La Princesa Marina

La Princesa Marina Review

This large open-air eatery (part of a chain) at the intersection of the old Alajuela-Grecia road and the road to La Garita is popular with Ticos, who pack it on weekends to feast on inexpensive seafood. The selection is vast, with 10 types of fish, shrimp, or octopus ceviche; fish fillets served with various sauces; three sizes of shrimp prepared a dozen ways; whole fried fish; lobster tails; and several mariscadas (mixed seafood plates). Pastas, rice dishes, beef, and chicken are some other choices, but the seafood is your best bet. The decor is utilitarian—bare tables, ceiling fans, and dividers of potted plants separating the sections—but you avoid that feeling of being in a contrived tourist venue.