It serves fresh seafood — tuna tartare, seared tuna, red snapper, lobster appetizers, ceviche and seafood pasta stand out — with beachside seating and Pacific Ocean views. Service is generally friendly and helpful, though guests report occasional reservation and seating hiccups, slow or forgetful service and uneven cocktails.
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Bar
- Coffee
- Vegetarian options
- Vegan options
- Outdoor seating
- Accepts reservations
- Parking
- Kid friendly
- Pet friendly
- Wheelchair accessible
Mapache is a small Italian-style bakery-cafe serving freshly made pizzas with creative toppings, pastries, and strong coffee, plus a lively cocktail list including espresso martinis and spritzes. The atmosphere is breezy and relaxed with comfortable seating for lingering, and the staff are friendly and attentive. Hours can be limited, so check opening times.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Bar
- Coffee
- Parking
Gusto serves Italian-leaning, seafood-focused dishes and cocktails, with notable plates like pistachio-crusted tuna, Polpo alla Genovese, Amatriciana, spaghetti alle vongole and tiramisu. The beachfront, elegantly lit setting offers ocean views, music and occasional fire shows, and staff are attentive and event-ready, though some dishes are noted as occasionally too salty.
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Bar
- Coffee
- Vegetarian options
- Vegan options
- Outdoor seating
- Live music
- Accepts reservations
- Parking
- Kid friendly
- Pet friendly
- Wheelchair accessible
Kalimba serves varied, well-prepared dishes—seafood pasta, ribeye, Thai baby back ribs, meatballs and focaccia—paired with fresh cocktails and a solid wine list. The setting above the pool amid trees creates a relaxed, intimate atmosphere, and the staff are attentive; reservations are advisable on busy weekends.
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Bar
- Coffee
- Vegetarian options
- Outdoor seating
- Live music
- Accepts reservations
- Parking
- Pet friendly
- Wheelchair accessible
Mar y Fuego offers wood-fired pizzas (notably large), fresh ceviche, house-made ravioli and seafood tacos, paired with a solid cocktail selection. The atmosphere is lively with acoustic live music and a vibrant, friendly staff; service is attentive and the place fills up, so reservations are recommended.
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Bar
- Coffee
- Vegetarian options
- Outdoor seating
- Live music
- Accepts reservations
- Parking
- Kid friendly
- Pet friendly
- Wheelchair accessible
Samara Brewing Company & Mexican Cocina serves authentic Mexican dishes made with fresh ingredients, with patacones, margaritas and house beers often singled out. The spot has a relaxed, community-oriented atmosphere beneath large trees, and the staff are friendly and attentive, creating a warm, welcoming experience.
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Bar
- Coffee
- Vegetarian options
- Outdoor seating
- Live music
- Accepts reservations
- Wi-Fi
- Parking
- Kid friendly
- Wheelchair accessible
- LGBTQ+ friendly
Masala serves flavorful Indian dishes—garlic naan, tikka masala, lamb rogan josh, lamb kebabs and coconut chicken are frequently praised—with reasonable drink prices. The small, beach-adjacent dining room offers a calm, music-filled, rustic atmosphere; service is usually friendly and personable, though occasional slow or inattentive moments are reported.
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Delivery
- Bar
- Vegetarian options
- Accepts reservations
- Wi-Fi
- Parking
- Kid friendly
Ahora Sí! serves hearty, authentic Italian dishes—notably fresh-made pasta and gnocchi—with generous portions. The small, family-run dining room feels relaxed and air-conditioned, and staff are warm and attentive, though guests may wait a bit for freshly prepared pasta.
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Delivery
- Bar
- Coffee
- Vegetarian options
- Vegan options
- Outdoor seating
- Accepts reservations
- Parking
- Kid friendly
- Pet friendly
- Wheelchair accessible
- LGBTQ+ friendly
Samara Wok serves consistently authentic, freshly cooked Thai and Pan-Asian dishes—Pad Thai, Pad Kee Mao, massaman curry, Singapore noodles and prawn fried rice are common picks—and can easily adapt meals for vegetarians and vegans. The setting is humble and relaxed with a handful of seats, good music and warm, accommodating service; it opens only in the evenings.
