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15 Best Restaurants in Tamarindo, Costa Rica: All Cuisines
Are you looking for the best restaurants in Tamarindo, Costa Rica for your vacation?
This bustling Pacific Coast beach town offers a wide array of dining options for all budgets and food interests. From casual beachside cafes to high-end dining experiences, Tamarindo has it all.
We love exploring Tamarindo’s food scene because there are just so many options. However, we know that can also be completely overwhelming! So, we’ve compiled a list of our favorite spots at a variety of price points and for all cuisine types. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty breakfast, sushi, gourmet dining, or vegan cuisine, you’ll find it here.
So, let’s dive into the 15 best dining experiences in Tamarindo. And don’t miss our tips at the end for a seamless dining experience!
Tamarindo Restaurants at a Glance
- Best Breakfast Place: Waffle Monkey
- Best Italian Cuisine: Antichi Sapori Sicilian Cuisine
- Best Sushi: Wabi Sabi Sushi
- Best Vegan Options: Mother Earth Vegan Restaurant
- Most Unique Dining: HiR Fine Dining
- Best Mexican Cuisine: Little Lucha
- Best Mediterranean Cuisine: Sofia Mediterraneo Tamarindo
- Best Coffee Shop: Santa Rita Cafe
Map of Tamarindo Restaurants
You can also open this in Google Maps here
1. La Oveja Surf House
La Oveja Surf House combines a fun surf vibe with delicious food. It’s perfect for a laid-back meal with friends before or after a day on the waves. Everything is great here, but I especially love their breakfast selection. I am a huge fan of their smoothies and acai bowls.
- Price Point: $$
- Vegetarian Options? Yes, there are plenty of vegetarian options.
- Takes Reservations? You shouldn’t need a reservation, but you can always call them at +506 7041 8757
- Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 12:00 AM daily
- Rating: 5/5 stars on TripAdvisor
2. Antichi Sapori Sicilian Cuisine
This restaurant offers a taste of Sicily right in Tamarindo. Antichi Sapori is known for its authentic Italian dishes, including homemade pasta and seafood. If you are a big fan of authentic Italian food you will love this place. The cozy atmosphere and delicious food also make it the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a special night out.
- Price Point: $$$
- Vegetarian Options? Yes there are plenty of vegetarian options. If you are gluten free they also have gluten-free pizzas and pasta.
- Takes Reservations? Yes, you can call them at +506 8566 6596
- Opening Hours: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM (closed on Sundays)
- Rating: 5/5 stars on TripAdvisor
3. Dragonfly Bar & Grill
Dragonfly Bar & Grill is my favorite spot for tuna tartar in Tamarindo, but everything is typically great here. They offer a menu full of delicious options from seafood to steaks. The friendly service and fun vibe make it a must-visit.
- Price Point: $$$
- Vegetarian Options? Yes, there are a few different vegetarian-friendly salads and main courses.
- Takes Reservations? Yes, you can call them at +506 2653 1506
- Opening Hours: 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM daily
- Rating: 4.5/5 stars on TripAdvisor
4. Waffle Monkey
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Waffle Monkey! This popular spot is known for its mouth-watering waffles and great coffee. I love it because the tables are set up directly on the beach, so you can enjoy beautiful views while you eat. Plus, I never knew you could have so many different waffle toppings. I always really struggle here between all the savory and sweet choices.
- Price Point: $$
- Vegetarian Options? Yes, there are plenty of vegetarian options. The waffles can also be made gluten-free or vegan upon request.
- Takes Reservations? No
- Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM daily
- Rating: 5/5 stars on TripAdvisor
5. HiR Fine Dining
This dining experience takes place in the home of Mercedes Noam Kostucki in Pinilla (just south of Taamarindo). She is an amazing chef who will prepare you a delish 3 hour long dining experience.
She takes care to use many local ingredients and will share stories about how everything is prepared.
Just note, Mercy does not serve drinks. This is so she can focus on the food. However, she is happy to let you bring in any bottles of wine, juices, etc. that you would like.
