The 14 Best Restaurants in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

Are you looking for the best restaurants in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica?

This stunning Pacific Coast town has a huge variety of dining options. From casual beach bars to fine dining with ocean views, Manuel Antonio has something for everyone.

As a couple who lives in Costa Rica, we visit Manuel Antonio often to enjoy the nicest beaches, visit Manuel Antonio National Park, and of course to eat at all the excellent restaurants! We’ve compiled this list based on places we’ve loved and places we think you can skip.

So, let’s dive into the best restaurants in Manuel Antonio. And don’t miss our tips at the end for a seamless dining experience!

Map of Manuel Antonio Restaurants

You can also open this on Google Maps here

1. Terraza 77

This is a new restaurant located at Vista Ocean Suites. The tables are located on this nice terrace with stunning Pacific Coast views.

The restaurant is open all day (and serves all-day breakfast), but we suggest coming here for dinner.

They have an extensive seafood and fish menu including octopus, mahi-mahi, and tuna. In our experience, everything here is always well prepared and fresh.

• Price Point: $$
• Vegetarian Options? This isn’t the best place for vegetarian options.
• Takes Reservations? Yes, you can reserve a table here.
• Opening Hours: 08:00 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday – Sunday. Closed Monday’s
• Rating: 5/5 stars on TripAdvisor

Get More Info on Terraza 77

6. Rico Tico Jungle Grill

Rico Tico Jungle Grill is located on the Si Como No Hotel property, but you don’t need to be a guest to eat here. I like coming here for the nice patio setting with Pacific coast views and good food.

They have a variety of menu items, but I suggest opting for a fresh beef or fish with some side dishes.

• Price Point: $$$
• Vegetarian Options? Yes, but the selection is pretty limited.
• Takes Reservations? Yes, you can call them at +506 8769 5176
• Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Rating: 5/5 stars on TripAdvisor

Get More Info on Rico Tico

7. Ape Eclectic Social Bar

This quirky bar offers a wide range of drinks and light bites in an artsy atmosphere. The menu consists of mini plates, sandwiches, salads, tapas, and desserts. Plus, they serve an extensive list of excellent cocktails and other drinks.

This place is perfect for a relaxed evening out socializing with friends.

• Price Point: $$
• Vegetarian Options? Yes, there are plenty of vegetarian options here.
• Takes Reservations? You can call them at +506 2102 6400
• Opening Hours: 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM. Closed on Mondays
• Rating: 5/5 stars on TripAdvisor

Get More Info on Ape Eclectic Social Bar

8. Tule Cafe Restaurante

Tule Cafe is the relaxed dining option at Tulemar Resort. This outdoor restaurant with great coastal views offers a pretty standard menu of salads, meat dishes, fish and seafood, and vegetarian options.

Everything we have eaten or drank here has been amazing, the service personnel are always so nice, and the outdoor atmosphere is perfect.

This place is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

• Price Point: $$$
• Vegetarian Options? Yes, they have a vegetarian section of the menu.
• Takes Reservations? You can call them at +506 2777 0580
• Opening Hours: 6:30 AM – 10:00 PM daily
• Rating: 5/5 stars on TripAdvisor

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10. El Avion

This restaurant/ bar consists of a bar in an old Fairchild C-123 plane used during the CIA / Iran Contra. It has a unique history that you can learn about in the bar. There is also a large restaurant with ocean views located next to the plane.

I don’t think that this place is really worth visiting for food. There are so many other options in Manuel Antonio for better cuisine.

However, it is definitely worth coming here for a cocktail in the plane’s interior.

• Price Point: $$
• Vegetarian Options? Yes
• Takes Reservations? Yes, you can call +506 2777 3378
• Opening Hours: 6:30 AM – 10:00 PM daily
• Rating: 4/5 stars on TripAdvisor

Get More Info on El Avion

12. Arbol Restaurant

Arbol is like a senses explosion, in the best way possible. This restaurant is so beautifully designed and the food is top-notch. It is the perfect place for an extra special romantic meal.

The menu is designed to be a la carte, with appetizers, soups, pasta dishes, main courses, and desserts. The menu is somewhat small, but I like that. This allows them to focus on what is fresh and good at that particular time.

• Price Point: $$$$
• Vegetarian Options? Yes, they always have at least one vegetarian-friendly main course.
• Takes Reservations? Yes, you should definitely make a reservation here. This can be done on their website here.
• Opening Hours: They are open for dinner from 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM daily
• Rating: 4.5/5 stars on TripAdvisor

Get More Info on Arbol Restaurant

Other Things to Know About Eating in Manuel Antonio

• Grocery Stores: For groceries, check out Super Joseth or Super Pura Vida. Both stores have a good selection and reasonable prices. They are located on the main Manuel Antonio road.
• Manuel Antonio National Park: Keep in mind that food is not allowed in the park. This isn’t to be annoying, its actually for your safety. The monkeys can be vicious when they think you have food. They will steal your bags or try to attack you. So, leave the snacks in your hotel room.
• Sunset Views: A lot of these restaurants have stunning Pacific Coast views. Eat and early dinner around 5:15 to enjoy your meal with the sunset.
• Bug Spray: Once the sun goes down the mosquitos come out in full force here. I suggest spraying yourself with insect repellent before dining out in the evening or even bringing some bug spray with you to dinner, just in case.
• Safety: Manuel Antonio is generally really safe. However, petty theft can sometimes happen. Most of these restaurants are open air and some can be easily accessed by the street. It is always best not to leave your bag on the back of your chair or things like your phone or wallet just sitting on the table.
• Reservations: During high season, making reservations is a good idea, especially for popular spots.
• Menus: Many restaurants may not have websites with their menus. Instead, you will likely have to check their Facebook pages or visit in person.
• Food Allergies: If you have any allergies, carrying a card with your allergies translated into Spanish is helpful.
• Water: Tap water is generally safe, but buying bottled water is a good idea, just as a precaution. Large jugs can be used to refill bottles.
• Payment: Most places accept cash and credit cards. Verify beforehand and note that there are ATMs available.
• Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. Check our guide on tipping in Costa Rica for more details.
• Dress Code: Restaurants are usually casual. However, it can get cooler in the evening, so bring a light jacket or cover-up.

Check out our complete guide to Manuel Antonio for everything you need to know before visiting

Conclusion: Manuel Antonio Restaurants

In conclusion, Manuel Antonio offers a fantastic variety of dining options to suit every food interest and budget. From cozy cafes and beachfront bistros to fine dining and local eateries, this town has something for everyone.

If you have any questions about planning your trip to Manuel Antonio or need more dining recommendations, feel free to leave a comment below. We’re always here to help you plan your culinary adventures!