Best Central American food near Tamarindo, Province of Guanacaste, Costa Rica

July 27, 2020 Jeremy Dunfee

Reviews on Central American food in Tamarindo, Province of Guanacaste, Costa Rica. Tamarindo is a prime spot for surfing and sportfishing, diving and sunning. Nesting leatherback turtles do their thing along the beaches from October to May and, for some nesting of your own, gorgeous beach houses, B&Bs and luxury hotels line the sunny sands. Shopping and dining options are superb and plentiful, perfect for sampling the true flavors of Costa Rica.
Things to do in Tamarindo

10. Sprout Tamarindo

Guanacaste Province In front of Witchs Rock Surf Camp, Tamarindo 50309 Costa Rica American, Central American, Costa Rican, International, Healthy Lunch, Dinner, Brunch, Drinks Reservations, Street Parking, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Wine and Beer, Accepts American Express, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Free Wifi, Accepts Discover, Takeout, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Accepts Credit Cards, Tab [email protected] +506 4702 5960 http://www.sprouttamarindo.com
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4 based on 643 reviews

Sprout Tamarindo

Delicious lunch & dinner made only from fresh, organic, & locally sustainable ingredients. A friendly/family environment in the town of Tamarindo. Sprout exists to provide the community of Tamarindo and the surrounding towns with a restaurant option that

Reviewed By Blackstardeceiver

I went to a lot of places out to eat in Tamarindo this trip. I happened to get the breakfast package when staying at the surf ranch. I gotta say the surf ranch was good. More on that in the separate review. This place has 3 things that brought my review to where it is . One was the breakfast package runs 0700 to 1000. The person working that morning Catalina , when i was late 15 minutes , became agitated and very loudly shaking her finger said that no breakfast would be served while walking me swiftly out. I was really nice to her in mornings previous . No like ohhh sorry you have to pay but we could get something for you. It was downright a pissed off affair. I get that i was late but i was staying 9 nights and a few mornings did not even get breakfast there as i was on a boat at dawn. Secondly the food is good but i think overpriced for what it is and what you get. Lastly and worstly ....... Instant coffee ! One morning late in my trip. I could not wrap my head around that one. I know I'm on the meal plan but damn I'm in CR man ! Look there are some very very nice staff there as well . Im not even saying don't eat there. Just know there are way better in the tama seascape.The place was empty most of the time. I ate a few other paid meals but not after Catalina............Thank you for staying with us at Surf Ranch and also eating at our Sprout Restaurant.We love reviews like this as it's something we can improve on, but honestly would prefer an email direct, however let me address the situation you encountered.1. Karolina - Yes, we agree with you on this one, which is why we actually already let her go as of a few days ago, even before seeing this review. There were other instances like that, and as we thrive to be the best, we are only looking for the best staff. Problem solved, as the other staff are great. Remember that breakfast is all day long, but until 10am if you order breakfast with the hotel room rate...however for low season, we do not include breakfast in the hotel rate, to allow us to reduce the price of the hotel room.2. Please remember that our prices include taxes and 10% tips already. So the food you see for $7 on the menu, is actually $5.75 plus tax and tip, as an example. Our prices are actually low compared to surrounding restaurants, for the quality of food we provide as we only use fresh food from the farm, or more expensive ingredients, and you see it in the quality of food.3. Instant coffee, it actually is all made from scratch, each cup. It actually takes a little longer as it is freshly brewed, so I would need more details about this one from you.This time of the year it is slow season, but high season, Sprout is packed and we always need to hire extra staff. Thank you for the great review, glad you enjoyed the food and glad I could clear up some of the issues mentioned here.Thank you so much and we look forward to your return

9. Pangas Beach Club

Meters South West From Auto Mercado 500 In Front of El Tesoro, Tamarindo 50309 Costa Rica American, Seafood, Central American, Costa Rican, International, Healthy Lunch, Dinner, Brunch, Late Night Reservations, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Parking Available, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Free Wifi, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service, Live Music, Waterfront, Beach [email protected] +506 2653 0024 http://pangasbeachclubcr.com/
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4 based on 1643 reviews

Pangas Beach Club

Reviewed By mackfamtraveler

We recently dine at Pangas on the second night of our vacation. One of our travelers was having a bday and they brought him a nice dessert. The table and view were breath-taking. The wait staff was very attentive and made great suggestions. So glad we went and would go back 1000 more times.

8. Green Papaya Taco Bar

Playa Tamarindo Behind the Ovega negra hostel, Tamarindo Costa Rica Mexican, Fusion, Central American, Healthy Lunch, Dinner, Brunch, Drinks, Late Night Takeout, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Parking Available, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Free Wifi, Table Service, Live Music [email protected] +506 2653 0863 http://www.facebook.com/Gr33nPapaya
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4 based on 2151 reviews

Green Papaya Taco Bar

Green Papaya Taco Bar & More We bring our uniqe style to Tamarindo with Good food & Great Music to create the perfect atmosphere for a good dinning experience.Our goal stands on low budget , clean , fresh healthy and tasty food with casual comfortable vib

Reviewed By juliettelouise

Green Papaya was my favorite place I ate in Tamarindo. Aside from being decorated SO boho-chic with an open air dining room and swings for chairs, the food was also very delicious. I always recommend Green Papaya when I have friends traveling to Tamarindo. It's a bit off the main streets but in very close proximity (walking distance) to all the other bars and restaurants.

