Discover a refined dining experience in San José's Amón district. This popular restaurant boasts a 4.6-star rating. Explore their minimalist, quality-focused menu.
Nestled in the historic Amón district of San José, this establishment offers a refined culinary journey. Praised by diners with a strong 4.6-star rating, it provides a sophisticated dining experience that appeals to those seeking quality ingredients and thoughtful preparation. While the setting within an older home offers a unique ambiance, the focus here is undeniably on the plate. Expect a minimalist approach to cuisine, highlighting the natural flavors of fresh, high-quality components. This is a place where simplicity shines, making it a noteworthy stop for discerning palates in the capital. Outdoor seating and cocktail service are available.
Restaurant Analysis
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 (Upscale)
Upscale dining ($$$) - Fine dining with premium prices
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, Cocktails, Beer, Wine, Coffee, Groups Welcome, Reservations
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Sourced from recent guest feedback and verified reviews.
I recently dined at Silvestre, a restaurant in Costa Rica that promises a refined dining experience. The ambiance is okay, but the decoration isn’t the best—it’s rather gloomy, set in an old house that feels a bit dreary. It could benefit from incorporating modern art to create a striking contrast with the vintage elements, which might brighten things up and add more appeal. The food itself leans towards a minimalist style, which I appreciated for its simplicity and focus on quality ingredients. The flavors were well-balanced and demonstrated good taste in preparation. Portions were okay—not overly generous, but sufficient for a lighter meal. However, there were some notable drawbacks. The wine selection, while available, comes at exorbitant prices, and the options aren’t necessarily the best quality for what you’re paying. Service was a mixed bag; one waiter in particular was extremely intense, constantly chatting and offering what felt like subtle, implied observations that bordered on unsolicited advice. It made the experience feel a bit overwhelming rather than enjoyable. Value-wise, Silvestre is positioned as a mid-range. We went for lunch. Arrived around 14.30. Had the three course menu. There were two options for each course so as a couple we were able to taste everything. The service was friendly. The food was creative and delicious. Very reasonable price for three courses & drinks. Only suggestion would be to explain more where the food comes from in Costa Rica and how it’s made. What an amazing experience. The restaurant is a short walk just outside of the city centre of San Jose. I do recommend you reserve. The staff are very friendly, speak perfect english and will guide you through the menu. The young chef in the kitchen is an absolute legend, and we had a short conversation with him and his team. The food is an exotic mix of everything Costa Rican with a bit of flare and tradition. Its a very gentle experience that will keep your taste buds guessing. The wine was fantastic and definitely worth trying. Ill let the pictures speak for themselves, but definitely the level of at least 1 Michelin star. Perfect:)
Find the Restaurant
Av. 11 955, San José, Amón, 10101, Costa Rica
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September 16, 2025
I recently dined at Silvestre, a restaurant in Costa Rica that promises a refined dining experience. The ambiance is okay, but the decoration isn’t the best—it’s rather gloomy, set in an old house that feels a bit dreary. It could benefit from incorporating modern art to create a striking contrast with the vintage elements, which might brighten things up and add more appeal. The food itself leans towards a minimalist style, which I appreciated for its simplicity and focus on quality ingredients. The flavors were well-balanced and demonstrated good taste in preparation. Portions were okay—not overly generous, but sufficient for a lighter meal. However, there were some notable drawbacks. The wine selection, while available, comes at exorbitant prices, and the options aren’t necessarily the best quality for what you’re paying. Service was a mixed bag; one waiter in particular was extremely intense, constantly chatting and offering what felt like subtle, implied observations that bordered on unsolicited advice. It made the experience feel a bit overwhelming rather than enjoyable. Value-wise, Silvestre is positioned as a mid-range.
August 15, 2025
We went for lunch. Arrived around 14.30. Had the three course menu. There were two options for each course so as a couple we were able to taste everything. The service was friendly. The food was creative and delicious. Very reasonable price for three courses & drinks. Only suggestion would be to explain more where the food comes from in Costa Rica and how it’s made.
September 14, 2025
What an amazing experience. The restaurant is a short walk just outside of the city centre of San Jose. I do recommend you reserve. The staff are very friendly, speak perfect english and will guide you through the menu. The young chef in the kitchen is an absolute legend, and we had a short conversation with him and his team. The food is an exotic mix of everything Costa Rican with a bit of flare and tradition. Its a very gentle experience that will keep your taste buds guessing. The wine was fantastic and definitely worth trying. Ill let the pictures speak for themselves, but definitely the level of at least 1 Michelin star. Perfect:)
September 27, 2025
Our party of seven experienced Silvestre’s seven-course tasting menu, a truly immersive journey into Costa Rican gastronomy. At the start, we were given a puzzle map of Costa Rica — with each course, a new piece was added, alongside an explanation of the dish and the region it represented. This thoughtful narrative tied the menu to both place and culture, creating a dining experience that was as educational as it was exquisite. Each plate showcased vibrant, locally sourced ingredients, prepared with artistry and precision, balancing tradition with contemporary creativity. The service was impeccable — attentive, polished, and deeply knowledgeable, elevating the entire evening. Silvestre transcends dining; it is a guided exploration of Costa Rica’s culinary identity, blending storytelling, culture, and fine dining into one unforgettable experience.
June 29, 2025
We came for lunch on a Sunday. It was awesome! They had their "standard" 3 course menu, which our friend got, and a "surprise" 7 course menu, which we got. It was amazing! It was a tour across Costa Rica. Every course was delicious. And our server Jacob was wonderful in telling the story behind each dish (in very good English). Definitely would recommend!
Features and amenities that make Restaurante Silvestre special
Outdoor Seating
Cocktails
Beer
Wine
Coffee
Groups Welcome
Reservations
Everything you need to know before you visit
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Walking is perfect for exploring the historic center. Public buses connect different areas, and organized tours include transportation.
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