Despite its small size and remote location, Monteverde has a very sophisticated food scene. Local and international restaurants of all sorts and in all price ranges are easy to find throughout the town. You could easily spend a week here and eat somewhere different every day (not that we are recommending it if you are on a budget!). Here is a list of some of the best restaurants in Monteverde Costa Rica.
International / Pizza
A local favorite, Amy’s Cuisine is very well balanced restaurant that gives you lots to choose from. The main focus is meats and fishes but their pizza is also very tasty and well made. Vegetarian plates are also available.
More InfoPub
Located in the center of Santa Elena, Bar Amigos has some of the best nightlife of Monteverde along with tasty fast food dishes and some great quality main dishes. This place is a local favorite and tends to fill up after 7. There is usually a DJ or live music.
More InfoCoffee
Beso Espresso is a heaven for coffee lovers! This quaint Café is dedicated to specialty coffee and pastries. Visitors can find a great selection from award winning micro mills located in various parts of the county. Coffee is roasted once a week to ensure its always fresh and eco-friendly practices of disposal are strictly observed.
More InfoPizza
This Bisto is a great place to go to for some quick, fresh pizza. Located just outside of Santa Elena, Bon Appetit offers large portions, great service, and fair prices. We recommend trying some of the local crafted beers that they have for sale.
More InfoInternational / Pizza
Bromelias Del Rio has a reputation for having a varied menu and great tasting dishes. Based mostly on Costa Rican and Latin food, there is also great pizza and baked goods. Bromelias is a perfect option if you’re looking for a good place to have lunch or simply some coffee and pastries.
More InfoInternational
Café Cabure is an Argentine restaurant and coffee shop located at the Paseo de Stella Tourist Center. Owner Susana Salas opened Café Cabure as a way to express her culinary passion for South American dishes. Cabure Café also sells a wide array of fine chocolates and chocolate products. We recommended trying some of her authentic Argentine empanadas!
More InfoDinner
A true local favorite Café Orchid is a great place to go for coffee, smoothies, crepes, paninis etc. This is a great place for breakfast or even lunch! We especially recommend you try some of their famous pancakes.
More InfoCoffee / Chocolate
The Choco Café Don Juan is located inside the Don Juan plantation, named after Don Juan Cruz. Born in 1937, Don Juan was part of one of the first pioneering farming families that arrived to Monteverde and began to grow coffee. Visitors can take a tour of the entire plantation and top it off with some coffee and chocolates at the Choco Café.
More InfoFusion
Don Luis is a great place to visit when you’re feeling particularly hungry, as it is famous for its large portions! Most nights there is live music which creates a great atmosphere for going with friends. Their most famous dish is their pizza but we also recommend their steak and red snapper! Their wine menu is also known to be one of the best in the area.
More InfoCosta Rican
El Jardin offers delicious, traditional Costa Rican home cooking in a quiet and laid back atmosphere with a great view. This is the perfect place to relax and enjoy some typical “Pollo en Salsa” or Hill Trout next to the warm fireplace after a long day of hiking and adventuring.
More InfoLatin Fusion
El Olivo is a small, family-owned restaurant that specializes in Costa Rican and South American gourmet fusion dishes. The atmosphere is romantic, cozy, and inviting. The dishes are all expertly prepared with fresh ingredients. We recommend sharing the local cheese platter if you’re going with friends.
More InfoSpanish
Located between Monteverde and Santa Elena, Farallones shares its building with Johnny’s pizzería. This is the perfect spot for going with a group of friends and sharing some Tapas. There is a very good atmosphere and live music on most nights.
More InfoFast Food
I’m Hungry covers all of the fast food basics: pizza, burgers, burritos, hot dogs, and even Chinese. Great location and good pricing make it a location favored by locals, the only drawback is that there is nowhere to sit. We recommend trying their dessert crepes!
More InfoLatin
A Costa Rican dinner with an international twist, Maravilla offers more than just Casados! Perfect for anyone on a budget, you will get a good meal without paying too much. We recommend trying their famous Quesadillas!