7. El Pelicano

Calle Central Hotel Tamarindo Diria, Tamarindo Costa Rica International, Central American, Seafood, South American, Costa Rican Dinner, Lunch Reservations, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Serves Alcohol, Table Service, Highchairs Available, Full Bar, Live Music [email protected] +506 4032 0032 http://www.tamarindodiria.com/costa-rica-resorts/tamarindo-diria/restaurants/
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5 based on 117 reviews

El Pelicano

An unparalleled dining experience, El Pelicano is the culinary jewel of Tamarindo. A dining experience like no other in Tamarindo: an elegant atmosphere with a ‘chic’ outdoor terrace offering a view to Tamarindo Boulevard

Reviewed By David D

I went through the (easy) hassle of joining TripAdvisor just to rave about this restaurant. We have been in Tamarindo for a week, eating everywhere, and gave El Pelicano a try because (a) it just looked nice, and (b) well, it looked nice, haha! The three of us were very glad we did. My son (15 yrs old) got adventurous and tried Seabass for the first time and loved it. Two of us split a steak and chicken dish and both were delicious!!! Oh, we started with a sushi appetizer that was great too. The sauces were wonderful for the entres.Out waiter was Kevin, who was incredibly nice and attentive. We have found almost everyone in Costa Rica is really enjoyable, and obviously that was the case at El Pelicano. Ironically, we walked by the restaurant a couple days before and told the host, Santos, that we would be back in two days and it was pretty funny that he remembered us when we walked by tonight. Really nice guy too! The restaurant is a little pricier than others in town, but we all thought it was well worth it!!!! I think we'll go back on Sunday before we leave :)

6. Santa Rita Cafe

Sunrise Plaza Mall Tamarindo Complejo Sunrise Plaza, Tamarindo Costa Rica Cafe, International, Central American, Costa Rican Lunch, Breakfast, Brunch, Drinks Parking Available, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Takeout, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Free Off-Street Parking, Accepts American Express, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Accepts Discover, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service, Free Wifi [email protected] +506 4034 0501 http://santaritacafe.com/
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5 based on 336 reviews

Santa Rita Cafe

Santa Rita Café is a small coffee shop located at the heart of Tamarindo. Its a family owned business designed to stand out creatively and gastronomically. Established by a couple (an architect and a chef), the idea is to create experiences while offering

Reviewed By Maps516996

We’ve been to Tamarindo many times but just discovered this gem of a cafe (it’s on the second floor of a building set back a bit from Calle Central). A variety of tasty breakfasts and lunches (the homemade banana bread French toast is to die for), refreshing smoothies, and a cheery decor with indoor and shaded outdoor seating make it a lovely spot for breakfast/lunch. The barrista is superb and makes the most delicious almond milk cappuccinos I’ve ever had (soooo much better than Starbucks). I love this place!!

Top 10 restaurants in Tamarindo, Costa Rica

5. NOI Bistro Tamarindo

Av. Central Just beside Longboards BBQ, Tamarindo 50309 Costa Rica Latin, Cafe, Central American, Costa Rican Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Brunch Takeout, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Street Parking, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Wine and Beer, Accepts American Express, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Accepts Discover, Table Service, Free Wifi, Live Music [email protected] +506 2653 1376 http://www.facebook.com/noibistrotamarindo/about/
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5 based on 242 reviews

NOI Bistro Tamarindo

We create a relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy delicious homemade breakfast / brunch. We also offer a variety of international dishes at night. Coktails are served till 2 pm. If you are around Tamarindo don` t miss to enjoy a very nice place, and do n

Reviewed By diana7873

The food is fantastic! Had the gallo pinto, the typical Costa Rican meal and it was perfect! The homemade bread is fantastic, daughter asked if we could buy a whole loaf. The avocado toast, best we have ever had. And the lemonade, wow!!! Everything was wonderful and we are so glad we found this place! Oh and you have to get a piece of the chocolate chip banana bread to go! Yummmy!!!!!Thanks for your commentAlways appreciated and very kind of you

Province of Guanacaste, Costa Rica Food Guide: 10 Healthy food Must-Eat Restaurants & Street Food Stalls in Tamarindo

4. Little Lucha

Meters North Of Super Compro, Diagonal From The Skate Park 20 20 Meters North Of Super Compro, Diagonal From The Skate Park, Tamarindo 50309 Costa Rica Mexican, Street Food, Latin, Central American Lunch, Dinner Takeout, Seating, Street Parking, Wheelchair Accessible, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Free Wifi [email protected] +506 8723 4297 https://www.facebook.com/littleluchataqueria/
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5 based on 234 reviews

