Super slow and inexperienced staff, food overdone/burnt.
We got drawn into the restaurant from passing in the streets due to the live music and cozy atmosphere. The restaurant does indeed have a great atmosphere and even some swings for children inside the eating area with is a huge plus. Unfortunately this was the only positive part of our evening at Otra Vez.
We were served by a young girl who seemed to be fairly new. She didn't know much about the food or drinks on the menu and ordering was difficult, even when we requested her to speak in Spanish she was very hard to talk to. The other lady Wich I assume is the owner/manager was easier to talk to, more attentive and the only one who smiled among the staff. Still, with the help of her husband(?) or some guy, who clearly had never waited a table before, they where having huge problems keeping up with the four tables in the restaurant and things took forever. After we finally got our food the burger was overdone and dry, so was the bread. Wich is a shame cause I believe it would have been a good burger if made correctly. The nachos where burnt. At the point where we got the food it was chaos amongst the staff in the restaurant, clearly they where way over their head with orders and couldn't keep up. Staff carrying one glass or one plate at a time not looking at us as they passed. We had to waive down the frantic waitress asking for more drinks after being passed over 10 times with empty glasses. Even paying in the end became an extremely time consuming ting. With the male waitor not understanding why the machine didn't take American Express and then just turning his back on us and leaving for 10 minutes when I put cash on the table instead before getting us change. By this time my dauther of 5 years old had fallen asleep in her mother's arms, absolutely exhausted of being at a restaurant for so long. It was a horrible decision to visit Otra Vez this day, hopefully it's a one time thing. But I have to say, even how lovely the owner/manager seemed it should never be accepted to have staff this inexperienced and ineffective causing service to be this bad, I'm sorry. If your don't know how to run 4 tables alone without missing a beat as a manager you don't need 2 extras who also don't know. You need proper trained/experienced staff. This has been the only time for me in Costa Rica where paying the 10% service charge automatically posted on the bill felt...
Read moreNestled in the lush, vibrant heart of Playa Chiquita, Otra Vez is not just a restaurant; it’s a delightful discovery for any food enthusiast. This charming jungle eatery exudes a warm, inviting atmosphere, making it an irresistible stop for both locals and travelers.
As a self-proclaimed foodie, my standards for culinary excellence are admittedly high, and Otra Vez not only met but exceeded these expectations. The magic of this place lies in its ability to transform simple ingredients into an explosion of flavors. Every dish is a testament to their commitment to quality and passion for food.
Take their Thai Chicken Wrap with curry sauce and potato wedges, for instance – it’s nothing short of incredible. The perfect blend of spices and fresh local ingredients wraps you in a savory experience that’s hard to forget. Equally impressive is their appetizer plate, featuring homemade hummus and homemade naan-bread. It’s rare to find such authenticity and care in preparation, making each bite a delightful journey.
Beyond the culinary delights, what makes Otra Vez truly special is its staff. Their friendly smiles and willingness to engage in a chat add an extra layer of warmth to the dining experience. They don’t just serve food; they make you feel like part of the Otra Vez family.
In conclusion, if you find yourself in Playa Chiquita, do yourself a favor and visit Otra Vez. It’s more than a meal; it’s a culinary adventure wrapped in the heart of the jungle. Highly recommended for anyone who appreciates quality food served with genuine...
Read moreWe went last night on a jam packed night to listen to a friend sing. My dates were my very hungry 13 years old twins who have yet to wrap their mind around the slower service here in Costa Rica and they were putting a LOT of pressure on me to get them some food faster, making an enjoyable evening out turn stressful. They should be used to this by now! Kitchens are slow in Costa Rica and they have experienced this before! Normally the boys say it's not worth the wait, BUT this place had them eating while doing the happy wiggle in their seats. They absolutely loved the meal and the owners were so kind to bring them dessert on the house. We will be back on a quieter evening and I am so thankful to have such a good meal that was thought out and prepared beautifully. Great...
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