Even though you’re staying at an all-inclusive resort, some of Costa Rica’s best food experiences happen OUTSIDE the resort!
Here’s my foodie guide to Guanacaste:
Must-Try Costa Rican Dishes:
- Gallo Pinto – THE Costa Rican breakfast (rice and beans with eggs, plantains, cheese)
- Casado – The perfect lunch plate (rice, beans, protein, salad, plantains)
- Patacones – Smashed, twice-fried plantains topped with beans/meat/cheese
- Ceviche – The freshest fish “cooked” in lime juice with cilantro and onions
- Chifrijo – The ultimate bar snack (beans, chicharrones, pico de gallo over rice)
- Tres Leches – The most amazing cake soaked in three milks
- Refrescos – Fresh fruit smoothies that will change your life
Top Restaurants Near Guanacaste Resorts:
Playa del Coco Area:
- Papagayo Seafood – Beachfront dining with the day’s catch ($$) Try the: Whole red snapper & patacones
- La Dolce Vita – Italian with Costa Rican touches, gorgeous sunset view ($$$) Try the: Seafood risotto
- Soda Teresita – Local spot with authentic Costa Rican food at LOCAL prices ($) Try the: Casado con pescado (fish casado)
Tamarindo Area:
- Pangas Beach Club – Feet-in-the-sand fine dining, perfect for sunset ($$$$) Try the: Coconut fish curry
- Nogui’s – Tamarindo institution, amazing seafood, casual vibe ($$) Try the: Fish tacos & Imperial beer
Near Riu & Planet Hollywood:
- Ginger – Tapas and cocktails in a romantic garden setting ($$$) Try the: Tuna tataki & passion fruit mojito
- Father Rooster – Beachfront bar with surprisingly good food ($$) Try the: Chifrijo & margaritas
Best Hidden Gems:
- Soda Sabor Tico (near Playa Hermosa) – Where the locals eat, incredible value ($)
- La Bruja Ines (Liberia) – Worth the trip to town for authentic local flavors ($$)
Foodie Tips:
- Most good restaurants accept credit cards, but bring cash for small local spots
- Make reservations for nicer restaurants, especially during high season
- “Soda” means a local, family-run eatery (not a drink!)
- Tap water is generally safe in restaurants in tourist areas
- Tipping is typically 10% (often included in the bill as “servicio”)
- Imperial and Pilsen are the local beers – both refreshing after a beach day!
- “Salsa Lizano” is Costa Rica’s iconic sauce – try it on EVERYTHING
Would you like me to make any dinner reservations for special nights during your trip? Many of these places fill up quickly, especially during peak season!
Pura Vida, JaQuay
P.S. Don’t miss trying some local coffee! Costa Rica produces some of the world’s best beans, and even a simple cup at a local cafe will ruin Starbucks for you forever.