www.CostaRicaTicas.com

Last night, I had the pleasure of dining at JR’s Rib House. I was overwhelmed by the sheer size of the “Texas Ribs” platter…over 3 lbs of pork spareribs smothered with generous portions of French fries and fried yucca…all for 7,990 Colones. The ribs were tasty, but the sauce was a bit too subtle for my taste. I ended taking half of the ribs back in a doggy bag (the remnants of my meal were enjoyed by several lovely ticas around the SL Bar this afternoon).

Surprisingly, the restaurant was empty, but I was soon joined by two other gringo couples. The menu is distinctly oriented towards Texas barbecue dishes and includes familiar fare like beef and pork ribs, barbecue chicken, hamburger, coleslaw and beans. Most of the platters include two types of fries (FF & Yucca) with other assorted side dishes available for a nominal fee.

The restaurant boasts a faux Western interior that will appeal to most gringos who hail from south of the Mason-Dixon. The bar is well-stocked with top-shelf liquor. Unfortunately, I did not catch the names of available beer because I was busy nursing a club soda. The wait staff appears to be very friendly and attentive to the needs of the customer.

JR’s can be reached by following Calle 7 north to Avenida 11. A sharp right at Avenida 11 followed shortly by another right onto a cul d’sac will get you to JR’s. JR sits about 50 yards back on the cul d’sac.

Based upon my one time experience at JR’s Rib House, I give this eating establishment solid thumbs up!

BlueDevil

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Blue Devil

Pura Vida...enjoying life to the fullest...

JR's is a favorite of mine also. They do a good job. Seems to me their hours were a little strange though.

Zebra

I ate here twice. It was very good.

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Hanging in Laurelas with the Paisas

I just ate at JR's last Friday December 9th. Food was good service was poor.

Finally checked out this place on my just completed trip, and all I can say is what a letdown. I had the babyback ribs, and they were way too dry and bland tasting. I've had much better here in the States. My novia had the chiken fajitas, which were better, but a bit too spiced up for my taste. Service and ambience were okay (I certainly didn't expect it to be such a large place), but based on this visit, I fail to see what the big deal is.

JR's can be "hit or miss" at times, but usually it's pretty good. Since discovering the ribs at Hamburgesa Factory on Central Avenida, straight down the hill from The New York Bar, that is usually where I go when I have a craving for ribs. You can get a nice rack of ribs there at a reasonable price. Lots of young, friendly and helpful people work there too.

Zebra

That is what I found. I had great ribs there once, only to turn around and get the dry over cooked ribs the next time.....not very consistent. I go to Tony Romas if I want very good consistent ribs.

is there a Romas in SJO or were you just speaking of the deliciousness of their ribs?

in Escazu......I take my guys there eveytime I visit, as it is a treat to them and I get my fill of some good ribs.....

Zebra commented:



Zebra,

I did not know Hamburguesa Factory sold ribs. What is its reasonable price for a nice rack of ribs?

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Blue Devil

Pura Vida...enjoying life to the fullest...

or what is a reasonable price for nice racks ??

BlueDevil,

If I remember correctly, the price for the rack of ribs with french fries and a soft drink was approximately 4000 to 5000 colones. They give you plenty to eat.

The place seems to be a favorite with the locals because it is usually busy.

I never was too fond of their hamburgers. I think most of the reason for this is the ketchup they use......it's the typical Costa Rican variety that someone told me lacks vinegar [certainly lacks something]. It's definitely not Heinz.

Zebra

DarkLighter,

They have some nice racks working there.

Zebra

Zebra,

Thanks for the scoop on Hamburguesa's ribs...I'll give them a try next month.

DarkLighter,

Geez...can't keep your mind out of the gutter...LOL! I believe the "racks" you are seeking are on sale at the BM...and a lot more expensive. You better make sure the chica you take back has your favorite barbecue sauce in her purse.

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Blue Devil

Pura Vida...enjoying life to the fullest...

My favorite sauce is right between her legs!! Can you say "Finger Licken Good!!" ??