Jurgen's - Another Stellar Restaurant Hidden on the East Side.

There’s truth to the last Lonely Planet guide published for Costa Rica, where it’s written “…you’d be hard pressed to find a neighborhood boasting better restaurants than San Pedro and Los Yoses.” Jurgen’s is one of the restaurants that certainly raises the bar as far as dining goes in Costa Rica. You’ll find poached salmon with a dill sauce, and grilled tilapia with a Dijon mustard sauce, roasted duck and tuna fillet encrusted with sesame seeds. The steaks are top cuts of beef, locally raised and perfectly prepared. On any given night, locals may notice some welterweights from the Costa Rica political scene, or some of the more well heeled families enjoying an elegant dinner. Located on the Boulevard Los Yoses, a nice bending road that cuts from the heart of Los Yoses to the Rotunda de la Bandera, Jurgen’s is easily accessable for anyone from downtown and to the east.

As with many mid-level and upper end restaurants in the area, there is an extensive wine list. Maybe have a glass or two, or share a bottle, and then hit the nearby Automercado on the way home to save some cash.

While this isn’t a budget option by any means, it’s always nice to finish up a country with a great meal. Often, Costa Rica is the final stop for a lot of round-the-word trippers. The lighting is low, there is a loungey atmosphere, and service is extremely professional, which makes it a great spot for a traveling couple to escape to for a romantic dinner.

Jurgen’s is open Monday-Friday, noon-2:30pm and 6-10pm; Sat 6-10:30pm. The restaurant is Inside Hotel Jade, 2 1/2 blocks north of the Subaru dealership, Los Yoses, San Pedro/Los Yoses. For reservations call 2283-2239.