My new favorite restaurant, Clandestina is not to be missed by food lovers staying anywhere near to Montezuma.
Established in March 2015, Clandestina is the new kid on the block. The Oregon/Tico collaboration is a winner among locals and travelers alike, with artisan craft beers, made onsite by Butterfly Brewing Co. and delicious, exciting Hispanic fusion cuisine.
Located at the Montezuma Butterfly gardens (Montezuma Gardens), Clandestina is the perfect place to stop after exploring the upper waterfalls. Sit on the jungle balcony and enjoy some street style tacos with a cold home brew. My personal favorite is the Chicken Enchilada with Mole sauce, but everything I’ve tried has been amazing. If you’re really lucky, you’ll find there a loaf of Bryan’s fresh-baked sourdough, which is by far my favorite bread in the area.
Owners Bryan & Phoebe Swett, a Costa Rican and North Westerner, have been in the restaurant industry for 18 years, and for this dream/project they invited their long time friend and trained chef, Chris Ericsen from Portland, Oregon. Together, they’re bringing to table a clandestine blend of flavours from up and down the Spanish speaking Americas. These guys pour a lot of love into what they do and you’ll notice it. The trio found a home inside the Mariposario when they met Ryan and Josh Bickle, owner/brothers from Oregon. The brewing company is a very exciting addition to Montezuma and a perfect fit with their food. This spot offers affordable, delicious dining in an inviting space with lovingly attentive service. A must try!
Essential Info
Location: From the waterfall parking lot: 700 meters up the steep, paved hill.
Hours: Tuesday – Saturday, open 12 Noon to 9pm
Price range: Affordable! $12-$20 for dinner
Cuisine: Hispanic, Central American, Mexican
Good for: families, couples, locals, solo diners, friends.
Dining options: lunch, dinner, light snacks, cocktails and beer.
