Soda & Restaurante Rodríguez

Dine at a highly-rated 4.5-star local favorite in La Fortuna (Arenal). Enjoy delicious Costa Rican food, cocktails, and a charming atmosphere. Discover this gem.

Caribbean & Latin$$4.5(655)La Fortuna

About Soda & Restaurante Rodríguez

This popular La Fortuna eatery, consistently earning a 4.5-star rating, offers a delightful dining experience for visitors exploring the Arenal region. With a comfortable $$ price range, it provides generous portions of delicious, locally-inspired fare. Diners frequently praise the food's flavor and affordability, with special mention given to the refreshing smoothies. The atmosphere is uniquely charming, featuring cozy nooks and playful chalkboard art that contribute to a warm and inviting ambiance. Outdoor seating and live music add to its appeal, making it a perfect spot for groups seeking an authentic taste of Costa Rica.

📊

Restaurant Analysis

Restaurant Characteristics

Formula-Based Analysis

This restaurant has been analyzed using our formula-based system to help you understand its key features and match it with your dining preferences.

💰Price Range
Moderate
🕐Meal Time
dinner
👥Group Size
Groups Welcome
🎭Atmosphere
Outdoor
🍽️Dining Style
Flexible
Features & Amenities
Outdoor Seating
Live Music
Cocktails
Beer
+4 more

Set your dining preferences to see how well this restaurant matches your taste.

Own or manage this restaurant?

Get 5-12× more clicks with prominent CTAs, a sticky button, and a TOP badge. Starting at just $4.99/month.

Hero CTASticky ButtonTOP Badge

Ready to Book Top Tours in La Fortuna?

Browse 6 curated tour categories with instant booking & best price guarantee.

Why Travelers Love Soda &

Sourced from recent guest feedback and verified reviews.

4.5 / 5.0(655 reviews)

Delicious food, quirky charm, and friendly animals — a hidden gem in La Fortuna! We had a great meal at this local soda tucked away like a little maze, with cozy nooks and hidden corners where you can sit and enjoy your food. The atmosphere is super charming, with chalkboard messages scattered throughout, giving it a warm and playful vibe. The food was generous, tasty, and very affordable, and the smoothies were especially delicious—fresh and refreshing! One of the highlights for our family was spending time with the friendly pets: two cats, a dog, and even a large pig wandering around the property! It gave the whole experience a relaxed, homey feel that our kids absolutely loved. This place is definitely a hidden gem in La Fortuna — local, welcoming, and full of personality. Highly recommended for anyone looking for something a little off the beaten path with great food and good vibes! We loved everything about this local family owned restaurant! Walking through the signs was so much fun and very unique! We got to make our own sign which was really cool! The food was perfect. All local fresh ingredients. We got to meet Mama and she was the sweetest! Don’t skip on this place! So glad we went because it has been one of our favorite experiences. Oh and the margaritas are amazing! One of the best places we ever visited. It is very special and magical. And what makes it unforgettable is people and animals. The owner and her family are just the nicest, sweetest people that in addition to having this place, also rescue animals. We enjoyed the interactions with both humans and animals tremendously as well as delicious food. My daughter also got to paint her own wooden plaque that they will hang in the restaurant. We enjoyed a company of 3 friendliest cats and 4 dogs. When we got downstairs we met a very cute and happy piggie. It was an experience we will never ever forget.

Find the Restaurant

Where to Find Them

300m Norte de el Parque Central de, Barrio Sinai, Provincia de Alajuela, La Fortuna, 21007, Costa Rica

View on Google Maps

Opening Hours

Closed Now
Monday11:30 AM – 8:30 PM
Tuesday11:30 AM – 8:30 PM
Wednesday11:30 AM – 8:30 PM
Thursday11:30 AM – 8:30 PM
Friday11:30 AM – 8:30 PM
Saturday11:30 AM – 8:30 PM
SundayClosed

Recent Reviews

Stephane L.

July 27, 2025

Delicious food, quirky charm, and friendly animals — a hidden gem in La Fortuna! We had a great meal at this local soda tucked away like a little maze, with cozy nooks and hidden corners where you can sit and enjoy your food. The atmosphere is super charming, with chalkboard messages scattered throughout, giving it a warm and playful vibe. The food was generous, tasty, and very affordable, and the smoothies were especially delicious—fresh and refreshing! One of the highlights for our family was spending time with the friendly pets: two cats, a dog, and even a large pig wandering around the property! It gave the whole experience a relaxed, homey feel that our kids absolutely loved. This place is definitely a hidden gem in La Fortuna — local, welcoming, and full of personality. Highly recommended for anyone looking for something a little off the beaten path with great food and good vibes!

