My friends and I traveled to Costa Rica from Denver, Co for 5 Days for some birthdays. The first night we had googled a place to eat in the Hacienda Pinilla / Playa Avellanas area of where we were staying. This Hotel/Restaurant was the cutest location we ate at the entire 5 days we were there hands down. It may seem like I am bragging a bit too much about this place but it DESERVES it 100%. I am in the Culinary/Hospitality industry in the U.S. and I was BLOWN away.
The location firstly, is yes completely off the beaten path, you will drive down a dirt path way to get to Mauna Loa, but do not let this make you decide differently. It is very bumpy and not lit well at all till you arrive to the location on your left if you are coming from Hacienda Pinilla, Right if from Playa Avellanas area.
When you drive up there is plenty of parking. You will feel like you have discovered a hidden gem and I promise you, you have. It is cozy, quiet and outdoors (as far as the restaurant part goes) (we only ate here, we didn't stay the night). It has a hippie, relaxing vibe with a KILLER Italian Menu with fresh fish offerings as well as pizzas.
Secondly, the staff is warm and inviting, they speak both Spanish and English and are some of the most hospitable people we came across (as every other local was during our time in CR). Our server Beetoo was all to kind and everything he recommended from the homemade lasagna to the fresh cevicheit was all so delicious and flavorful. We were speechless.. The kitchen is a small building that will make you REALLY respect the amazing food they serve you, they are a very talented group of people here.
If you want to feel the Pura Vida of Costa Rica, visit our new friends at Mauna Loa.
This was by far the coolest and most unique restaurant and hotel I have ever been to. The server Beetoo was so amazing. He provided excellent service and recommended the ceviche for an appetizer and the lasagna as the meal. Me and my entire party thoroughly enjoyed our experience. It is off of the beaten path, but it was worth the short drive. You would be doing yourself an injustice not to try this place. Thank you for everything!
A peaceful little hideaway in Costa Rica, walking distance to a beautiful beach. The family that runs the show is the sweetest- we felt right at home. Kind people, tranquil location, and delicious food. My 2 year old son loved running around.
Wonderful service and great hospitality
Delicious, authentic Italian. The proprietors are gracious and delightful.
Great food, pizza and pasta mostly. Enjoyed the outdoor romantic native atmosphere. Staying at JW and highly recommend if you have a car or bike. Friendly hosts and staff, and delicious food drinks and desserts. Recommend the pizza, fruit and ice cream and smoothie.
Buen servicio, buena vibra y buena comida. Recomendado!
Excelente opción para estar en contacto con la naturaleza. Un lugar muy tranquilo y lleno de gente muy amable.
Beautiful location with the best hosts you could ask for. We were made to feel very welcome and at home by the lovely Italian couple who run the place.
Would highly recommend and will definitely be coming back at some point in the future.
Clean, affordable, peaceful and beautiful.
Very nice family as the host , food was great!!