Ristorante La Forchetta
Experience authentic Italian dining in La Fortuna (Arenal) at this highly-rated 4.5-star gem. Discover delicious dishes and a welcoming atmosphere.
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About Ristorante La Forchetta
Nestled in the heart of La Fortuna, this Italian eatery consistently earns high marks, boasting an impressive 4.5-star rating from over 600 diners. The inviting ambiance makes it a comfortable spot for a meal, whether you're traveling solo or with a group. Patrons often highlight the exceptional quality of the dishes and the attentive service, noting the genuine passion of the owners for guest satisfaction. With its mid-range pricing ($$), it offers a delightful culinary experience that many consider a must-visit during their time in the area. The availability of outdoor seating further enhances its appeal, providing a pleasant setting to savor authentic Italian flavors.
Restaurant Analysis
Restaurant Characteristics
This restaurant has been analyzed using our formula-based system to help you understand its key features and match it with your dining preferences.
Price Range (Moderate)
Moderate pricing ($$) - Mid-range restaurants with good value
Meal Time (dinner)
This restaurant primarily serves dinner. Based on opening hours.
Group Size (Groups Welcome)
Welcomes large groups and families. Great for group dining.
Atmosphere (Outdoor)
Al fresco dining with outdoor seating
Dining Style (Flexible)
Flexible options. Reservations available but not required.
Features & Amenities
This restaurant offers: Outdoor Seating, Beer, Wine, Coffee, Family Friendly, Groups Welcome, Reservations
Set your restaurant preferences in your profile to see how well this restaurant matches your dining style.
Why Travelers Love Ristorante La
Sourced from recent guest feedback and verified reviews.
Our Costa Rica Vacation one week in has been very good so far. As we go and try new things, regarding food, we tried La Forchetta. I'm speechless about how good the dishes are and the service! Thank you, Aaron! We also personally met with the owners. They take pride in La Forchetta and are very passionate about satisfying their guests. Anyone coming to La Fortuna needs to visit La Forchetta, you won't be disappointed! Our taste buds were pleasantly bombarded with authentic italian food. Today we created an unforgettable memory. Let me start by saying this was the best way for my husband and I to end our honeymoon. As Americans it is incredibly hard to find authentic Italian food. Who knew we would find it here in Costa Rica? The owners and staff were extremely gracious and the food was to die for!!! The ambience is beautiful and we cannot say enough great things about this gem that we found. Do yourself a favor and come check them out!! Our experience at La Forchetta was outstanding from start to finish. We began with the carpaccio of meat and focaccia bread—both were absolutely delicious. For the main course, I had the pollo ai funghi (chicken with mushrooms), paired with perfectly cooked pappardelle in a flavorful sauce. My partner ordered the carbonara, which tasted authentic and rich, while the porchetta was incredibly tasty as well. The highlight of the evening, however, was dessert. The tiramisu was hands down the best we’ve ever had—light, balanced, and unforgettable. Beyond the food, the owners personally came to our table, making us feel genuinely welcome. The service was warm, attentive, and professional throughout the evening. We highly recommend La Forchetta to anyone looking for authentic Italian cuisine and a memorable dining experience.
Find the Restaurant
Where to Find Them
Centro Comercial Plaza Arenal, 450 metros oeste de la iglesia Católica, Provincia de Alajuela, La Fortuna, 21007, Costa Rica
Opening Hours
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Recent Reviews
Timothy S.
September 20, 2025
Our Costa Rica Vacation one week in has been very good so far. As we go and try new things, regarding food, we tried La Forchetta. I'm speechless about how good the dishes are and the service! Thank you, Aaron! We also personally met with the owners. They take pride in La Forchetta and are very passionate about satisfying their guests. Anyone coming to La Fortuna needs to visit La Forchetta, you won't be disappointed! Our taste buds were pleasantly bombarded with authentic italian food. Today we created an unforgettable memory.
Danielle B.
September 16, 2025
Let me start by saying this was the best way for my husband and I to end our honeymoon. As Americans it is incredibly hard to find authentic Italian food. Who knew we would find it here in Costa Rica? The owners and staff were extremely gracious and the food was to die for!!! The ambience is beautiful and we cannot say enough great things about this gem that we found. Do yourself a favor and come check them out!!
Nashalí P.
September 7, 2025
Our experience at La Forchetta was outstanding from start to finish. We began with the carpaccio of meat and focaccia bread—both were absolutely delicious. For the main course, I had the pollo ai funghi (chicken with mushrooms), paired with perfectly cooked pappardelle in a flavorful sauce. My partner ordered the carbonara, which tasted authentic and rich, while the porchetta was incredibly tasty as well. The highlight of the evening, however, was dessert. The tiramisu was hands down the best we’ve ever had—light, balanced, and unforgettable. Beyond the food, the owners personally came to our table, making us feel genuinely welcome. The service was warm, attentive, and professional throughout the evening. We highly recommend La Forchetta to anyone looking for authentic Italian cuisine and a memorable dining experience.
Peter D.
August 13, 2025
As a Swiss person who spent a lot of time in Italy and loves the Italian kitchen, I was very happy to find a good Italian restaurant in Costa Rica. The new owners, who took over a month ago are born Italians and are very nice and their food is authentic. I recommend it!
Dependable S.
August 2, 2025
OMG!!! Absolutely amazing!!! I came to eat here with my family while we were on vacation. Not only are we a group of Italians but some of them are very picky as well. All I have to say is who would have thought we’d have the best Italian food of our lives in Costa Rica. I recommend trying the 4 cheese and the chicken parm. Incredible. I’m at a loss. I’ll never be able to find Italian food like this again. Everywhere else will just be my second favorite. Give this place a try. You won’t be disappointed at all.
What to Expect
Features and amenities that make Ristorante La special
Outdoor Seating
Beer
Wine
Coffee
Family Friendly
Groups Welcome
Reservations
Practical Information
Everything you need to know before you visit
Payment Options
Parking
Accessibility
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Plan Your La Fortuna Trip
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Transportation Tips
Walking is perfect for exploring the town center. Organized tours include transportation to activities and attractions.
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Where to Stay
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Popular Tours in La Fortuna
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