Machu Picchu is an unpretentious little restaurant that is perennially one of the most popular places in San Jose. The menu is classic Peruvian.

One of my favorite entrees is the causa limeña, lemon-flavored mashed potatoes stuffed with shrimp. The ceviche here is excellent, as is the ají de gallina, a dish of shredded chicken in a fragrant cream sauce, and octopus with garlic butter.

For main dishes, I recommend corvina a lo macho, sea bass in a slightly spicy tomato-based seafood sauce. Be sure to ask for a pisco sour, a classic Peruvian drink made from pisco, a grape liquor. These folks have a sister restaurant over in San Pedro (tel. 2283-3679), and another in Santa Ana (tel. 2203-7657), set on a hillside with a great view over the valley below.

San Jose Guide:

San Jose, the Capital of Costa Rica, is the hub of all transportation in Costa Rica. For that reason, it is usually the first place you will visit while in Costa Rica. It lies between three Costa Rica volcanoes. There is a large variety of Costa Rica hotels, parks, restaurants and attractions for visitors. The first thing noticed about San Jose is the local friendliness. The city is set up on a pretty logical grid system. When on foot and touring the capital, Costa Ricans, also known as Ticos, are always willing to lend a hand with directions. Always remember though, locals use landmarks not street names for directions, and if you just can't figure out where you are, find a local church. Every church in Costa Rica faces west. While in the Capital, you have access to the best public transportation in all of Central America.  

Costa Rica Area Info: Central Valley: Costa Rica Hotels: Things to Do: San Jose: Central Valley Hotels: Central Valley Restaurants Costa Rica Hotels: Central Valley: Places to Eat Costa Rica Hotels: Central Valley: Places to Eat