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
Casa Maxou serves house-made gelato in creative flavours alongside casual fare like burgers, veggie burritos, fries and smoothies at reasonable prices. The tucked-away, beach-close soda has a relaxed food-court vibe with nearby seating and generally attentive service, though occasional inconsistency with cooked items is reported.
Tika Frutika serves fresh, varied smoothie bowls and toasts with generous portions and protein options, from thick, creamy bowls to lighter fruitier styles. Set in a small, cute vendor lot, it has a relaxed, chill vibe, though service can be slow and occasionally brusque when busy.
- Wheelchair accessible
- LGBTQ+ friendly
El Rincóncito del Sabor serves traditional homemade Costa Rican dishes—casado with fried fish, ceviche, pinto gallo and seafood plates—at modest prices in a tiny, homey setting run by two friendly sisters. Service is attentive and accommodating, and staff speak mainly Spanish but readily adjust orders for dietary needs.
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Parking
- Wheelchair accessible
Pollolandia serves juicy, tender fried and roast chicken with crunchy breading, salty crispy fries, and a mild spicy kick. It operates mainly as a takeout spot with two small tables, the staff are friendly and helpful, and orders are sometimes packed in bags that leave the skin a bit soft from accumulated juices.
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Parking
Natural Center Samara offers a wide mix of options—from fresh‑roasted coffee and daily baked goods to pizza, seafood platters and casual restaurant fare—so there’s something for everyone. The atmosphere is pleasant and the service is friendly and attentive, with generally affordable prices.
- Parking
- Wheelchair accessible
Soda Chandy serves hearty, affordable Costa Rican dishes—especially arroz con pollo, casados and chicken with rice—popular with locals in a cute, family-friendly setting just outside Sámara. Service is friendly and efficient, though staff mainly speak Spanish so some Spanish helps when ordering.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Coffee
- Parking
Blue Iguana Soda serves fresh, affordable Costa Rican classics—chicken casado, desayuno tico, tacos and smash burgers—with standout meats, fruity plates and house hot sauces. It operates as a relaxed beachside spot with friendly service, though some diners note occasional price or portion concerns and that it closes early.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Takeaway
- Bar
- Coffee
- Parking
- Kid friendly
El Viaje focuses on high-quality, balanced coffee with standout offerings like the Espresso Cloud, Mariola Buzz latte, Americano and a distinctive matcha. The VW-bus cafe maintains a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere with toys for kids, and an attentive, personable staff who remember preferences and explain the menu.
- Takeaway
- Bar
- Coffee
- Outdoor seating
- Parking
- Kid friendly
- Pet friendly
- Wheelchair accessible
- LGBTQ+ friendly
Tuanis Tacos serves authentic, meat-packed tacos with generous portions at affordable prices, making it a reliable meal option in Sámara. The atmosphere is casual and sometimes quiet, and the staff provide friendly, smiley service.
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Parking
The shop serves strong coffee and a range of breakfast dishes—iced honey and salted‑caramel iced lattes, macchiatos, almond croissants, pastries, avocado toast, burritos and benedicts—often with fresh fruit. The relaxed, inviting space has front‑porch seating and fans for hot days; staff are polite and attentive though occasionally less warm, and street parking is limited.
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Coffee
- Outdoor seating
- Wi-Fi
- Parking
- Kid friendly
- Wheelchair accessible
- LGBTQ+ friendly
Iona Café serves a range of coffee—French press, iced vanilla, chocolate and local Tiquicia—plus simple power bowls and freshly packed beans to take home. The family-run, unpretentious spot offers a chilled wooden-gazebo seating area with solid Wi‑Fi and friendly, welcoming staff, though drinks are sometimes served in plastic cups.
- Lunch
- Takeaway
- Coffee
- Parking
- Wheelchair accessible
Café Gofita focuses on bakery items—sourdough bread, cheese buns and notable chocolate chip cookies—served with coffee. It sits by the mangroves and lagoon with friendly counter service; coffee opinions vary and it is cash-only.
- Takeaway
- Delivery
The restaurant serves varied, well-presented dishes—seafood soup in milk and breakfasts with fresh fruit and homemade bread often stand out, with generous portions. The setting is relaxed and rustic with pool and ocean views, and staff are friendly and attentive, though service can be slow at times.
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Bar
- Coffee
- Accepts reservations
- Parking
- Wheelchair accessible
The restaurant serves authentic, affordable local dishes such as pupusas (including pupusas locas), ceviche, chicken fajitas and sweet plantain with cheese, with several items praised for flavor. The atmosphere is casual and friendly, staff provide a personal, welcoming touch, though occasional freshness issues are mentioned.
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Bar
- Coffee
- Parking
- Wheelchair accessible
Restaurante Santa Rosa offers varied themed nights and consistently tasty dishes, with a notable espresso for an after-meal pick-me-up. The atmosphere shifts with the nightly themes, and the staff provides attentive, friendly service.
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Coffee
- Parking
- Wheelchair accessible
Seaside Grill serves well-prepared steaks, seafood and local specialties like street corn, often praised for presentation and consistent quality. The oceanfront, casual atmosphere with birds and lizards nearby feels relaxed, and staff are friendly and attentive, though some guests note occasional pressure to purchase bottled wine.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Bar
- Coffee
- Accepts reservations
- Parking
- Wheelchair accessible
Italian Restaurant y Pizzeria Carolina serves authentic Italian dishes—pizzas and pastas like carbonara, marinara and Alfredo—with generous portions and gluten‑free and vegetarian options. The atmosphere is relaxed and centrally located, and the staff are friendly and accommodating, providing attentive service.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Delivery
- Bar
- Coffee
- Vegetarian options
- Vegan options
- Outdoor seating
- Accepts reservations
- Wi-Fi
- Parking
- Kid friendly
- Pet friendly
- Wheelchair accessible
- LGBTQ+ friendly
Portofino offers Italian dishes that are excellent and accommodating to dietary needs, with tasty mains and vegan options in a classy, luxurious resort setting at Secrets Papagayo. Service is attentive, personable and professional, though access may be limited to resort guests or day-pass holders.
