Walter's serves fresh, casual fare—ceviche, tacos, pizza and surf-and-turf receive frequent praise—and offers a large drink menu with popular happy hour deals. The beachfront setting provides ocean views, sunset seating and nightly live music while friendly, attentive staff keep service brisk, occasionally fending off flies with table fans.

• Breakfast
• Brunch
• Lunch
• Dinner
• Takeaway
• Delivery
• Bar
• Coffee
• Outdoor seating
• Live music
• Accepts reservations
• Parking
• Kid friendly
• Wheelchair accessible

El Vaquero sits on the beach in Tamarindo, offering sunset views, live music, a broad beer selection and popular items like sushi, ceviche, whole red snapper and fish tacos, plus sangria. Staff are generally friendly and family-run, though service can be slow at busy times and some dishes are occasionally inconsistent.

• Brunch
• Lunch
• Dinner
• Takeaway
• Bar
• Coffee
• Outdoor seating
• Live music
• Accepts reservations
• Parking
• Kid friendly
• Wheelchair accessible

Kabuto serves fresh, well-regarded sushi — often ordered as a 30-piece sushi boat — along with popular lettuce wraps, Korean chicken and wok dishes that suit families. The small, family-run spot has lively evening vibes with live music, attentive, friendly service, and practical touches like overhead fans and group accommodations.

• Lunch
• Dinner
• Takeaway
• Delivery
• Bar
• Vegetarian options
• Vegan options
• Outdoor seating
• Accepts reservations
• Parking
• Wheelchair accessible

Santa Rita serves breakfast-forward dishes with house-made banana bread, bagels and tortillas, plus smoothie bowls, prosciutto bruschetta and banana-bread French toast. Coffee—including iced drinks made with coffee-ice cubes—gets consistent praise, and the casual cafe offers indoor/outdoor seating, a colorful mural and friendly, attentive service.

• Breakfast
• Brunch
• Lunch
• Takeaway
• Delivery
• Bar
• Coffee
• Vegetarian options
• Outdoor seating
• Kid friendly
• LGBTQ+ friendly

Los Primos operates as a casual food-truck offering Nuevo Latino tacos, burritos and nachos, with some guests finding pork tacos flavorful though often dry. Service can be slow or curt, with occasional long waits and order mix-ups, and prices may feel high for the informal setting.

• Lunch
• Dinner
• Takeaway
• Vegetarian options
• Parking

Surf Shack serves juicy, tall burgers, crunchy onion rings, wings and comforting fried chicken sandwiches and shakes, often enjoyed close to the beach. The atmosphere is a laid-back surf-themed spot with ocean views and a kids' play area, and staff are friendly though occasional language-related order mix-ups happen.

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner
• Takeaway
• Delivery
• Bar
• Coffee
• Vegetarian options
• Vegan options
• Outdoor seating
• Live music
• Accepts reservations
• Parking
• Kid friendly
• Pet friendly
• Wheelchair accessible

Flora Vegan Cafe serves fresh, flavorful plant-based dishes—popular items include the acai bowl, breakfast burrito, creamy smoothies and a notable vegan mac and cheese. The cafe has a pretty, relaxed atmosphere, opens early, and the staff are friendly and attentive, often adding personal touches for guests.

• Breakfast
• Brunch
• Lunch
• Dinner
• Takeaway
• Delivery
• Bar
• Coffee
• Vegan options
• Outdoor seating
• Accepts reservations
• Wi-Fi
• Parking
• Kid friendly
• Pet friendly
• LGBTQ+ friendly

El Terreno presents a casual food-court setup with multiple vendors serving Peruvian criollo, tacos, and popular items like a chicken sandwich, often in generous portions with local beers. The atmosphere is friendly and relatively uncrowded with attentive staff, though the music can be loud at times.

• Breakfast
• Brunch
• Lunch
• Dinner
• Takeaway
• Delivery
• Bar
• Coffee
• Outdoor seating
• Live music
• Accepts reservations
• Wi-Fi
• Parking
• Kid friendly
• Pet friendly
• Wheelchair accessible
• LGBTQ+ friendly

La Pachanga serves authentic homemade Italian fare with standout dishes like house focaccia, gnocchi in gorgonzola, carbonara, pizzas and chicken scaloppine. The lively, casual atmosphere pairs with personal, attentive service, and guests often enjoy cocktails and a complimentary limoncello.