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Delivery
- Vegetarian options
- Vegan options
- Parking
- Wheelchair accessible
La Casita de Mr. Warner offers fresh, generous plates of Costa Rican classics and seafood — fish and shrimp tacos, grilled red snapper, and gallo pinto — often with smoothies at reasonable prices. The small family-run soda has a relaxed, friendly atmosphere and attentive service, though it operates on cash or Sinpe only.
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Coffee
- Outdoor seating
- Parking
Amor de Mamá serves fresh, authentic Costa Rican dishes—ceviche, chifrijo, gallos, fish fillets, patacones and arroz con leche—in a casual spot with outdoor seating available. The staff are pleasant and menus are in English, though servers sometimes speak only Spanish, and prices are generally affordable.
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Bar
- Coffee
- Vegetarian options
- Vegan options
- Accepts reservations
- Wi-Fi
- Parking
- Kid friendly
- Pet friendly
- Wheelchair accessible
- LGBTQ+ friendly
Samara Sushi serves fresh, well-presented sushi—popular Mango and Manhattan rolls—alongside dishes like Korean barbecue ribs, teriyaki beef tenderloin, fried tofu and vegan options, with a solid drinks and wine selection. The dining room offers a fun, coastal vibe with swing seats and views, and staff are friendly and accommodating, including for allergies.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Delivery
- Bar
- Vegetarian options
- Vegan options
- Outdoor seating
- Accepts reservations
- Parking
- Kid friendly
Rincón Mochilero serves home-style casados and simple breakfasts or lunches, typically a protein (chicken, pork, or fish) with four fresh sides at very reasonable prices. The cafeteria-style spot maintains a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere with friendly, helpful staff who are personable and accommodating.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Delivery
- Outdoor seating
- Parking
- Wheelchair accessible
Frog serves fresh, organic breakfast fare with standout items such as a chia bowl with homemade granola, avocado toast, eggs Benedict and raw-honey coffee, plus energizing ginger shots. The tiny, homey cafe feels relaxed with birds in the trees, and the staff and owners are attentive, knowledgeable and personable.
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Takeaway
- Bar
- Coffee
- Vegetarian options
- Vegan options
- Accepts reservations
- Parking
- Kid friendly
- Pet friendly
- Wheelchair accessible
- LGBTQ+ friendly
La Dolce Vita offers seafood, pizza, grilled dishes and cocktails, with ceviche, mixed grill and notable gin cocktails frequently mentioned. The beachfront setting, live music and dog-friendly vibe create a lively, scenic atmosphere, but service and billing are reported as inconsistent and prices tend to be high.
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Bar
- Coffee
- Outdoor seating
- Live music
- Accepts reservations
- Wi-Fi
- Parking
- Kid friendly
- Pet friendly
- Wheelchair accessible
The restaurant serves simple, tasty Costa Rican fare—especially casados (pollo en salsa), fresh jugos, and chorreador coffee—at reasonable prices. Staff are friendly and the atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly, though a single cook and kitchen delays sometimes lead to long waits.
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Delivery
- Coffee
- Parking
- Wheelchair accessible
Malibú Restaurante serves hearty Costa Rican and seafood dishes—casado, arroz con camarones, ceviche and garlic octopus are frequently highlighted—and offers sangria at fair prices. The setting is a relaxed, local outdoor spot with friendly staff, though service can be slow and occasional inconsistencies in preparation are reported.
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Delivery
- Bar
- Coffee
- Outdoor seating
- Parking
- Kid friendly
- Pet friendly
- Wheelchair accessible
Mercadito Playa Samara is an outdoor market-style food court with about ten casual shacks and a full bar, serving dishes ranging from curry chicken with naan and burgers to empanadas, poke and frozen yogurt. The atmosphere is lively and laid-back with frequent live music; vendors are friendly and hands-on, though seating is communal and sometimes unclear.