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Bar
- Coffee
- Outdoor seating
- Accepts reservations
- Parking
- Wheelchair accessible
Barefoot Grill serves tasty casual fare—especially quesadillas and tacos—and maintains a lively late-night bar atmosphere. Bartenders are friendly and attentive, though an isolated handling concern with a drink is occasionally noted.
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Bar
- Parking
- Wheelchair accessible
Market Cafe's service is consistently attentive and friendly. Staff members such as Iman, Alex, and Rafael are frequently noted for their helpfulness.
- Lunch
- Takeaway
- Coffee
- Parking
- Wheelchair accessible
Rancho Villa Cruz serves tasty, good-value meals with generous portions. The atmosphere is casual and pet-friendly, staff are welcoming, and service can sometimes be slow with bathrooms needing attention.
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Delivery
- Bar
- Coffee
- Outdoor seating
- Live music
- Accepts reservations
- Wi-Fi
- Parking
- Kid friendly
- Pet friendly
- Wheelchair accessible
Restaurante Quirico serves generous, affordably priced Costa Rican fare — seafood fillets with rice, vegetables and maduros, plus fresh fruit juices like mango and tamarind — and maintains a relaxed, casual atmosphere. Staff are friendly and speak English, though the TV and air conditioning can be noisy.
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Delivery
- Bar
- Coffee
- Parking
- Kid friendly
- Wheelchair accessible
Café Caribeño serves traditional Limón-style Caribbean dishes—especially fish—and affordable plates with authentic flavors, along with coffee and chilled beers. It sits overlooking the central sloth park, offering a breezy, relaxed atmosphere and friendly, attentive service popular with locals and visitors.
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Takeaway
- Coffee
- Parking
Tábaris serves flavorful Costa Rican and seafood dishes, with a creamy shellfish soup and crispy yet juicy fried fish often highlighted, plus tasty sides at reasonable prices. The roadside spot offers ocean and estuary views, is popular and busy with locals, and provides fast, friendly service, though it is not air-conditioned.
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Delivery
- Bar
- Coffee
- Outdoor seating
- Accepts reservations
- Parking
- Kid friendly
- Pet friendly
- Wheelchair accessible
Soda Nel serves simple, homestyle Costa Rican dishes that are tasty and satisfying. The small, clean spot is conveniently located, with friendly, attentive service and affordable prices, making it a straightforward choice for everyday dining.
- Wheelchair accessible
Cahuita Town RestoBar serves Caribbean-style dishes—especially savory rice and beans—with generous portions at affordable prices. The venue pairs upbeat music and relaxed, colorful vibes with friendly, attentive staff, creating a warm, lively atmosphere.
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Delivery
- Bar
- Outdoor seating
- Accepts reservations
- Wi-Fi
- Parking
- Kid friendly
- Wheelchair accessible
Restaurante Puntarenas serves classic Costa Rican fare—gallo pinto, ceviche and arroz con carne are commonly highlighted—for affordable, tasty meals in a clean, casual space popular with travelers waiting for buses. Service is usually friendly and fast and the place offers Wi‑Fi and soccer on TV, though visitors occasionally report slow service or poor treatment.
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Delivery
- Coffee
- Wheelchair accessible
Mariscos Amancio serves fresh, flavorful seafood — especially ceviche, shrimp and seafood rice — alongside fruity cocktails. The family-run, beachside spot maintains a relaxed, authentic atmosphere with warm, attentive service and welcoming hospitality.
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Bar
- Outdoor seating
- Parking
- Pet friendly
Jaffa Restaurante De Mar serves fresh, Mediterranean-influenced seafood — fish skewers, tuna ceviche, seared tuna sandwiches, salads and daily specials — plus desserts and smoothies. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, and the owner and staff provide friendly, attentive service and readily address any dish that doesn’t suit a guest.
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Bar
- Coffee
- Vegetarian options
- Outdoor seating
- Accepts reservations
- Parking
- Wheelchair accessible
Restaurante Nativo serves generous, flavorful plates—large nachos, chifrijos, hefty burritos and solid burgers often stand out. The open, chilled atmosphere with music and lighting complements generally friendly, attentive service, though a few patrons note occasional lapses in service or uneven meat quality.
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Delivery
- Bar
- Coffee
- Outdoor seating
- Accepts reservations
- Parking
- Pet friendly
- Wheelchair accessible
Hard Croc highlights fresh fish—often blackened or teriyaki—plus large burgers and sandwiches, with generous portions and well-prepared seafood. The casual, fishing-vibe setting on Botanika Resort grounds is clean and welcoming but easy to miss. Staff are friendly, though the kitchen can overcook fish on busy nights.
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Delivery
- Bar
- Vegetarian options
- Vegan options
- Accepts reservations
- Parking
- Kid friendly
- Pet friendly
Makai focuses on seafood and tropical offerings like grilled fish and fruit smoothies, though some dishes can taste over-sweet or not fully fresh. The setting is pleasant and inviting, while service is not often mentioned in feedback.
- Bar
- Parking
Soda Marbella serves fresh, authentic seafood—ceviche and grilled fish are highlights—with generous portions, affordable prices, and reliable sides like patacones. The casual, local soda atmosphere overlooks the bay and staff are generally friendly, though it can get busy and service may slow or require ordering at the counter on peak nights.
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Bar
- Coffee
- Outdoor seating
- Accepts reservations
- Parking
- Wheelchair accessible