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner
• Takeaway
• Delivery
• Bar
• Coffee
• Vegetarian options
• Outdoor seating
• Live music
• Accepts reservations
• Parking
• Wheelchair accessible

Sol Bakery Tamarindo is a beachy bakery-café offering generous breakfast and brunch portions, standout pastries like cinnamon rolls and dulce de leche croissants, savory tacos and colorful natural drinks and matcha lattes. The atmosphere is picturesque and casual with friendly service and a resident cat, though prices feel high and some drinks or sandwiches can be uneven.

• Breakfast
• Brunch
• Lunch
• Dinner
• Takeaway
• Delivery
• Bar
• Coffee
• Vegetarian options
• Outdoor seating
• Live music
• Accepts reservations
• Wi-Fi
• Parking
• Kid friendly
• Pet friendly
• Wheelchair accessible
• LGBTQ+ friendly

New Shogun serves freshly made, home-cooked dishes with a focus on generous seafood plates. The seafood fried rice is a frequent highlight, packed with mussels, calamari, shrimp and fish, and the staff are friendly in a casual food-court setting.

Ohana Poke serves fresh, generously portioned poke bowls—tuna and vegetarian tofu bowls are popular, often finished with shaved nori or sriracha. The restaurant has a casual, friendly vibe with attentive service from the owner and staff. Occasional unconventional toppings like cherry tomatoes draw mixed opinions.

• Lunch
• Dinner
• Takeaway
• Vegetarian options
• Vegan options

Matapalo sits beachfront at the Diria resort with an open patio under a big Guanacaste tree, offering ocean views and a relaxed atmosphere with the sound of waves. The menu emphasizes seafood—sesame-crusted tuna, ceviche—and casual fare with a full bar, and service is attentive, though some dishes can arrive slightly undercooked on occasion.

• Breakfast
• Brunch
• Lunch
• Dinner
• Takeaway
• Bar
• Coffee
• Vegetarian options
• Outdoor seating
• Live music
• Accepts reservations
• Wi-Fi
• Parking
• Kid friendly
• Wheelchair accessible

The restaurant offers a wide, affordable menu with hearty portions; fried rice, garlic shrimp, chicken wonton soup and house‑sauce chop suey are frequently highlighted. Service is friendly and attentive, and the casual space includes a bar, though the open kitchen can be noisy at times.

• Lunch
• Dinner
• Takeaway
• Delivery
• Bar
• Accepts reservations
• Parking
• Wheelchair accessible

Asian Fusion Bistro serves fresh sushi and Asian-fusion dishes—volcano and dragon rolls, nigiri with local tuna, miso soup, shrimp pancit and teriyaki—often in generous portions at reasonable prices. The atmosphere is casual and lunch-friendly, with fast, friendly service.

• Lunch
• Dinner
• Takeaway
• Delivery
• Outdoor seating
• Parking
• Wheelchair accessible

Soda Buen Comer serves affordable, flavorful Costa Rican dishes like casado and arroz mariscos, alongside cold beers and fresh natural juices. The casual outdoor soda has bilingual menus and friendly staff who are generally quick, though service can slow when the place fills up.

• Breakfast
• Brunch
• Lunch
• Dinner
• Takeaway
• Bar
• Coffee
• Outdoor seating
• Parking
• Wheelchair accessible

Breaking Bread serves hearty breakfasts, sandwiches and rich pastries — popular items include shakshuka, a spicy tuna panini, and pistachio pastries. The laid-back outdoor seating in central Tamarindo complements friendly, quick service, with welcoming owners (and their dog) creating a casual neighborhood vibe.

• Breakfast
• Takeaway
• Coffee
• Parking
• Pet friendly
• Wheelchair accessible

Wok N Roll offers fresh, flavorful Asian dishes—especially sushi (notably tuna), vegetarian pad Thai, pho and sautéed chicken—that many guests enjoy. The small, welcoming spot features friendly, attentive service and an owner who greets diners, though a few patrons report occasional inconsistencies with doneness.

• Lunch
• Dinner
• Takeaway
• Delivery
• Bar
• Coffee
• Vegetarian options
• Vegan options
• Outdoor seating
• Accepts reservations
• Parking
• Kid friendly
• Pet friendly
• Wheelchair accessible
• LGBTQ+ friendly

Nari serves a variety of pizzas and classic pastas—guests frequently note light, well-cooked crusts, generous portions, and flavorful dishes like Bolognese and shrimp salad, with quick takeout service. The atmosphere is lively with music and an airy upper level, and staff are attentive and professional, though nearby pedestrian activity and occasional inconsistency in topping seasoning are mentioned.

