Uvita is a small town spread out over a large area, offering a laid-back vibe without the hustle and bustle of a major city center. Despite its size, Uvita is home to some of Costa Rica's best dining options, featuring a wide range of culinary experiences. From upscale fine dining to casual eateries and budget-friendly spots, this town has something for every type of traveler. Below is a selection of top restaurants in Uvita across different dining categories, each offering a unique and memorable experience.
Fine dining restaurants in Uvita
Citrus Restaurant
- General Location: Ojochal, 15 minutes from Uvita
- Type of Food: French and international fusion.
- Price Range: $30 to $50 per person.
- Phone Number: +506 2786 5175.
- Website: https://www.facebook.com/CitrusOjochal
- Do I Need a Reservation?: Yes, recommended.
- Do They Deliver?: No, but you can pick up food to go
Located near Ojochal, Citrus is known for its elegant ambiance and French-inspired fusion cuisine. With dishes like fresh seafood, steak, and vegetarian options, Citrus offers a refined dining experience. Its cozy, sophisticated atmosphere makes it perfect for a romantic evening or a special occasion. This is definitely one of my favorite restaurants in the area.
Scala
- General Location: Escaleras road, Uvita.
- Type of Food: International gourmet.
- Price Range: $40 to $70 per person.
- Phone Number: +506 8805 8172
- Website: https://www.facebook.com/Scala.escaleras
- Do I Need a Reservation?: Yes, highly recommended.
- Do They Deliver?: No, but you can pick up food to go
Scala offers stunning rainforest views with a curated menu of gourmet international dishes. Guests can enjoy meals made from locally sourced ingredients in an upscale, intimate setting. Perfect for a serene fine dining experience with breathtaking scenery.
Sebas Restaurant
- General Location: Calle Bejuco, across from the Uvita Waterfall, Uvita
- Type of Food: Argentinean and Italian, wood-fired and farm-to-table.
- Price Range: $30 to $60 per person.
- Phone Number: +506 8414 1888.
- Website: https://www.foood.app/sebas/
- Do I Need a Reservation?: Yes, recommended.
- Do They Deliver?: No, but pickup orders are available through their online menu.
Set in a lush tropical garden right by the Uvita waterfall, Sebas is the project of chef Sebastián Gallucci, whose Argentinean-Italian kitchen runs on open fire and ingredients from local farms. The wood-fired pizzas have earned international awards, including the best pizza in Costa Rica, and share the menu with handmade pastas, ceviches, and grilled steaks. Come hungry and book ahead: the tables fill up fast once the sun goes down.
Mosaic Wine and Sushi Bar
- General Location: 600 meters past the BCR towards the Uvita Waterfall, Uvita
- Type of Food: Sushi, Japanese fusion, and wine bar.
- Price Range: $25 to $45 per person.
- Phone Number: +506 2215 0068.
- Website: https://mosaiccr.com
- Do I Need a Reservation?: Yes, recommended.
- Do They Deliver?: Yes, pickup and delivery through their online menu.
Mosaic pairs fresh sushi and Japanese fusion dishes with a wine list of more than 40 labels, one of the best selections in the area. The chic, cozy space also serves gourmet paninis, cheese and charcuterie boards, and craft cocktails, with live music on Thursday evenings. It is a great pick for a relaxed yet refined night out in Uvita.
Casual dining restaurants in Uvita
Mestizo Tradición y Fusión
- General Location: Uvita town center, near the highway
- Type of Food: Costa Rican fusion, combining traditional local dishes with contemporary influences
- Price Range: $20 to $40 per person
- Phone Number: +506 2234 6749
- Website: https://www.foood.app/mestizo/
- Do I Need a Reservation?: Recommended, especially for dinner
- Do They Deliver?: Yes, order on their website for express delivery
Mestizo Tradición y Fusión is a culinary gem in Uvita, offering a unique blend of traditional Costa Rican flavors with modern fusion elements. The restaurant focuses on using fresh, local ingredients to create innovative dishes that celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Costa Rica. A warm and inviting atmosphere makes it perfect for those looking to enjoy a meal, bridging the gap between local tradition and global culinary trends.
