8 Best Restaurants in Costa Rica

This marina spot gets busy during brunch with treats like homemade bagels with egg and avocado and rich ricotta pancakes (Bloody Mary recommended). And while they're best known for breakfast, the lunch and dinner menus are interesting, with entrees like Chinese chicken salad, tropical tacos with grilled shrimp, and dry-aged prime rib eye. Early birds can stop for a cappuccino and watch the marina and mountain views through the floor-to-ceiling glass. Inside, charming shelves of rainbow-hued books curve around the California cool retro diner booths while pura vida service abounds.

For consistently good American-style food, you can't beat this marina restaurant with a view of expensive yachts and sportfishing boats. Locals complain that the prices are high, but portions are hefty and include generous salads, sizzling hamburgers, and a delicious grilled dorado sandwich with a mountain of fries. Shrimp, sushi, and fish plates are pricier, but they couldn't be fresher, straight off the local boats. It's open for breakfast, too. While you're waiting for your order, take advantage of the free Wi-Fi.

On the road connecting Potrero and Flamingo, this beachfront restaurant welcomes travelers with cheerful decor and witty signs like “Trespassers will be offered a shot.” Water laps just a few feet from your table, and there’s a pier out back, making this a popular lunch spot for American classics like hamburgers, chicken sandwiches, BLTs, and fried shrimp. The tasty sangrias and margaritas are sure to keep you dazed during sunset. If you hook it, they’ll cook it with a side of fries for $10. Like many restaurants in Costa Rica, service is slow, but worth the wait. Kids eat free on Wednesday. The Beach House is easy to spot by the rainbow-colored picket fence; parking is limited so prepare to walk.

A feast for the senses, this plant-filled haven has coffee, smoothies, and dishes that look lovely and taste delicious. Whether you order the impeccably presented "Eggs Nest" (sous vide eggs in a nest of crispy, fried sweet potatoes) or the art-topped green matcha latte, having an enjoyable meal here is practically kismet. Don't worry about trying everything on the menu, you'll likely be back. Note that the restaurant closes early at 3 pm. 

An exuberant mix of American and Venezuelan favorites makes this breakfast spot a favorite of locals and tourists alike who come for the coffee and stay for the pillow-soft cinnamon rolls and other tasty baked goods. Make sure you try the pollo avo chachapa (a Venezuelan sweet corn pancake with shredded chicken in hogada sauce, cheese, avocado, and egg) or the eponymous guayoyo (a Venezuelan pour-over coffee), or a dirty chai latte. For the less adventurous, there are smoothies, Caesar salads, and bagels with cream cheese and homemade jelly.

While the day away listening to reggae, sipping on cold drinks, watching the surfers, and snacking on beach food. You can't beat the views or the service, and it's a great family spot owing to the large portions, good prices, and on-site ice cream parlor. American fare includes hamburgers and pizza and the casados (a plate filled with meat, white rice, black beans, and salad) are fresh and delicious. Don't miss the breathtaking sunsets.

Cool off inside or relax outside on the deck at this little gem on the beach, the perfect spot to replenish the reserves with some healthy food or a good cup of coffee while you watch surfers ride the waves. Pico has the best Wi-Fi in town, so if you must look at your computer on your vacation, do it from here.

A popular spot with expats who come for the cold beers, burritos, burgers, and pura vida vibe, The Shack successfully blends a tico menu with American and British favorites. Grab a seat under the tin roof and try the fresh fish-and-chips, heaping nachos, cheeseburgers, or coconut shrimp. Start the day with their "Tony" sandwich: fried eggs, onion, tomato, spinach, avocado, jalapeño, and cheddar cheese, along with a fresh smoothie. The Shack gimlet, with cucumber and basil, packs a powerful punch.