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Bar
- Coffee
- Outdoor seating
- Live music
- Parking
The Emerald House serves generous, flavorful dishes like pescado with avocado sauce, filet mignon and chicken casado, and maintains a warm, cozy atmosphere with music. Service is attentive and friendly.
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Bar
- Coffee
- Outdoor seating
- Live music
- Accepts reservations
- Wi-Fi
- Parking
- Kid friendly
- Pet friendly
- Wheelchair accessible
Limey's serves consistently well-seasoned, generous portions of pub and Costa Rican fare—seafood like fish and chips, seabass casado and ceviche—and a lineup of cocktails and happy-hour offerings. The vibe is lively and sports-bar casual with TVs and outdoor seating, and staff are friendly though service can be slow at times.
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Bar
- Coffee
- Outdoor seating
- Live music
- Accepts reservations
- Wi-Fi
- Parking
- Kid friendly
- Wheelchair accessible
Sushi Samarai serves fresh, beautifully presented rolls; the Dinamita roll is a popular spicy option, and portions are generous. The atmosphere feels warm and inviting, and staff are attentive and helpful with local recommendations.
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Bar
- Accepts reservations
- Parking
- Wheelchair accessible
The restaurant serves grilled steaks and seafood, with ribeye, beef tenderloin and red snapper often highlighted for their tender, well-cooked preparation. It sits on the beachfront with a relaxed, classy atmosphere ideal for sunset dinners, and staff are generally friendly and attentive, though service can be slow at busy times.
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Bar
- Coffee
- Vegetarian options
- Vegan options
- Outdoor seating
- Accepts reservations
- Wi-Fi
- Parking
- Kid friendly
- Pet friendly
- Wheelchair accessible
- LGBTQ+ friendly
The restaurant serves hearty dishes such as rice and beans that stay flavorful even to go. It provides a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere with a pleasant view, and staff are accommodating and attentive while keeping prices reasonable.
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Bar
- Coffee
- Parking
- Pet friendly
- Wheelchair accessible
Mr. Pelicano focuses on fresh seafood—tuna in sashimi, tacos and burgers, fish tacos and a mahi‑mahi coconut curry are frequent highlights—along with octopus and a solid craft beer and cocktail list. The vibe is casual and welcoming with consistently friendly service, though vegetarian/vegan options sometimes come across as underseasoned.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Bar
- Coffee
- Vegetarian options
- Vegan options
- Outdoor seating
- Live music
- Accepts reservations
- Parking
- Wheelchair accessible
Curry Shack serves authentic, flavorful Indian curries — butter chicken, red curry and fresh vegetable dishes — with freshly made naan and good value. The rustic beach‑town spot offers quick, attentive service but can get busy with occasional waits and operates cash-only.
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Parking
Falafel Cafe serves fresh, flavorful Mediterranean-style plates and wraps, including falafel and chicken options, with pita, sauces, sides and fresh juices, appealing to vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. The small, casual spot offers friendly, accommodating service, a shaded porch with fans and a resident dog, and gets busy during peak times so arriving early helps.
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Delivery
- Coffee
- Vegetarian options
- Vegan options
- Outdoor seating
- Parking
- Pet friendly
Las Olas sits right on the beach, creating a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere with sand seating, sunset views, live nights and visiting wildlife. The menu offers fresh, flavorful dishes, generous portions and large cocktails, and staff are friendly, attentive and accommodating (including gluten-free needs); a few dishes are occasionally inconsistent.
- Takeaway
- Bar
- Outdoor seating
- Live music
- Accepts reservations
- Wi-Fi
- Parking
- Pet friendly
- Wheelchair accessible
- LGBTQ+ friendly
El Ancla is a casual beachfront restaurant serving generous seafood and local dishes—popular items include shrimp in coconut sauce, Filet de Pescado al Ancla, tuna tartare and ceviche, with smoothies and desserts praised. The vibe is relaxed with sunsets and live music; staff are friendly and helpful, though service can be slow when busy and parking is sometimes limited.
