Diners' Choice: Great for outdoor dining restaurants in Costa Rica

OpenTable

Updated June 05, 2026

Looking for the best restaurants that are great for outdoor dining in Costa Rica? You’re in the right place. Each month, OpenTable analyzes nearly 2 million global diner reviews from the past four months. We sort the results by location and category to help you discover new favorite restaurants. It's a great partnership: you reserve, eat, and review. We listen...and deliver the results for all to benefit. Enjoy!

La Catedral de la Diosa Yaxa

5.0

5 (17)

$30 and under

International

Nosara

About the restaurant

Perched in the hills of Nosara with breathtaking ocean views, La Catedral is a creative house where author cuisine, mixology, and art come together.

The restaurant features a fusion menu inspired by France and Italy, created by Lisa Lemkin, a French chef and co-owner, who brings her family recipes and refined European flavors to every dish. The bar, led by Italian co-owner Luca Silvani, celebrates the art of mixology with signature cocktails that combine local ingredients and global techniques.

The artistic and entertainment direction is curated by Costa Rican co-owner Roberto Acuña, who turns La Catedral into a lively hub for art exhibitions, live music, and cultural events.

Beyond dining, La Catedral also hosts a boutique featuring European fashion brands and local designers. More than a restaurant, it’s one of Nosara’s most inspiring ocean-view destinations — a place to eat, drink, and be creatively alive.

Top review

gina

Dined 7 days ago

The food, drinks and ambiance was amazing. It was not crowded which was nice since we felt like we had the place to our own. We will go back when the sun is setting so that we can capture the exceptional views. The staff and chef were attentive and incredibly kind. We will be returning.

La Cabane - Playa Avellanas

5.0

5 (42)

$31 to $50

Contemporary French

Playa Avellanas

About the restaurant

Born in the South of France, chef-owner Thibaut brings to Playa Avellanas the refinement of Michelin-starred kitchens and the warmth of Mediterranean hospitality.

At La Cabane, he and his brother Robin have created a place where French savoir-faire meets Costa Rican authenticity, a soulful restaurant built on family values, passion, and the art of sharing.

Each dish tells a story: the caramelized cauliflower with bold, delicate flavors; the slow-cooked meats served with their rich, intense jus; and the nostalgic sweetness of “Grandmother's cake,” a recipe passed down from their grandmother.

Surrounded by lush tropical gardens and kissed by the ocean breeze, La Cabane offers an atmosphere that is both intimate and elegant a place where time slows down, conversations flow, and every detail celebrates the art of living well.

Top review

Andrew

Dined 6 days ago

A must visit of you’re in the area. The meat per kilo was amazing.

Mamagui Nosara

4.9

4.9 (94)

$31 to $50

Italian

Nosara

About the restaurant

Born in Benevento, Chef Gerardo Giardino embarked on his culinary journey at the age of 16. With a wealth of experience gained in kitchens across Athens, New York, London, and now Costa Rica, his culinary passion centers around crafting authentic Italian dishes, reminiscent of a mother's loving preparation. Set in the just renovated El Pueblo building in Nosara, you will find us on the ground floor, with tables set all over the Carabbean-vibe inspired terrace! Join us for a dining experience that promises to delight your taste buds and leave a lasting impression.

Top review

AngelaGold

Dined 4 days ago

Always such a treat to go to Mama Gui! The pasta dishes are amazing, as are the seafood specials and the daily risotto special. Favorite date night place to go.

CHAO PESCAO

4.8

4.8 (281)

$30 and under

Latin American

Marina Papagayo

About the restaurant

Chao Pescao is our neighborhood restaurant offering a gastronomic journey through Latin America and the Caribbean curated by Costa Rican born Chef Keivin. The menu style is shared plates, and this is your chance to discover some of the unique flavors of the region. Our award-winning mixology program has also made this restaurant a guest favorite. Mixology, cooking classes and live music are offered throughout the week. Our communal table is perfect for large parties.

Dining Visitors to Peninsula Papagayo
If you are not a homeowner or guest staying at one of the resorts or homes within Peninsula Papagayo, please contact Guest Services at gscenter.papagayo@andaz.com to advise the date and time of your reservation, so we may coordinate your entry into Peninsula Papagayo with the security teams. Visitors are only permitted with confirmed dining reservations and advance notice to security. You may be required to show a copy of your dining confirmation.

Top review

Terry

Dined 7 days ago

Our experience was beautiful atmosphere, and great food, service was excellent all the staff are exceptional!

