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
Maes Grill sits on the water with beachside seating and ocean views, offering a breezy casual atmosphere; it serves a varied menu of grilled pizzas, burgers (including shrimp), and al pastor tacos. Staff are friendly and often quick, with WhatsApp ordering available, though some homemade drinks can be inconsistent.
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Delivery
- Bar
- Coffee
- Outdoor seating
- Accepts reservations
- Parking
- Kid friendly
- Pet friendly
- 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
Airy accommodations in a beach-area hotel offering a restaurant/bar, 2 pools and yoga classes.
- Wi-Fi
- Parking
- LGBTQ+ friendly
Soda La Perla serves authentic, homemade Costa Rican dishes like ceviche, casado (fish and chicken), gallo pinto, shrimp plates and fresh fruit smoothies, with generous portions and wallet-friendly prices. The family-run spot has a casual, local atmosphere and attentive, quick service that is good with kids.
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Delivery
- Bar
- Coffee
- Vegetarian options
- Vegan options
- Outdoor seating
- Parking
- Kid friendly
- Pet friendly
- Wheelchair accessible
Bamboo serves fresh seafood with Caribbean flavors—standout dishes include coconut-milk Caribbean seafood soup and Puntarenas-style ceviche—alongside affordable cocktails. The open, tiki-inspired beachside space one block from the cruise pier offers a casual, airy atmosphere with friendly service and reliable Wi‑Fi, good for a relaxed lunch or game watching.
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Bar
- Coffee
- Outdoor seating
- Accepts reservations
- Parking
- Kid 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
La Ostra serves fresh, flavorful seafood—seafood soups, salads and platters—and approachable dishes like pork chops in a casual, beachside setting that diners find clean and affordable. Service is generally quick and attentive, though occasional complaints about hygiene or billing surface.
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Bar
- Coffee
- Outdoor seating
- Accepts reservations
- Parking
- Kid friendly
- Wheelchair accessible
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
The beachfront restaurant serves generous, reasonably priced local and seafood dishes—casados, shrimp ceviche, seafood rice, fried snapper and pasta—alongside refreshing tropical drinks. It offers a relaxed sunset beach atmosphere with generally friendly, attentive staff, though some guests note occasional fly problems and uneven service.
- Wheelchair accessible
- LGBTQ+ friendly
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
La Perla del Pacífico is a casual beachside bar and restaurant serving local dishes like patacones and bean tostadas, along with coffee and cold beers. The atmosphere is lively with music and seaside views and the older, friendly staff are helpful, though service, food consistency and basic facilities can occasionally be spotty.
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Takeaway
- Bar
- Coffee
- Outdoor seating
- Parking
- Kid friendly
- Pet friendly
- Wheelchair accessible
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
Villa Italia serves well-prepared, fresh Italian classics, with standout calamari, steaks (honey steak, sirloin), seafood risottos and mushroom-truffle pastas. The dining room feels comfortable and polished, with attentive, professional service, and prices are generally higher than other local options.
- Wheelchair accessible
- LGBTQ+ friendly
Restaurante Mar Azul focuses on fresh seafood—blackened grouper, yellowfin tuna, grilled octopus and generous mixed platters—alongside vegetarian pasta and creative salads, with notable sauces like pineapple and chimichurri. The open-air patio by a pool offers a relaxed, slightly tucked-away setting near Playas del Coco, and service is attentive and accommodating, with house cocktails also receiving praise.
- Wheelchair accessible
- LGBTQ+ friendly
Relaxed rooms in a low-key hotel offering a garden, plus an outdoor pool & a restaurant.
- Wi-Fi
- Parking
- Wheelchair accessible
Coco's Tiki Bar serves fresh, flavorful bar-style food with daily specials and shareable items like nachos, paired with reasonably priced drinks and happy hour. The open, tucked-away space attracts an international, sports-loving crowd, and the owners and staff are friendly and hospitable.
- Wheelchair accessible
Pacífico Beach Club offers fresh, plentiful beachfront fare and notable cocktails, with margaritas often praised, set in a chill, upscale tropical environment with pools and direct beach access. Staff are generally friendly and attentive, though service consistency, occasional menu or billing limits, and premium pricing can be drawbacks.
- Wheelchair accessible
- LGBTQ+ friendly
The restaurant emphasizes high-quality steaks and grilled meats, cooked to order and served juicy and well seasoned, with surf-and-turf and salmon also popular choices. The atmosphere is warm and lively, and the owner-led team provides attentive, knowledgeable service with generous portions at reasonable prices.
- Wheelchair accessible
Buzzed Monkey serves hearty burgers, ribs, wings and pulled-pork dishes (including quesadillas) with generous portions and casual BBQ sides, though some guests note a mild smoke flavor rather than heavy smoking. The open-air, lounge-style space with music, TVs and plenty of seating feels relaxed and clean, and staff provide attentive, friendly service.
- Wheelchair accessible
Tandoor serves flavorful Indian dishes — popular choices include butter chicken, tikka masala, fish curry and garlic naan — alongside fresh salads and appetizers. The atmosphere is welcoming with upstairs seating for people-watching, and service is generally friendly and attentive, though some guests note occasional dryness in naan or tandoori items.
El Capricho serves flavorful, well‑seasoned Mexican dishes—quesadillas, tacos, a loaded burger and homemade desserts and drinks stand out. The beachside atmosphere feels relaxed and staff are friendly, though service can lag when busy and restrooms have received occasional criticism.
- Wheelchair accessible
Garbanzo serves flavorful Middle Eastern dishes—shawarma, falafel, hummus and babaganoush—and offers a refreshing homemade Armenian tan drink. The atmosphere is welcoming and casual, with an attentive, friendly owner and staff, and portions are generous at reasonable prices.
- Wheelchair accessible
- LGBTQ+ friendly
The Garden Bar focuses on fresh, hand-prepared fare with seafood highlights like mahi-mahi, stuffed shrimp, snapper and seafood rice, plus surf-and-turf options. The dining area is nicely decorated and often quiet, with friendly, prompt service and a strong cocktail selection.
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Bar
- Coffee
- Outdoor seating
- Live music
- Accepts reservations
- Parking
- Wheelchair accessible