More InfoCraft Brewery / Mediterranean
A mandatory stop for craft beer aficionados, Monteverde’s Beer House sells not only an assortment of international craft beers but also their own Adamá Beer brewed in Monteverde. The food consists of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes like kebabs, falafel, and hummus.
More InfoFusion
Monteverde Gastroclub is a very unique restaurant that specializes in Japanse and Peuvian fusion. It may sound like a strange concept, but chef and owner Roberto not only pulls it off but manages to make some of the tastiest and most creative dishes in Monteverde. We recommend trying one of their colorful rainbow rolls.
More InfoJapanese
The only traditional Japanese restaurant in the Monteverde Area, Musashi offers some great tasting, first rate meals. The prices are a little higher than most restaurants in the area, but the excellent quality of the food makes them absolutely worth it.
More InfoInternational
Located inside the Poco a Poco Hotel and Spa, the Otucama restaurant is a luxurious culinary delight for anyone that doesn’t mind paying a little more for a good meal. Great atmosphere and live music on most nights make it all the more tempting.
More InfoBakery
Located directly below the Mar y Tierra restaurant, Panaderia Jimenez offers local pastries and freshly baked goods. This is great spot for having a good up of coffee with some delicious desserts. We recommend their strudels and turnovers!
More InfoVegeterian
Located right next to the Casa Tranquilo Hostel, Paz y Flora is great option for vegans and vegetarians! Menu items include spring rolls, pitas, burgers, wraps, salads, pasta, sandwiches, and more. Their freshly made juices are also highly recommended.
More InfoPizza
Pizzeria de Johnny serves some of the best traditional pizzas cooked in a wood oven in the area. The menu is extensive and varied, but if you’re feeling bold you can ask Johnny to improvise something just for you!
More InfoPizza
DiKary’s is an excellent option for anyone on a budget but in the mood for good pizza. For roughly $8 you can get large homemade pizza made with fresh toppings and in traditional Italian fashion. If you end up going more than once we recommend you also try their pasta!
More InfoLatin
Quimera’s focuses mostly on Latin American infused tapas. The portions are not as big as in other restaurants; the best course of action is ordering several different dishes and sharing them with friends. The Thai chicken and the shrimp in Sambal sauce are also popular choices.
More InfoCosta Rican
El fogón features tasty homemade food cooked on a wood-fired grill, set in a charming rustic atmosphere. You already know the drill for these types of restaurants; your best bet is the Casado!
More InfoGrill
Raulitos has been described by many locals as the best chicken in town, and we’re inclined to agree! Consisting of a simple outdoor stand, Raulito’s does the classic Costa Rica rotisserie chicken that is so popular throughout the country. Despite its great quality, Raulito’s is a great choice for anyone on a budget.
More InfoPub / Sports Bar
Referee’s is a traditional American sportsbar for anyone feeling a little homesick or wanting to catch up on a sporting event back home. All the classical dishes are here: burgers, wings, chicken fingers, quesadillas, and a wide array of local and international beers.
More InfoSeafood
Located next to El Establo Hotel, Arrecifes is a mandatory stop for any seafood lovers in Monteverde. The menu is varied with a wide array of choices, the service is excellent, and prices are fair. We recommend trying some of their famous Ceviche as well as the Tuna Steaks!
More InfoCosta Rican
Located inside the gorgeous Hotel Belma, Restaurante Celajes offers visitors all sorts of typical Costa Rican dishes crafted with a special twist courtesy of the hotel’s chef. Restaurante Celajes takes pride in only using high quality local ingredients, many of which are grown on the hotel property inside their greenhouse and herb gardens, or on the Belmar family organic farm. We recommend trying some of their special craft beer which is made on site!
More InfoInternational
Located inside the well-known De Lucia Inn, the De Lucia Restaurant is another old time establishment that has been open for over 20 years. This family owned restaurant offers visitors a wide array of international dishes in a warm and inviting atmosphere. We recommend trying some of their fine steaks.
More InfoLatin Fusion
Mar y Tierra is a family owned restaurant that mostly focuses on meat or fish based dishes. However there are also some great veggie options available as well. This is a good option if you’re in the mood for steaks or fish filets accompanied by some fine wine.