- Takeaway
- Bar
- Outdoor seating
- Live music
- Accepts reservations
- Parking
- Pet friendly
- Wheelchair accessible
Pizza Paraíso offers pizzas and standout shrimp, pork and brisket tacos that get consistent praise, while opinions on pizza vary — some like the meat‑lover Che, others find pies bland or pricey. The tucked‑back location has a lively, sometimes noisy atmosphere; staff are friendly and takeout or delivery is popular, with service starting at noon.
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Delivery
- Bar
- Parking
- Wheelchair accessible
KIWI fast casual saladbar serves fresh, healthy salads, bowls and unique smoothies, often featuring house-made dressings and kombucha. The atmosphere is warm and family-friendly, with a shaded patio and a small kids' play area, and the staff are attentive and welcoming. Prices are reasonable for the quality.
- Lunch
- Bar
- Coffee
- Vegetarian options
- Vegan options
- Outdoor seating
- Parking
- Kid friendly
- Pet friendly
- Wheelchair accessible
This small beachfront bar and grill focuses on fresh seafood like grilled fish, shrimp and fish-and-chips, served at reasonable prices. The atmosphere is relaxed and rustic with sand seating and sunset views, and the owner and staff are friendly, though service can be leisurely at times.
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Bar
- Coffee
- Outdoor seating
- Accepts reservations
- Parking
- Pet friendly
- Wheelchair accessible
Vino Sin Vergüenza offers handcrafted paninis, a curated wine and beer list, sangria and a selection of cheeses. The small, laid-back neighborhood bar provides a cool respite from the sun with friendly owner service and attractive happy-hour deals.
- Lunch
- Takeaway
- Delivery
- Bar
- Coffee
- Outdoor seating
- Live music
- Wi-Fi
- Parking
- Wheelchair accessible
The restaurant offers a pleasant, well‑decorated atmosphere and a menu centered on pizzas and pastas with generous portions. Service is often slow and staff behavior can be inconsistent, and diners report higher prices despite generally decent food.
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Bar
- Coffee
- Outdoor seating
- Accepts reservations
- Parking
- Kid friendly
- Wheelchair accessible
Kijongo Pub serves fresh, flavorful Latin American dishes—popular choices include poke bowls, ceviche, casados and tuna steak—with generous portions, smoothies and a solid cocktail/happy-hour menu. The upstairs, ship- or treehouse-like dining area with swinging seats and street views creates a breezy, relaxed atmosphere, and staff are friendly, English-speaking and attentive; it can get busy, so waits sometimes occur.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Delivery
- Bar
- Coffee
- Vegetarian options
- Vegan options
- Accepts reservations
- Parking
- Kid friendly
- Pet friendly
- Wheelchair accessible
Microbar Samara serves creative cocktails like the Guaro Sour and coffee-infused Valle Central alongside a rotating selection of distinctive craft beers. The cozy, lively space features games and unique décor, with friendly staff and small tapas and wings that pair well with happy hour deals.
- Bar
- Outdoor seating
- Parking
- Pet friendly
- Wheelchair accessible
Mar y Tierra in Sámara serves fresh, well-presented dishes, with a complimentary appetizer and nicely plated entrees that stand out; the atmosphere is casual, though lighting can feel bright. Service is friendly and professional but can be slow and inefficient, leading to long waits on busy nights.
- Wheelchair accessible
- LGBTQ+ friendly
Sazón Costarricense serves traditional Costa Rican country food with generous portions and fresh, lightly seasoned flavors; casados (beef, chicken, vegetarian), chalupas, and fish tacos are frequent standouts, and handmade corn tortillas are a highlight. The open-air Mercadito setting feels lively, especially with evening music, and the staff is fast, friendly and accommodating to dietary requests.
