Tamarindo may be best known for its surf-friendly beaches and laid-back vibe, but for coffee lovers, it’s also a hidden gem offering some truly exceptional brews. Nestled in the heart of Costa Rica, a country famous for its high-quality coffee, Tamarindo provides a unique blend of tropical surroundings and rich coffee culture. Whether you’re a digital nomad looking for your daily caffeine fix or a traveler seeking to indulge in local flavors, here’s a round-up of some of the best coffee spots in Tamarindo.
1. Café Tico
If you’re looking for a no-fuss, authentic Costa Rican coffee experience, Café Tico is a must-visit. This cozy café offers single-origin beans sourced from family-owned farms in the nearby mountains. The staff here are passionate about sharing the art of Costa Rican coffee preparation, from pour-over to traditional drip brews. Try their house special, a robust black coffee with earthy undertones, or pair your cup with a homemade pastry for a simple yet satisfying breakfast.
Must-Try: The classic café negro with a side of banana bread.
2. Nordico Coffee House
Nordico Coffee House is the go-to spot for coffee aficionados who appreciate a modern twist on traditional coffee. Their menu boasts an array of brews from light, fruity notes to deep, chocolatey undertones. This is a great spot for those who enjoy alternative brewing methods like AeroPress and Chemex. Their dedication to using locally sourced beans and eco-friendly practices is a bonus, making your coffee experience both delicious and sustainable.
Must-Try: The Chemex-brewed coffee, which highlights the floral and citrusy notes of Costa Rican beans.
3. La Bodega
La Bodega is more than just a coffee shop—it’s a community hub where locals and travelers gather for a relaxed meal or a refreshing cold brew. Their coffee menu focuses on farm-to-table freshness, offering brews that are both rich and smooth. If you’re visiting on a warm day, opt for their iced coffee, which is brewed to perfection and refreshing after a morning on the beach. Plus, their organic, locally sourced ingredients mean that you can sip with a clear conscience.
Must-Try: The cold brew with almond milk, perfect for hot Tamarindo afternoons.
4. Breaking Bread
A beloved local café and bakery, Breaking Bread is ideal for those who want their coffee with a side of indulgence. Their signature espresso-based drinks are smooth, creamy, and pair beautifully with their freshly baked pastries and breads. Whether you’re stopping by for a mid-day pick-me-up or enjoying a leisurely breakfast, Breaking Bread’s welcoming atmosphere makes it a spot you’ll want to return to again and again.
Must-Try: The café con leche paired with one of their famous cinnamon rolls.
The Verdict: Tamarindo’s Coffee Culture
Tamarindo may be a small coastal town, but its coffee scene is rich and diverse, offering something for everyone. Whether you prefer your coffee bold and black or light and floral, the cafes here deliver fresh, locally sourced beans in a variety of styles. The laid-back Pura Vida lifestyle is reflected in every cup, making your coffee experience in Tamarindo just as memorable as its sun-soaked beaches.
Have you tried coffee in Tamarindo? Let us know your favorite spots in the comments!
1. Café Tico
If you’re looking for a no-fuss, authentic Costa Rican coffee experience, Café Tico is a must-visit. This cozy café offers single-origin beans sourced from family-owned farms in the nearby mountains. The staff here are passionate about sharing the art of Costa Rican coffee preparation, from pour-over to traditional drip brews. Try their house special, a robust black coffee with earthy undertones, or pair your cup with a homemade pastry for a simple yet satisfying breakfast.
Must-Try: The classic café negro with a side of banana bread.
2. Nordico Coffee House
Nordico Coffee House is the go-to spot for coffee aficionados who appreciate a modern twist on traditional coffee. Their menu boasts an array of brews from light, fruity notes to deep, chocolatey undertones. This is a great spot for those who enjoy alternative brewing methods like AeroPress and Chemex. Their dedication to using locally sourced beans and eco-friendly practices is a bonus, making your coffee experience both delicious and sustainable.
Must-Try: The Chemex-brewed coffee, which highlights the floral and citrusy notes of Costa Rican beans.
3. La Bodega
La Bodega is more than just a coffee shop—it’s a community hub where locals and travelers gather for a relaxed meal or a refreshing cold brew. Their coffee menu focuses on farm-to-table freshness, offering brews that are both rich and smooth. If you’re visiting on a warm day, opt for their iced coffee, which is brewed to perfection and refreshing after a morning on the beach. Plus, their organic, locally sourced ingredients mean that you can sip with a clear conscience.
Must-Try: The cold brew with almond milk, perfect for hot Tamarindo afternoons.
4. Breaking Bread
A beloved local café and bakery, Breaking Bread is ideal for those who want their coffee with a side of indulgence. Their signature espresso-based drinks are smooth, creamy, and pair beautifully with their freshly baked pastries and breads. Whether you’re stopping by for a mid-day pick-me-up or enjoying a leisurely breakfast, Breaking Bread’s welcoming atmosphere makes it a spot you’ll want to return to again and again.
Must-Try: The café con leche paired with one of their famous cinnamon rolls.
The Verdict: Tamarindo’s Coffee Culture
Tamarindo may be a small coastal town, but its coffee scene is rich and diverse, offering something for everyone. Whether you prefer your coffee bold and black or light and floral, the cafes here deliver fresh, locally sourced beans in a variety of styles. The laid-back Pura Vida lifestyle is reflected in every cup, making your coffee experience in Tamarindo just as memorable as its sun-soaked beaches.
Have you tried coffee in Tamarindo? Let us know your favorite spots in the comments!
