GUANACASTE COAST
Where to Eat on the Guanacaste Coast
From $5 casados at local sodas to $45 oceanfront fine dining. These are the restaurants we eat at ourselves.
Flamingo
Hazel’s Flamingo
PlayaCR PickBeachfront dining in Flamingo with a menu built around fresh, local ingredients. Known for creative cocktails, ocean views, and a relaxed atmosphere that feels like you’re eating at a friend’s beach house. One of our favorites on the coast.
Coco Loco
BeachfrontRight on Flamingo Beach. Chef Jean-Luc Taulere’s seafood and tropical fusion. The ceviche in coconut shells is the signature. Best sunset view of any restaurant in the area.
Angelina’s
Fine DiningThe upscale option in Flamingo. International menu, good wine list, polished service. This is where you go for a date night or special occasion.
A’lo Nico
Breakfast/LunchChef Nico and his wife Andrea run this Costa Rican-French fusion spot. Breakfast and lunch only, 9am-3pm. Closed Sundays. Small and personal.
El Tiki
CasualTacos, ceviche, smoothies. Casual outdoor spot. Cash only. Good for a quick, affordable lunch between beach sessions.
Tamarindo
Pangas Beach Club
UpscaleTables in the sand under giant trees at the south end of Tamarindo Beach. Fresh seafood, grass-fed beef, premium cocktails. The best date-night spot in Tamarindo. Reservations recommended Dec-Apr.
Dragonfly Bar & Grill
FusionRunning since 2005. Creative global fusion menu, sushi, steaks, handcrafted cocktails. Romantic atmosphere. One of the most consistent restaurants in town.
Seasons by Shlomy
MediterraneanIsraeli-born Cordon Bleu chef cooking since 2003. Poolside at Hotel Arco Iris. Dinner only. Cash only. One of the best meals on the coast if you can get a table.
Potrero
The Beach House
BeachfrontRight on Playa Potrero. Seafood, burgers, pasta. Great sunset views. Open 11am-10pm. Chill vibe, good for families.
Potrero Brewing Co.
Craft BeerLocal craft brewery with rotating food vendors (tacos, poke, sliders). Live music nights. Family-friendly. The best casual hangout in Potrero.
Soda Marcell
Local SodaThe real deal. Tico breakfast, casados, huge portions. 7am-2:30pm. This is where locals eat. Inside Super Marcell on the main road.
Brasilito
Patagonia Del Mar
ArgentineArgentine grill, seafood, and international cuisine right on Brasilito Beach. Tuna tartare and ribeye are standouts. Pool access for diners. Open 7am-10pm.
Masala
IndianFirst Indian restaurant in Guanacaste. Authentic dishes, creative cocktails, atmospheric decor. 400m north of the Westin. A nice change from the usual seafood.