We’ve compiled a list of the top 6 restaurants in Manuel Antonio and the surrounding Quepos area. Each has been recognized for what they do best, such as Best Value For Money, Best High End, Best Atmosphere, Best Fast Food, Best Korean BBQ, and Best Overall. So whether you’re looking for a fun atmosphere, delicious happy hour, quality breakfast, or anything else, this list has something for you.
Note: There are plenty of restaurants with excellent views in Manuel Antonio, such as Raphael’s Terrazas, El Avión, and Emilio’s Café. We recommend these spots for grabbing drinks with friends at sunset, before moving on to one of the must-try locations below.
Explore the List:
Best High End: Samui Thai
Pros: Great location, best Thai food in Manuel Antonio, nice views
Home to authentic Thai cuisine and ocean views, Samui Thai is our favorite High End restaurant in the area. When you first enter the premises, you may find that the decoration and atmosphere are somewhat casual, but the prices can be somewhat high. No need to worry – the quality of their food aligns well with their rates.
Our Favorite Dishes:
Pad Thai
Sriracha Wings
Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice
Po Pia Tod
Check out Samui: Plaza Los Altos, Km 4 on main road to Manuel Antonio, Quepos
Best Fast Food: Manuel Antonio Falafel Bar
Pros: Fast food, tasty, reasonable prices, cute coffee-shop style atmosphere
For a fast, flavorful, and affordable meal (by Costa Rican standards), Manuel Antonio Falafel Bar is a must. Their fresh Mediterranean-inspired menu is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner after a day of adventuring. It’s a great spot to relax and refuel without the wait and the outdoor seating screams BEACH VIBES.
Our Favorite Dishes:
Falafel Platter / Pita
Shawarma Platter
Shakshuka Platter
Nutellafel
Check out the Falafel Bar: Manuel Antonio Main Road, Across the street from Tulemar
Best Overall: Medusa Restaurant
Pros: great breakfast, specialty cocktail menus, happy hour, international fusion, 5-star service, beautiful garden atmosphere and decoration
Located in the heart of Manuel Antonio, Medusa Restaurant is a charming tropical dining gem offering a fusion of international cuisine, Peruvian specialties, and American classics.
Formerly known as Falls Garden Restaurant, it features a serene garden setting, 5-star service, and an inviting atmosphere perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re stopping in for breakfast, enjoying their signature happy hour, or savoring dishes like Lomo Saltado and Tuna Risotto, Medusa provides an unforgettable dining experience with great rates and a convenient location.
Looking for a lunch spot where you can eat AND shop?
Medusa Restaurant is centrally located in Manuel Antonio within The Falls Resort and next door to Mantraraya Boutique, a boho-chic boutique and gift shop where you can find the perfect gift to take back home. They also offer bohemian clothing, swimwear, natural remedies and cosmetics, unique jewelry, Shipibo and Mayan embroidered clothing, flip-flops, and much more.
Our Favorite Dishes:
Chef’s Cut with Risotto Al Parmigiano
Lomo Saltado with Tagliatelle A La Huancaína
Fried Red Snapper
Tuna Risotto
Check out Medusa Restaurant: Manuel Antonio Road, across the street from El Avión and 50 meters south of Si Como No hotel
Best Korean BBQ: Carambola
Pros: Delicious and authentic Korean food, accessible prices, filling portions
Carambola Seafood and Korean BBQ Restaurant offers a true taste of Korea right in the heart of Costa Rica. Known for its dynamic flavors and authenticity, this spot, owned by a lovely Korean-American family, delivers a real dining experience that’s both satisfying and budget-friendly. If you’re craving Korean food, Carambola has you covered.
Our Favorite Dishes:
Kimchi
Japchae Glass Noodles
L.A. Galbi Short Rib
Bulgogi Bowl
Check out Carambola: Manuel Antonio, 200 meters past Plaza Vista, Quepos, 60601
Best Value for Money: Coffee Stop
Pros: Great prices, really tasty food, underrated
Coffee Stop is a local favorite for anyone looking for delicious food at unbeatable prices. While the menu is simple, it packs a punch when it comes to taste. Whether you’re grabbing a quick snack or a light meal, you’ll leave satisfied without breaking the bank. Coffee Stop is underrated, and that’s in part due to the fact that they’re quite hidden in the town of Quepos.
Our Favorite Dishes:
Jalapeño Poppers
Personal Pizzas
Spring Rolls
Roast Beef Sandwich
Check out Coffee Stop: Avenida Central, Galería Comercial Quepos, In front of the Central Market & Central Bus Station, Quepos
Best Atmosphere: Café Milagro
Pros: Great, central location, live music, indoor and outdoor seating, peaceful, vegetarian options available
This café is a standout for both its food and ambiance. This beloved café and restaurant is known for its laid-back, tropical atmosphere—perfect for a leisurely meal or evening cocktails. With live music on select nights and plenty of seating options, it’s a wonderful spot to unwind after a day of exploring the Manuel Antonio area.
Our Favorite Dishes:
Tuna Sandwich
Fish Tacos
Mango Crepes (breakfast)
Croissant Sandwich
Check out Café Milagro: Manuel Antonio Main Road, across the street from Sol Frozen Yogurt and Enso
Whether you’re craving specialty cocktails and highly-rated international cuisine at Medusa Restaurant or want a cheap yet delicious fast-food meal from Coffee Stop, we hope you found this list useful for finding your next perfect meal in Manuel Antonio.
