This place is Fortuna's hidden gem for sure. Atmosphere, staff, food, all A+! It was a little bit hard to find, as it is set in back of a small hotel and unassuming. We followed Waze and were confused when it said we had arrived but could not see it; we found it once we asked a staff member at hotel reception.
It is a small spot, set next to a river. It feels like you've left the town once you're there. We showed up a half hour before opening, for dinner, not realizing the time, and were immediately greeted and encouraged to come on in. We later learned the couple who owns it, also cooks and serves, and it felt like it. The owner was also very funny, making us laugh several times, and you could tell he was proud of his establishment and food quality.
We had a soup that my husband declared was the "best soup" of his life (Aztec soup), for an appetizer-truely phenomenal. And, we both had the specials, a delicious steak/shrimp/mushroom dish, and Mahi Mahi. These were fantastic. Drinks were also amazing.
I'd say this place is a little more upscale, but well worth it! If you're in the area, do yourself a favor and check it out! I think it would be a foodie's dream due to its unique style and flavors. If we weren't leaving the area tomorrow, and had discovered sooner, we'd have eaten here multiple times. Such a...
Read moreNestled alongside a serene river amidst the verdant landscapes of La Fortuna, Bamboo Gardens Restaurant is a true gem that offers a feast for the senses and a casual dining experience.
From the moment we stepped in, we were surprised by the surroundings—a lush garden setting that perfectly complements the natural beauty of Costa Rica. The gentle murmur of the nearby river creates a serene atmosphere.
What truly sets Bamboo Gardens apart, however, was its exceptional service. The staff's warmth and attentiveness were remarkable, and they went above and beyond to ensure that our visit was great. A special mention must be made of their kindness towards our one-year-old baby; they accommodated our needs, ensuring that our little one was comfortable and happy throughout our meal.
As for the food, every dish we had over a time span of four days was amazing. Whether it was the perfectly grilled seafood or the vibrant vegetarian options, each plate was a testament to their dedication to quality.
Bamboo Gardens Restaurant was an experience that encapsulated the beauty of Costa Rica's natural surroundings and the warmth of its people. For anyone visiting La Fortuna, this restaurant is definitely worth a try! Exceptional service, wonderful ambiance, and...
Read moreWe were very excited to try this based on the glowing reviews. Our verdict: it’s variable. Salad was swimming in dressing. They weren’t at all concerned when we asked them to drain it - really it should have been remade as the leaves were limp and sticking together. Ceviche was too acid & wet. Plantain chips were perfect. 400gm Churasco had about 70gm sinew and fat. Chimichurri was wonderfully pungent with garlic; the herbs got a bit lost. Vegetables were perfectly sautéed and delicious. Wine was only a couple available at all - no wine list. The merlot was passable. After having the bill corrected for extra glass of wine charged, we paid A$90 - a bit much for what we had: two entrees one main and 3 glasses of wine. Pretty setting. Okay service. Better quality and price than your average tourist restaurant but left us...
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