Local favoriteNogui's Tamarindo
Playa Tamarindo
A Tamarindo institution right by the beach, with nearly 2,000 traveler reviews on Tripadvisor. Fresh seafood, big plates and ocean views make it an easy first-night pick.
Tamarindo, Costa Rica
Great Local Cuisine
These are the restaurants I recommend to my guests in Tamarindo, from surf-town tacos and beachfront classics to a special night out. Ask me anytime and I will happily help you pick the right spot.
Planning a romantic getaway? Look for the Romantic pick tag on the fine dining spots below.
Beachfront Classics & Lively Spots
Easygoing, sandy-feet Tamarindo at its best. Great for groups and a first night in town.
Local favorite
Romantic pickPangas Beach Club
North Tamarindo Beach
An open-air beach club and restaurant right on the sand at the north end of Tamarindo Beach. Fresh seafood, upscale service and easy toes-in-the-sand dining for lunch or dinner.
Romantic pickThe Red Door
Tamarindo
A beachfront garden restaurant with a rustic-modern feel, live music and a 4.7 rating on Tripadvisor. Don't miss the ceviche, and there are great vegetarian and vegan options too.
Dragonfly Bar & Grill
Tamarindo
Highly rated international menu in a relaxed, open-air setting. Good cocktails and something for everyone in the group.
La Oveja Surf House
Tamarindo
A laid-back surf-town bar and cafe with a friendly crowd. Great for lunch after a morning on the waves.
Fine Dining & Date Night
Dress up a little. These are the places I suggest for anniversaries and special evenings.
Romantic pickEl Pelicano Restaurante
Tamarindo
One of the top-rated restaurants in town on Tripadvisor, with a 4.8 out of 5 rating. A special-occasion dinner worth booking ahead.
Romantic pickHir Fine Dining
Tamarindo
An intimate fine dining experience with a chef-driven menu. A lovely choice for a quiet, memorable night out.
Tacos, Pizza & International
Casual, flavorful and family friendly. My go-to answers when someone asks, 'Where should we eat tonight?'
Most reviewedGreen Papaya Taco Bar
Tamarindo
Mexican-fusion tacos with thousands of glowing traveler reviews. Fun, fresh and always busy for a good reason.
The Bake Yard
Tamarindo
Italian-style pizza and fresh-baked goods in a casual setting. Perfect for a family night.
Naans & Curries
Tamarindo
A well-loved Indian restaurant with hundreds of reviews. Great flavor and plenty of vegetarian options.
Agua Salada
Tamarindo
A highly rated newer spot near the pharmacy in town, with fresh plates and a warm welcome.
Breakfast, Coffee & Cheap Eats
Fuel up before the beach, or grab something quick and tasty.
Breaking Bread
Tamarindo
A bakery and cafe with fresh pastries, breakfast and great coffee. A favorite way to start the day.
Cafe Tico Tamarindo
Tamarindo
Traditional Costa Rican breakfast and lunch. Try the gallo pinto for an authentic local start to the morning.
Cactus Restaurant
Tamarindo
A casual, budget-friendly spot for a quick, satisfying meal.
Stay close to all of it
Book direct with me and skip the booking fees. Call or text any time and I will help you plan your dinners.