Jalapeños Central: Family Restaurant Review of Norman’s Jalapeño Tex-Mex Food, Costa Rica

Jalapeños Central is rated one of the best places to eat in Costa Rica, and since we’d already partaken in a few inedible and unappetizing places, we were eager to try some really great tasting and great looking food. This restaurant delivers on both counts. Jalapeños Central with kids is an excellent choice!

► Ranking: #cleandiaper

Jalapeños Central
Mts South of Post Office 50 between avenue 3rd y 5th, Alajuela 20101, Costa Rica
+506 2430 4027
Hours: 11:30am to 9pm
(I don’t know what kind of crazy address Costa Ricans think that is, but if you map it from Google it’ll take you there)

This is a very modern, lively, colorful restaurant located in the central part of town in Alajuela that serves Mexican food. Really, really, really good mexican food. Everyone here was extremely friendly, and about halfway through the meal the owner came into the restaurant and visited with everyone patronizing it. We had a great conversation with him, sharing stories about New York City, and learning about his background growing up in Colombia. He even offered our children complimentary dessert brownies, which they loved.

We ordered the chimichanga, because if you make it, we will come, and a burrito for the kids. Every meals comes with guacamole and chips, plus beans and rice. We all devoured every morsel, and had no complaints. This was a super fun experience and we won’t hesitate to eat here again when we move here permanently.

► For Kids: Great meals for adults and kids. Not too spicy, and a great menu selection that will appease any palate. The atmosphere is laidback, casual and no one will mind if your children are being a little loud. The colorful motif will excite your kids and interest them throughout the meal.

What is your favorite Mexican food? Are you a sucker for a deep fried tasty chimichanga, or are you more of a burritoman?

► Nap-Time Version: Excellent Mexican restaurant that will leave you full and satisfied.

Check out our full list of adventures in Costa Rica!