If you’re looking for an unforgettable steak experience near Arenal, El Novillo del Arenal in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, is the place to be. While we vacationed in La Fortuna at our favorite local hotel (the Springs Resort & Spa) we decided to leave the property for an evening and give this local steakhouse a shot. Here’s our full experience and review.
The Restaurante El Novillo del Arenal is only 15 minutes from the Arenal Volcano, so it’s easy to find. Local hotels and guides often recommend it.
Overall, this restaurant is the perfect stop after soaking in the hot springs, zip-lining, or hiking the trails. You’ll enjoy comfort, charm, and quality cooking, which all define the experience.
While the volcano being so close makes the place popular for families, couples enjoy the privacy, even during busy hours. Plus, you’ll see Costa Rican textiles that add local character, and Friday nights include live music to bring fun and energy to the atmosphere.
Ultimately, the many Costa Rican dishes are ideal for romantic dinners, casual lunches, and everything in between. When visiting La Fortuna, this is a good option for anyone craving meats.
Restaurante El Novillo del Arenal Reviews
Across TripAdvisor and Wanderlog, customers often praise the steaks, service, and views. One TripAdvisor reviewer said it was one of the best steakhouses in the world. They focused on the tender meat and spicy jalapeno sauce. Other reviews mentioned how welcoming the staff is, even for those with dietary restrictions.
If you read further along on these two review sites, you’ll see that people love the quality and portion sizes. Many mentioned sharing dishes and having leftovers. While other places might say they’re family-friendly, this spot in La Fortuna has a play area for children. Plus, couples often find the romantic ambiance peaceful and relaxing.
My Personal Review
This is your classic Latin American steakhouse. Expect a laid back experience with quality meat and fish that are priced accordingly. You won’t be overpaying like you would at any of the local hotels as this is NOT a tourist trap. I’ll say it again – it’s a classic “Tico” steakhouse with some guys who know what they are doing on the grill. I went with the Entrana and it was perfect. Michelle had the arroz con pollo and she loved it.
Is it one of the best steakhouses in the world?
No, of course not. But that’s not what anyone expects here other than the one guy on TripAdvisor who was probably deep into the wine.
Something that stood out to me was that this restaurant clearly has gone through additions and renovations over the years. As there are multiple areas to seat, they are largely identifiable by the tiles that separate them.
It’s something you’ll come to expect in Costa Rica, where some things just don’t make sense – and they don’t need to. Most likely since La Fortuna is far from major commercial building contractor stores, they simply pieced together new flooring with whatever they could get their hands on in order to expand. You gotta love the little nuances that you find in Costa Rica!
Restaurante El Novillo del Arenal Menu
El Novillo’s menu focuses on high-quality grilled meats, including ribeye, tenderloin, and steak. However, there are plenty of sides available, including seasonal vegetables, mashed potatoes, and fresh salads.
Those who are interested in something more like home might prefer its sandwiches and pizza. Likewise, there are tons of dessert options you don’t want to miss.
Restaurante El Novillo del Arenal Dress Code
This is a family-friendly, casual venue, so resort clothing and business casual attire are perfect. Really, anything goes here. I wouldn’t personally wear a tank top or swim shorts at night but I’m sure they would let you in as it’s in La Fortuna where things are very chill. Overall, the vibe is relaxed, though it’s also polished enough for special occasions.
Restaurante El Novillo del Arenal Location & Hours
Restaurante El Novillo del Arenal
La Fortuna de San Carlos, Provincia de Alajuela 21007, Costa Rica
+506 6209 7241
www.elnovillodelarenal.com
Hours:
- Monday: 12 pm-9 pm
- Tuesday: 12 pm-9 pm
- Wednesday: 12 pm-9 pm
- Thursday: 12 pm-9 pm
- Friday: 12 pm-9 pm
- Saturday: 12 pm-9 pm
- Sunday: 12 pm-9 pm
Final Words
When you’re on the road and making your way through La Fortuna and need a spot to eat, the El Novillo del Arenal restaurant is a great option. While there are other places, this one offers excellent grilled chicken and other meats, amazing service, and unforgettable views. I’ve recently added it to my list of best restaurants in La Fortuna as it’s definitely own me over as an option each time I’m in town.
It’s ideal for couples, families, and solo travelers who want a delicious meal near Arenal. Plus, there is often live music, a casual dress code, and large portions, making it a wonderful experience. However, the staff may not respond if you leave a voicemail or message on one of the social media platforms.
About Tim Schmidt
Tim Schmidt is a 20+ year Entrepreneur and Digital Marketer. A Fort Lauderdale-based "Digital Nomad," he enjoys traveling as much as possible with family and friends. AllWorld is his escape to document all of his adventures, including being a hardcore "foodie." He has property in Costa Rica and visits several times each year and is happy to offer his expert advice for planning your trip. Make sure to download the AllWorld Travel Hacks FREE ebook.
