Restaurante Pica Pica

Overview

If you're ever in the beautiful province of Puntarenas, Costa Rica, and find yourself craving an authentic, flavorful dining experience, look no further than Restaurante Pica Pica. Situated conveniently along Ruta Nacional Secundaria 132, this hidden gem offers a delightful blend of local Costa Rican flavors with a twist. Whether you're a visitor or a local, stepping into this charming eatery promises an unforgettable culinary adventure.

One of the standout features of Restaurante Pica Pica is its menu, which is a vibrant celebration of the freshest ingredients and traditional Costa Rican dishes. The restaurantโ€™s specialty lies in its expertly prepared seafood, but the menu caters to a wide variety of tastes, from hearty meat dishes to vegetarian-friendly options. With each dish, you can expect an explosion of flavors that capture the essence of Costa Rican cuisine. Locally sourced produce, tender meats, and freshly caught seafood come together to create meals that are both satisfying and rich in flavor.

The ambiance at Restaurante Pica Pica matches its culinary offerings perfectly. The rustic yet modern design creates a warm and inviting atmosphere where diners can enjoy their meals while soaking in the natural beauty of Puntarenas. Whether youโ€™re seated inside with a view of the open kitchen or outside where the sounds of the nearby waves and tropical breeze accompany your meal, the setting adds to the overall dining experience.

For seafood lovers, the ceviche is a must-try. Light yet full of flavor, the dish features marinated fish and seafood that is perfectly balanced with tangy lime, fresh cilantro, and the ideal touch of spice. The grilled fish and shrimp skewers are also a favorite, expertly seasoned and cooked to perfection, each bite offering a tender and juicy taste that transports you straight to the heart of the ocean.

Not to be outdone, the meat dishes at Restaurante Pica Pica offer a satisfying alternative for those in the mood for something more robust. The steaks are cooked to your preference and paired with delicious sides like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. If youโ€™re in the mood for something more unique, the restaurant also serves an excellent Costa Rican-style pork dish, marinated with local herbs and slow-cooked until tender and bursting with flavor.

Vegetarians will not feel left out, either. The menu features several plant-based options, such as rice and beans dishes, hearty vegetable stews, and perfectly grilled plantains. For those seeking a lighter option, the fresh salads, made with locally grown vegetables, are a refreshing way to complement any main dish.

In terms of service, Restaurante Pica Pica stands out for its friendly and attentive staff. Each member of the team goes above and beyond to ensure that your dining experience is exceptional. From recommending the best wine pairings to offering insights on the local ingredients used in each dish, the staff makes you feel right at home.

The restaurant has garnered plenty of positive reviews from both locals and visitors. The quality of the food, combined with the welcoming service and beautiful setting, makes it a top choice for anyone visiting Puntarenas. Regulars praise the consistency of the dishes, with many calling it their go-to spot for an authentic Costa Rican meal.

In addition to the excellent food and service, Restaurante Pica Pica offers a great selection of beverages. Whether youโ€™re looking for a cold local beer, a refreshing tropical cocktail, or a glass of wine, thereโ€™s something to suit every palate. The restaurantโ€™s house-made fruit juices are especially popular, offering a refreshing break from the more common options.

As far as location goes, Restaurante Pica Pica is not only easy to find but is also conveniently situated near many of the areaโ€™s main attractions. Whether youโ€™re taking a scenic walk along the coast or exploring the town, itโ€™s the perfect place to stop for a satisfying meal after a day of sightseeing.

Overall, Restaurante Pica Pica offers a perfect balance of authentic Costa Rican flavors, excellent service, and a relaxed atmosphere, making it an essential stop for anyone traveling to Puntarenas. Whether youโ€™re dining with friends, family, or on a romantic getaway, youโ€™ll find that this restaurant truly captures the heart and soul of Costa Rican cuisine.

Good to know

Service options

โœ“ Takeaway โœ“ Dine-in

Highlights

โœ“ Great beer selection โœ“ Great coffee

Popular for

โœ“ Lunch โœ“ Dinner โœ“ Solo dining

Accessibility

โœ“ Wheelchair-accessible car park โœ“ Wheelchair-accessible entrance โœ“ Wheelchair-accessible seating โœ“ Wheelchair-accessible toilet

Offerings

โœ“ Alcohol โœ“ Beer โœ“ Coffee โœ“ Quick bite โœ“ Small plates โœ“ Spirits

Dining options

โœ“ Brunch โœ“ Lunch โœ“ Dinner โœ“ Seating โœ“ Table service

Amenities

โœ“ Bar on site โœ“ Toilet

Atmosphere

โœ“ Casual โœ“ Cosy โœ“ Quiet โœ“ Trendy

Crowd

โœ“ Groups โœ“ Tourists

Planning

โœ“ Accepts reservations

Payments

โœ“ Credit cards โœ“ Debit cards โœ“ NFC mobile payments

Children

โœ“ Good for kids โœ“ High chairs โœ“ Kids' menu

Parking

โœ“ Free of charge street parking โœ“ Free parking lot โœ“ Parking

Photos

Location

Reviews

- No ratings yet 238 reviews
Amazing 136
Great 64
Okay 21
Not Great 9
Terrible 11
Cameron Christensen

Great view right over the river in a very nice place. Terrific service and really good food.

Bobby Marsico

Fantastic! Great place to stop for a bite. Authentic food. Great for seafood/mariscos. Feels like a home cooked meal. Great decor. Wonderful staff. Make sure to put this place on your map

old gmail Epec Home

Excellent small place to visit if driving from San Jose to Guanacaste. Calm, Tranquil, Excellent food, and People.

Karla Paxton

Local restaurant on the river. Food was delicious typical costa rican. We enjoyed rice with chicken, rice with shrimp and filet with shrimp salsa

oscar barrantes

Very good place to go and eat, also you can swin in the river.

miles decay

Great service. Food was delicious and cheap. Try the patacones.

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