Get FREE email communications from Fodor's Travel, covering must-see travel destinations, expert trip planning advice, and travel inspiration to fuel your passion.
Sorry! We don't have any recommendations for Guanacaste and the Nicoya Peninsula right now.
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.
If you're in the mood for something more Mediterranean head to this open-air Greek restaurant for some moussaka or the fresh catch of the day prepared Greek-style---fried whole and served with potatoes and Mykonos salad. There are gluten-free and vegan options, just ask your server. The dolmades, gyros, hummus, and falafel are authentically mouthwatering. You must try the desserts with homemade pistachio ice cream.
Sign up for Travel Tips & News
Thank you for your interest!
