Top Restaurants in Costa Rica
Seaside lobster: Check!
Rice and beans: Check!
Caribbean fusion: Check!
Fresh-off-the-boat sushi: Check!
You crave it; Costa Rica likely has it. Costa Rican cuisine takes its culinary cues not from fiery peppers or wild meats but from the local herbs, spices, fruits, and vegetables that seemingly grow like wildfire.
In every home and restaurant kitchen, you'll find braided garlic, hanging onions, colorful bell peppers, and leafy bunches of cilantro and parsley. Salsa Lizano, a tangy sauce, is a favorite addition to traditional dishes, especially the ever-present Gallo Pinto. But Costa Rican cuisine has also gone international, and the nation's talented chefs showcase the world's dishes, ethnic favorites, and fusion cuisine in Costa Rica's best restaurants.
This selection of top restaurants in Costa Rica—also seen in the "Top Restaurants in San Jose, Costa Rica" video below—makes for a diverse dining scene and is a foodie's delight, offering a bit of this and a lot of that. San Jose was once the unofficial capital of Costa Rica's best restaurants and still provides some of our favorites. But now, everything from fine dining to deep-fried comfort has filtered north, south, east, and west spreading into almost every tourist town, beach getaway, and mountain retreat.
Read on for some notable restaurants from around the country. You will see how we set up each one for you to learn more about in the different towns and regions. We will discuss the type of cuisine, whether it is fine dining, if the restaurants are vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free, and make sure there is a good view or not.
Side note: We have some incredible travel consultants that love food and exploring the different restaurants around the country. You will see the name of the place they suggest, and then you can reach out to them to set you up for your dream vacation in Costa Rica!
San Jose Restaurants
Grano de Oro, San Jose
Type of Cuisine: European
Fine Dining: Yes
Diet Friendly: Let the staff know
Type of View: Within the Courtyard of the hotel
One of Costa Rica's finest restaurants is set within the open courtyard of this lovingly restored Victorian building. The cuisine is a fusion of tropical and European fare prepared by chef Francis Canal. The waiting staff is fully bilingual, and your experience here will rival any restaurant worldwide.
Furca, San Jose
Type of Cuisine: Steakhouse
Fine Dining: Yes
Diet Friendly: Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
Type of View: City View
One of the best steakhouses in San Jose, the head chef Marco Leiva, will ensure you have one of the best experiences in town. The freshness and the high ingredient quality make their mark in this restaurant. You will not be disappointed.
La Esquina de Buenos Aires, San Jose
Type of Cuisine: Steakhouse, Latin, Argentinian
Fine Dining: Casual
Diet Friendly: Gluten-Free Options
Type of View: City View
Argentinian Steakhouse is perfect for those that are carnivores. You will experience some of the best meats around San Jose. The side dishes are equally good, and the wine list is plenty. Many guests rave about the steakhouse, but we suggest you make a reservation.
Restaurante Silvestre, San Jose
Type of Cuisine: Latin, International, Contemporary, Central American, Costa Rican
Fine Dining: Yes
Diet Friendly: Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
Type of View: City View
If you stop here for lunch or dinner, you will not be disappointed, as chef Santiago Fernández Benedetto takes food from the sea and the orchards to you and your family. The ingredients are found in entrepreneurs worldwide who are passionate about their craft.
La Divina Comida, Escazu
Type of Cuisine: Peruvian restaurant
Fine Dining: Yes
Diet Friendly: Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
Type of View: City View
A Peruvian Fusion restaurant created by Chef Marco Antonio in 2004 will find and look for the perfect ingredient for his guest. Chef Marco is passionate about the kitchen, and it shows within the meals. We recommend a reservation at this establishment, and make sure you book 24 hours in advance.
Filippo, Escazu
Type of Cuisine: Italian, Pizza
Fine Dining: Casual
Diet Friendly: Vegetarian Friendly
Type of View: City View
Filippo is an excellent choice if you are craving wood stove pizza. However, the pizza toppings are a bit different than your typical pizza. For example, a pear and brie pizza isn't your usual pepperoni and sausage pizza. Also, the food is a bit expensive, so be prepared for that!
Restaurante Ram Luna, Aserri
Type of Cuisine: Costa Rican, International
Fine Dining: Yes
Diet Friendly: Vegetarian Friendly, Gluten Free Options
Type of Views: Spectacular View of the City
The restaurant is 6,000 feet above sea level and overlooks San Jose, and the volcanic Central Range plays a considerable role in choosing this place to eat and experience. The proprietors, Gilber and Moraima Ramirez, have managed the restaurant from 1967 until today. And in 2013, the Institute of Tourism of Costa Rica gave them "The Five Forks” in excellence due to maintaining the quality food and service dedicated to Costa Rican culture.
