El Gran Escape…before it was a restaurant

The building El Gran Escape Bar and Restaurant has a long and storied history since it was built in the 1950’s.  Its prior lives include that of a Brothel, Social Security office and also the former location of the Cervecería or Beer Distributor, and then finally becoming El Gran Escape!

El Gran Escape…  when it was a small soda and  bar

In 1981 it was a much smaller restaurant than how we know today, with a bar and a modest fisherman’s menu of typical Costa Rican fare. In 1991, Marsha Bennett, originally from Chico, California, spoke to the owner and decided to take over El Gran Escape.

Since then the restaurant has undergone many changes. Due to the overwhelming popularity, Marsha decided buy the small carwash next door and expand. The patio area was built in 1998, adding 60 extra seats, for a total of 150. Every year Marsha and the crew take time to prepare for the upcoming rush of hungry and adventurous tourists, often remodeling when needed, and the menu even gets some sprucing up.

El Gran Escape is conveniently located in downtown Quepos and just minutes from the popular Manuel Antonio National Park.

El Gran Escape Today…

Today El Gran Escape is well known as an local Landmark restaurant, a favorite of local sand visitors alike. Our Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Celebrations are world-famous, and our menu, service, and atmosphere keep regulars and new visitors alike coming back for more.

We hope you stop in during your time in Quepos to try the best fresh fish around, or any other of our delicious, homemade dishes.