Best Restaurants In Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a foodie’s paradise, teeming with affordable restaurants serving rich, delicious local fare. Eating well while traveling doesn’t have to break the bank, and these five restaurants are all the proof you need. We profile five outstanding restaurants in Costa Rica for travelers and food aficionados alike.

1. Restaurante Bufalo

Restaurante Bufalo

Open up your mind and your tastebuds to an authentic Costa Rican meal at Restaurante Bufalo. While the atmosphere is dark, you’ll instantly lighten up upon seeing how inexpensive the food and drinks are at this local hot spot. Try the Casado dish of rice, beans, plantains, salad, a tortilla, and your choice of meat, such as pork or chicken, or opt for the veggie option. This entrée comes with a refresca made in-house. If the refresca doesn’t hit the spot, then try their margaritas.

Restaurante Bufalo, San Pedro, De La Iglesia Catolica, 150mts Norte, Montes de Oca, San Jose, Costa Rica

Red Beans | © cookbookman17/Flickr

2. La Soda Colombiana

Restaurant, American

Eating at a soda in Costa Rica is a must. Sodas are family-style restaurants that offer up local cuisine for a price that can’t be beat. Enter this cozy restaurant hungry, and you’re bound to leave happy – whether you decide to try a traditional Casado dish or take a chance with the special of the day. No entrée at this spot will cost you much, so you can even go for seconds.

3. Marlin Restaurant

Restaurant

Marlin Restaurant

If you find yourself in Manuel Antonio for a weekend getaway, be sure to visit this outdoor restaurant for spectacular views and delicious food. The venue’s proximity to the beach ensures that your seafood will be fresh and well prepared. While the dishes here are a bit pricier than the other places, you won’t want to miss out on the flavorful red snapper entrée that comes with two huge sides. End your meal with a nap on the beach.

Marlin Restaurant, Main Road on Playa Espadilla, Quepos, Costa Rica

4. Tico Burguesas

Tico Burguesas

Open 24 hours a day, Tico Burguesas is a burger joint that will hit the spot with large fries, juicy burgers, and inexpensive price tags. Head over after a night on the town or for a quick lunch break while you sightsee. Brush up on your Spanish and get the number one combo, which comes with a hamburger, fries, and a drink, and dipping sauces at no extra charge.

Tico Burguesas, 50 Oeste del Banco Popular Sobre La Principal, San Pedro, Costa Rica

Fries | © stu_spivack/Flickr

5. Monster Pizza

Monster Pizza

The name of this San Pedro pizzeria is no exaggeration – these huge slices of pizza will likely leave you in a food coma unlike no other. One slice will be more than enough with a variety of options for toppings as well. No need to get a whole pie unless you’re having a huge party, so grab a seat and take a bite out of life while you dine on your Monster Pizza and wash it down with a drink.

Monster Pizza, Calle 3, San Pedro, Costa Rica

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