4 Best Restaurants in Playa Grande, Guanacaste and the Nicoya Peninsula

This friendly lunchtime Peruvian café has a revolving menu of flavorful delights made from fresh ingredients that are almost as beautiful as they are tasty. Try the ceviche (a slight change from the usual Costa Rican) in the breezy palapa or the lomo saltado or the eggplant---we promise you'll want to return every day for lunch. Note the odd hours so you don't miss out.

You can usually count on good food at this second-story restaurant in the trees. You can get wild with crocodile fingers, or try something more familiar, like the handmade pizzas. There are several vegetarian, lactose-free, and gluten-free options on the menu. Presentation is always beautiful, and service is efficient and friendly.

Surrounded by a plethora of delightful potted plants you'll indulge in bowls of delicious, nutritious food at this eponymous eatery. The menu is divided into sweet (acai bowls, waffles with homemade caramel-fruit syrup, chia pudding) and salty (teriyaki chicken bowls, orzo miso with mushrooms, spinach, coconut milk, and goat cheese), so there's something for whatever you're craving. Tuna poke is exceptional. The charming attached store sells pots, bowls, and other sweet and unique souvenirs.

Chow down at this casual place a block from the beach, or party at the extensive bar, which occupies about a third of the restaurant. Portions are large, so pace yourself—especially if you order the popular barbecue ribs with mashed potatoes. On the seafood side, you can count on teriyaki tuna, grilled mahimahi, and coconut-crusted sea bass. The salads are topped with healthy ingredients like chickpeas, avocado, and quinoa. The chalkboard menu features the daily specials, your best bet for what's in season. Prices are on the high side, but you can arrive early for half-price cocktails from 4 to 6; the spicy jalapeño margarita packs a punch. There is also Sunday brunch in high season.