Carly and Eric Hara left behind a 15-hour daily routine and a hectic lifestyle in New York. Following their dream and traveling through many places, they came to Costa Rica to retire and spend more time with their children. They fell in love with Costa Ballena, and in 2018 they bought a house in Uvita.
Eric is a renowned chef from NYC. He and Carly worked in the gastronomic industry for more than a decade. Upon arriving here, they noticed the high demand for quality food at reasonable prices. So, their “retirement” did not last more than six months. They found an ideal place for Eric to keep himself busy in the kitchen. After living in Costa Ballena for a few months, they noticed ticos using “Mae” at the beginning and end of most sentences.
Realizing ‘Mae’ rhymed with the name of a chain in the US and has a similar concept, a silly and fun idea came about, Five Maes.
Five Maes emphasis is on locally sourced ingredients from dairy, to vegetables, to meat.
The burgers are made in house with 100% ground brisket.
All bacon, ham, sausage, jams and syrups are made by Eric’s team. There is something for everyone, including vegan and vegetarian options on the extensive menu.
The location of the restaurant could not be better:
On the highway, near the entrance to the Marino Ballena National Park, next to a bus stop and with ample parking at the new Plaza Pacific Pools.
Carly points out that they are not a traditional fast food restaurant. While the food may be prepared quickly the service will be like serving your family! She is helping coach the children of the local soccer club AFU with head coach Omar Rodriguez in Bahia and says that her daughter and her son have happily begun conquering the language barrier and made many friends.
Come for a delicious and unique breakfast from 7:30 in the morning or enjoy a cheeseburger and specialty fries with a milkshake for lunch!
FIVE MAES BREAKFAST & BURGER JOINT
AUTHOR: DAGMAR REINHARD
CONTACT: Carly Hara • fivemaes@gmail.com
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Email: carlos@ballenatales.com
Phone: +(506) 8946 7134 or +(506) 8914 1568