• Lunch
• Dinner
• Takeaway
• Delivery
• Bar
• Coffee
• Vegetarian options
• Outdoor seating
• Accepts reservations
• Wi-Fi
• Parking
• Kid friendly
• Wheelchair accessible

El Moro Tamarindo highlights fresh ingredients across ceviche, octopus, carpaccio, salads, risottos, pastas, thin-crust pizzas and daily fish, with signature cocktails and rich desserts. The modern, spacious dining room—music and a pool-under-the-stars area—feels upscale yet relaxed, and the staff deliver attentive, accommodating service.

• LGBTQ+ friendly

Rastaurante Lizard serves scratch-made tapas such as chorizo with scallops, garlic shrimp, Spanish tortilla and bombas, paired with creative cocktails. The spot offers cool, air-conditioned, music-filled ambiance and friendly bartenders, though some fried items can be overcooked and portions are occasionally modest.

• Dinner
• Takeaway
• Bar
• Live music
• Accepts reservations
• Wi-Fi
• Parking
• Pet friendly
• Wheelchair accessible

El Chante Tipico serves traditional fast-casual Costa Rican plates such as casados, carne mechada, rice and beans, and fried cheese, with generous portions and reasonable prices. The market-style spot feels lively, the counter staff are friendly though sometimes reserved, a few dishes (notably plantains) can run bland, and it is often accompanied by resident cats.

• Lunch
• Dinner
• Takeaway
• Parking

Rumors Tamarindo serves flavorful bar food and well-crafted specialty cocktails, with bartenders noted for creative drinks. The atmosphere is lively and music-driven, featuring a DJ and a busy dance floor at night, while staff remain friendly and attentive.

• Bar
• Outdoor seating
• Live music
• Wheelchair accessible

Elcaribeentamarindo serves flavorful Caribbean dishes such as jerk chicken, shrimp rice plates, rice and beans and fried plantains, often described as elevated for a food truck. It offers a casual, clean outdoor atmosphere, though service can be slow during early lunch setup and some patrons report inconsistent or tourist-targeted pricing.

• Lunch
• Dinner
• Takeaway
• Delivery
• Parking

Mandala serves highly praised tacos that stand out on the menu, with attentive, personable service from staff such as Viki. The atmosphere feels relaxed and welcoming, making it a comfortable spot for a casual meal.

• Lunch
• Dinner
• Takeaway
• Bar
• Coffee
• Vegetarian options
• Outdoor seating
• Wi-Fi
• Parking
• Kid friendly
• Wheelchair accessible

Eat at Joe’s serves fresh, beach-friendly fare — seafood pasta, lobster with garlic butter, poke bowls, wings and local gallo pinto — with generous portions and a focus on fresh ingredients. The casual beachfront atmosphere is lively and the staff are consistently polite and attentive, though some items, notably the nachos, can be hit-or-miss.

• Breakfast
• Brunch
• Lunch
• Dinner
• Takeaway
• Bar
• Coffee
• Vegetarian options
• Outdoor seating
• Live music
• Accepts reservations
• Parking
• Kid friendly
• Pet friendly
• Wheelchair accessible

Masa Madre serves Italian-style baked goods and meals, with flaky croissants, sourdough pizza featuring a light, chewy crust, avocado toast, notable pesto and robust Italian coffee. The small bakery's leafy outdoor patio and friendly, attentive staff create a relaxed, homey atmosphere.

• Breakfast
• Takeaway
• Delivery
• Coffee
• Parking
• Wheelchair accessible

Breakfast Grinds serves a varied breakfast and casual menu with highlights like the gringo breakfast, juicy burgers and a burro burrito with pork green chile salsa, plus strong coffee and very fresh fruit and juices. The spot offers a relaxed, ocean-view atmosphere with friendly, attentive owners and staff and reasonable prices.

• Breakfast
• Brunch
• Lunch
• Dinner
• Takeaway
• Bar
• Coffee
• Outdoor seating
• Parking
• Kid friendly
• Pet friendly

Sharky's is a lively sports bar with multiple large screens and a packed, game-night atmosphere. It’s noted for buffalo wings, pitcher deals and mango margaritas, and staff are generally friendly and fast; occasional understaffing during big events can lead to slow or brusque service.

• Takeaway
• Bar
• Outdoor seating
• Live music
• Wi-Fi
• Parking
• Pet friendly
• Wheelchair accessible

Pupa House offers homemade breakfasts, lunches and coffee with popular rooftop seating that showcases wide views and a relaxed, social atmosphere. Staff are consistently friendly and accommodating to groups, though some guests note occasional slow service and simple or modestly presented dishes.

