
Lizeth Quirós, Ballena Bistro´s Smile
By Dagmar Reinhard
Liz (originally from Pérez Zeledón) used to run a coffee-ice cream parlor in Buenos Aires before coming to Ojochal in 2012. Liz is a sportswoman who loves to run, and her first concern when she arrived was if there was a women`s soccer team. She found the Playa Hermosa Futbol Sala team that used to meet at the ”Cancha Sintética” in Uvita.
In 2014 she started working at the Ballena Bistro as the right hand of the owner and chef Anja Sonnenberg. When Anja decided to seek other horizons, in April 2018, Liz grasped the opportunity to take over the restaurant. With her innate friendliness and splendid customer service, she has demonstrated being an extraordinary host and a good leader of her small operations team.

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Liz strives to maintain a varied menu that includes vegan and gluten-free options, with always fresh ingredients. Chef Priscila surprises with fusion dishes such as fish soup with coconut milk, Fish Burgers, chicken in an almond crust, or trout in passion fruit sauce. The desserts like the basil and blackberry ice cream made with coconut milk, the chocolate, and banana cakes are exquisite.
To get in tune for your order, try a ginger Margarita, or a delicious Hibiscus mojito.
We asked Liz what her biggest challenge was when she started managing the Bistro. “English” he answers immediately. Luckily Liz’s eyes speak, and her smile invites you to practice your Spanish skills. “And if all else fails, there is the telephone,” she adds. “The clients like that we speak to them in Spanish.”
The diners are a colorful mix of Costa Ricans, North Americans, and Canadians. Liz greatly appreciates the support of her clients! Two couples always come for lunch. They say they love going to Ballena Bistro because they allow them to change the menu. “We gladly accommodate our visitors’ wishes and make them feel at home,” says Liz.
Only sometimes, you will happen to see a rabbit hopping around the restaurant. It’s Luka, Liz’s pet, who usually sleeps during the day. With its nose, it seeks attention, and if ignored, it kicks at the door with its hind legs. Jenga is also part of the Ballena Bistro family. He is an amiable dog and a good host.
You see, you are going to feel at home, enjoy it, and bon appétit!
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