What should I order at El Ultimo Refugio?
El Ultimo Refugio
Gnocchi
Mentioned multiple times as the undeniable star of the show, described as fluffy pillows pan-seared to perfection and served in a rich cream sauce with broccoli. Reviewers called it the best gnocchi they've ever had.
Fish Tacos
Highly praised as the best fish tacos ever by one reviewer who loved the perfectly cooked and seasoned fish with complementary ingredients. Also recommended as a flavorful starter by others.
Ceviche
Listed as one of the four clear standout dishes sampled by a reviewer who repeatedly visited, highlighting its freshness and quality.
Tuna (Tuna Tartare and Tuna dishes)
Recommended multiple times, described as amazing and fresh, with tuna tartare specifically mentioned as a standout dish.
Beef Tenderloin / Filet Mignon
Beef tenderloin was named a favorite by a reviewer, and filet mignon was praised as a great entrée by another, indicating the restaurant's strength in preparing quality beef dishes.
Rigatoni with Salmon
Described as out of this world with real pasta and real salmon, highlighting the restaurant's creative and fresh approach.
Chicken Wings
Mentioned as a flavorful starter, recommended by multiple reviewers for their taste.
Chicken Curry
Noted as delicious by a reviewer who posted a picture, indicating it as a recommended main dish.
Lobster Risotto
Recommended as delicious by a reviewer who enjoyed the taste and the overall dining experience.
Veggie Croquette and Calamari
Recommended as starters by a reviewer who enjoyed their choices, indicating good vegetarian-friendly options.
Snickers Cake (Dessert)
Mentioned several times as dangerously delicious and addicting dessert, highly recommended as a sweet treat to finish the meal.
Hours
| Monday | Closed |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 5 to 10 PM |
| Wednesday | 5 to 10 PM |
| Thursday | 5 to 10 PM |
| Friday | 5 to 10 PM |
| Saturday | 5 to 10 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
About El Ultimo Refugio
El Ultimo Refugio is a restaurant in Bocas del Toro, Bocas del Toro Province, known for dinner service with waterfront views. Reviewers consistently praise the ceviche, including snapper ceviche, along with seafood dishes like tuna tartar, seafood risotto, whole fried fish, and patacones. The atmosphere is described as casual, cozy, romantic, and trendy, with live music, outdoor seating, and a setting that works well for groups and solo diners. It is in the PAB 15–40 price range, and dinner reservations are recommended.
Amenities & services
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Great beer selection
- Great cocktails
- Great coffee
- Great dessert
- Live music
Popular for
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Happy hour drinks
- Hard liquor
- Late-night food
- Small plates
- Vegan options
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Romantic
- Trendy
Crowd
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- High chairs
Parking
- Free street parking
Frequently asked questions
What is El Ultimo Refugio known for?
It is especially known for ceviche, with snapper ceviche called out as a standout, along with waterfront dinner views and live music. Reviewers also mention that the starters and mains are simple but flavorful, which fits the restaurant’s focus on fresh seafood and small plates.
What dishes are most recommended at El Ultimo Refugio?
The most frequently recommended dishes include ceviche, tuna tartar, patacones with pulled pork, seafood risotto, whole fried fish, fish tacos, and the rigatoni with salmon. Reviewers also mention beef tenderloin and lobster risotto, with comments that portions are big and the seafood tastes fresh.
What is the atmosphere like at El Ultimo Refugio?
The vibe is casual, cozy, romantic, and trendy, with outdoor seating right on the water and live music in the background. It is often described as a good fit for dinner with groups, a night out for couples, or solo dining at the bar or outside tables.
Is El Ultimo Refugio good value, and what is the price range?
The restaurant falls in the PAB 15–40 range, and reviewers say the portions are big and the food quality is high for the price. People also note that the fresh ingredients, strong service, and memorable seafood dishes make it feel worth the dinner spend in Bocas del Toro.
When is the best time to visit El Ultimo Refugio?
Dinner is the best-known time to go, especially in the evening when the waterfront tables can offer sunset views and even stingray sightings. Reviewers also note that reservations are recommended, though some walk-ins were seated within minutes for a party of six.
Is parking available at El Ultimo Refugio?
Yes. Free street parking is available.
Does El Ultimo Refugio have vegetarian options?
Yes, El Ultimo Refugio offers vegan options.
Restaurants like El Ultimo Refugio in Bocas del Toro
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