Guanacaste and the Nicoya Peninsula Restaurants

Seafood and fresh fish are tops here, followed by fast food—pizza, tacos, barbecue—to satisfy the hordes of hungry surfers and beachgoers. But there are many sophisticated restaurants, too, offering Asian-fusion, Italian, French, and international cuisine, especially in the tourist-heavy beach towns of Hermosa, Flamingo, Tamarindo, Nosara, and Sámara. Many restaurants, especially tourist-oriented ones with dollar-denominated menus, do not include the 13% tax plus mandatory 12% service. By law, menus are required to show the total price including tax, but many owners flout this law. Be sure to ask if taxes are included; otherwise you may be surprised by a bill that’s 25% higher than you expected.

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  • 1. Cactus

    $

    It's easy to miss this unassuming eatery surrounded by cactus on the road to the beach, but you would be missing out on some of the area's best Costa Rican food. Starting with the humble dishes of his childhood, the chef elevates the menu with made-from-scratch corn tortillas made into tayuyás: sandwiches brimming with sweet and savory fillings like an omelet with cheese curd, ripe banana, honey, and custard, or shredded chicken spiced to perfection with avocado, tomato, and lettuce. There is also standard American fare on the extensive menu like burgers and pizza, and plenty for vegetarians. 

    Carretera Playa Avellanas, Playa Avellanas, Guanacaste, 50309, Costa Rica
    2215--3899

    Known For

    • Breakfast with ice cream
    • Mouthwatering casado
    • Great value

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed daily 3--6
  • 2. Costa Rica Sailing Center

    $$

    Relax beachside at the most laid-back yacht club you'll ever visit. There are bonfires after dark, live music, and sometimes an event like a chili cookoff or beer fest; plus, the kids can play in the pool while you enjoy a craft beer and good food. They also rent boats, paddleboards, snorkel gear, kayaks, and more to the public.

    South of Hotel Bahía del Sol Surfside, Potrero, Guanacaste, Costa Rica
    2654–6056

    Known For

    • Cold drinks
    • Sunset views
    • Sailing lessons and boat rentals
  • 3. Pots and Bowls

    $$

    Surrounded by a plethora of delightful potted plants you'll indulge in bowls of delicious, nutritious food at this eponymous eatery. The menu is divided into sweet (acai bowls, waffles with homemade caramel-fruit syrup, chia pudding) and salty (teriyaki chicken bowls, orzo miso with mushrooms, spinach, coconut milk, and goat cheese), so there's something for whatever you're craving. Tuna poke is exceptional. The charming attached store sells pots, bowls, and other sweet and unique souvenirs.

    Hwy. 933, Playa Grande, Guanacaste, 50308, Costa Rica
    4701--2394

    Known For

    • Breakfast
    • Vegan, vegetarian, and allergy-friendly options
    • Perfectly brewed coffee, cold-pressed juice, and smoothies
  • 4. Sentido Norte

    $$$

    Come for the ocean views, stay for the bounty of Costa Rican cuisine. The chef here uses local favorites like chayote and hearts of palm, as well as the usual mahimahi and tuna, in innovative and delicious ways. Try to get a sunset reservation, when the infinity pool is set on fire (yes, fire) to match the colors of the sky.

    Las Catalinas, Guanacaste, Costa Rica
    2103–1200

    Known For

    • Spectacular views
    • Sea-to-table ingredients
    • Infinity pool
  • Recommended Fodor’s Video

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