- Price Point: $$$$ dinner is $270 per person
- Vegetarian Options? Mercy can accommodate most dietary needs. Please let her know when you make your reservation.
- Takes Reservations? Yes, you will need to make reservations. You can not just show up. You can reserve using the link below.
- Opening Hours: Dinner starts exactly at 5:15 pm. She is usually available to prepare a meal every night of the week.
- Rating: 5/5 stars on TripAdvisor
6. Wabi Sabi Sushi
Wabi Sabi Sushi brings the flavors of Japan to Tamarindo. This place is known for its fresh sushi and sashimi in a very relaxed setting. This is not a fancy restaurant. It is more along the lines of a cafe-style setting.
- Price Point: $$$
- Vegetarian Options? The vegetarian options are very limited here.
- Takes Reservations? You can call them at +506 2653 4558
- Opening Hours: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM | 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM (closed on Mondays)
- Rating: 5/5 stars on TripAdvisor
7. Little Lucha
Little Lucha offers delicious Mexican cuisine with a fun and vibrant atmosphere (get ready for the front of a VW bus that they turned into their bar). Here you can enjoy their tasty tacos, burritos, and margaritas. It’s my favorite spot for a quick bite or a relaxed dinner with friends.
- Price Point: $$
- Vegetarian Options? Yes, but it is somewhat limited. They have one vegetarian taco option.
- Takes Reservations? No, but if you need to reach them you can call +506 8723 4297
- Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM (closed on Sundays)
- Rating: 5/5 stars on TripAdvisor
8. Shaka Food
The sign at Shaka Food says “Healthy. Easy. Delicious,” and that is the perfect way to describe this place. Shake Food offers a fusion of international flavors with a focus on fresh and healthy ingredients. Some menu items include arepas, lasagna, falafel, salads, etc.
This laid-back eatery is perfect for a casual meal, with a variety of options to suit all tastes.
- Price Point: $$
- Vegetarian Options? Yes, they have plenty of vegetarian options.
- Takes Reservations? No
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM (closed on Sundays)
- Rating: 5/5 stars on TripAdvisor
9. Naans & Curries
Sometimes you just need some good Indian food in your life (at least I do). Naans & Curries definitely satisfies my cravings when I’m longing for some palaak paneer and samosas. They also serve some crazy naans including one with coconut and pistachio. It’s amazing!
- Price Point: $$$
- Vegetarian Options? Yes, there are plenty of vegetarian options here.
- Takes Reservations? Yes, you can call them at +506 2100 2188
- Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily
- Rating: 5/5 stars on TripAdvisor
10. Tabú
Tabú is the place to go if you would like a dining experience directly on the beach. I would call this place very elevated beach bar food with a Costa Rican twist.
They have an extensive selection of tapas (the tuna tartar or mahi mahi carpaccio are amazing), salads, poke bowls, and some good main dishes. Tabú also has an extensive fresh cocktail and wine selection.
- Price Point: $$$
- Vegetarian Options? Yes, but it is somewhat limited.
- Takes Reservations? Yes, you can call them at +506 2237 1439
- Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily
- Rating: 5/5 stars on TripAdvisor
11. Mother Earth Vegan Restaurant
If you are a vegan (or just enjoy vegan food), this is the place for you in Tamarindo! This restaurant is located on the beautiful Mother Earth Luxury Boutique Hotel property. They serve a variety of dishes including pasta and meatballs, Philly cheesesteak, and stuffed portabello (all vegan of course). This restaurant is also open for breakfast.
- Price Point: $$$
- Vegetarian Options? Yes, by default everything is vegan here.
- Takes Reservations? It is a good idea to reserve a table. You can call them at +506 8791 8402
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily
- Rating: 5/5 stars on TripAdvisor
12. Sofia Mediterraneo Tamarindo
When I say I think about the food here on a regular basis, I am not lying. Sofia Mediterraneo offers a vibrant dining experience on their covered patio. Just a warning, this place can get loud, so don’t come here for a quiet romantic dinner.
