Restaurante Lidia's Place — Restaurant in Cahuita

Not only is the atmosphere friendly with its open patio seating under a shaded covering with fans, but the food - which is after all what you came for - is mighty fine.

Lidia, the mother of 5 sons who began cooking meals for people in the small local neighborhood is still at the helm mixing up Afro-Caribbean and Latin meals that are mouthwatering and soul satisfying.

I asked the waiter (a young man who grew up with Lidia’s boys and is also like a son to her) and he told me his top 2 favorites. I couldn’t decide between the whole red snapper and coconut/curry shrimp until I realized it was a little too late in the evening to eat an entire fish, so I went with the shrimp and enjoyed every last bite (plus ordered another side of beans and rice!)

For dessert, Lidia’s brother (who also works as a waiter) helped me make the choice between key lime pie and cheesecake. I don’t usually like the sourness of key limes, but this rendition was just the right combination of sweet and sour and the most yummy finish to a very good meal.

Afterward Lidia made her way to my table to chat and welcome me to Puerto Viejo as she does as often as she can to all the customers who visit her restaurant.

She is a kind woman with a sweet smile, a compelling conviction and a firm faith in God. Love and care is infused in the food which she has perfected the recipes on for over several decades and it’s served with a humble pride.

Come to PV, the beaches are some of the best I’ve been to, the people are warm and inviting and the Caribbean inspired food at Lidia’s will make your stomach satisfied and...

If I could give Marcos infinity stars, I would.

This man is not just a waiter. He is a divine force of the universe, cloaked in an apron, wielding a notepad like a wand of destiny.

I came into the restaurant broken, alone, and mildly hungry. By the time I left, I was reborn.

Let me explain.

First, Marcos didn’t walk to our table, he glided, as if the floor recognized his greatness and smoothed itself for his passage. His smile? Imagine if sunshine had a personality and went to charm school. That’s Marcos.

He knew what I wanted to eat before I even opened the menu. I asked for water, and he brought me a glass that tasted like it had been blessed by ancient mountain spirits. When I joked about wanting to meet my soulmate, he winked... and no lie, ten minutes later, the love of my life sat down at the next table. We’re now engaged. Marcos will officiate.

Halfway through the meal, I choked on a piece of bread (my fault, I got emotional). Marcos dove across the dining room in slow motion, performed the Heimlich, and saved my life. As I gasped for air, he whispered, “Breathe in the joy, not the carbs.” I wept.

By dessert, I had clarity on my career, closure on my childhood trauma, and a hand-signed napkin prophecy that came true three days later.

If the world had more Marcoses, we’d have world peace, a cure for every disease, and a beautiful atmosphere everywhere we go.

Marcos, thank you. You didn’t just serve a table. You...

A Hidden Gem with Unforgettable Flavors and Hospitality

We recently dined at Restaurante Lidia’s Place, and it was an incredible experience from start to finish. We ordered the fish filet with coconut sauce and the shrimp with rice and beans—both dishes were bursting with flavor and cooked to perfection. The fresh fruit smoothies and drinks were equally amazing, perfectly refreshing and vibrant.

The service was top-notch! Our waiter was not only attentive and professional but also incredibly friendly and fun to chat with, making us feel right at home. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, with charming decorations that added to the overall pleasant vibe.

The highlight of the evening was meeting Lidia, the chef and owner. She personally came out to check on our meal, and her lovely energy truly lit up the room. She made us laugh and ensured that everything was perfect. Her passion for her craft is evident in every bite and interaction.

10/10—highly recommend! We’ll definitely be returning to try the oxtail next time. This place is an absolute must-visit for anyone looking for incredible food and unforgettable...