Local Eats

Ojochal and the surrounding area are full of great places to eat — and supporting local restaurants is one of the best ways to experience the community. Many spots host special nights like live music, themed dinners, and chef events, so feel free to ask your host what’s happening while you’re here. You’ll find everything from classic Costa Rican flavors to international cuisine, with options for every budget — from very affordable ($) to a full splurge ($$$). We’ve shared a helpful starting list, but since hours and events can change, the most up-to-date info is always local.

Foood.app is a super handy way to make dining smoother for everyone — guests can reserve a table ahead of time and order online for pickup or delivery, all in one place. It keeps things simple (less back-and-forth messaging), helps restaurants stay organized, and makes it easy for customers to browse the menu, place an order, or lock in a reservation quickly.

Rápido is a convenient delivery service in Costa Rica that makes it easy to get what you need brought straight to you—whether you’re at home, at the office, or staying at a vacation rental. Through their app, you can order from a range of local restaurants and essentials, with secure online payment options like credit card, Apple Pay, or PayPal. They also highlight that they can deliver reliably even in more remote areas and include “big-name favorites” alongside local spots—helpful for travelers and residents alike.

A soda in Costa Rica is a small, casual, often family-run eatery where locals go for hearty, home-style meals at a great price. You’ll usually find traditional favorites like gallo pinto and casados, plus daily specials made with simple, fresh ingredients — it’s an easy way to eat like a local and get a true taste of Costa Rican cooking.

Ojochal

Most Ojochal restaurants are within walking distance, others a bit further (times listed are one-way). Uvita is 20 minutes by car, and other locations can be found with Google or on your explorations. This list is not exhaustive and you may find options that we have not encountered. If so, let us know!

  • Soda Ojoche $. Traditional local dishes with a lovely setting. Recently reopened and situated alongside the river. 10-minute walk, 1-minute drive.
  • La Pala $$ – Serving carnes (meat dishes) and pizza. Specific meat dish varies by day. Spectacular view of mountains and valley out to the ocean (when it’s clear). 27-minute walk, 3-minute drive.
  • Los Gatos Locos $$–Mexican food w/ Costa Rican flair. All food made from scratch. Dining area overlooks the jungle and river, often hosting music Friday-Sunday evenings. 12-minute walk, 2-minute drive.
  • Citrus $$$ – High-end restaurant featuring deluxe dishes. Delicious food with beautiful European-style presentation. Located in the local Expat complex with several other dining options. 30-minute walk, 4-minute drive.
  • Stan’s Bar/Cafe $$ – Primarily a local watering hole with a very limited selection of food. Stop by for a drink before dinner at one of the adjacent restaurants.
  • Momento Wine & Sushi Bar $$ – Offering a selection of wine, sushi, rice and noodle dishes. Located between Citrus and Potz Bistro.
  • Potz Bistro $$ – A bistro offering brunches to dinner with a multicultural flair. Choices range from sandwiches to bowls to seafood. Located at 
  • Fusion Sushi $$ – A mix of sushi and international dishes. A good blend for those seeking a mixed variety of choices. 6-minute drive (on Costanera).
  • Heliconia $$ – A nice mix of authentic local-diner cuisine and international options. 6-minute drive (on Costanera).
  • Exotica $$$ – Boasting a private ambiance, the chef blends flavors from around the world into exotic dishes. A great spot for date night or an event. 18-minute walk, 3-minute drive.
  • Villas en el Bosque $$ – A local watering hole usually offering sandwiches and paninis. Tuesdays (as of April 2025) feature a local pizza crafter. 6-minute drive (on Costanera)
  • Restaurante Térraba is a cozy local spot just south of the Ojochal entrance (Punta Mala de Osa) where you’ll find flavorful Costa Rican dishes—often featuring fresh seafood—served in a warm, welcoming setting. It’s a great easy-going choice when you want a reliable local meal close to town.

Uvita

Several other types of restaurants can be found in Uvita, if you are looking for other choices or adventuring there. Many more are not listed here, ask on-site or explore Google Maps!

  • Los Barilles $$ – A mix of local and American dishes with a Costa Rican influence. Friendly staff and a casual environment.
  • Uvita Gastro Park $$ – Resembling a mall food court with better food, choices include Texas BBQ, street food, noodles, a Japanese-Peruvian blend, smoothies/coffee, and rice-bowl styles.
  • Sibu strip $$ – Several options are available near Sibu for those desiring a more tourist-oriented atmosphere. Ice cream, traditional restaurant faire, bakery choices, etc.
  • Marino Ballena Club $$ – Featuring a range of Tico and classical dishes including rice, pastas, meats, seafood, sandwiches and burgers. Ask about their special, it is delicious but may be priced differently from the normal menu.
  • Mystic Sushi $$ – A well-varied sushi choice that is easier on the budget. The dining deck edges the jungle making a memorable meal.
  • Five Maes $$ – A burger joint similar to Five Guys in the USA.
  • La Choza de Alejo $$ – Traditional Mexican faire.
  • Dolce Uvita – This Italian restaurant serves classic, traditional Italian dishes with a homemade touch — including fresh pasta paired with well-known sauces, house-made cold cuts, and delicious homemade desserts. A great choice when you’re craving comforting, authentic Italian flavors.

Regional: North of Uvita

Dominical:

Towards Quepos:

Regional: South of Ojochal

  • Let us know your recommendations!