More InfoInternational
One of the most popular restaurants in Monteverde, favored by both locals and visitors, is Morphos. The inside of the restaurant is exquisitely decorated with beautiful murals depicting the cloud forest of Monteverde. Open for dinner and lunch, Morphos carries a varied menu consisting mostly of soups, sandwiches, stews, salads, meats, chicken and fish.
More InfoCosta Rican
Good prices and generous portions on typical food cooked with great flavor! Fans of spicy condiments can try their luck by putting some of Pura Vida’s homemade cayenne pepper sauce on their Casados.
More InfoCosta Rican
Located in the heart of Santa Elena, across from the Sky Adventures Office, Tico y Rico serves customers with typical Costa Rican home cooking as well as traditional fast food. A great place to go to for Casados or Gallo Pinto!
More InfoSpanish
Traditional Spanish cooking combined with the experimentation of a very skillful chef gives us Sabor Español. The usual Spanish dishes like Paella and Patatas Bravas are perfectly carried out, but the menu also has a few good surprises for anyone feeling a bit more daring! We recommend trying some of their famous Sangria while you’re there.
More InfoCosta Rican
Sabor Tico is a typical Costa Rican Dinner or “Soda” that specializes in rice and beans dishes accompanied vegetables, salads, and meat, chicken, or fish. Sabor Ticos has generous portions at very economical prices. We recommend trying their delicious milkshakes!
More InfoCosta Rican
Located close to downtown Santa Elena, Soda Bonanza is a good option for freshly cooked traditional meals. The portions are large and the prices are low, we recommend the fish Casado or rice with shrimp!
More InfoCosta Rican
A typical Costa Rican dinner, La Amistad is a solid choice for anyone looking for a tasty, inexpensive meal. We recommend trying the fish or beef Casados.
More InfoCosta Rican
La Salvadita is a quaint typical Costa Rican dinner with economical options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. We recommend trying their beef Casados and fried fish fillet for lunch or dinner. As for breakfast, you just can’t go wrong with some traditional Gallo Pinto and eggs!
More InfoLatin Fusion
Sophia’s is one of Monteverde’s most sought out fine dining locations and for good reason. Sophia’s boasts to-notch service, impeccably clean presentation, and world-class gourmet cooking set in a romantic candle lighted setting. Their fine wines and assorted drinks top-notch, we recommend trying any of them along with tenderloin, roasted pork, or sea bass.
More InfoBakery
Stellas Bakery has been operating for over 23 years, making it one of longest running establishments in the Monteverde area. Their specialty is fresh baked goods and lunch dishes. Some of the most popular dishes on the menu include pastries, sandwiches, soups, shakes, smoothies, quiche, and much more. Stellas is open for both breakfast and lunch, and is a great option for homemade food.
More InfoMexican
If you’re looking for something fast and delicious than Taco Taco is perfect for you! Here you will find tacos, burritos, quesadillas, pork al pastor, roasted veggies, battered mahi mahi and much more! Service is swift and friendly, the food is declicious, and prices are reasonable. What more could anyone ask for?
More InfoInternational
The Green takes pride in using only local and organic ingredients to create some of the most incredible meals in all of Monteverde. The Green’s steaks are famous, but there are also many vegan and vegetarian options as well as an array of dishes from different parts of the world.
More InfoSteakhouse
Meat lovers rejoice! Toro Tinto specializes in steaks made from grass fed cattle and fine wines from South America. Eating here can be a little pricier than in most “Sodas” but the quality of the food is guaranteed to be superior.
More InfoItalian
Tramonti was created in 1993 by an Italian and a Costa Rican who wanted to replicate an authentic, traditional Italian dining experience in Monteverde. Famous for its pizza, pasta, and comprehensive wine menu; Tramonti is the place to go for Italian food lovers,
More InfoInternational
The aptly named Tree House is famous for the beautiful fig tree that grows right in the center of the restaurant, giving it a unique atmosphere and scenery to enjoy while you’re eating. Tree House has an incredibly varied menu, with options ranging from pizza and pasta, to Mexican dishes, sandwiches, fondue and much more. On many nights there is live music inside the restaurant.