• Breakfast
• Brunch
• Lunch
• Dinner
• Takeaway
• Bar
• Coffee
• Outdoor seating
• Accepts reservations
• Wi-Fi
• Parking
• Kid friendly
• Pet friendly
• Wheelchair accessible
• LGBTQ+ friendly

Waffle Monkey serves crisp, inventive waffles—sweet and savory options like apple pie, cinnabun, breakfast sandwiches and chicken & waffles—plus iced coffee and smoothies. The spot maintains a relaxed beachfront vibe with attentive service, though neighboring noise can intrude, and gluten-free waffles are available but cross-contamination isn't guaranteed.

• Breakfast
• Brunch
• Lunch
• Takeaway
• Bar
• Coffee
• Vegetarian options
• Vegan options
• Outdoor seating
• Wi-Fi
• Parking
• Kid friendly
• Pet friendly
• Wheelchair accessible

Ceviches and poke are the highlights, served fresh and in generous portions with balanced flavors. The stall sits in a casual food‑court setting with generally friendly, quick service, although some customers report inconsistent seafood quality and occasional issues with the mariscada and service.

• Lunch
• Dinner
• Takeaway
• Bar
• Parking

Arepas Doña Ana serves flavorful arepas — including chicken, tuna and vegetarian options — and refreshing smoothies in a lively market setting with a bar and performance stage. Service tends to be friendly but can be brusque if customers don't speak Spanish, and prices are often noted as relatively high.

• Lunch
• Dinner
• Takeaway
• Delivery
• Vegetarian options
• Parking

Mandarina Tropical Juice Bar offers fresh, fruit-forward dishes and smoothies, with popular items like dragonfruit and La Mandarina smoothies, smoothie bowls, pancakes, and fish or shrimp tacos. The spot has a bright, clean atmosphere and friendly staff, though seating and service can be slower and pricier during the busy season.

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Takeaway
• Coffee
• Vegetarian options
• Vegan options
• Outdoor seating

Reinaz Pasta Casera serves freshly made Argentinian empanadas and homemade ravioli, with popular fillings like chicken, beef and ham-and-cheese, plus sauces and frozen packs to take home. The small, casual shop highlights on-site preparation and good value, with staff preparing orders behind the counter.

• Lunch
• Dinner
• Takeaway
• Delivery
• Coffee
• Parking

Casual counter-serve chain for build-your-own sandwiches & salads, with health-conscious options.

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner
• Takeaway
• Delivery
• Coffee
• Vegetarian options
• Outdoor seating
• Wi-Fi
• Parking
• Wheelchair accessible

La Berrakera serves flavorful burgers, a well-seasoned chicken breast sandwich and skirt steak, with house sauces plus healthy juices and salads. A covered outdoor patio provides casual, sheltered seating. Service is generally polite, though the kitchen can be inconsistent and some orders have small french‑fry portions or billing issues.

• Dinner
• Takeaway
• Delivery
• Coffee
• Vegetarian options
• Outdoor seating
• Wi-Fi
• Parking
• Kid friendly
• Pet friendly
• LGBTQ+ friendly

Oasis Restaurant, located inside the Pasatiempo Hotel, serves hearty breakfasts, large shareable dishes like nachos, and a selection of cocktails alongside healthier options. The atmosphere is chill and casual with reasonable prices, and the staff is friendly and attentive, providing relaxed service for drinks and meals.

• Breakfast
• Brunch
• Lunch
• Dinner
• Bar
• Coffee
• Vegetarian options
• Vegan options
• Outdoor seating
• Accepts reservations
• Parking
• Kid friendly

The restaurant serves thin-crust pepperoni pizza with fresh sauce and flavorful pasta, and staff are friendly and welcoming. It maintains a casual, approachable atmosphere, though some visitors note occasional difficulty locating the spot due to unclear location information.

• Lunch
• Dinner
• Takeaway
• Parking

Derecho Sagrado specializes in in-house roasted Costa Rican beans, offering pour-overs, lattes and cold brew with a rotating selection and knowledgeable guidance on bean profiles. The café has a modern, comfortable interior with ample seating and friendly, attentive staff, and sells bags of beans and merch to take home.

• Breakfast
• Brunch
• Lunch
• Takeaway
• Bar
• Coffee
• Vegetarian options
• Outdoor seating
• Live music
• Wi-Fi
• Parking
• Kid friendly
• Pet friendly

Nordico Coffee House focuses on specialty coffee and tastings, with knowledgeable staff who explain beans, brewing methods and also make cocktails like espresso martinis. The menu features gluten‑free desserts and local chocolate treats. The space feels relaxed with indoor AC and balcony seating, and service is friendly and informative.

