🎄 Best Restaurants in Jaco for Christmas Eve & Christmas Dinner
These are top-reviewed spots for special holiday dinners — from seafood and Mediterranean to sushi and local favorites:
⭐️ Fine Dining & Special Occasion Spots
- Amara Costa Rica Cocina Mediterránea – Elegant Mediterranean cuisine with excellent service, perfect for a Christmas Eve dinner or a romantic holiday meal. Highly rated for special occasions.
- Sépalo Restaurante – Stylish, upscale restaurant with fantastic reviews — great for a memorable holiday feast.
- Mono verde – Highly reviewed Latin/seafood fusion spot with creative plates and wine — ideal for a festive dinner.
🍽️ Other Great Options (Festive + Fun)
- Manglar Bar and Restaurant – Local favorite for fresh seafood and grilled dishes with beach vibes.
- Ohana Sushi, Tapas Y Bar – Premium sushi & tapas, excellent for a lighter but high-quality holiday dinner.
- Zona K – Creative fusion cuisine — great for groups or a unique seasonal menu.
- Jerah Restaurant – Authentic Thai with great reviews — good choice if you want something different.
- Green Room Cafe Bar – Lively beach-side bar & restaurant with cocktails and energetic atmosphere for after-dinner fun.
🍷 Local Favorites for Casual & Festive Meals
These spots are perfect for a relaxed Christmas Eve dinner or lunch with local flair:
- Locals – Highly loved grill spot in Jaco.
- Jacó Sabor – Local eats with excellent reviews.
- Restaurante Mundaka – Family-friendly and delicious.
- Restaurante Rústicos or Soda Garabito – Great for classic Costa Rican comfort food.
- Karma Cafe & Restaurant or The Spice Bar – Great small spots with warm, festive energy.
💡 Insider tip: Some restaurants in Jaco specifically offer Christmas Eve prix-fixe menus — reach out to them a few weeks ahead to reserve your spot and ask about holiday specials.
🥂 New Year’s Eve Celebration Ideas in Jaco
🎉 Festive Dinner + Beachside Parties
- Dinner + Drinks & Party Spots:
- Green Room Cafe Bar – Known for lively gatherings and DJs — perfect for pre-party dinner and cocktails.
- The Loft (not a restaurant but a famous nightlife spot) – A top pick for New Year’s Eve beach party vibes and dance — great for a high-energy celebration.
- Many restaurants and beach bars host special NYE menus + live music — booking early is essential.
🌟 Jaco Beach New Year’s Traditions
- Fireworks on the Beach: Jaco’s shoreline typically lights up with fireworks all along the beach at midnight — a classic Costa Rican New Year’s experience.
- Local Celebrations: Locals and visitors often gather along the sand for music, dancing, and toasts under the stars.
🪩 Holiday Vibes & Extras
- Book holiday parties with DJs, live bands or themed nights (many pop up in December).
- Some upscale restaurants sometimes do buffet style NYE dinners with music and champagne. (Check seasonal offers closer to December). CROCS AND RESORT
📅 Holiday Planning Tips for Jaco
✅ Reserve weeks in advance: December is peak season — restaurants and events fill up fast.
✅ Combine dinner with beach walks or sunset views: Many restaurants are just steps from the beach — perfect for romantic walks.
✅ Experience local customs: Costa Ricans enjoy fireworks and midnight traditions (like eating grapes for good luck) on New Year’s Eve.
