Soda Yogui's — Restaurant in San Pedro

This is the most authentic diner experience (as conceptualized by gringos in the classic spirit of road-trip Americana) south of the Rio Grande, east of the Mississippi River, and north of the Darién Gap. This place is amazing. Classic diner service, open 24-hours, and a menu that puts a Meso-American twist on the whole thing: fresh natural fruit juices (try the “cas”), local fried cheese atop eggs with perfectly grilled onions, gallo pinto (rice & beans done in the Hispanic style), and coffee that is expectedly decent (given that it was likely grown within an hour’s drive). I was as smitten by the attractive tan woman of small head and big blue eyes that walked up next to my counter spot to order as I was by my meal, but alas, her girlfriend jaunted up and a quick caress of the face let me know that she was here for the food, not the romance (lest not from me). I walked over two miles through the worst downtown San Jose neighborhoods to get here, and truth be told, it was totally worth it. I hope next time a potential spouse walks up to order next to me, she thinks me the same.

NOTE I got mugged walking back to my hotel. I was able to fight off the attacker (there were two of them but only one engaged) with only a minor scratch on my arm, and they didn’t get anything (my watch blocked the knife). Be sure to take the taxi instead of walking at night!!! Just makes the dinner all the more...

You can tell that this restaurant is a local’s favourite. The staff is very friendly and service is quick. The place is very clean. You can try most typical tico food for a very reasonable price.

You cannot go wrong at Yogui’s which offers the best value for your money in the area. Do not bother spending a lot of money on Calle 33´s overpriced restaurants and bars. Although they are trendy, they do not meet the north american and european standards, apart from the inflated prices. Walk to Yogui’s instead and get real tico food, by ticos, for ticos. An absolute must if you stay in barrio...

Nice eatery with local food for budget travelers and of course anyone else. Because it is a big diner, they have many staff. Some of them are English speaking and super friendly and forward coming as they recognize you from the previous days and some are a little moody, but since it’s a diner and the food arrives it doesn’t really matters. They have a great variety of food, the best thing is you can really combine anything you want and they will prep it freshly. Great thing here, they have coffee...