El Rincón Porteño — Restaurant in Cahuita

My boyfriend and I make the trip to Puerto Viejo a couple of times a year, and every time we do, we fall right back into our familiar rhythm — a “rotation” of our favorite restaurants. And El Rincón del Amor is always in that rotation. Without question.

Over the last three years, I’ve eaten my way through much of the menu: the pizzas (crispy and bubbling, just the way I like), the burgers (juicy, satisfying), and several steaks that have genuinely left us wide-eyed with delight. But there’s one thing we never skip — the Rincón fries. Perfectly golden, seasoned to addictive perfection, and the ideal start to a meal that always delivers. They’re not just fries — they’re a ritual.

Their margaritas are bright, tart, and just strong enough to let you know you’re on vacation. I’m also a big fan of their strawberry daiquiris — sweet, smooth, and dangerously drinkable. It’s comfort and celebration in a glass.

But it’s not just about the food. It’s the way they make you feel. I usually come here with my boyfriend, but occasionally I’ll visit solo, book in hand. And I’ll never forget the time a server quietly noticed I was straining to read — and brought me a lamp so I could enjoy my book without missing a page. Who does that anymore?

They’ve anticipated my needs before I even realize them — from spotting an empty salt shaker to noticing when my water glass needs a top-up. It’s rare to feel genuinely seen when dining alone, but here, I’ve felt cared for every single time.

The last time we went, I ordered the steak in champagne sauce, and it was a game-changer — tender, flavorful, and laced with this soft, elegant richness that I couldn’t stop talking about. My boyfriend tried a bite and, I kid you not, we were back two days later just so he could get his own.

El Rincón del Amor serves food that’s full of heart. The flavors are bold, the ingredients are fresh, and the staff genuinely cares. It’s one of those rare places that makes you feel like a regular even if it’s your first time, and like family if you’ve been a few times more.

If you’re in Puerto Viejo and searching for somewhere that does it all — the food, the vibe, the kindness — don’t skip this place. It’s not just dinner. It’s part...

I wanted a nice dinner so went to this restaurant as it was a little pricier for the area. What a disappointing experience. I started with the Empanadas, but they were clearly factory made, store-bought and previously frozen. Dry and tasteless. I then had the waiter recommended flank steak. I usually stay away from flank because it can be tough if not properly marinated, but he assured me it was not. And at 13,000 Colones, I expected it to be good. But it was super-tough, chewy with little flavor. They just didn't take the time to marinate it properly. They provided two dipping sauces, both which were awful. The french-fries were great! I then asked to order a second beer and desert. But the waiter told me they had other people waiting so I would have to leave my table and eat it in a waiting area where there were just chairs randomly scattered and no tables. Really??!! That’s not the way to treat a customer. Ironically, I saw people waiting and was trying to hurry up, but chewing through that steak was exhausting! When I expressed my dismay about being told to leave my table, the owner said the waiter did speak very good English and that they weren’t asking me to leave the restaurant just sit in non-restaurant area. Yes, I got that. If you want great french-fries, then this is as good as any in the Puerto Viejo area. If you want a complete restaurant experience, go...

I am editing my review now that I have several proven experiences with this amazing restaurant. They now offer breakfast serving the best pastries in Limon. The hearty sandwiches are made with homemade focaccia and served with chimichurri. I eat here several times a month when I want something I know will be delicious.

My visit came as a result of a recommendation. It's a mostly Italian restaurant with pizzas and fresh handmade noodles. I had the special noodles with a mix of Bechamel and tomato sauces. Pesto is also an option. They also have hamburgers, and seafood. There are plenty of drink options including wine, beer, smoothies and fresh juices. The staff is bilingual. The place is just along the beach and the coconut trail. Everything appears clean and neat and they have beautiful cenizaro wood tables. They use biodegradable straws. Serving size was perfect. They are directly in front of the Jaguar Rescue center. The place was fairly busy for 3:30 in the afternoon on a Monday. Families, singles, and small groups...