Are you looking for our favorite restaurants in Drake Bay, Costa Rica?
This beautiful southern Pacific coast town offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to fine dining with stunning views. Whether you’re craving local cuisine or international flavors, Drake Bay has something to offer.
We love the remote and nature-oriented vibe of Drake Bay, so we visit this area often. From our dining experiences we’ve compiled a list of our favorite spots.
So, let’s dive into our favorite places to eat in Drake Bay. And don’t miss our tips at the end for a perfect dining experience!
Eating in Drake Bay at a Glance
- Breakfast: Nature Cafe, one of my favorite spots in town.
- Local food: Drake’s Kitchen and Marea Alta.
- Splurge: Kalaluna Bistro, with an Italian twist.
- Something special: Pura Vista Restaurant at Tranquilo Lodge.
- Drinks: DinerCraft Bar & Restaurant is our pick for a bar experience.
- Plan around tours: Options are limited in such a remote place, so plan meals around your excursions.
- Reservations: Most places don’t need them, but call ahead in high season.
- Cash: There isn’t a bank in Drake Bay, so bring some US dollars or colones.
- Water and groceries: Skip the tap water and buy a big jug to refill your bottle. Super Sante Fe in the center of town has the best selection.
- Book it: Drake Bay hotels on Booking.com and tours on Viator.
Restaurants at a Glance
Best Breakfast Place: Nature Cafe
Best Local Cuisine: Drake’s Kitchen
Best Bar Experience: DinerCraft Bar & Restaurant
Best High End and Unique Experience: Pura Vista Restaurant
Map of Restaurants
You can also open this on Google Maps here
1. Kalaluna Bistro
Kalaluna Bistro offers a fine dining experience with an Italian flair. The restaurant is run by Shirley and Fabiola, who are super kind and take their cooking very seriously. I suggest opting for a fresh pasta or seafood dish, but no matter what you order I bet you will love it!
Where to Stay in Drake Bay: Our Top Picks
Aguila de Osa Rainforest Lodge
📍 Drake Bay
A luxurious rainforest lodge overlooking Drake Bay.
Check prices →Hotel Finca Maresia
📍 Drake Bay
Comfortable, modern rooms surrounded by nature.
Check prices →- Price Point: $$$
- Vegetarian Options? Yes, just ask them and they will happily prepare a vegetarian dish for you.
- Takes Reservations? Yes, it is a good idea to reserve. You can call them at +506 6030 2615
- Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM daily
- Rating: 5/5 stars on TripAdvisor
2. Nature Cafe
I love this place so much! Nature Cafe is a charming cafe known for its fresh, healthy menu options. However, the real draw is the atmosphere. This place sits right next to the jungle where you can watch birds and other wildlife while you enjoy your meal.
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- Price Point: $$
- Vegetarian Options? Yes, there are several options.
- Takes Reservations? No, but if you need, you can call them at +506 8920 1275
- Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM (closed Mondays)
- Rating: 5/5 stars on TripAdvisor
💡 Sarah’s Tip
Most places here take cash and cards, but check before you order. Since Drake Bay is so remote, bring some colones just in case.
3. Drake’s Kitchen
Drake’s Kitchen serves up delicious local cuisine in a cozy setting. This restaurant is known for its fresh seafood and traditional dishes at a fair price point. The portions are also very generous.
- Price Point: $$
- Vegetarian Options? Yes, they have a few options including pasta, a rice dish with heart of palm, and a few salads.
- Takes Reservations? You can call them at +506 6161 3193
- Opening Hours: 5:00 AM – 9:00 AM and then from 1:00 PM – 9:00 PM daily
- Rating: 4.5/5 stars on TripAdvisor
4. Claudio’s Grill
Claudio’s Grill is a favorite for its laid-back atmosphere and tasty grill options. Here you can enjoy a variety of meats and seafood, all cooked to perfection. I think its the perfect choice for a casual meal with friends. I also love that their portions are very generous.
- Price Point: $$$
- Vegetarian Options? Yes, they have a small vegetarian menu with things like vegetarian curry and stuffed tomatoes.
- Takes Reservations? You typically don’t need reservations here. But, you can always call them at +506 6260 2974
- Opening Hours: 12:30 PM – 8:00 PM daily
- Rating: 5/5 stars on TripAdvisor
5. DinerCraft Bar & Restaurant
DinerCraft Bar & Restaurant is located on the Margarita Hotel property. This restaurant offers a vibrant atmosphere with a wide selection of drinks and elevated bar food. Their menu rotates based on what is fresh.
