El Arado Restaurant has been delighting diners for the last few years under the watchful eye of Chef Jesús Villalobos. With a 4.5 satisfaction rating on Tripadvisor it is no wonder that it is the top Latin (Comida Típica) restaurant and is rated number three of all 77 restaurants in Manuel Antonio. The secret? There isn’t one.
Jesús offers top quality produce, prepared in-house, creatively presented in a comfortable, relaxed atmosphere, with live music for dinner and all at a fair price.
The restaurant is located a quarter mile down the old road to Quepos in a ‘rancho’ style building of teak columns and rafters, with lots of natural materials such as single wood slab tables and benches. A rustic bar, outside table and soft music enhance the mood. There’s plenty of parking beside the restaurant but it is also convenient to take the local bus or taxi.
This is a truly family restaurant: you will often see Jesús’ sons waiting tables and keeping the dining room in order. There’s a nice selection of food choices on the menu from the ever-present Costa Rican Casado, and other local fare like ceviche and rice dishes. As well, you will find a nice selection of fresh fish and seafood, tender cuts of beef, pastas and fusion dishes.
El Arado also has a nice selection of burgers, wraps and tacos. Vegetarian and vegan options are available, and the kitchen is very flexible: they will gladly tailor a dish to your liking.
Along with the food there is a full bar and a wine menu selected by Jesus to complement your food choice. Every evening you can dine to live, Latin music in the background.
El Arado Restaurant is open for lunch (I love the rice dish with shrimp) and dinner every day (great fish fillet with seafood sauce) from 11 am to 10 pm. For the next couple of months, in addition to their regular Happy Hour, 2X1 pricing from 3 to 8 pm, they are also offering a free mojito when you join them for lunch or dinner.
El Arado also does catering and special events. You can contact Jesús for more information.
Reservations and inquiries: 2777-0928, or, info@elaradorestaurante.com
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