They serve a variety of amazing dishes with a Mediterranean flair. I’m obsessed with their smoked eggplant salad and lamb shoulder stew. It’s sooooo good!
- Price Point: $$$
- Vegetarian Options? Yes, there are a few appetizers that are vegetarian, and for a main course you can get the Middle Eastern Rice or Ravilo Stuffed with Sundried Tomatoes.
- Takes Reservations? Yes, this place is popular so it is good to reserve. You can call them at +506 4500 4222
- Opening Hours: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM (closed on Mondays)
- Rating: 5/5 stars on TripAdvisor
13. L’Estanco El Jardin Escondido
This hidden gem offers a unique dining experience with a cozy garden setting. It is so nice at night when it is all lit up.
L’Estanco El Jardin Escondido is known for its fusion of local and international flavors (there is definitely a bit of a Mediterranean flair), using fresh and organic ingredients. They also make excellent cocktails.
I think it is the perfect place for a date night.
- Price Point: $$$
- Vegetarian Options? Yes, they always have a few vegetarian options on their menu.
- Takes Reservations? Yes, you can call them at +506 6021 4545
- Opening Hours: 5:30 PM – 9:00 PM daily
- Rating: 5/5 stars on TripAdvisor
14. Jardín Tamarindo Food Truck Park
The Jardin Tamarindo Food Truck Park is the perfect place to go for a fun and relaxed atmosphere with several different food or drink options. Thomas and I often come here when we are both craving different types of cuisine.
Some of the cuisine options here are vegan food, Peruvian cuisine, and Polish pierogis.
- Price Point: $$ – $$$
- Vegetarian Options? Yes, just walk around and you’ll find several options at the various trucks
- Takes Reservations? No
- Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily
- Rating: 5/5 stars on TripAdvisor
15. Santa Rita Cafe
Santa Rita Cafe is a favorite for its fantastic coffee and delicious breakfast and lunch options. They serve things like egg dishes, salads, sandwiches, and bowls in a cafe setting.
- Price Point: $
- Vegetarian Options? Yes, there are plenty of vegetarian options.
- Takes Reservations? No
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 3:30 PM daily
- Rating: 5/5 stars on TripAdvisor
Other Things to Know About Eating in Tamarindo
- Most places take cash and credit card, but it is best to check before eating. There are a few banks in the downtown area with ATM’s if you need.
- Most restaurants in Tamarindo do not have websites. Some may have Facebook pages, but some don’t have their menu listed. You will usually have to stop at the restaurant if you want to check out the menu.
- If you have any food allergies, definitely let your waiter know. I suggest carrying a card with your allergies translated into Spanish to prevent any language-related miscommunication. As someone with a potentially deadly seafood allergy, I get it! The struggle is real.
- Tipping is not required in Costa Rica, but it is becoming more and more common. You can find out more in our guide to tipping.
- You can usually drink the tap water in Tamarindo. However, I would still suggest buying bottled water just to be on the safe side. We like to buy large jugs and just refill our water bottles as needed.
- Once the sun goes down the mosquitos can be intense. If you plan on an outdoor dinner, bring bug spray.
Conclusion: Tamarindo Restaurants
In conclusion, Tamarindo offers a diverse range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. From cozy cafes and beachfront bistros to fine dining and unique eateries, this town has something for everyone.
If you have any questions about planning your trip to Tamarindo 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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Hi! We’re Thomas (the German) and Sarah (the US-er)
We met in Virginia, moved to Germany, and since 2016 we have lived in sunny Costa Rica.
It was a spontaneous decision to move here, but it was the best decision!
Now we spend our days roaming the country to bring you the very best in Costa Rica travel here on Costa Rica Vibes.
Sarah is the writer. Thomas is the one keeping it all together.
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Sarah McArthur
Sarah McArthur is the co-founder and main writer of Costa Rica Vibes.
She is originally from the United States but has lived in sunny San Jose, Costa Rica since 2016.
She has traveled all over the country and now considers herself a self-proclaimed Costa Rica travel expert.
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