Typically there are a few fresh fish options, some steak choices, and a vegetarian dish. I like that they keep their menu small so they can focus on doing just a few things perfectly.
- Price Point: $$$
- Vegetarian Options? Yes, there is always at least one vegetarian option on the menu.
- Takes Reservations? You can call them at +506 7176 5965
- Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 9:00 AM and then again from 12:00 PM – 8:30 PM daily
- Rating: 5/5 stars on TripAdvisor
6. Marea Alta Bar&rest
Marea Alta Bar&rest is a great place for traditional Costa Rican food in an open-air setting with jungle views. I suggest getting a ceviche or traditional casado dish here.
- Price Point: $$
- Vegetarian Options? Yes, there are a few vegetarian options such as a vegetarian burrito and casado.
- Takes Reservations? I don’t think you need reservations here but you can always call them at +506 8335 2206
- Opening Hours: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM daily
- Rating: 5/5 stars on TripAdvisor
7. Coco Café
Coco Café is open for breakfast and then again at dinner. This place has a relaxed atmosphere and a menu full of fresh dishes. For dinner they serve pizzas, pastas, sandwiches, and salads.
- Price Point: $$
- Vegetarian Options? Yes
- Takes Reservations? I don’t think they take reservations, but you can always call them at +506 8582 8989
- Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM (closed on Wednesdays)
- Rating: 4.5/5 stars on TripAdvisor
8. Pura Vista Restaurant
Pura Vista Restaurant is located at Tranquilo Lodge. This is more than just a restaurant. Here you can book a full experience with the chance to use the hotel amenities such as the pool and spa treatment as well as a multiple course meal. If you are looking for a romantic or unique experience, this is the place I recommend.
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- Price Point: $$$$
- Vegetarian Options? Yes, just let them know when you make your reservation that you need a vegetarian meal or any other dietary needs.
- Takes Reservations? Yes, you need to reserve here. This can be done by calling +506 8484 5865. Check out their website for the various packages.
- Opening Hours: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM daily
- Rating: 5/5 stars on TripAdvisor
Other Things to Know About Eating in Drake Bay
- Grocery Stores: Drake Bay is super small, so don’t expect the best selection of grocery products. Typically, Super Sante Fe in the center of town will have the best selection of food and drink options.
- Reservations: Most restaurants don’t require reservations, but during high season, it’s wise to call ahead, especially for popular spots.
- Food Allergies: If you have allergies, definitely inform your waiter. I carry a card with my shellfish allergy translated into Spanish so I can ensure they understand me.
- Water: I do not suggest drinking the tap water here. Instead, buy a big gallon jug and refill your waterbottle as needed.
- Payment: Most places accept cash and credit cards, but it’s always good to check first. There isn’t a bank in Drake Bay, so it is best to carry some cash in US dollars or Costa Rican colones with you.
- Tipping: Tipping is not required but appreciated. Read our guide on tipping in Costa Rica for more details.
- Dress Code: Restaurants in Drake are generally casual. However, it can get cooler in the evening, so bring a light cover-up.
Conclusion: Restaurants in Drake Bay
In conclusion, Drake Bay offers a variety of dining options to suit every taste and budget. From cozy cafes to elegant bistros, this town has something for everyone.
If you have any questions about planning your trip to Drake Bay or need more dining recommendations, feel free to leave a comment below. We’re always here to help you plan your culinary adventures!
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Meet the writer
Sarah McArthur
Sarah is the co-founder and main writer of Costa Rica Vibes. Originally from the US, she has lived in San José, Costa Rica since 2016 with her husband Thomas, who takes the photos you see on this site.
Together they have been writing about Costa Rica since 2017, drawing on years of road trips, hotel stays and tours around the country. We personally vet everything before we publish it.
Follow along on Instagram · Pinterest · Substack
or join our email list for trip planning help.
Meet the writer
Sarah McArthur
Sarah is the co-founder and main writer of Costa Rica Vibes. Originally from the US, she has lived in San José, Costa Rica since 2016 with her husband Thomas, who takes the photos you see on this site.
Together they have been writing about Costa Rica since 2017, drawing on years of road trips, hotel stays and tours around the country. We personally vet everything before we publish it.
Follow along on Instagram · Pinterest · Substack
or join our email list for trip planning help.