Bagel Time
- General Location: Uvita, near the main highway
- Type of Food: Bagels, sandwiches, breakfast dishes
- Price Range: $5 to $15 per meal
- Phone Number: +506 2102 9902
- Website: https://www.facebook.com/BagelTimeBakery/
- Do I Need a Reservation?: No.
- Do They Deliver?: Yes, local delivery is available.
In a country where bagels are extremely rare or inaccessible, bagel time fills a void for thoughts looking for a bite of bagel nostalgia. A favorite breakfast and brunch spot, Bagel Time specializes in fresh bagels, sandwiches, and coffee. The laid-back atmosphere and quick service make it a popular stop for tourists and locals alike.
Sibu Café
- General Location: Central Uvita
- Type of Food: Café food, including sandwiches, salads, and coffee
- Price Range: $10 to $25 per meal
- Phone Number: +506 2743 8674
- Website: https://www.facebook.com/sibucafeteria/
- Do I Need a Reservation?: No
- Do They Deliver?: No
Sibu Café is a popular spot for tourists and locals, offering various café-style dishes, including salads, sandwiches, and homemade desserts. Its relaxing outdoor seating and great coffee make it perfect for a casual breakfast or lunch.
Panoramika Café
- General Location: Calle La Unión, Uvita
- Type of Food: German-style café: breakfast, lunch, coffee, and pastries.
- Price Range: $10 to $20 per person.
- Phone Number: +506 8757 5042.
- Website: N/A
- Do I Need a Reservation?: No, just walk in.
- Do They Deliver?: No.
This German-style café on Calle La Unión has quickly become Uvita's favorite breakfast spot, serving generous plates from a terrace with ocean views and plenty of birds around. Try the Mediterranean omelette or the breakfast platter to share, along with proper coffee and homemade pastries. It is our go-to recommendation before a morning tour in Marino Ballena.
Budget dining restaurants in Uvita
Soda Ranchito Doña María
- General Location: Uvita downtown, near Banco de Costa Rica
- Type of Food: Traditional Costa Rican cuisine
- Price Range: $5 to $10 per meal
- Phone Number: +506 2100 4555
- Website: N/A
- Do I Need a Reservation?: No
- Do They Deliver?: No
A beloved local eatery, Soda Ranchito Doña María serves authentic Costa Rican meals at affordable prices. From traditional casados to gallo pinto, this is the spot to experience true Costa Rican flavors without breaking the bank.
Los Laureles
- General Location: Central Uvita, Calle Uvita
- Type of Food: Costa Rican and international
- Price Range: $8 to $18 per meal
- Phone Number: +506 2743 8141
- Website: N/A
- Do I Need a Reservation?: No
- Do They Deliver?: No
Located centrally just minutes from the Uvita Waterfall, Los Laureles is known for its affordable yet delicious Costa Rican and international dishes, with plenty of seafood and vegetarian options. It’s a relaxed, budget-friendly option with a rustic outdoor setting.
Five Maes
- General Location: Uvita town center
- Type of Food: Costa Rican and international comfort food
- Price Range: $10 to $20 per meal
- Phone Number: +506 2100 1234
- Website: https://www.facebook.com/fivemaes
- Do I Need a Reservation?: No
- Do They Deliver?: Yes, local delivery is available
If it wasn’t immediately clear, Five Maes is a playful nod to the popular American chain Five Guys. "Mae" is a Costa Rican slang word for "dude," giving this local burger joint a laid-back, familiar vibe. The restaurant specializes in American comfort food, serving delicious burgers, wings, and a few Costa Rican-inspired dishes. It’s a perfect spot for casual dining with friends or family, offering a relaxed atmosphere and flavorful, hearty meals.
Choosing the right restaurant in Uvita
Whether you’re looking for a gourmet experience, a casual bite, or a wallet-friendly meal, Uvita’s dining scene has plenty of delicious options for every traveler. With some truly incredible fine dining options, this is a place where we recommend splurging a bit to have an amazing culinary experience. Citrus and Scala are two of my favorite restaurants in Costa Rica, so I hope you take the opportunity to taste their incredible offerings.
