Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Run by an animated Colombian-American from New York City, this popular Tex-Mex
spot will introduce some much-needed spice into your diet. You'll also find Tico special-
ties, spit-roasted chicken and New York-style cheesecake.
El Chante Vegano
VEGETARIAN, VEGAN
A young Tico chef and his friendly mom have teamed up to open this new eatery specializ-
ing in healthy, organic food. Vegan treats are served on an open-air, street-facing patio, in-
cluding garbanzo (chickpea) and portobello-mushroom burgers, falafel, textured-soy-pro-
tein nachos, pasta, pizza and sandwiches like the Veggie Lú (grilled veggies, avocado and
sprouts on homemade bread).
Coffee Dreams Café
CAFE
2430-3970; cnr Calle 1 & Av 3; mains US$5-9;
7:30am-9pm Mon-Sat,
9am-7pm Sun; )
For breakfast,
bocas
(appetizers) and a variety of
típico
(traditional Costa Rican) dishes,
this centrally located cafe is a reliably good place to dine or enjoy a coffee accompanied
by one of its rich desserts.
Puntalitos de Manuela
CAFE
8855-8650; Museo Juan Santamaría; daily specials US$6;
11am-5:30pm Tue-Sat)
Tranquilly tucked into the courtyard of Alajuela's historic museum, this simple cafe with
comfy booths and cushioned chairs makes a good spot to relax over sweet and savory
snacks or the well-priced
plato del día
(daily special).
Xandari
INTERNATIONAL
2443-2020;
www.xandari.com
; Xandari Resort Hotel & Spa; mains US$9-24;
7am-10pm; )
If you want to impress a date, you can't go wrong at this elegant restaurant with incredible
views. The menu is a mix of Costa Rican and international, with plenty of vegetarian op-
tions. The restaurant utilizes the resort's homegrown organic produce, supplemented by
