www.CostaRicaTicas.com

Dennis from the Freebird suggested that a group of us go out and try this place, and it was a pretty good suggestion. It's got kind of a jazz room atmosphere, laid out in sections, and a very extensive menu that has seafood, pasta, steaks and local dishes. The food was all very good except for one fried shrimp dish that was a little dry. 5 people, 2 shared appetizers, main courses for everyone and drinks came out to about $110.00. very reasonable and a nice place that I'll visit again. Only draw back was that trains went by twice while we were there, but as I understand it it's not common.

From TripAdvisor.com--Our man Colinsito reports that the portions are a bit small and that it's a bit formal. Others say the tapas are excellent (This includes reviews en Espanol) #14/85 of SJ restaurants rated by TA
Here's what you need: 200m Norte de Bagelmans/ Barrio Escalante
PH 2281-0541

_________________
"A man accustomed to hear only the echo of his own sentiments, soon bars all the common avenues of delight, and has no part in the general gratification of mankind"--Dr. Johnson
"Amen, brother"-ED

sorry, should have included the directions.

As for the portions being small, none of us left hungry and I thought the portions were decently sized. I didn't find it at all formal either. In fact, by my standards I would have classified it as casual dining, although it was quite nicely decorated. Not stuffy at all, and there was lots of conversation and laughter around us.

It appeared to be a pretty busy place when we were there (Friday night) so reservations might be in order. Easy to get to, but you will likely need to walk over two blocks to hit the main thoroughfare for cabs when leaving. No one appeared to be worried about walking there though.

This has also been reviewed before here on CRT, starting with DannyZee's 2005 review and most recently WiltTheStilt's 2008 review. It is also already on LikeMike's "RESTAURANTS - CRT FAVORITES - master list**". Where it hasn't been added yet, and probably should be, is the CRT VIP Map. It is real easy to find. Just head east towards San Pedro. Shortly after Avenida 2 merges with Avenida Central, you'll see Bagelmann's on your left (that is a commonly used landmark for that part of town and IS already indicated on the map). Turn left there and Olio's will be 2 blocks up on your right just as you get to the train tracks. I forget if they're located immediately before or immediately after the tracks but I THINK they're just past them on the corner. Maybe somebody can confirm that so that Archie and El S can place the icon correctly the next time they update the map (btw, the Intensa language school, a block further up on the left, and Whappin', another good Barrio Escalante restaurant around Ave. 13 and Calle 23?, should both probably be added too and El Sultan moved to the other side of Avenida 2).

Thanks to Shadowman for bumping this up and reminding us about this really great SJ dining option.