Cafe St. Honore, San Jose
Type of Cuisine: Cafe, European, French
Fine Dining: Casual
Diet Friendly: Ask the Staff
Type of View: City View
A little bit of French bakery in San Jose, Costa Rica, will not disappoint you. Found in the city, you will enjoy the lovely outdoor patio. Check out the large selection of pastries, coffee, and even cold drinks. It’s a great place for remote working too! So grab a quiche and some coffee; you are set.
Tin Jo, San Jose
Type of Cuisine: Japanese, Indian, Asian, Thai, Vietnamese
Fine Dining: Casual
Diet Friendly: Vegetarian Friendly
Type of View: City View
This San Jose mainstay has remained on our list for years – for a good reason. Tin Jo's talented chef whips up dishes from across the Asian continent, and the menu offers Chinese, Thai, Vietnamese, Indian, and Japanese selections. Added to the great food is the impeccable ambiance – several small dining areas that adhere to a national theme, complete with elegant décor and soothing melodies. Service can be slow during busy times, but the food is worth the wait.
Central Pacific
Samui Thai, Manuel Antonio
Type of Cuisine: Thai
Fine Dining: Casual
Diet Friendly: Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
Type of View: City Views
Experience excellent Thai Food in Costa Rica. The owner will come and talk with the table or take your order. The restaurant has a nice view, great drinks, and plentiful food. Check out the ginger fish, mummy shrimp, and basil chicken. You can never forget the yummy Pad Thai as well.
Emilio's Cafe, Manuel Antonio
Type of Cuisine: Mediterranean, Central American, Cafe, Healthy, Costa Rican
Fine Dining: Casual
Diet Friendly: Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
Type of View: Best View of the Pacific Ocean
Emilio's Cafe has one of the best views of the Pacific Ocean. Of course, you can enjoy it with a warm cup of coffee and breakfast. But you won't be disappointed if you want to see the sunset and enjoy an incredible dinner. The ambience of the restaurant alone is enough to go here. The views are the best in Manuel Antonio, but be mindful that service may be slow.
Victorias Restaurant, Manuel Antonio
Type of Cuisine: Italian, Pizza
Fine Dining: Yes
Diet Friendly: Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
Type of View: Jungle Views
Enjoy the romantic ambience with food and wine. You can enjoy several pizzas, pasta, and fantastic fish and meat dishes. The food is from the freshest local ingredients, combined with authentic Italian spices, meats, and cheeses. This restaurant is located in the heart of Manuel Antonio and across from Tulemar Resort.
El Lagarto, Manuel Antonio
Type of Cuisine: Local cuisine, Steakhouse, Latin, Costa Rican
Fine Dining: Casual
Diet Friendly: Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
Type of View: Beach and Sunset Views
El Lagarto's mouth watering dishes are so good that the restaurant recently expanded from its Samara location into Manuel Antonio. The secret to El Lagarto's runaway success is their to-die-for, slow-smoked barbecue from a one-of-a-kind, handmade grill. This is one menu that deserves to be sampled – try a little of everything, trust us! But you can't miss the chicken breast, jumbo shrimp, Portobello mushrooms, and baked potatoes. Bonus: Almost everything at El Lagarto is lactose and gluten-free.
Graffiti, Jaco Beach
Type of Cuisine: Grill, Fusion
Fine Dining: Yes
Diet Friendly: Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
Type of View: Beach and Sunset Views
Tucked into the backside of a tiny, nondescript strip mall downtown Jaco, Graffiti is as easily underestimated as its name implies. But don't make that mistake: this chic restaurant and wine bar is perhaps the beach town's most excellent eatery. The setting is decidedly casual, and the food is fantastic. We highly recommend any of the day's specials (they're artfully written on the chalkboard), which often revolve around the absolute freshest catches, right from the waters off Jaco. Be sure to sample the tuna tartare and the tropical sangria.
Jerah Tha, Jaco
Type of Cuisine: Asian, Thai, Healthy
Fine Dining: Casual
Diet Friendly: Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
Type of View: City View of Jaco
Jerah Thai is one of the best Thai restaurants in the area. The owner will come and talk with the table or take your order. The pad thai, the food, the spring rolls, the passion fruit-mint tea, and the soup were excellent. You will love the local flare, as the restaurant's vision is hip but living the "Pura Vida" life. Just an FYI, they don't take cards, so make sure you grab some colones.
