Graffiti Restro Cafe & Wine Bar

What do you get when you combine a chef from Alabama, Cajun spices, sushi, local art, and skateboarding? The answer: Graffiti Restro Cafe & Wine Bar in Jaco.

Our story begins years ago in Alabama, where Danny learned to cook Cajun-inspired cuisine with the help of his great-grandmother, grandmother, and mother. Fast-forward to when Danny becomes a sushi chef, and the culinary pillars of what would become Graffiti are set. 

In 2010, Chef Danny founded his eatery and poured his passion and experience cooking into the menu. The menu is a mesh of Cajun-inspired entrees, sushi, steaks, and Costa Rican seafood and vegetables. 

While gourmet fare is on the blackboard's rotating menu, don't associate this restaurant with being pretentious or uppity. The skateboarding reference earlier now comes into play. Danny and his crew grew up appreciating urban street art and the skateboarding lifestyle. You'll find these themes throughout, making it eclectic. Other buzzwords would be "funky," "chic," and "hip," but no matter how you describe the vibe, everyone is welcome. 

With its Jaco location, it is the perfect destination after a day at Carara National Park to unwind, refuel, and reflect on the day's adventures.

When your Costa Rican itinerary calls for top-notch fare in an unpretentious environment, add Graffiti Restro Cafe & Wine Bar to your list.

Vibe

As mentioned, the atmosphere is eclectic, yet there's enough refinement and tasteful decor to categorize the restaurant as fine dining. 

The architectural style cafe blends rustic elements with a contemporary design that creates a welcoming yet sophisticated atmosphere. 

The interior's whitewashed brick walls showcase street art, some bearing bright festive colors and others painted in more subtle tones. The wood tables are matched with contemporary-styled chairs, further contributing to the "funky vibe" the eatery is known for. 

Booth seating is perfect for romantic dinners or friends looking to catch up on old times. Tables scattered about on the main floor are ideal for larger groups or families excited to chat about their time at Surfer Factory Surf School.

The bottom line is that the ambiance is as unique and tasteful as its menu, making it a must-visit.

Graffiti Restro Cafe & Wine Bar: Menu & Drinks

The best way to summarize the menu offerings is on their website, which describes their culinary style as "Ghetto Gourmet." Couple this with fresh, local ingredients, and you're in for a marvelous dining experience. 

Since the menu changes daily based on available ingredients, we can only comment on past presentations. 

A popular tapa is White Wine Sauteed Mushrooms, featuring portobello and mixed mushrooms sauteed in white wine and herbs. A poached egg and Kalamat croutons are added, then topped with balsamic glaze. The flavor profiles will have your taste buds dancing. 

Another must-try is the Graffiti Fish Tacos Deconstructed. These handhelds showcase the catch of the day grilled or blackened with Asian slaw, guacamole, pico de gallo, and Cajun aioli.

The Coffee and Cajun-Rubbed Beef Tenderloin is an entree that fuses local flavors with innovative culinary techniques. The tender, premium steak is encrusted with a unique coffee rub that gives it a distinctive smoky flavor. Topping the tenderloin is a balsamic pinot noir reduction, along with caramelized onions, blue cheese, and mushrooms. The rich flavor profiles are divine! 

Regarding beverages, the eatery has an impressive wine list that pairs with the daily specials and menu staples. Their craft cocktails are also on point, with tasty libations like the Spicy Cucumber Margarita, the perfect choice after a day at Bijagual Waterfall. This marg features muddled cucumber, jalapeno, and cilantro added to fresh lime and orange juice. Add Patron Silver tequila, and with one sip, you'll be in heaven!

On your Costa Rican getaway, visit Graffiti Restro Cafe & Wine Bar, where "Ghetto Gourmet," street art, and eclectic ambiance unite for a memorable dining experience.