8 Restaurants You Have to Try in Santa Teresa

Laura Duran | 07/09/2021

Explore the thriving food scene of Santa Teresa

Santa Teresa is a stretch of coastline on the South of the Nicoya Peninsula, and famous for its surfing, vibrant community, and beautiful beaches. But there is yet another outstanding feature of this community, and it is its international cuisine. Santa Teresa has also become the home of people of all walks of life as well as nationalities. This has created an impressive offer of eateries in a very short span of land. Want to know the best places in town? Be sure to check out our recommendations for 8 Restaurants You Can’t Miss in the Santa Teresa area. 


 

  1. Koji’s

     

 No list of restaurants in Santa Teresa is complete without mentioning Koji's. The beautiful setting of candle-lit tables, the great selection of drinks, and of course, the delicious Japanese food with a variety of fresh Costa Rican ingredients. Everything from okra salads, to avocado miso soups, grilled shrimp and octopus, and mouth-watering rolls, you can’t go wrong with Koji, he is a true master at his craft. It is one of the most popular ones so be sure to reserve a table!

 

  1. Al Chile Viola

This restaurant just makes you feel like you’ve found a little piece of Italy in paradise. The owner is a classically trained Italian cook, and he prepares some of the most amazing duck, fresh pasta, seafood, and grilled octopus you’ll ever have. The unparalleled gastronomic experience is ideal from start to end, and everything from the prices to the quality and freshness of the ingredients makes Al Chile Viola one of the finest options to dine in Santa Teresa.

 

  1. The Bakery

     

Breakfast takes another meaning at The Bakery! The menu includes the best pastries, flavorful smoothies, breakfast sandwiches, hamburgers, croissants, some of the most exotic cheesecakes, and delicious Costa Rican coffee. It almost gives you that Parisian cafe vibe except for the tropical beach setting. The menu also includes vegan options, and the restaurant itself has indoor and outdoor dining, so the ambiance is really fun.

 

  1. Las Caracolas

     

Whether it is the views, the fresh fish, or the diversified offer of tico food on the menu, Las Caracolas is one of the most popular restaurants in Mal País. It is one of the last true tico establishments with little fuss and all the ambiance you dream of. The crashing waves are mesmerizing, making this beachfront location a mandatory stop in the Santa Teresa area. 

 

  1. Eat Street

     

Eat Street opened in the last year and has quickly become a very popular eatery and hang out among tourists and locals alike. It is a hassle-free, open-air, stylish place to get a quick bite and yummy food. They have a breakfast spot with awesome baked goods, smoothie bowls, and coffee. For lunch and dinner, they have salads, bowls, tacos, burritos, and hamburgers too. There’s something for everyone and it is consistently good. Don’t forget to try out the cocktail bar, we promise you won’t be disappointed! 

 

  1. Pronto Italian Street Food

Pronto Italian Street Food just feels like authentic homemade food, and their secret is imported products straight from Italy and a whole lotta passion for food. Some of the most popular dishes include the meatballs, pasta dishes, antipasto plates, and the delicious pizza!. Another favorite is their wine selection, so be sure to give it a try. This is also one of the best spots in town to have dessert… so don’t shy away from ordering a delicious brownie.
 

  1. Nectar Restaurant, Flor Blanca

     

Nectar is a great place to hang out with friends and try some fusion food. The menu is based on seasonal ingredients and offers a variety of Mediterranean, Asian, Latin food, and authentic Costa Rican food. They also offer a fine selection of South American wines, as well as exotic cocktails. It is the ultimate farm-to-table experience and has a lovely setting right on the beach. This is a great spot for breakfast, lunch, or a romantic dinner!

 

  1. El Facon

     

If you’re looking to have a great cut of meat be sure to visit El Facon. The Argentinian steaks, the hamburgers, and just the smell of the wood-fired oven will leave you enticed the moment you enter. Other delicacies include awesome vegan dishes, gluten-free options, bread baked on-site, and some delicious and fun cocktails. 

 

Did we miss your favorite restaurant? Make sure to leave a comment below! 


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