More InfoBakery
Located directly below the Mar y Tierra restaurant, Panaderia Jimenez offers local pastries and freshly baked goods. This is great spot for having a good up of coffee with some delicious desserts. We recommend their strudels and turnovers!
More InfoBakery
Stellas Bakery has been operating for over 23 years, making it one of longest running establishments in the Monteverde area. Their specialty is fresh baked goods and lunch dishes. Some of the most popular dishes on the menu include pastries, sandwiches, soups, shakes, smoothies, quiche, and much more. Stellas is open for both breakfast and lunch, and is a great option for homemade food.
More InfoPub
Located in the center of Santa Elena, Bar Amigos has some of the best nightlife of Monteverde along with tasty fast food dishes and some great quality main dishes. This place is a local favorite and tends to fill up after 7. There is usually a DJ or live music.
More InfoPub / Sports Bar
Referee’s is a traditional American sportsbar for anyone feeling a little homesick or wanting to catch up on a sporting event back home. All the classical dishes are here: burgers, wings, chicken fingers, quesadillas, and a wide array of local and international beers.
More InfoCoffee
Beso Espresso is a heaven for coffee lovers! This quaint Café is dedicated to specialty coffee and pastries. Visitors can find a great selection from award winning micro mills located in various parts of the county. Coffee is roasted once a week to ensure its always fresh and eco-friendly practices of disposal are strictly observed.
More InfoDinner
A true local favorite Café Orchid is a great place to go for coffee, smoothies, crepes, paninis etc. This is a great place for breakfast or even lunch! We especially recommend you try some of their famous pancakes.
More InfoCoffee / Chocolate
The Choco Café Don Juan is located inside the Don Juan plantation, named after Don Juan Cruz. Born in 1937, Don Juan was part of one of the first pioneering farming families that arrived to Monteverde and began to grow coffee. Visitors can take a tour of the entire plantation and top it off with some coffee and chocolates at the Choco Café.
More InfoFusion
Don Luis is a great place to visit when you’re feeling particularly hungry, as it is famous for its large portions! Most nights there is live music which creates a great atmosphere for going with friends. Their most famous dish is their pizza but we also recommend their steak and red snapper! Their wine menu is also known to be one of the best in the area.
More InfoLatin Fusion
El Olivo is a small, family-owned restaurant that specializes in Costa Rican and South American gourmet fusion dishes. The atmosphere is romantic, cozy, and inviting. The dishes are all expertly prepared with fresh ingredients. We recommend sharing the local cheese platter if you’re going with friends.
More InfoLatin
A Costa Rican dinner with an international twist, Maravilla offers more than just Casados! Perfect for anyone on a budget, you will get a good meal without paying too much. We recommend trying their famous Quesadillas!
More InfoFusion
Monteverde Gastroclub is a very unique restaurant that specializes in Japanse and Peuvian fusion. It may sound like a strange concept, but chef and owner Roberto not only pulls it off but manages to make some of the tastiest and most creative dishes in Monteverde. We recommend trying one of their colorful rainbow rolls.
More InfoLatin
Quimera’s focuses mostly on Latin American infused tapas. The portions are not as big as in other restaurants; the best course of action is ordering several different dishes and sharing them with friends. The Thai chicken and the shrimp in Sambal sauce are also popular choices.
More InfoCosta Rican
Located inside the gorgeous Hotel Belma, Restaurante Celajes offers visitors all sorts of typical Costa Rican dishes crafted with a special twist courtesy of the hotel’s chef. Restaurante Celajes takes pride in only using high quality local ingredients, many of which are grown on the hotel property inside their greenhouse and herb gardens, or on the Belmar family organic farm. We recommend trying some of their special craft beer which is made on site!
More InfoLatin Fusion
Sophia’s is one of Monteverde’s most sought out fine dining locations and for good reason. Sophia’s boasts to-notch service, impeccably clean presentation, and world-class gourmet cooking set in a romantic candle lighted setting. Their fine wines and assorted drinks top-notch, we recommend trying any of them along with tenderloin, roasted pork, or sea bass.