A Mozzarella Pizza serves wood‑fired, thin yet chewy crust pies with fresh toppings—popular choices include pepperoni, blue cheese combinations, rustica and vegan options. The casual food‑court/mall setting suits groups and takeout, staff are friendly and service is quick, and pies hold up well for to‑go trips.
- Wheelchair accessible
- LGBTQ+ friendly
The small, upstairs hole-in-the-wall serves tasty seafood, ceviche, burgers and tacos at good value, with a casual, fast-food-style atmosphere connected to a bar. Service is friendly and flexible but can be slow at times when staffing is limited.
Casa 4 serves freshly made Argentine empanadas with thin, flavorful crusts and well-stuffed fillings—including vegetarian and vegan options—and also offers locally roasted coffee. The small courtyard setting is relaxed and occasionally features live music; staff are friendly and empanadas are made to order (so there can be a short wait), and some note modest size and recent price increases.
Comida Tipica serves fresh, affordably priced Costa Rican dishes—especially casado and chifrijo with juicy pork, homemade tortilla chips and pickled pickled vegetables—in generous portions. The tiny mercadito stall is a one-man, made-to-order operation run by a former Four Seasons chef who is friendly and accommodating, including vegan options.
Burger Window serves fresh, old-school American-style burgers with brioche buns, generous portions, bacon and caramelized onions, and offers patio seating with occasional live acoustic music. The tucked-away spot delivers reliably tasty, greasy burgers, though staff can be inflexible about substitutions or dietary accommodations.
Pablito's serves affordable, traditional Tico fare in an open-air rancho on Sámara beach; standout dishes include whole pargo and juicy ribs, and cold beers often come with a free soup. The spot has a friendly, local dive-bar atmosphere with good service and simple, unfussy presentation (ask for salsa and limón for the salad).
- Wheelchair accessible
Sweet Dreams serves creamy gelato and sorbets with standout flavors like Dubai chocolate, cinnamon, and playful options such as spaghetti ice cream, plus occasional treats like crumble cake. The small shop feels warm and welcoming, with friendly, passionate owners and staff who chat with guests. Popular flavors sometimes sell out, reflecting high demand.
- Wheelchair accessible
- LGBTQ+ friendly
The menu ranges from breakfast pancakes to seafood and bruschetta; the food is generally well received though some dishes can be uneven and many entrées come with fries and raw vegetable sides. The dining area is quaint and clean, staff are friendly and prompt, and non‑guests are welcome to dine.
- Wheelchair accessible
- LGBTQ+ friendly
Roots Bakery & Café serves a variety of pastries and hearty café dishes, with lemon blueberry scones, cinnamon rolls, the club sandwich, and a breaded chicken burger frequently highlighted. The shop has a casual, breakfast-friendly vibe and generally prompt counter service, though it can slow during busy times; parking and Wi‑Fi may be limited.
- Wheelchair accessible
Ono Poke & Sushi serves fresh, generous poke and kale bowls, with the Chef's bowl featuring lots of tuna and large portions at reasonable prices. Its casual food-court location near the beach makes it convenient for takeout and sunset meals, and staff are friendly and accommodating with dietary needs.
Cos-Ita serves authentic Roman-style pizzas with light, airy or sourdough crusts, fresh sauce and cheese, plus simple antipasti. The rustic, twinkle-lit outdoor atmosphere and Italian-speaking staff create an authentic vibe, while service is attentive though takeout can involve longer waits and outdoor seating may feel humid on the unpaved street.
- LGBTQ+ friendly
Tapioca Bar serves homemade wraps, honey cakes and a range of crafted drinks — especially bubble teas with soft, chewy pearls, ginger‑spearmint lemonade and iced coffee with tapioca — all with balanced, fresh flavors. The atmosphere is clean and relaxed, and the staff are friendly and attentive, showing care in presentation and detail.
Edda's offers a variety of home-style dishes such as casado and simple bottled juices, with generally good, familiar flavors; a few guests mention occasional pricing or coffee-charge confusion. The atmosphere is relaxed and peaceful, and the staff are friendly and attentive.
- Wheelchair accessible