Casa Italia — Restaurant in Arenal

This is easily the best food we have had in Costa Rica so far, considering we always chose the highest rated restaurants in every area. The restaurant is in a beautiful tropical garden with humming birds chirping and flying around - a lovely and a very romantic setting. The pizza is cooked in a wood fired oven (forno a legna), and the difference is noticeable. We were lucky to be served by the owner - a Sicilian transplant. He operates the restaurant with his wife and personally controls the quality of the food. Pear salad with gorgonzola and walnuts was a nice start, along with some yummy eggplant alla parmigiana. There were many main course options, but we were hungry for pizza and opted for the massive pizza roll, which is supposed to serve 2, but we could only finish half of it. Great Italian Pinot Grigio added to the pleasant experience. The dessert was panna cotta with a jam of "red fruits," which I can qualify as delectable. Overall, it was a great experience, and we expect to be back for more tomorrow. If you're in the area, do yourself a favor and ignore the massively advertised tourist traps and go to...

5 Stars – A Hidden Gem You’ll Never Forget

Don’t let the simple exterior or the modest parking situation fool you—Casa Italiana is an absolute treasure waiting to be discovered. From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with genuine warmth by Christian, whose hospitality set the tone for an exceptional dining experience.

We began with freshly baked focaccia that was so perfectly crisp and flavorful, it felt like we had been transported straight to Italy. Then came the spicy meat pizza, one of the day’s specials, and quite honestly one of the best pizzas we’ve ever had—bold, balanced, and bursting with flavor.

Everything about this place speaks of love, quality, and authenticity. Yes, it might be slightly pricier than some other local spots, but every bite was worth it. From the ingredients to the atmosphere, you can taste and feel the care that goes into everything they do.

We’ll definitely be back—and if you’re anywhere near Arenal, you should make a point to experience this gem for yourself. Casa Italiana is not just a meal,...

This restaurant has very authentic Italian food, and a comfortable tropical atmosphere. It is owned and operated by a family from Sicily! Christian was so friendly and accommodating for our vegan preferences. I’ve never had a vegetarian pizza without cheese taste so good! The crust was Italian style thin, cooked in a wood fired oven. The bruschetta appetizer came on their home made olive bread which was delightful! He brought a small side for us to taste the fresh Sicilian caponata vegetable salad made with eggplant, olives, capers and sweet vinegar. OMGOODNESS it was so full of flavor. The fresh fennel salad with oranges was heavenly! The 3 of us shared the spinach tofu manicotti which could not have been better!! It’s a good thing I don’t live closer to this place or I’d probably go everyday. The prices are very reasonable for such great quality and selection. Thank you Casa Italia and Christian,...