Guanacaste Province
Ginger Restaurant, Hermosa Beach in Guanacaste
Type of Cuisine: Asian, Fusion
Fine Dining: Yes
Diet Friendly: Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
Type of View: Beach and Sunset Views
If you love tapas (or just love to graze), you can't miss Ginger. This small-but-sophisticated joint serves traditional tapas and their pan-Asian-inspired counterparts – snappy flavor combos guaranteed to send your palate into ecstatic overdrive. In addition, the menu offers great variety at excellent prices ($5-$13 per order), so you can sample everything your heart desires. Our favorites are the Portobello crostini, firecracker shrimp, and signature Ginger rolls.
Patagonia Argentinian Grill & Restaurant, Tamarindo
Type of Cuisine: Steakhouse, Latin, Healthy, Argentinean
Fine Dining: Casual
Diet Friendly: Vegetarian Friendly, Gluten Free Options
Type of View: Beach views
One of the top restaurants in Tamarindo, the food is fantastic. Patagonia Argentinian Grill is your place if you are a meat lover and enjoy having a cocktail at sunset. However, you will want to make a reservation, as it is a smaller restaurant. There are vegetarian options for those who are not meat lovers, and some incredible seafood. Also, save room for dessert!
Johnny Tamarindo, Tamarindo
Type of Cuisine: Bar, Seafood, International
Fine Dining: Casual
Diet Friendly: Talk with the Staff
Type of View: Beach and Sunset Views
You can pull up a lounge chair, enjoy a refreshing adult beverage during the lunch hour and have some beach time. Or you can throw on a pair of shorts and a top and enjoy that beer at sunset. You can not beat the views or the family-style atmosphere. It feels like you are at home being at Johnny Tamarindo. Just be mindful of the solicitors selling Costa Rica souvenirs to you while eating. If you are not interested, say "No, Gracias." Just be very nice, as they are trying to make a living.
Nosara
La Luna
Type of Cuisine: Local cuisine, Pizza, Seafood, Mediterranean
Fine Dining: Casual
Diet Friendly: Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
Type of View: Beach and Sunset Views
You will NOT be disappointed if you head to La Luna while visiting Nosara. You can grab breakfast while working from the "home office" and enjoy a fantastic cup of coffee. Grab the fresh ceviche and a mint lemonade if you are there for lunch. If you are there for dinner, you can share a pizza or enjoy a meat/cheese board while having a glass of wine and enjoying the beautiful sunset. If you are there during the day, it can get hot, so ensure sun protection and drink lots of water.
The Gilded Iguana
Type of Cuisine: Bar, Central American, Costa Rican, International
Fine Dining: Casual
Diet Friendly: Vegan Options, Vegetarian Friendly
Type of View: Hotel View and iguanas
Enjoy this beautiful hotel and restaurant close to Playa Guiones. It is a quick walk to the beach, so after you do a round of surfing from The Gilded Iguana Surf Lessons, a run/walk on the beach, or an evening hanging with friends. Super laid back and excellent food, drinks, and ambiance, whether you choose breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Samara
Gusto Beach
Type of Cuisine: Italian, Bar, Seafood, Mediterranean, Contemporary
Fine Dining: Casual
Diet Friendly: Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
Type of View: Sunset and beach views
Come to Playa Samara and enjoy some fantastic breakfast, lunch, or dinner at Gusto Beach. It is in the center of town and a perfect little spot for the family. Mom and Dad can enjoy drinks, and the kiddos can rent a boogie board next door and enjoy the ocean. The food is excellent, and the whole family has a wide choice of goodies to enjoy. If you hang out for dinner, you may see a fire show that you won't want to miss.
Monteverde
Morphos, Santa Elena
Type of Cuisine: Local cuisine, American, Central American, Costa Rican, International
Fine Dining: Casual
Diet Friendly: Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
Type of View: Sunsets and Jungle Views and Butterflies
You will be taken aback by the beautiful restaurant and the decorations when you first walk in. If you arrive early enough, grab an adult beverage or a coffee and enjoy the fantastic sunset. Burgers are juicy and reasonable, and don't forget the dessert, tiramisu. We recommend you hold a reservation to ensure you get that table at sunset.
Tree House Restaurant, Santa Elena
Type of Cuisine: Bar, Central American, Costa Rican
Fine Dining: Casual
Diet Friendly: Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
Type of View: A tree, just like the restaurant's name
You will not be disappointed by this fun atmosphere restaurant. The staff is super friendly, and you may be able to listen to a local musician while you are there. This restaurant is a kid-friendly spot, as the menu has everything from burgers to pizza to local Costa Rican meals. You will not go away with an empty belly.
Restaurante Celajes at Hotel Belmar, Monteverde
Type of Cuisine: Costa Rican, International, Central American
Fine Dining: Casual
Diet Friendly: Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options
Type of View: Rainforest
This restaurant is a must when you are in Monteverde! The balcony is incredible, as you are enjoying a cup of coffee with the sounds of the rainforest. The service is fantastic, and the food is just as good. It is truly a hidden gem in Monteverde, but it may not be anymore. So make sure you make reservations to enjoy the sunset and some cocktails.
