La Cocina de Doña Ana Restaurant
On a day trip to the fishing village of Playa Garza, make sure to stop by the legendary 15-year-old La Cocina de Doña Ana Restaurant, for a taste of true Costa Rican hospitality — and of course, incredible seafood.
read more closeOwner Ana Briceño welcomes you in for an authentic meal from her own home kitchen, making you feel as you would in your own house, only with better fish and perhaps a bit more Spanish than you're used to hear. She cooks fresh what her husband and sons fish in the Garza Bay; or lets tourists bring their sport fishing catch for her to prepare with sides for just $9.
Regardless of who catches the fixings, Ana cooks all ingredients with love and a laid-back Costa Rican simplicity. Out of the goodness of her own heart, she fills you up with a whole pan-seared mahi-mahi filet, $8, tender and light; served with soft-roasted rosemary red potatoes and a mixed salad of shredded carrots, ripe avocado, and beyond-juicy tomatoes.
And surely, you won't go thirsty as long as Ana has something to do with it—you can also order a smoothie, $2.50 blended with local seasonal fruit — to accompany your delicious, fresh caught meal.
Ambiance
Fabled for its simple, but classic Costa Rican vibe, the front porch restaurant is complete with a hammock and flowerpots on the wooden tables placed in front of Ana's kitchen, where you can peek inside as she's cooking. As far as location, it's tranquil, secluded, and surrounded only by the neighboring cattle farms — just a half mile up from the main road of Garza (turn right towards Playa Rosada if coming from Nosara).
Service
Think of Ana as your Costa Rican grandmother for the day—feeding you, spoiling you, and perhaps even hugging you on the way out. Be sure to tell her por favor (please) and gracias (thank you).
Hours
8 a.m.-9 p.m. Closed May - Nov.
Tel. 26568085
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