Little Lucha

Reviewed By NalaBala

Loved it so much I went here twice during my week in Tamarindo. Excellent for solo diners as you can sit at the bar and the portion sizes are just right. I loved the veggie tacos and micheladas and free nachos and dips are a great touch.NalaBala,Thanks for hanging out with us during your time in Tamarindo!Órale!El Jefe

Best Seafood food near Tamarindo, Province of Guanacaste, Costa Rica

3. Black Stallion Cafe & Surf Saloon

The Black Stallion Hills Ranch 8 mins drive from Tamarindo., Villareal, Tamarindo 50309 Costa Rica Barbecue, Central American, Costa Rican, Hawaiian Lunch, Dinner Seating, Parking Available, Free Off-Street Parking, Television, Highchairs Available, Digital Payments, Free Wifi, Reservations, Outdoor Seating, Private Dining, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Accepts Credit Cards, Buffet, Table Service [email protected] +506 8869 9765 http://www.blackstallionhills.com/en/cafe-surf-saloon
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5 based on 615 reviews

Black Stallion Cafe & Surf Saloon

RESERVATIONS ONLY, BOOK ONLINE & PURA VIDA! We offer a rustic ranch style evening that's private & exclusive.We specialize in small groups & also do special events for families & friends. ( What we do, is BBQ just for u.) The BBQ is outside in " the shack

Reviewed By SuesRecs

This is a really fun adventure in Costa Rica near Tamarindo. We met the owner, Alex at the ranch and immediately bonded with his friendly manner and stories about South Africa (where he's originally from) and surfing around the world. Starting around 2:30pm, he matched the four of us up with horses and our own guide, who took us on a 30-45 min. trail ride up to the top of the mountain, where we met our ziplining guides. They suited us up in our harnesses and gave us instructions and also ziplined along with us as we traversed the mountain over the beautiful jungle canopy over 9 ziplines. We felt safe with them and we had a lot of fun.When we reached the base of the mountain, we were met with refreshing juices and wonderful BBQ dinner of steak, chicken, Costa Rican sausages, salads, pasta and veggies - as much as we wanted- in a beautiful private dining area. If you want a great ziplining/horseback riding adventure in Guanacaste, come to Black Stallion!Thank you for the exellent review,we appreciate.The super ranch combo tour you did is the most fun adventure.Ride,zip,pool time & BBQ.Glad to see u enjoyed the ranch and our rustic style bbq cooking.We have some fun pics of the fam,will e mail to you.thanks for visiting us Amigos.see u soon.Pura Vida!

Top 8 Fusion food in Tamarindo, Province of Guanacaste, Costa Rica

2. Cactus Restaurant

Carretera Playa Avellanas, Pinilla, Tamarindo 50309 Costa Rica Central American, Costa Rican, International, Fusion, Healthy Lunch, Dinner, Brunch, Breakfast, Drinks Takeout, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Parking Available, Free Wifi, Table Service, Free Off-Street Parking, Serves Alcohol, Wine and Beer [email protected] +506 2215 3899 http://www.facebook.com/Cactus-de-Pinilla-1849099015110389/
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5 based on 74 reviews

Cactus Restaurant

The Cactus Restaurant is located in Pinillia just off the road to Playa Avellanas and only five minutes from Hacienda Pinilla. We have local and international cuisines for you such as delicious cassado and tayuya, excellent ceviche, as well as tasty tacos

Reviewed By courtina

What a gem right outside the gates of hacienda pinilla. So far have eaten here twice during our ten day stay. First time everyone got fish and they ran out right at my order (sigh) so we came back a second time. Everything is awesome on the menu and they even made me a special fish plate as requested a salad and fish. Considering the prices inside the gates this place is worth the five minute trek. Do yourself a favor and go!Dear courtina, thank you very much for your very nice review and for your recommendation. We are very happy that you enjoyed our food at the Cactus. Pura Vida

Where to eat Costa Rican food in Tamarindo: The Best Restaurants and Bars

1. HiR Fine Dining

20 min South of Tamarindo, 10 min East of Playa Avellanas, Pinilla, Tamarindo Costa Rica Fusion, Central American, Costa Rican Dinner Reservations, Seating, Street Parking, Serves Alcohol, Accepts American Express, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Digital Payments, Cash Only, Accepts Discover, Table Service, Outdoor Seating, Parking Available +506 7223 6697 http://hiradventure.com/finedining
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5 based on 93 reviews

HiR Fine Dining

HiR Fine Dining is an intimate dining experience for up to 12 people. Dinners last 3 hours and are scheduled from 5 - 8pm. IMPORTANT: include a working phone number with your reservation so that we can contact you for dietary requirements, logistics and p

Reviewed By Kate M

This was an incredible experience! Not only do you get a unique and delicious meal made in front of you while you relax, Noam also provides excellent conversation. Take the time to appreciate both the fine dining (each dish with a story and made from local ingredients, including from Noam’s own garden), but also Noam’s life story in general. You won’t regret it!Thank you Kate for being my first dinner of the low season: the two of you are so loving, and kind and fun. I had such a wonderful evening.

Most Popular International food in Tamarindo, Province of Guanacaste, Costa Rica

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