Patsy C.

October 15, 2025

We loved everything about this local family owned restaurant! Walking through the signs was so much fun and very unique! We got to make our own sign which was really cool! The food was perfect. All local fresh ingredients. We got to meet Mama and she was the sweetest! Don’t skip on this place! So glad we went because it has been one of our favorite experiences. Oh and the margaritas are amazing!

Anya G.

September 7, 2025

One of the best places we ever visited. It is very special and magical. And what makes it unforgettable is people and animals. The owner and her family are just the nicest, sweetest people that in addition to having this place, also rescue animals. We enjoyed the interactions with both humans and animals tremendously as well as delicious food. My daughter also got to paint her own wooden plaque that they will hang in the restaurant. We enjoyed a company of 3 friendliest cats and 4 dogs. When we got downstairs we met a very cute and happy piggie. It was an experience we will never ever forget.

Joel C.

September 10, 2025

A Hidden Gem for Animal Lovers and Foodies Alike! What an unforgettable experience! If you're a pet lover, this place is an absolute must-visit. From the moment we arrived, we were warmly welcomed by friendly locals and quickly seated. The staff took the time to explain the day’s menu, and not long after, our delicious food was served. While we waited, we were greeted by a few adorable dogs and cats that added so much charm to the atmosphere. If animals aren’t your thing, don’t worry—the owner is more than happy to keep them away. But if you're like us and offer a treat or two, prepare to be showered with furry affection! The food itself was incredible—fresh, hearty, and full of homemade flavor. It reminded me of my grandma’s cooking: simple, comforting, and made with love. If you're expecting upscale dining with cocktails and steakhouse vibes, this might not be your scene. But if you're looking for a cozy, down-to-earth spot filled with personality, local flavor, and the warmth of Costa Rican hospitality, I can’t recommend this place enough. The charming décor, pet-friendly vibe, and genuine service make it a standout experience.

Kathryn S.

November 12, 2025

What a find!!! I found this place on Reddit (R/CostaRicaTravel) and I am so happy we went! Fantastic atmosphere, really good food, and the staff were so kind. The cats and the dog we met were the sweetest!! One cat in particular was with us the whole meal, but she added to the experience of us making sure she didn’t hop on the table 😅 she was a very nice cat!

What to Expect

Features and amenities that make Soda & special

Outdoor Seating

Live Music

Cocktails

Beer

Coffee

Family Friendly

Groups Welcome

Reservations

Practical Information

Everything you need to know before you visit

Payment Options

Credit Cards
Debit Cards

Parking

Free Parking Lot

Accessibility

Wheelchair Accessible Seating

Make It a Full-Day Experience in La Fortuna

Pair your reservation at Soda & with unforgettable tours in La Fortuna. From sunset sails to culinary adventures, our AI curates the best ways to explore the island like a local.

Other Popular Restaurants in La Fortuna

Build your own culinary trail—save these spots for future nights out in La Fortuna.

Steakhouse & Grill

Travesía Restaurant

Experience exceptional dining in La Fortuna (Arenal) with a 4.9-star rating. Enjoy delicious steaks and a vibrant atmosphere. Reserve your table today!

4.9$$Steakhouse & Grill · Caribbean & Latin
View Restaurant
Caribbean & Latin

Acacia Restaurante

Experience exceptional dining in La Fortuna (Arenal) at Acacia Restaurante, rated 4.9 stars. Enjoy delicious food and stunning volcano views. Reserve your table.

4.9$$Caribbean & Latin
View Restaurant
Caribbean & Latin

Arenal Bongos 3

Experience exceptional dining in La Fortuna (Arenal) at this highly-rated restaurant. Enjoy delicious food and a lively atmosphere. Discover a local gem with a 4.8/5 rating.

4.8$$Caribbean & Latin
View Restaurant
Caribbean & Latin

SODA El Turnito

Discover SODA El Turnito in La Fortuna (Arenal), a highly-rated ($) local eatery. Experience authentic Costa Rican dining. Sample delicious food and drinks.

