Las Catalinas, Costa Rica, is often celebrated as a wellness and adventure destination, but we are about to make a strong case for the foodies to explore this culinary stop. With an array of restaurants, cafes, a luxury supermarket, and farm-fresh ingredients readily available, going out or staying in to dine are both a real treat.
Start your morning with artisanal coffee and an ocean view, and finish your afternoon with handcrafted cocktails at sunset before heading out in town or firing up your grill at home for an excellent dinner. Whatever your craving, let Las Catalinas Doorway guide you through a few of our ultimate dining options at our favorite restaurants in town.
Celeste is a reimagined beachfront dining oasis focusing on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Located on Playa Danta, it’s the ideal place for a laid-back dinner with friends and family. The beachside setting and cool ocean breeze make every meal here unforgettable as you dine with your toes in the sand as the sunset falls just in front of you.
Pascual brings a lively atmosphere to Las Catalinas with its tapas menu focused on small, shareable dishes, wine, and fresh seafood. This is the perfect spot for a social evening, where you can share plates and enjoy craft cocktails. We recommend meeting for an early evening get-together after the beach to take in Pascual’s vibrant charm.
Nature's Table in Center of Joy is a dream come true for health-conscious travelers. Serving up fresh smoothies and protein-packed meals, this spot is ideal after a morning hike or paddleboarding session. Grab a seat in the shade and enjoy a light, refreshing meal before heading back out to explore.
Tamaki is where Japanese and Peruvian flavors meet, offering an exciting fusion menu of sushi, ceviche, and more. With its chic yet relaxed open-air ambiance, it’s an excellent choice for a date night or an elevated dining experience. Pair your Nikkei meal with sake for the full experience.
Located at Casa Chameleon, Sentido Norte is a must-visit for those seeking an upscale dining experience with breathtaking ocean views. The restaurant specializes in Costa Rican flavors with a refined touch, offering fresh seafood and farm-to-table ingredients by Chef Jose Lopez. Arrive before sunset to take in the incredible colors over the Pacific while sipping on a signature cocktail. Reservations are strongly recommended.
In the lobby of the stylish Santarena Hotel, Ponciana offers a refined yet relaxed dining experience. Grab a leisurely lunch or a sophisticated dinner under the stars on their patio, as this spot’s inspired Mediterranean summer menu is a show-stopper., featuring local ingredients from the sea, mountain and farm. Sitting at the bar is a unique treat in itself, as their expert mixologists shake up a perfect cocktail customized to your taste.
Craving something sweet? Coquelicot is a charming Belgium Waffles and Artisan Ice Cream shop serving up non-traditional and interesting local flavors. This spot will delight the dessert-lovers.
For a laid-back evening with great craft beers, head to Papagayo Brew House Located in the heart of town, this craft brewery offers a rotating selection of locally brewed beers alongside tasty bar bites. It’s the perfect place to wrap up a day of exploring, meet fellow travelers, catch a sports game, and enjoy the vibrant community atmosphere.
For those looking to elevate their dining experience, Las Catalinas Doorway offers private chef services and interactive cooking and cocktail classes. Either having a gourmet meal prepared in your own villa or a hands-on lesson in crafting local Costa Rican dishes and craft cocktails are excellent experiences to deepen your connection to the flavors of the region. Perfect for intimate dinners, group gatherings, or a fun culinary adventure, booking a private chef or class is a fantastic way to savor Las Catalinas' gastronomy uniquely and personally.
Whether you're in need of a quick bite at their deli bar, curating the perfect spread for a beachside picnic, or selecting fine wines for an intimate evening in their cellar, The Deli at Copper & Stone offers a variety of gourmet options to enhance any dining occasion. It’s a versatile, one-stop supermarket with gourmet touches that are sure to please.
Pots and Bowls is a restaurant with healthy, simple, and delicious food to be enjoyed indoors or al fresco. Its balanced menu is thoughtfully adapted to many different dietary restrictions, focusing on homemade and using fresh produce from Costa Rican vendors.
The slow-cooked, sea-and-field-to-table feasts at La Pampa Grill celebrate the soul of open-fire barbecue. Seasonal produce shares the spotlight with timeless favorites, like fall-off-the-bone ribs.
Discover the Vineyard’s Treasury, a cozy 12-seat wine cellar with a global selection of carefully chosen wines. It’s a must for wine lovers seeking a unique and memorable tasting experience.
The plant-forward Green House offers a lush, private dining experience rooted in Costa Rican tradition. This intimate space features creative vegetarian and pescatarian menus, showcasing locally sourced ingredients and vibrant flavors that reflect the region's essence.
Located inside Pura Vida Ride, the paddleboard and bike rental shop. Enjoy some of the best espresso-based drinks in town, paired with banana bread that's hard to beat. Stop in for a quick bite, or grab a cold soda or bottled water to take to the beach.
A charming all-day bakery with a grab and go menu to enjoy on the terrace, Cuatro Calle la Ronda is perfect for coffee, and house-made pastries. Enjoy sweet and savory baked goods, light meals like sandwiches and salads, as well as gourmet items like jams and pickles in a warm, neighborly setting tucked around the corner from Santarena Hotel’s main entrance.
A hub for connection and recreation, The Club welcomes both residents and visitors to dine, unwind, and stay active. Highlights include a state-of-the-art fitness center, lap and lounge pools, and amenities the whole family can enjoy. Some homes include complimentary access to the Club, but if yours does not, day passes are available for purchase.
A trip to Las Catalinas is as much about relaxing and enjoying nature as it is about taking in fantastic culinary moments. Romantic sunset dinners, a casual beachfront bite, or a vibrant evening with friends, are around every corner of town. Take the time to explore these incredible dining options and savor the diverse flavors that make Las Catalinas a true food lover’s paradise.