More InfoFast Food
I’m Hungry covers all of the fast food basics: pizza, burgers, burritos, hot dogs, and even Chinese. Great location and good pricing make it a location favored by locals, the only drawback is that there is nowhere to sit. We recommend trying their dessert crepes!
More InfoGrill
Raulitos has been described by many locals as the best chicken in town, and we’re inclined to agree! Consisting of a simple outdoor stand, Raulito’s does the classic Costa Rica rotisserie chicken that is so popular throughout the country. Despite its great quality, Raulito’s is a great choice for anyone on a budget.
More InfoInternational / Pizza
A local favorite, Amy’s Cuisine is very well balanced restaurant that gives you lots to choose from. The main focus is meats and fishes but their pizza is also very tasty and well made. Vegetarian plates are also available.
More InfoInternational / Pizza
Bromelias Del Rio has a reputation for having a varied menu and great tasting dishes. Based mostly on Costa Rican and Latin food, there is also great pizza and baked goods. Bromelias is a perfect option if you’re looking for a good place to have lunch or simply some coffee and pastries.
More InfoSpanish
Located between Monteverde and Santa Elena, Farallones shares its building with Johnny’s pizzería. This is the perfect spot for going with a group of friends and sharing some Tapas. There is a very good atmosphere and live music on most nights.
More InfoCraft Brewery / Mediterranean
A mandatory stop for craft beer aficionados, Monteverde’s Beer House sells not only an assortment of international craft beers but also their own Adamá Beer brewed in Monteverde. The food consists of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes like kebabs, falafel, and hummus.
More InfoJapanese
The only traditional Japanese restaurant in the Monteverde Area, Musashi offers some great tasting, first rate meals. The prices are a little higher than most restaurants in the area, but the excellent quality of the food makes them absolutely worth it.
More InfoInternational
Located inside the Poco a Poco Hotel and Spa, the Otucama restaurant is a luxurious culinary delight for anyone that doesn’t mind paying a little more for a good meal. Great atmosphere and live music on most nights make it all the more tempting.
More InfoInternational
Located inside the well-known De Lucia Inn, the De Lucia Restaurant is another old time establishment that has been open for over 20 years. This family owned restaurant offers visitors a wide array of international dishes in a warm and inviting atmosphere. We recommend trying some of their fine steaks.
More InfoLatin Fusion
Mar y Tierra is a family owned restaurant that mostly focuses on meat or fish based dishes. However there are also some great veggie options available as well. This is a good option if you’re in the mood for steaks or fish filets accompanied by some fine wine.
More InfoInternational
One of the most popular restaurants in Monteverde, favored by both locals and visitors, is Morphos. The inside of the restaurant is exquisitely decorated with beautiful murals depicting the cloud forest of Monteverde. Open for dinner and lunch, Morphos carries a varied menu consisting mostly of soups, sandwiches, stews, salads, meats, chicken and fish.
More InfoSpanish
Traditional Spanish cooking combined with the experimentation of a very skillful chef gives us Sabor Español. The usual Spanish dishes like Paella and Patatas Bravas are perfectly carried out, but the menu also has a few good surprises for anyone feeling a bit more daring! We recommend trying some of their famous Sangria while you’re there.
More InfoMexican
If you’re looking for something fast and delicious than Taco Taco is perfect for you! Here you will find tacos, burritos, quesadillas, pork al pastor, roasted veggies, battered mahi mahi and much more! Service is swift and friendly, the food is declicious, and prices are reasonable. What more could anyone ask for?
More InfoSteakhouse
Meat lovers rejoice! Toro Tinto specializes in steaks made from grass fed cattle and fine wines from South America. Eating here can be a little pricier than in most “Sodas” but the quality of the food is guaranteed to be superior.
More InfoInternational
The aptly named Tree House is famous for the beautiful fig tree that grows right in the center of the restaurant, giving it a unique atmosphere and scenery to enjoy while you’re eating. Tree House has an incredibly varied menu, with options ranging from pizza and pasta, to Mexican dishes, sandwiches, fondue and much more. On many nights there is live music inside the restaurant.