Caribbean Side of Costa Rica
Restaurante Lidia's Place, Puerto Viejo
Type of Cuisine: Local cuisine, Caribbean, Latin, Central American, Costa Rican
Fine Dining: Casual
Diet Friendly: Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
Type of View: Beach View
Take a deep breath and experience this beautiful restaurant on the Caribbean Sea. It is a hidden gem, and not much surrounds it, but it is worth the find. Of course, everyone raves about the rice and beans, as they are not typical American rice and beans. However, Costa Rica adds something to those rice and beans. Maybe it is the love you feel when you head to Lidia's Place.
La Pecora Nera, Puerto Viejo
Type of Cuisine: Italian Cuisine
Fine Dining: Casual
Diet Friendly: Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
Type of View: Beach View
One of the Caribbean's most renowned restaurants, La Pecora Nera, is worthy of the hype: thoughtfully prepared and lovingly displayed Italian cuisine takes you on a culinary journey through Italy. The small menu offers delicious dishes, but we highly recommend handing the reins to the owner and chef, Ilario Giannoni. They will advise the day's specials and craft a memorable feast based on your preferences.
Arenal Area
Don Rufino
Type of Cuisine: Latin, Central American, Seafood
Fine Dining: Yes
Diet Friendly: Chat with Staff
Type of View: Town View
Don Rufino is one of the best restaurants near Arenal and the only fine dining option in town. They have some of the best seafood, cuts of meat, wines, and pasta! The service is top-notch, and you will enjoy the ambiance, the food, and the service.
*Jess Luecke review from Costa Rican Vacations.
Soda La Parada
Type of Cuisine: Costa Rican Traditional
Fine Dining: Casual
Diet Friendly: Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options
Type of View: Town View
Soda La Parada—A "soda" is a small local restaurant in Costa Rica, more or less the equivalent of a diner in the US. You will find a variety of local food at a reasonable price. The most traditional meal is a "Casado," which is considered the perfect marriage of food; rice, beans, a type of meat/fish (or egg or cheese, for vegetarians), 1-2 types of salads or vegetables, and plantains.
The Lava Lounge Bar & Grill
Type of Cuisine: Latin American
Fine Dining: Casual
Diet Friendly: Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
Type of View: Town View
The Lava Lounge has a fun atmosphere with good (and crazy) cocktails and drinks. It also serves food and it’s known to be consistent in its offerings and quality of food and service. You can try the famous "guaro sour," which is made with a local liquor called Cacique. Fun fact: Cacique is owned by the Costa Rican Government.
Bongos
Type of Cuisine: Mexican, Steakhouse, Pizza, Costa Rican
Fine Dining: Casual
Diet Friendly: Chat with Staff
Type of View: Town View
Bongos is a newer restaurant in La Fortuna with great food. It has local food that is a step above the traditional Casado. The owner also takes the time to make your experience personal.
SpecTACOlar Cantina
Type of Cuisine: Mexican, Latin, Bar, Central American
Fine Dining: Casual
Diet Friendly: Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
Type of View: Town View
SpecTACOlar Cantina is an excellent value with tasty food. It frequently has live music on the weekends. If you're looking for a place in town within walking distance of many shops, this is the place to go. From Jessica: This is a cute taco bar that my Tico friend Danny owns. The Al Pastor tacos are excellent, and the margaritas are delicious!
Heliconias Restaurant
Type of Cuisine: Costa Rican, International, Fusion
Fine Dining: Casual
Diet Friendly: Chat with Staff
Type of View: Arenal Volcano
Heliconias Restaurant, which is located in Hotel Arenal Kioro, has an incredible view of the volcano. The cuisine is good but a bit pricey. The view is worth it, though! Heliconias is about 15 minutes away from town, so it does require a taxi ride. And wherever you sit, you will not be disappointed.
Osa Area
Most hotels include all meals for our clients staying down here at Osa, so there are no locations anyone would go to or search for on either side of the Osa Peninsula for restaurants.
We hope that this list was an extensive list for you for your trip to Costa Rica. Let us know if there is anything that we can help you with and if you have your favorite restaurant that you would like to share, shoot us an email at [email protected].
We hope that this list was an extensive list for you for your trip to Costa Rica. Let us know if there is anything that we can help you with and if you have your favorite restaurant that you would like to share, shoot us an email at [email protected].
Local Experts
We live, work & travel in Costa Rica.
Tailored Travel
Every trip is designed for you.
Super Service
1000+ reviews from dazzled guests.
Ready for the trip of a lifetime? Call us!(800) 262-1578