What is a parrillada?

A parrillada is an Argentine-style mixed grill featuring various cuts of beef, sausages, and sometimes chicken or other proteins, served on a portable grill.

Are empanadas good for kids?

Yes, Argentine empanadas are hand-held pastries filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables — a perfect kid-friendly starter.

Is there a no-meat option for kids who don't like meat?

The menu is heavily meat-focused. The empanadas and some pasta or salad options may work for less carnivorous kids.

Do I need a reservation?

Recommended for Thursday through Sunday evenings. Weekday lunches can usually accommodate walk-ins.

Tenedor Argentino

Name: Tenedor Argentino
Address: San José, Costa Rica, US
Telephone: 2221 5152
Rating: 4.4

Rating

4.4(1,749)

Family of 4

USD 50-80

Duration

1-1.5 hours

Best Ages

6-17

About

Tenedor Argentino brings the full Argentine asado tradition to San José — a celebration of fire, meat, and the kind of communal eating that makes a family meal memorable. With a 4.4 Google rating and a menu built around the parrillada (Argentine mixed grill), this is the go-to spot when the family is craving something beyond Costa Rican cuisine.

The format is perfect for family dining: order a large mixed grill to share, add empanadas and chimichurri to start, and let everyone pick at the sizzling spread. Older kids and teens who enjoy meat will be in heaven. The quality of the beef and the authenticity of the Argentine preparation set this restaurant apart from generic steakhouses in the area.

Parents can browse an Argentine-focused wine list while kids enjoy freshly squeezed juices.

The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner most days, with weekend evenings being the most vibrant. Reservations are a smart move for Thursday through Sunday service. It's moderately priced by San José restaurant standards — sharing a parrillada family-style is both the most authentic and economical approach to a meal here.

Age Suitability

Infants (0-1)Toddlers (1-3)Little Kids (4-6)Big Kids (7-9)Tweens (10-12)Teens (13-17)

Parent Logistics

Stroller-Friendly

Setting

Rainy Day

Great option!

Plan Your Visit

Best Time to Visit

Lunch weekdays; dinner Thursday through Sunday

Wait Times

15-20 min on weekends

Nearby Food

Located in central San José with various dining options within walking distance.

Why Kids Love It

Older kids and meat-loving families go wild for the sizzling Argentine-style grilled meats — chimichurri, empanadas, and a carnivorous feast unlike anything at a typical Costa Rican restaurant.

Pro Tips from Parents

The parrillada (mixed grill) is the signature order — perfect for families who want to share and sample everything.
Argentine empanadas make excellent kid-friendly starters.
Wine list is excellent for parents while kids enjoy the fresh-squeezed juices.

What to Bring

Big appetites — portions are generous
Nothing special required
Reservations on weekends

Cost Info

Estimated Cost (Family of 4)

USD 50-80

Tips to Save

Lunch portions are similar to dinner at lower prices.
Sharing a large mixed grill (parrillada) family-style is both economical and fun.
Kids can share adult-sized empanadas as a starter.