Restaurante Silvestre

Restaurante Silvestre takes the culinary experience in Costa Rica to unparalleled heights, promising "The Taste of Memories."  

Leading the charge in this epicurean effort is Chef Santiago Fernández Benedetto. He built the restaurant's reputation for respecting the country's culinary heritage, geography, and the people of Costa Rica.

Restaurante Silvestre, located in San Jose, showcases the depth and diversity of Costa Rican cuisine beyond the typical fare known to tourists. Chef Santiago revitalized forgotten recipes and blended them with contemporary techniques. This innovative approach has captivated diners and set the stage for a culinary renaissance in the region.

Central to Chef Santiago's philosophy is the belief in 'farm-to-table' dining. Restaurante Silvestre has woven strong ties with local farmers, artisans, and producers, ensuring that every ingredient is of the highest quality, seasonality, and sustainability. 

When seeking restaurants to add to your Costa Rica vacation itinerary, include Restaurante Silvestre and let Chef Santiago's team impress.

Vibe

While the food should always be the primary focus of any restaurant, it doesn't hurt to have a fantastic setting, and Restaurante Silvestre does not disappoint. The eatery is in a 600-square-meter house built in the 1890s by Mr. Leonidas Pacheco Cabezas. This distinguished Costa Rican lawyer, politician, and diplomat was influential in Costa Rica, and his legacy lives on at Restaurante Silvestre.

The renovated exterior sets the tone for the fine dining within. Elegance with understated architecture blends into its vibrant surroundings, inviting curiosity and respect. It's the perfect venue to compare notes after exploring the National Museum of Costa Rica.

The interior is a time capsule from the 1880s, showcasing a luxurious decor with modern amenities. Picture elegant wallpaper, ornate copper ceilings, chandeliers, and tables adorned with silver and white linens. 

The heart of Silvestre's appeal lies in its ability to create an intimate and communal dining atmosphere. The ambiance envelops guests like a warm Costa Rican breeze, encouraging conversation, laughter, and an appreciation for the culinary arts. 

Dining al fresco adds romance and intrigue to any meal, where silverware, white napkins, and lush gardens forge an unforgettable bond. 

Cothne Jo Fishy offers a laid-back dining experience in the basement of Restaurante Silvestre. The quaint cantina is charming and doesn't require reservations.

Such versatility, grandeur, and warmth cements Restaurante Silvestre's as a top destination in San José when visiting Costa Rica.

Restaurante Silvestre: Menu & Drinks

At Restaurante Silvestre, diners may order ala carte or from the seven-course tasting menu. The ala carte menu offers entrees sorted by Water, Earth, Meat, and Sweet. Each offers creative cuisine that promises to satisfy the palate. 

A go-to in the Water section is the trout. This entree features ecological trout from Dota, smoked bacon, Bernese sauce, cauliflower, and escarole. The result is a smooth and balanced meal with daring textures.

The Earth category has unique salads like the San Carlos' "Carrot" Sweet Potato Salad. The colorful salad features sweet potatoes, tender organic greens, chevre, fennel, sugared nuts, and orange dressing. It's a Latin festival of flavors!

Meat lovers will want to sample the charcoal-grilled lamb tenderloin. This unique entree showcases tender lamb tenderloin, toasted merguez chorizo boronas, ripe plantain and eggplant puree, and juicy greens, creating a balanced, creamy, and crispy delight with spicy and umami notes.

Finish a meal with something from the Sweet section, like the signature Osa Sphere. This dessert features Talamanca cocoa, guava, and corn, and is the perfect complement to an unforgettable dining experience.

Dining at Restaurante Silvestre is a must on any Costa Rican vacation itinerary, promising a memorable culinary journey through the country's rich flavors and heritage.

Tip: Guests to the Central Pacific will likely land at the San José airport. For guests planning to rest for the night before heading to the beach, please write to costaricapm@casago.com (Flor) for a possible lodging discount.