• Breakfast
• Brunch
• Lunch
• Dinner
• Bar
• Coffee
• Vegetarian options
• Vegan options
• Outdoor seating
• Live music
• Accepts reservations
• Wi-Fi
• Parking
• Kid friendly
• Pet friendly
• Wheelchair accessible
• LGBTQ+ friendly

Mother Earth offers cozy, clean rooms set in quirky, lush grounds near Tamarindo with a relaxed, animal-friendly atmosphere. The on-site restaurant focuses on vegan dishes and generally receives praise for fresh, flavorful food, though some guests note limited menu options or occasional disappointments. Hosts and staff are attentive and personal, making it popular for remote work and service-focused stays.

La Berrakera Foodtruck in Tamarindo serves handheld favorites like large, flavorful burgers and chorizo arepas, often paired with yuca fries. The truck offers a casual, fresh street-food atmosphere and staff are friendly and helpful, though opinions on the burger can vary.

• Lunch
• Dinner
• Takeaway
• Bar
• Vegetarian options
• Outdoor seating
• Wi-Fi
• Parking
• Kid friendly
• Pet friendly
• Wheelchair accessible

HandleBar is a family-run, casual terrace bar that serves good sandwiches and a solid beer selection, and also offers bike rentals and repairs. The atmosphere is welcoming and sociable and staff are generally helpful, though some guests note limited cocktail options and occasional service lapses.

• Delivery
• Parking

Pinkys serves strong, flavorful coffee, fresh pastries (croissants, banana bread), smoothies and yogurt bowls, and a wide selection of high-quality gelato flavors. The small roadside shop has a colorful, cozy atmosphere with ample seating and consistently friendly, attentive staff who provide personal service.

• Takeaway
• Coffee
• Wi-Fi
• Parking
• Kid friendly
• Pet friendly
• LGBTQ+ friendly

The restaurant serves fresh, vibrant dishes with nicely plated seafood such as sea bass and a lively cocktail program, though a few diners report occasional overcooked items or surprise charges for premium spirits. It sits on the beach with sunset views and a relaxed, fun atmosphere, and the staff are generally attentive and friendly.

• Brunch
• Lunch
• Dinner
• Takeaway
• Bar
• Coffee
• Live music
• Accepts reservations
• Wi-Fi
• Parking
• Kid friendly
• Pet friendly
• Wheelchair accessible

Agua | Salada highlights fresh seafood and grilled meats, with ceviche, whole fried snapper, shrimp starters and steaks with chimichurri frequently called out. The bulb-lit, rattan-accented outdoor setting feels relaxed and vibey, and the staff are consistently friendly, attentive and knowledgeable.

• Brunch
• Lunch
• Dinner
• Takeaway
• Bar
• Coffee
• Vegetarian options
• Outdoor seating
• Live music
• Accepts reservations
• Parking
• Kid friendly
• Pet friendly
• Wheelchair accessible

Restaurante Kalokairi serves creative, flavorful dishes—standouts include tuna tartare, mahi mahi, and a tapas tasting menu—paired with a thoughtful wine list. The adults-only, sunset-facing dining room creates a relaxed atmosphere and staff provide friendly, attentive service suited to celebrations.

• Lunch
• Dinner
• Bar
• Coffee
• Vegetarian options
• Vegan options
• Accepts reservations
• Wi-Fi
• Parking

Portofino serves freshly prepared, well-presented dishes — popular choices include chicken breast with vegetables and avocado mash, light bites like chips and salsa, and a variety of cocktails, with vegetarian and gluten-free options available. The oceanfront lounge offers sunset views, live music and occasional fire performances, and staff are attentive and friendly, though prices are higher than many nearby options.

• Brunch
• Lunch
• Dinner
• Takeaway
• Bar
• Coffee
• Vegetarian options
• Outdoor seating
• Live music
• Accepts reservations
• Wheelchair accessible

Ay Caramba offers authentic Mexican dishes—al pastor and arrachera tacos, beef fajitas, fresh chips and guacamole—and margaritas that many find flavorful. The atmosphere is pleasant and the staff are friendly and attentive, though a few diners report occasional inconsistencies with drinks or chips.

• Dinner
• Takeaway
• Bar
• Coffee
• Vegetarian options
• Outdoor seating
• Live music
• Accepts reservations
• Kid friendly
• Wheelchair accessible