Top 10 Restaurants You Must Try in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica

Santa Teresa has evolved from a sleepy surf town into one of Costa Rica’s most vibrant culinary destinations. From family-run bakeries to beachside grills and upscale fusion spots, this coastal paradise has something to offer every palate.

Whether you’re here for a few days or a few weeks, these ten restaurants represent the best of what Santa Teresa has to offer — fresh ingredients, local flavor, and unforgettable dining experiences.

1.
The Bakery Santa Teresa – A Local Legend

Cuisine: Mediterranean-inspired bakery, café, lunch and evening menu.

No list of Santa Teresa’s top restaurants is complete without The Bakery. Established in 2009, this gem is one of the pioneers of the town’s food scene — and still one of its most beloved. Known for its consistency, fresh ingredients, and warm atmosphere, The Bakery has become a daily stop for locals and a must-visit for travelers.

Whether you’re grabbing a flaky croissant, a power breakfast bowl, or a perfectly brewed coffee, The Bakery delivers every time. It consistently ranks at the top of customer reviews as the best resturant in Santa Teresa and for good reason: it’s always fresh, always flavorful, and always served with a smile.

2.

Koji’s

Cuisine: Japanese
An upscale yet intimate Japanese dining experience tucked into the jungle. Fresh sashimi, high-quality sushi, and a refined atmosphere make Koji’s a standout for a special night out.
Address: Buenos Aires Road, 25 m uphill, Santa Teresa, Costa Rica
Phone: +506 8414 8122
Hours: Tue–Sat 6 PM–11 PM

3.

Pronto

Cuisine: Italian comfort food
This cozy, wood-fired pizzeria brings authentic Italian flavors to Santa Teresa. Their thin-crust pizzas, homemade pastas, and rustic sauces are simple and satisfying.
Address: Santa Fe area, Santa Teresa, Costa Rica
Phone: +506 8455 8037
Hours: Daily 12 PM–10 PM

4.

El Patio

Cuisine: Costa Rican + International
A casual open-air eatery offering a mix of Tico classics and international comfort food, from casado plates to burgers and fresh fish.

5.

La Cevichería

Cuisine: Fresh seafood & ceviche bar
A must for seafood lovers. Specializing in Costa Rican–style ceviche, this laid-back spot serves ultra-fresh fish marinated in lime with local herbs and spices. Try it with plantain chips and a cold beer while watching the street life of Playa Carmen.
Address: Playa Carmen, Santa Teresa, Puntarenas
Phone: +506 2640 0300
Hours: Daily 11 AM–9 PM

6.

The Somos Café

Cuisine: Modern healthy cuisine
Great for brunch or a relaxed lunch, Somos serves up vibrant smoothie bowls, fresh salads, and plant-forward plates in a minimalist and stylish setting.
Address: 25 m south of Lora Amarilla, Santa Teresa
Phone: +506 6091 8053
Hours: Daily 7:30 AM–11:55 PM (all-day menu until 5:30 PM, dinner till midnight)

7.

Katana Asian Cuisine

Cuisine: Asian fusion
A lively spot that brings together Thai, Japanese, and Vietnamese influences with a tropical twist. Their sushi rolls, pad Thai, and coconut curries are bold, colorful, and beautifully presented.
Address: ~600 m north of the crossroads, Santa Teresa, Puntarenas
Phone: +506 8640 0107
Hours: Daily 6 PM–10 PM

8.

Nami

Cuisine: Japanese-inspired fine dining with a modern twist.
An intimate, high-end dining experience where fresh seafood, delicate sushi, and artful presentation meet the relaxed charm of the Pacific coast.
Address: North Santa Teresa, near Selina Hostel
Phone: +506 8705 0905
Hours: Tue–Sun 5 PM–10 PM

9.

Kooks Smokehouse & Bar (Cooks)

Cuisine: American-style BBQ, steaks, burgers, sports-bar vibe.
A lively flavor-packed option: smoked meats, great beers (and cocktails), and big screens for the hometown sports fix — all just minutes from the sand.

Address: In front of Habanero, Santa Teresa 60111, Puntarenas Province
Phone: +506 8760 1365
Hours: Daily 10 AM–2 AM (weekends open until late).

10.

Las Piedras 

Cuisine: Argentine grill
For meat lovers, Las Piedras is a paradise. Specializing in grilled steaks, sausages, and traditional Argentine cuts — all cooked over an open flame.
Address: 50 m north of the main crossroads, Santa Teresa, Puntarenas
Phone: +506 6456 4698
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 5 PM–10 PM