It might not look like much when you are driving up to it but BBQ El Chicote is the restaurant to visit in Costa Rica. It was recommended to me by a friend who frequently does business in Costa Rica for its exceptional seafood. 
The Sea Bass El Chicote “is the finest dish in Central America,” he raved.
BBQ El Chicote is just 400 meters north of I.C.E. Sabana Norte, and provides a quiet dining experience that matches the Tico way of doing things more than the touristy way. I may be a Gringo, but that doesn’t mean I can’t dine like a Tico!
The atmosphere is cozy, and the service is excellent. Many members of the staff speak a little English, but even if they don’t, they are first-rate communicators. The staff clearly reflects the values established by the owners/managers of the restaurant, a nice little family of Spanish descent, the Perez family who founded the place back in the 60s! Andrea Perez, daughter of the founder Roberto Perez is the current manager, but both are still there daily discreetly attending to guests.
As for the food, no complaints here. The seafood is praised, as are the steaks, but there are actually quite a large number of vegetarian items on the menu. You can catch a glimpse of the huge grill where the meat is being prepared. For an appetizer try the homemade tortillas with garlic; the garlic flavor is strong, but they are really good.
Reservations are recommended for the evenings and weekends. Call 506 232 0936 or email chicote@rasca.co.cr (ask for a confirmation 
email for your reservation.)
You can also make reservations at www.elchicote.com
The address is Sobre Avenida las Americas en Sabana Norte, or just tell your taxi driver to take you to El Chicote.
Hours are from 11 am to 12 am Monday to Sunday. Dress is informal.
To get a 10% discount at El Chicote (when you pay in cash) or a 5% discount (if you use a credit card) click this link to 1 Costa Rica Link, print the page and present it with your bill.
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