What should I order at La Casona del Maíz?
La Casona del Maíz
Combo Platter
Mentioned multiple times as absolutely delicious, featuring a variety of traditional items like chicharrones, beef, chicken, fried plantains, corn on the cob, tortillas, pico de gallo, frijoles molidos, rice, and corn puree. The meats are described as soft and tasty, and the accompaniments scrumptious.
Gallo Pinto
Highly praised as the best in the area, often part of breakfast dishes like Super Desayuno Campesino. Reviewers highlight its authentic flavor, presentation on a banana leaf, and its status as a staple of Costa Rican cuisine.
Parrillada Junior
Reported as delicious and a good representative of the local cuisine, enjoyed by groups dining at the restaurant.
Casado
Frequently mentioned as tasty and authentic, with one variant noted as Casado Campesino with chicharrón, highlighting traditional flavors and generous portions.
Lomo Monteverde
Recommended by a local car rental agent and praised by reviewers as a must-try item, indicating its popularity and quality at the restaurant.
Plantains with Cheese
Specifically highlighted as a delicious introduction to local flavors, recommended by several visitors.
Super Desayuno Campesino
A breakfast platter featuring a variety of traditional items including gallo pinto, fried eggs, crispy bacon, sour cream, cheese, fried sweet plantains, beef tongue in tomato sauce, avocado, arracache picadillo, and tortillas. Reviews emphasize its taste, colorful presentation, and balanced meal.
Steak
Noted for tasting better than pricier options elsewhere in town, praised for its flavor and quality.
Pozol
Suggested as a must-try item to accompany grilled dishes, recommended for its traditional and authentic taste.
Hours
| Monday | 7 AM to 8 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 7 AM to 8 PM |
| Wednesday | 7 AM to 8 PM |
| Thursday | 7 AM to 8 PM |
| Friday | 7 AM to 8 PM |
| Saturday | 7 AM to 8 PM |
| Sunday | 7 AM to 8 PM |
About La Casona del Maíz
La Casona del Maíz is a family restaurant in Alajuela, Alajuela Province, serving Costa Rican food. Reviewers consistently praise the authentic typical dishes, generous portions, and fresh tortillas, along with the views and attentive service. It is described as a casual, open-air place near the SJO airport area, with indoor and outdoor seating and a large dining space. The menu is centered on Costa Rican favorites like chicharrones, picadillo, olla de carne, and chifrijo.
Amenities & services
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- No-contact delivery
- Delivery
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Great beer selection
- Great coffee
- Great dessert
- Great tea selection
- Rooftop seating
- Sports
Popular for
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Hard liquor
- Quick bite
- Salad bar
- Small plates
- Vegan options
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Counter service
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Gender-neutral restroom
- Restroom
- Wi-Fi
- Free Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Quiet
- Trendy
Crowd
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
Parking
- Free parking lot
- Free street parking
- On-site parking
- Usually plenty of parking
- Valet parking
Pets
- Dogs allowed
- Dogs allowed inside
- Dogs allowed outside
Frequently asked questions
What is La Casona del Maíz known for?
It is best known for Costa Rican food, especially dishes built around corn and traditional casado-style plates. Reviewers repeatedly mention chicharrones, olla de carne, picadillo, and fresh tortillas, and several say the food tastes authentic and full of flavor.
What dishes are most recommended at La Casona del Maíz?
The most frequently recommended items are the combo platter with chicharrones, beef, chicken, fried plantains, tortillas, rice, and beans, plus the Super Desayuno Campesino, Parrillada Junior, and casado. Reviewers also call out plantains with cheese, beef tongue in tomato sauce, arracache picadillo, and the fresh tortillas made from corn grown on site.
What is the atmosphere like at La Casona del Maíz?
The vibe is casual, cozy, and open-air, with a rustic roadside feel and wide views of the valley, hills, and jungle. It works well for groups and travelers, since reviewers mention plenty of seating, quick service, and enough space even when the restaurant is crowded.
Is La Casona del Maíz good value?
Yes, the price range is ₡5,000–10,000, and reviewers often say the portions are huge and the price is reasonable. Several compare the value favorably to more expensive meals elsewhere, noting that a group can eat well and still have leftovers.
How close is La Casona del Maíz to the airport, and is it worth stopping there?
Reviewers say it is about 15 minutes from SJO Airport, which makes it a convenient stop after landing or before flying out. People specifically mention it as a strong first or last meal in Costa Rica because the service is quick, the food is fresh, and the views are memorable.
Is parking available at La Casona del Maíz?
Yes. Free parking lot, Free street parking, On-site parking, Usually plenty of parking, Valet parking is available.
Does La Casona del Maíz have vegetarian options?
Yes, La Casona del Maíz offers vegan options.
Is La Casona del Maíz kid-friendly?
Yes, La Casona del Maíz is good for kids.
Restaurants like La Casona del Maíz in Alajuela
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