About
El Manglar Restaurante & Bar is an open-air eatery in Jaco's vibrant beach town, serving fresh, locally sourced cuisine. The laid-back beach vibe with a hint of sophistication makes it ideal for romantic dinners or gatherings with friends.
Located near the picturesque Playa Jaco, it makes planning a visit to nearby attractions like Manuel Antonio National Park with a meal at El Mangler simple.
The eatery's owners sought to showcase Costa Rica's bountiful foods in an environment where the spirit of Pura Vida abounds. As they promise on their website, "Visit as a client, leave as a friend."
While El Manglar Restaurante & Bar is considered "fast food," don't equate it with franchise restaurants in America and abroad. All meals at El Mangler are made-to-order and use local ingredients, ensuring a memorable dining experience.
Add El Manglar Restaurante & Bar to your vacation itinerary for superb fare, welcoming staff, and a relaxing atmosphere.
Vibe
The Costa Rican-inspired architectural style features open spaces, vaulted ceilings, wooden accents, and earthy tones. Together, these elements create an elegant, warm, welcoming atmosphere that feels homey.
The tall wooden tables and chairs are perfect for a romantic night out and serve equally well for those celebrating a day with Surfer Factory Surf School. No matter the reason for visiting, you can also count on the friendly staff to greet you with a smile.
There is a small outdoor area with rustic tables amidst palm trees and vegetation for a quiet meal al fresco. Adjacent to the main dining area is a pool room where friendly games of billiards, conversations, and cool drinks are shared. Occasionally, live music peppers the night air, adding to the enchanting vibe of the restaurant.
The bottom line is that El Manglar Restaurante & Bar has a tranquil yet elegant atmosphere, promising a memorable dining experience for all who visit.
El Manglar Restaurante & Bar: Menu & Drinks
If you need a restaurant that will appeal to picky eaters or people with varied diets, El Manglar's menu won't disappoint. Let's take a look at some top picks, and you'll see what we mean.
When craving a local favorite, you can't go wrong with ceviche, like the popular El Manglar Mixed Ceviche. This healthy meal showcases fresh white marlin, shrimp, and octopus mixed with lime juice before combining thinly sliced onions, cilantro, avocado, and mixed root vegetable chips.
When craving pasta, consider the Fettuccine Gorgonzola. This rich comfort food uses fresh-caught shrimp added to a gorgonzola sauce, reduced with white wine and spinach. The pasta comes with thin-sliced toasted bread and Grana Padano cheese, making it the perfect meal after an active day on Jaco Beach.
For the famished, consider the baby back ribs with mixed vegetables, sauteed potatoes, or any of the day's catch. Are you craving a burger or tacos? These creative handhelds are rich in flavor and textures. Asian-inspired bowls, steaks, and chicken entrees also ensure something for everyone.
El Manglar Restaurante & Bar's cocktails are equally impressive, like several margarita flavors, daiquiris, and mojitos. Diners can also select wines, sangria, and various spirits to sip neat or on the rocks.
Eating at El Manglar Restaurante & Bar on vacation in Costa Rica offers exceptional cuisine, cold libations, and a warm, inviting atmosphere that enhances any dining experience.
Local Tips
- Make a reservation to get a table, especially during peak dining times.
- Visit during happy hour for discounted drinks and appetizers.
- The kid's menu makes El Manglar family-friendly.
- Ask the friendly staff for their recommendations on the day's unique dishes.
- Try the seasonal dishes that feature the freshest local ingredients.
- Check their Facebook page for the live music schedule.
