Local Eats

Ojochal & the surrounding areas offer several options and variety for dining. Local establishments may have special events (music, cuisine, etc.) so ask your host! Tastes range from local to international, and prices range from very affordable ($) to luxurious ($$$). We hope to provide you with an idea of local places to eat, but understand that the most current information may not be posted here.

A Soda is a local Costa Rican (Tico) restaurant. Normally serving traditional Costa Rican dishes, sodas are the most affordable option for eating out. Beyond that, the name may hint at the type of cuisine, or it may be a new culinary adventure!

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!

  • Sodo Ojoche $. Traditional local dishes with a lovely setting. Recently reopened and situated alongside the river. 10-minute walk, 1-minute drive.
  • Hamburg Sud(?) $ – A newly-opened soda featuring traditional Costa Rican fare with excellent prices. Try it and let us know! 2-minute walk.
  • 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)

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 $$ – Several options are available near Sibu for those desiring a more tourist-oriented atmosphere. Ice cream, traditional restaurant faire, bakery choices, etc.
  • Marino Ballena $$ – 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.

Regional: North of Uvita

Dominical:

  • Rio Lindo $$ – Excellent pizza, delicious tacos, diner food
  • Tortilla Flats $$ – Diner food on the beach and local vendors
  • The Sandwich Bar $ – Hand-made sandwiches to go.

Towards Quepos:

  • La Langosta Feliz $$ – Fresh seafood on the way to Quepos

Regional: South of Ojochal

  • Let us know your recommendations!