Costa Rica

Costa Rica is justifiably famous for its rich biodiversity and magnificent landscapes. It’s natural beauty and warm, welcoming people have a way of insinuating themselves into one’s soul. Interestingly, we found that many people we spoke with before our two trips disparaged the country’s food culture – a bias that we feel is completely unwarranted. We loved exploring the variety of foods on offer, and even learned to cook a variety of dishes – in both the traditional “tico” style as well as more cosmopolitan, contemporary fare.

Peace consists, very largely in the fact of desiring it in one's soul. The inhabitants of my small country, Costa Rica, have realized these words by Erasmus. Mine is an unarmed people, whose children have never seen a fighter or a tank or a warship.
Oscar Arias

Special Mention

Pesqueria Da Limonta
in San Jose

Creative seafood dishes with fresh, local ingredients served with casual, professional flair in an elegant garden patio setting. A must visit.

Our Favourites

Each of these restaurants holds a special place in our hearts. Often, it’s more than just the food itself. It’s the richness of culture, the wonderful people behind the scenes, the way a spot makes us feel at home.

Kalaluna

Arguably Drake Bay’s best fine dining spot. The chef has a tremendous range, allowing you to sample both meat and seafood dishes that will leave you very satisfied. Highly recommended.

Antojitos Mexicanos la Chilanga

The small authentically Mexican spot should be near the top of your must-visit list. There is very limited seating, but this lady’s food is off-the-charts fabulous. Just go; thank us later!

Stashu’s Con Fusion

Stashu’s combines exceptional, fusion cuisine with a great view, friendly service and a chill vibe. Order cocktails, enjoy fabulous sunset views of the bay and linger over a great experience.

Bread and Chocolate

Hands down Puerto Viejo’s “go-to” for delicious coffees, fabulous desserts (best coconut cream pie on the planet!) and generous breakfasts served up with a smile. These folks treat you like family.

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Other Great Spots:

We have eaten at each of these places, and genuinely loved our experience!

Puerto Viejo

Madre Tierra

This is another Puerto Viejo resto with a small but mighty kitchen serving up excellent food, with a second floor bar serving fun cocktails and a welcoming vibe. Definitely worth a visit.

Lidia’s Place

Lidia’s is always packed with locals for good reason. They serve some of the best Caribbean food in Puerto Viejo. Not as cheap as a soda, but certainly not pricey for the quality.

Big Burger

Because sometimes you just need a juicy burger, some crispy fries and a cold Coca-Cola for a good price. Not gonna lie, this place was a “flyer” that turned out to be a very pleasant surprise.

Cafe Rico

Off the beaten path spot, Cafe Rico serves delicious coffee and breakfasts (get the pancakes!). Perhaps most well-known for its vast book exchange and super chill vibe. Come early!

La Casita de Monli

One of Puerto Viejo’s best fine dining options, this off the beaten path spot is worth seeking out. Continental fusion flair takes locally sourced seafood to next level deliciousness.

De Gustibus Bakery

One of the top two bakeries and breakfast shops in Puerto Viejo. Situated on the road to Manzanillo, their take-away savouries and sweets sustained many a beach day. And their killer breakfasts? Just stop!!!!

Drake Bay

Marisqueria Roberto’s

We include Roberto’s for three reasons: fabulous view of the bay, the ceviche mixto with pianguas (a unique mollusc native to the Sierpe River mangroves), and fabulous fried, spiced patacones.

La Choza

A restaurant with a “soda-like” vibe, these folks serve up a variety of good Tico food and drinks at a reasonable price. Great grilled tuna; superb chifrios and killer Caipirinha – what’s not to like?

Manzanillo

Maxis

Maxis is renowned for its second floor view of the coastline and ocean, and the grilled meat dishes. Friendly service, cheap drinks and the great view make this a worthwhile visit.

Mista Cook

A family run restaurant that serves up exceptionally tasty home-style Caribbean food for very fair prices. Service is friendly and welcoming; don’t miss this gem when you visit Manzanillo.

Cool and Calm Café

Located immediately to your right as you enter Manzanillo, this open air restaurant specializes in charcoal grilled fish. The food is excellent and the vibe is super chill. Be sure to check them out.

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