Situated on a hillside overlooking the San José metropolitan area, Le Monastère represents a combination of quiet reflection and full-blown festivity, expertly mixed to please all facets of the dining and nightlife spectrum.

The restaurant boasts an eclectic history. Originally the home and chapel of an elite family in the early 1900's, the buildings were later converted into a monastery for religious novitiates (of an unknown denomination). Today, the site hosts one of San José's best restaurants.

Diners can enjoy a 270-degree view, stretching from the Central Valley to the Gulf of Nicoya. The interior is decorated in European tradition with artistic marble statues, exquisite antiques and photographs that record the restaurant‚'s history. Music is played on a magnificent grand piano. The notes float through the romantic bar into the various dining rooms where guests can dine while enjoying the sparkling lights of the city below.

French and international cuisine is served by hosts attired in 19th century French monk frocks, and guests are invited to enjoy Gregorian and classical music in the renovated chapel.

Among the selection of appetizers, our guests will find classics such as Fried Camambert in Blackberry Sauce, and Bourgogne Snails in Garlic Butter , to international favorites ranging from Caesar's Salad to French Onion Soup.

Chef‚'s recommendations, like the Venison Tenderloin Flambée in Port Wine, Duck Breast in Blackberry Sauce, Seabass filet in Tarragon Cream Sauce, are featured among the many entrées, along with a variety of daily specials.

Our guests will be pleased with the fresh local fruits and vegetables that are incorporated into the menu, adding a touch of the tropics to the traditional cuisine.

A tempting list of desserts will challenge even the most calorie-conscious patron. Choose from French classics like Crème Brûlée, Crêpe Suzette, and Tarte Tatin, or from Cherries Jubille, Chocolate Mousse, Orange  Soufflé Cointreau and much more.

Le Monastère also offers a splendid variety of 300 fine wines, with whites such as the Sichel Pouilly Fuiseé, or reds that include Don Melchor and Marqués de Cáceres. The variety of French wines from which to chose from is impressive and abundant and our Maitre D‚' will be pleased to recommend the perfect accompaniment to any meal.

In he new ambiance of Cantina La Cava a medieval-style rustic tavern below the main dining room, visitors will discover the more devilish side of Le Monastère. Music and videos Monday through Thursday and Live Music Friday and Saturday nights. The newly innaugurated and cozy space entices our guests into dancing to lively rythms, with the lights of the Central Valley at their feet.

Patrons can enjoy Las Bocas de Claudio, a variety of daring appetizers named in honor of the alleged ghost Claudio said to inhabit the restaurant‚'s grounds, or choose from the lengthy and confident list of cocktails.

Le Monastère is open from 6:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Reservations are recommended and proper attire required.

Cantina La Cava is open 6:30 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. Monday through Thursday and until 2:00 a.m. Fridays and Saturdays.