# Finding Great Brisket in Costa Rica: Why Mi Cantón Became One of My Favorite Local Restaurants
One of the things I enjoy most about spending extended time in a destination is discovering the places that become part of your routine rather than just another stop on a travel itinerary.
When I was living in the Alajuelita area for about a year, I had an apartment on a hillside with incredible views. The location itself was fantastic, although I have to admit that getting up the hill after a heavy rain could sometimes be an adventure. There were days when the roads were wet enough that my tires would remind me exactly how steep the climb really was.
Despite that, I loved the area.
Over time, I started exploring local businesses, restaurants, and gathering places. That’s when I found Mi Cantón.
From my first visit, I knew this was going to be a place I would return to regularly.
Now, Mi Cantón offers a wide variety of menu options, but for me there was one item that kept bringing me back: the brisket.
I love a good brisket, and finding one done well outside of the United States isn’t always easy. Mi Cantón consistently delivered. The flavor, texture, and preparation made it one of my favorite meals in the region, and more often than not, that became my go-to order whenever I stopped by.
Of course, the brisket wasn’t the only thing that stood out.
Their sangria deserves its own mention. If you’re someone who enjoys a fruit-filled sangria with plenty of flavor, this is a place worth visiting. Over the years I’ve shared photos and comments about Mi Cantón on social media, and the sangria often found its way into those conversations.
What really separates Mi Cantón from many restaurants, however, is the atmosphere.
The environment is relaxed and welcoming, making it equally suitable for a casual lunch, a family gathering, or a special celebration. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, meeting friends, or simply looking for a good meal, the restaurant manages to strike the right balance between comfort and quality.
Another thing I appreciated was the service.
Many times I found myself served by the same waiter who spoke excellent English and was always willing to explain menu options and make recommendations. Having someone who could answer questions and help visitors understand the menu made the experience even more enjoyable.
Every so often, the owner would also come out to greet guests and ask how everything was going. I don’t know if every visitor receives that level of personal attention, but it was a nice touch that reinforced the feeling that they genuinely care about the customer experience.
One detail that food lovers will appreciate is that Mi Cantón uses authentic wood-fired cooking. You can actually see the firewood being used, which adds a level of authenticity and flavor that is difficult to replicate. It’s one of those details that helps explain why the food stands out.
Practical considerations matter too, especially in busy areas. The restaurant offers off-street parking, which is a significant advantage because the surrounding area can become congested at times.
Looking back, Mi Cantón became more than just a restaurant for me. It became one of those familiar places that helped make Costa Rica feel a little more like home.
If you find yourself in the Alajuelita area and enjoy quality steaks, authentic wood-fired cooking, excellent service, and a relaxed atmosphere, I highly recommend giving Mi Cantón a try.
For me, it checked every box.
And if you’re wondering what to order, start with the brisket.
— Glen Graham
Travel With Glen
📍 See Restaurante Mi Cantón Alajuelita on the Travel With Glen Verified Directory
