The Best Cities for Vegan Food in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a dream destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and, yes, vegans! With its abundant fresh produce, eco-conscious mindset, and growing plant-based food scene, finding delicious plant-forward meals is getting easier—but where to go? Now, that’s the million-dollar question—not every city in Costa Rica is uber vegan-friendly! From the bustling streets of San José to the laid-back surf towns of Nosara and Tamarindo, this guide highlights the best cities in Costa Rica for incredible vegan food. Get ready to discover where to find the tastiest plant-based eats while exploring this tropical paradise!

Must Visit Spots for Vegan Food in Costa Rica

While you can find vegan food throughout Costa Rica (but you probably don’t want to eat rice and beans 3x a day?), I think these cities offer the most variety of options. In addition to food, you can enjoy everything from the beach to lush jungles — what could be better?

Vegan Food in San Jose

San José, Costa Rica’s capital, is a bustling city surrounded by lush mountains. It is known for its historic architecture and thriving arts scene. While often seen as a gateway to the country’s natural wonders, it offers cultural gems like the National Theater, Pre-Columbian Gold Museum, and a growing selection of vegan-friendly dining spots.

Given that it’s the capital of Costa Rica, it should come as no surprise that the city offers the most variety and quantity of vegan and vegetarian restaurants. You’ll find vegan junk food, veganized Costa Rican dishes, Asian food, and more. If you’re starting or ending your trip here, you won’t be disappointed. Here are a few of my favorite spots; save them on your Google Maps!

Right around the corner from Arbol de Seda is another top-notch spot for vegan food, specifically vegan junk food. You’ll find giant burgers with caramelized onions between bright pink buns, super cheesy pizzas, crispy no-fish tacos, and milkshakes! Even if you’re not hungry, you should pop in here for one of their special shakes, boba teas, or frappes—the Tiramisu shake is incredible!

Vegan Food in Manuel Antonio

If you’re looking for fantastic beach time, come here! Manuel Antonio is renowned for its pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and abundant wildlife, including monkeys and sloths. Home to Manuel Antonio National Park, you can enjoy a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation with scenic hiking trails, eco-friendly resorts, and breathtaking ocean views. Good to know: all of these restaurants are super close to each other. You can hop on the bus, get off at a central point, and visit them all!

Don’t worry—you won’t get stuck with just edamame and cucumber rolls at this Japanese spot. They actually have a vegan section on their menu! There are so many things to try—spicy mango or green machine roll with gyoza dumplings, coconut curry ramen, and more.

Vegan Food in La Fortuna

La Fortuna is a breathtaking destination known for its iconic Arenal Volcano, lush rainforests, and rejuvenating hot springs. Adventure seekers and nature lovers alike can enjoy activities like waterfall hikes, wildlife spotting, and zip-lining while soaking in the area’s natural beauty.

One important note about exploring this area — getting around or getting to certain activities might take longer than you expect. Just keep that in mind when deciding where to stay, especially if you won’t have a car and will want to go into La Fortuna often.

Right next to Jungle Bowls is this vegan-friendly spot that, as its name suggests, is ensuring everyone gets their daily dose of something green! They have a fabulous vegan and vegetarian menu filled with veganized Costa Rican dishes, burgers, falafel, and more.

Vegan Food in Tamarindo

If you’re into surfing and water activities, Tamarindo might be a great place for you. It also doesn’t hurt that there are great veggie options, including a vegan hotel. The location can also be ideal for exploring other parts of Guanacaste, and it’s just over two hours away from Parque Nacional Palo Verde. One note about staying here: Some people feel it has a little more of a party vibe, and it’s definitely busier and more touristy than other beach towns in Costa Rica.

This breakfast and lunch spot has something vegans will enjoy all day long, from tofu and chickpea omelets to black bean burgers and Buddha bowls. One note: Some items are vegetarian but can be made vegan with a few simple changes.

Vegan Food in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca

This laid-back Caribbean paradise is known for its stunning beaches, lush jungles, and Afro-Caribbean culture. With its reggae vibes, diverse wildlife, and world-class surfing, it’s the perfect destination for adventure and relaxation.

Finding vegan pastries in Costa Rica was a challenge, except in Puerto Viejo De Talamanca, thanks to Rios Vegan Food. At this small bakeshop and café, you’ll find golden croissants, empanadas, sandwiches, and more.

This artsy café wears creativity on its sleeves (technically on its walls and plates, but I think you catch my drift). The vegetarian spot believes we are what we eat and delivers delicious and healthy fresh juices, sandwiches, salads, and more for breakfast and lunch.

Vegan Food in Nosara

Tucked into the jungle, Nosara is a haven for yoga lovers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking to unwind in a peaceful, eco-conscious setting. It’s often considered a good alternative to Tamarindo as it’s more laid-back and less touristy.