Best restaurants near Manuel Antonio National Park: where to eat?
- 1 day ago
- 5 min read
Manuel Antonio is best known for its world-famous national park, with stunning beaches and lush rainforest. While the park itself only offers a few snack stands, the town just outside is a treasure trove for food lovers. From cozy cafés serving Costa Rican coffee to elegant restaurants with breathtaking views, there’s something for every taste and budget. In this guide, we share our favorite Costa Rican-owned restaurants near Manuel Antonio National Park, so you can enjoy the best meals after exploring the park.
Fine dining restaurants
Restaurante Puerto Escondido / Hotel Playa Espadilla
Location: Hotel Playa Espadilla, Manuel Antonio, Puntarenas, Costa Rica
Type of Food: Costa Rican & international fusion cuisine
Price Range: from $30 to $40 per person
Phone Number: +506 2777 0903
Website: Puerto Escondido
Do I Need a Reservation? Yes
Do They Deliver? No
Just a short walk from the entrance of Manuel Antonio National Park, Restaurante Puerto Escondido at Hotel Playa Espadilla is our favorite spot for a relaxed meal surrounded by tropical greenery. We love spotting birds and local wildlife while enjoying dishes crafted by Chef Domingo Mora, who brings over 20 years of experience. The menu blends Costa Rican classics with creative international twists, and you can stop by for breakfast, a light lunch, or a relaxed dinner. Perfect for a peaceful dining experience after exploring the park.
Casual dining restaurants
Baldi’s Fresh Restaurant
Location: Just a few minutes’ drive from the entrance to Manuel Antonio, right in front of Manuel Antonio beach
Type of Food: International & fusion cuisine, vegetarian‑friendly
Price Range: from $10 to $25
Phone Number: +506 8850 2563
Website: TripAdvisor
Do I Need a Reservation? No
Do They Deliver? No
Baldi’s Fresh Restaurant is a bright, vibrant spot right across from Playa Manuel Antonio, offering fresh, fusion-inspired dishes using local Costa Rican ingredients. We love stopping here for lunch after a morning hike; with an emphasis on healthy choices, seafood, and vegetarian options, it has become a go-to for travelers wanting creative food in a laid-back yet modern setting. The welcoming staff and pet‑friendly outdoor seating add to its charm.
Restaurante Marlin
Location: Ruta Nacional 618, Quepos / Manuel Antonio, right across from Playa Espadilla
Type of Food: Seafood, Costa Rican and international cuisine
Price Range: from $10 to $30
Phone Number: +506 2777 1134
Do I Need a Reservation? Yes
Do They Deliver? No
Steps from the beach, Restaurante Marlin is a family-run favorite for fresh seafood and traditional Costa Rican dishes like grilled fish in banana leaf and ceviche. We love the relaxed beachfront setting, friendly staff, and occasional wildlife sightings make it a perfect stop after visiting Manuel Antonio National Park. Visitors praise its authentic flavors, generous portions, and the chance to enjoy a true Costa Rican dining experience in a casual, welcoming atmosphere.
Bar & Restaurant El Chante del Parque
Location: Main road near the entrance of Manuel Antonio National Park
Type of Food: Costa Rican cuisine, international dishes, seafood
Price Range: from $10 to $30 per person
Phone Number: +506 2777 0667
Website: El Chante del Parque
Do I Need a Reservation? No
Do They Deliver? No
El Chante del Parque is an iconic Manuel Antonio restaurant just steps from the national park. Guests enjoy lush rainforest views while savoring fresh Costa Rican seafood and international dishes. The atmosphere is casual yet polished, with friendly, attentive service that highlights authentic Costa Rican hospitality. Perfect for lunch after a park hike or a relaxed dinner under the tropical canopy.
Buru Garden – Restaurant by the Park
Location: On Park Entrance Road, right by Manuel Antonio National Park
Type of Food: Latin, Spanish, Contemporary, Central / South American
Price Range: from $10 to $20 per person
Phone Number: +506 2777 1405
Website: Tripadvisor
Do I Need a Reservation? No
Do They Deliver? No
Right by the park entrance, Buru Garden offers a leafy, open-air garden experience. We love the relaxed, friendly vibe — it’s a great place to unwind with Latin and contemporary dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. The portions are generous, and the staff is always welcoming, making it a favorite spot for a casual meal after a park visit.
