels - this photo was taken just south of Tamarindo trying to reach our favorite beach Avellanas just as the rainy season was starting. If you have spouses who likely get stressed out with driving leave a bit early eh? Or an infusion of Chilean Syrah?
On your arrival night, be sure to order your late meal ahead of time if you know you'll be hungry late. We do not cook every night so we are happy to serve our late meal "anytime". Just let us know if there are things you do not eat like offals.
There are numerous options for lunch or dinner in the area (all are a short taxi ride and most are not so good). But there are three we like:
- Norman's AKA Jalapenos (Mexican near the Post Office in Alajuela) - also due to Norman's general bonhommie and great food he is #1 on TripAdvisor for food
- Princessa Marina (very fresh fish and also very close with a short taxi ride, broad menu) and
- La Casa (a bit further away - about 10km & excellent Parrillada) in La Garrita . . . Ask for directions and we'll call a taxi.
Friday is the Market Tour
On Friday afternoon we are usually off to the Plaza Ferias/Farmers Market starting around 2:30pm (but invariably late). Ask us if we have space that day. We'd like to introduce you to "Don Oscar" also known as the melon man and all the friends and acquaintances of the Friday market. That night we cook what you help us select. Book ahead for the farmers market tour.
Eaters Write
"Our last night was in Pura Vida . . .the perfect end. Thank you for your hospitality and great dinner." Eduard and Anneke, The Netherlands
"Awesome!" Matt, New York
". . . wonderful bookends you provided to our visit to Costa Rica, from the familiar face of Jose Luis at the airport to the fabulous, relaxing dinner overlooking the gardens the night before departure." Billie & Gene, Santa Fe.
"My trip to Costa Rica was like a dream. It started with a warm welcome to the Pura Vida Hotel. I didn't expect to stay in a beautiful casita, larger than a suite, set in spectacular gardens. Nor in all my years of travel have I had the help and personal service I received . . . " Lynne, Park City Utah