La Cava Alta Fiori — Restaurant in Santa Ana

Going back to the place where one of the most iconic restaurants in Costa Rica once stood, brings back memories, but what La Cava has accomplished in this space is nothing short of amazing!

What used to be “El Monasterio” had two distinct levels: the main restaurant at ground level and “the cava” downstairs and pretty much out of sight.

La Cava has taken over this downstairs area and has created a new experience: pristine floors and high ceilings, lots of natural light from expansive windows and fresh air as well (as allowed by weather). The top floor is now reserved for private events, but the restaurant space is both ample and cozy.

Service is paramount. So much I call it out before food and drink. The service level here is at its highest and does not feel oppressive or pushy, it is just right and always thinking about your satisfaction with the whole experience.

Food and drink are great too: the portions are just right and the food selection is adequate. The chef told us of their ever evolving menu and that’s why it is important to ask for the seasonal or special dishes on each visit. Cocktails were excellent and the wine list is mid-tier and more than appropriate: you will certainly find something you like in it.

Once you are done with your meal, you may choose to walk outside to the garden overlooking almost the whole Occidental Valley. Brings memories too!

Overall, a great experience you...

The reason for the one star it’s strictly based on how Diego handled a situation. I messaged them since I was out of the country and my gf taking her mom to this restaurant for her birthday. I wanted to surprise both my gf and her mom by paying for the bill I offered my cc or debit card with my identification but Diego refused said only way is Costs rica bank transfer which I don’t have since I’m from out of the country. I asked for manager to no prevail. The effort wasn’t there. Then I gave the name of reservation and see if they can give a courtesy cake or do something and I got no response. I feel what makes a elite and top notch restaurants are the ones who finds a reasonable way to make an experience unforgettable memories. They obvious lack that here a cake would cost nothing maybe $5 compare to what they would spend on the entire dinner just to make a customer happy. The food was mediocre they thought was overrated place was nice service was descent other then that very dissapointed and forgettable I think Diego could have done better based on the situation. Will never go back...

Been thinking about visiting this restaurant for a long time!

Finally made it and it was much better than expected!

The atmosphere is very clean and classy. The waiters are properly trained (much more aligned to an international scale of fine dining services). You see them doing a lot of cleaning and setup before customers arrive and when the customers are done with their dishes. Keeping the table clean and emptying plates out of site at all times!

The foods are better than expected (and most likely the cooking skills of the chefs are above average for the Costa Rican fine dining market).

The price for the dishes with these services and cooking skills are worth it! You usually don't get both in Costa Rica.

It was an absolutely pleasant experience to visit with family and...