Perezoso Coffee House
Location: About 175 meters before the entrance of Manuel Antonio National Park, Manuel Antonio, Puntarenas, Costa Rica
Type of Food: Café / Bistro
Price Range: from $10 to $20
Phone Number: +506 8466 1299
Website: Facebook
Do I Need a Reservation? No
Do They Deliver? No
Perezoso Coffee House is a cozy, vibrant café just a short walk from the park entrance. We love grabbing a smoothie bowl or fresh Costa Rican coffee here before a hike. The café also has sandwiches, salads, and vegan options, making it perfect for a light breakfast or mid-morning snack. The friendly staff and relaxed vibe always make us feel welcome.
Budget-friendly restaurants
Restaurante Donde Alex
Location: Beach trail near the park entrance, Manuel Antonio
Type of Food: Latin cuisine, seafood, Costa Rican dishes
Price Range: from $8 to $15 per person
Phone Number: +506 8301 6714
Website: Donde Alex
Do I Need a Reservation? No
Do They Deliver? No
Donde Alex is a small, authentic spot right near the park entrance. We love the fresh seafood — ceviche, grilled fish, and lobster are all highlights — and the laid-back, casual atmosphere makes it perfect for a post-hike lunch. It’s a favorite for both locals and travelers looking for real Costa Rican flavors at great prices.
Other Budget-Friendly Sodas (a few minutes drive from the Park)
If you’re looking for more budget-friendly local spots, several sodas and small eateries can be found in Manuel Antonio or Quepos, just a short drive from Manuel Antonio National Park. These casual, family-run restaurants serve hearty dishes like casados, fresh ceviche, and tropical fruit drinks, giving you a genuine taste of Costa Rica without breaking the bank. They’re perfect for travelers seeking filling, flavorful meals while supporting local businesses.
Soda Angel
Location: 618, Manuel Antonio / Quepos, very close to the main road by Manuel Antonio National Park
Type of Food: Traditional Costa Rican
Price Range: from $5 to $15 per person
Phone Number: +506 2777 6597
Website: Tripadvisor
Do I Need a Reservation? No
Do They Delivery? Yes
Soda Angel is a cozy, no-frills local spot just off the main road near the entrance to Manuel Antonio National Park. Step inside and you immediately feel the rhythm of a typical Costa Rican soda. Ordering a casado with freshly grilled fish is an experience in itself, served with rice, beans, plantains, and a crisp salad — you’re tasting Costa Rica in every sip. Friendly service and authentic flavors make it a must-stop for budget-conscious travelers.
Soda Sánchez
Location: 618, Manuel Antonio / Quepos — very close to the main road leading to Manuel Antonio National Park
Type of Food: Traditional Costa Rican
Price Range: from $5 to $15 per person
Phone Number: +506 2777 6597
Website: Tripadvisor
Do I Need a Reservation? No
Do They Deliver? Yes
Writer’s tips
Try lunch at casual places: Some restaurants that are pricey at night are more affordable at mid-day.
Go local for breakfasts and sodas: To experience true Costa Rican cuisine and save money, plan at least a couple of meals in sodas — plus it supports small local businesses.
Be flexible with payment: While many places accept cards, cash (colones or USD) can be useful in smaller cafés or sodas.
During high season (December–April and July–August), it’s always better to reserve at popular restaurants: Even casual spots can fill up quickly, especially for dinner.
Conclusion
After spending years exploring the restaurants around Manuel Antonio National Park, we can honestly say there’s something for every appetite just steps from the park entrance. Whether you’re craving an upscale rainforest dinner, a casual lunch with fresh Costa Rican flavors, or a budget-friendly meal at a local soda, you’ll find delicious food paired with warm, welcoming service.
These are the spots we love and return to ourselves, so we know you’ll enjoy them too. And if you’re up for more culinary adventures, check out our guides to the best restaurants in Quepos and the best restaurants in Manuel Antonio for even more fantastic dining options nearby.
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