Delmonicos Steak Tamarindo

4.8

4.8 (36)

$30 and under

Grill

Tamarindo

About the restaurant

Delmonico’s es un restaurante de carnes ubicado en Plaza Santuario, en el corazón de Tamarindo, Guanacaste, Costa Rica. Reconocido por su ambiente elegante y relajado, combina el estilo playero con un toque sofisticado, ideal para cenas especiales o reuniones entre amigos. Su especialidad son los cortes premium como el rib-eye, tomahawk y parrilladas mixtas, acompañados de guarniciones frescas y postres caseros. La atención es cálida y profesional, y el entorno —con terraza al aire libre y detalles de madera— crea una experiencia gastronómica memorable. Abre desde la tarde hasta la noche y es perfecto para quienes buscan excelente carne, buen vino y un ambiente acogedor en la mejor zona de Tamarindo. Teléfono: +506 8550 1234

Top review

Robert

Dined 4 days ago

We had a great dinner last night at Delmonico. Great service And I credit good food! Highly recommend!

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Experience

HAPPY HOUR

Sendero kitchen

4.7

4.7 (67)

$50 and over

International

Nosara

About the restaurant

Sendero Kitchen welcomes guests into a soulful, elegantly designed space where the rhythm of Nosara comes to life. Rooted in community and connection, it offers a seamless blend of relaxed coastal energy and refined dining.

Led by Executive Chef Olivier Palazzo, Sendero Kitchen’s cuisine blends simple Mediterranean flavors with refined French technique. The menu is made for sharing, encouraging a joyful vibe—whether you’re gathered with a big group or enjoying a cozy seat at the bar.

Top review

Janine

Dined on Jun 6, 2026

Service was attentive and felt personalized. Atmosphere was extremely stylish and elevated. Drinks and food were superb. The date cake came highly recommended, and did not disappoint!

Malu at El Mangroove

4.6

4.6 (29)

$31 to $50

Mediterranean

Marina Papagayo

About the restaurant

Among our restaurants, you will find Malu. It is the perfect place to eat during your stay in Guanacaste

Top review

Joseph

Dined on Apr 24, 2026

The food was good and the staff were very nice. We went 2X

Meso

4.6

4.6 (49)

$31 to $50

Mediterranean

Marina Papagayo

About the restaurant

Discover Meso, a culinary destination where Mediterranean classics meet the bold flavors of Mesoamerica. Set on Nacascolo beach at Casa de Playa, Meso offers an inspiring twist on traditional Mediterranean dishes and cocktails.

Please note:
The restaurant is located in protected nature preserve at nearby Nacascolo beach, which requires a complimentary shuttle ride from the hotel lobby. Between 5:00 – 6:00 pm, you will have a chance to ride through the lush mangroves with frequent wildlife sightings. After 6:00 pm, the shuttle drives directly through the golf course path to the restaurant. Let this special place—and the flavors—enchant you.

Dinner service is operated seasonally from Mid-November until April.
Additional dates for dinner service will vary.
For hotel guests, please refer to the weekly restaurant schedule.
For Peninsula Papagayo guests, please consult with your hotel concierge or contact gscenter.papagayo@andaz.com for dinner operations schedule.

Top review

Sara

Dined on Mar 1, 2026

My parents and I visited Meso for lunch looking for fresh seafood, and it did not disappoint. Located in the beautiful Peninsula Papagayo, the beachfront setting is stunning and the atmosphere is perfect for a family meal. We started with a couple of appetizers, the tuna tartar and croquetas followed by sharing a couple of main Corvina and Mahi Mahi dishes. Every plate was beautifully presented and the flavors were spot on. A special mention to the staff, who were extremely friendly and attentive, making our afternoon even more enjoyable. If you are in Papagayo and craving quality seafood with great service, Meso is a must-visit!"

Cala Luna Origen Restaurante - Tamarindo

4.6

4.6 (43)

$31 to $50

Fusion / Eclectic

Tamarindo

About the restaurant

At Cala Luna Origen, we nourish your senses daily through delicious home-grown ingredients organically grown at our homestead La Senda and gastronomic farm to table dinners.

The chef’s team conjures dishes that combine international cuisine with Costa Rican flavors to deliver one-of-a-kind tastes amid an intimate setting.

Top review

KelsieGold

Dined on Apr 13, 2026

Chef was amazing - dishes were full of flavor. Worth the visit!

Cocina de Mercado

4.5

4.5 (16)

$31 to $50

International

Cabo Velas

About the restaurant

Cocina de Mercado offers a unique open-market dining experience with a vibrant show kitchen, pizza counter, and griddle station. Located in Reserva Conchal, Guanacaste, our restaurant serves fresh local ingredients in creative dishes inspired by both Costa Rican and international cuisines — from light, wholesome fare to comforting home-style favorites.

Relax on our spacious outdoor terrace featuring stunning sea views of Playa Conchal bay and a beautiful wet deck pool. Perfect for romantic dinners, family gatherings, or casual meals, Cocina de Mercado combines exceptional food with breathtaking views and a welcoming atmosphere.

Top review

OpenTable Diner

Dined 1 day ago

Great experience…. Food was great and service was impeccable. The dinner and breakfast is of good quality and fresh.

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