4.8$Caribbean & Latin
View Restaurant
Caribbean & Latin

Tierra Mia Restaurante

Experience 4.8-star dining in La Fortuna (Arenal). Discover flavorful dishes, friendly service, and a lovely atmosphere at this highly recommended restaurant.

4.8$$Caribbean & Latin · Steakhouse & Grill
View Restaurant
Steakhouse & Grill

La Street Bistro

Experience La Fortuna's top-rated dining at this popular bistro. Enjoy delicious food and cocktails with a 4.8/5 rating. Perfect for groups and outdoor seating.

4.8$$Steakhouse & Grill · Caribbean & Latin
View Restaurant
Steakhouse & Grill

MARY’S BBQ • La Fortuna Lounge & Grill

Dine at a top-rated La Fortuna (Arenal) BBQ spot. Enjoy exceptional food, cocktails, and great vibes. 4.8 stars! Book your table.

4.8$$Steakhouse & Grill · Seafood
View Restaurant
Steakhouse & Grill

SelvaRustica By Perla

Experience exceptional dining at SelvaRustica By Perla in La Fortuna (Arenal). Enjoy a 4.7-star experience with fresh, local ingredients. Book your table!

4.7$$Steakhouse & Grill · Seafood
View Restaurant
Caribbean & Latin

El Chante Verde

Experience a 4.7-star gem in La Fortuna (Arenal). Discover delicious, fresh cuisine with diverse vegetarian and vegan choices. Perfect for any occasion.

4.7$$Caribbean & Latin · Vegetarian & Vegan
View Restaurant
Seafood

Casa Fortuna, Restaurante Familiar.

Dine at this highly-rated 4.7-star family restaurant in La Fortuna (Arenal). Experience exceptional service and delicious food. Visit today!

4.7$$Seafood · Caribbean & Latin
View Restaurant
Caribbean & Latin

Cafetería y Restaurante Rain Forest Arenal

Discover delicious food and amazing coffee in La Fortuna (Arenal) with a 4.7-star rating. Friendly service and quick bites await.

4.7$$Caribbean & Latin
View Restaurant
Italian

Italianissimo La Fortuna

Savor authentic Italian cuisine in La Fortuna (Arenal) at Italianissimo. With a 4.6-star rating, enjoy delicious pasta, pizza, and more. Reserve your table!

4.6$$Italian
View Restaurant
Italian

Don Rufino

Experience exceptional dining in La Fortuna (Arenal) at this acclaimed restaurant. With a 4.6-star rating, discover exquisite flavors.

4.6$$Italian · Seafood
View Restaurant
Italian

Que Rico Arenal Restaurante

Experience authentic Italian dining in La Fortuna (Arenal) at Que Rico Arenal. Enjoy a 4.6-star rated meal with generous portions and great cocktails.

4.6$$Italian
View Restaurant
Caribbean & Latin

Mercadito Arenal

Discover La Fortuna's vibrant food scene! This popular spot boasts a 4.6-star rating with diverse options. Enjoy delicious pizza, sushi, tacos, and more.

4.6$$Caribbean & Latin · Asian
View Restaurant
Steakhouse & Grill

Restaurante El Novillo del Arenal

Dine at a top-rated La Fortuna (Arenal) restaurant with a 4.6-star rating. Enjoy delicious food and great service. Discover this local favorite.

4.6$$Steakhouse & Grill · Caribbean & Latin
View Restaurant
Caribbean & Latin

Soda la Hormiga

Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at this La Fortuna (Arenal) gem. Enjoy delicious, budget-friendly meals with a 4.5-star rating. Experience fresh drinks and satisfying plates.

4.5$Caribbean & Latin
View Restaurant

View All Restaurants in La Fortuna

Explore every curated dining spot we recommend across the island.

Browse the list

Ready to Explore La Fortuna?

Discover the best tours, activities, and restaurant picks with AI-powered recommendations tailored just for you.

Plan Your La Fortuna Trip

From transportation to stays, we help you build a complete itinerary around this must-visit restaurant in La Fortuna.

Transportation Tips

Walking is perfect for exploring the town center. Organized tours include transportation to activities and attractions.

Car Rental Deals in La Fortuna

Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.

Where to Stay

Find the perfect accommodation for your La Fortuna adventure. From luxury beachfront resorts to boutique hideaways, we highlight the best basecamps for food lovers.

Best Hotel Deals in La Fortuna

Discover top-rated hotels with exclusive rates and special offers on Trivago USA.