More InfoItalian
Tramonti was created in 1993 by an Italian and a Costa Rican who wanted to replicate an authentic, traditional Italian dining experience in Monteverde. Famous for its pizza, pasta, and comprehensive wine menu; Tramonti is the place to go for Italian food lovers,
More InfoInternational / Pizza
A local favorite, Amy’s Cuisine is very well balanced restaurant that gives you lots to choose from. The main focus is meats and fishes but their pizza is also very tasty and well made. Vegetarian plates are also available.
More InfoPizza
This Bisto is a great place to go to for some quick, fresh pizza. Located just outside of Santa Elena, Bon Appetit offers large portions, great service, and fair prices. We recommend trying some of the local crafted beers that they have for sale.
More InfoInternational / Pizza
Bromelias Del Rio has a reputation for having a varied menu and great tasting dishes. Based mostly on Costa Rican and Latin food, there is also great pizza and baked goods. Bromelias is a perfect option if you’re looking for a good place to have lunch or simply some coffee and pastries.
More InfoPizza
Pizzeria de Johnny serves some of the best traditional pizzas cooked in a wood oven in the area. The menu is extensive and varied, but if you’re feeling bold you can ask Johnny to improvise something just for you!
More InfoPizza
DiKary’s is an excellent option for anyone on a budget but in the mood for good pizza. For roughly $8 you can get large homemade pizza made with fresh toppings and in traditional Italian fashion. If you end up going more than once we recommend you also try their pasta!
More InfoSeafood
Located next to El Establo Hotel, Arrecifes is a mandatory stop for any seafood lovers in Monteverde. The menu is varied with a wide array of choices, the service is excellent, and prices are fair. We recommend trying some of their famous Ceviche as well as the Tuna Steaks!
More InfoCosta Rican
El Jardin offers delicious, traditional Costa Rican home cooking in a quiet and laid back atmosphere with a great view. This is the perfect place to relax and enjoy some typical “Pollo en Salsa” or Hill Trout next to the warm fireplace after a long day of hiking and adventuring.
More InfoCosta Rican
El fogón features tasty homemade food cooked on a wood-fired grill, set in a charming rustic atmosphere. You already know the drill for these types of restaurants; your best bet is the Casado!
More InfoCosta Rican
Good prices and generous portions on typical food cooked with great flavor! Fans of spicy condiments can try their luck by putting some of Pura Vida’s homemade cayenne pepper sauce on their Casados.
More InfoCosta Rican
Located in the heart of Santa Elena, across from the Sky Adventures Office, Tico y Rico serves customers with typical Costa Rican home cooking as well as traditional fast food. A great place to go to for Casados or Gallo Pinto!
More InfoCosta Rican
Sabor Tico is a typical Costa Rican Dinner or “Soda” that specializes in rice and beans dishes accompanied vegetables, salads, and meat, chicken, or fish. Sabor Ticos has generous portions at very economical prices. We recommend trying their delicious milkshakes!
More InfoCosta Rican
Located close to downtown Santa Elena, Soda Bonanza is a good option for freshly cooked traditional meals. The portions are large and the prices are low, we recommend the fish Casado or rice with shrimp!
More InfoCosta Rican
A typical Costa Rican dinner, La Amistad is a solid choice for anyone looking for a tasty, inexpensive meal. We recommend trying the fish or beef Casados.
More InfoCosta Rican
La Salvadita is a quaint typical Costa Rican dinner with economical options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. We recommend trying their beef Casados and fried fish fillet for lunch or dinner. As for breakfast, you just can’t go wrong with some traditional Gallo Pinto and eggs!
More InfoVegeterian
Located right next to the Casa Tranquilo Hostel, Paz y Flora is great option for vegans and vegetarians! Menu items include spring rolls, pitas, burgers, wraps, salads, pasta, sandwiches, and more. Their freshly made juices are also highly recommended.
More InfoWe’re at your service with the very best Costa Rica vacations packages available, and we love what we do. Please accept our invitation to relax and let us turn your dream vacation into the trip of a lifetime.
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