Journal Nayara Resorts

Nayara Arenal's Adventures in Flavor

Written by Nayara Resorts | May 2, 2025

When you stay with us in Arenal, you can choose from three distinct hotel experiences: Nayara Gardens, our original property and lush introduction to the region; Nayara Springs, an adults-only retreat designed for privacy and romance; and Nayara Tented Camp, our elevated take on luxury glamping.

All three share a stunning location at the foot of the Arenal Volcano. As a guest, you’ll have access to the culinary offerings across each property, ranging from signature fine dining to relaxed swim-up bars and coffee spots showcasing the region’s excellent roasts.

Here’s how food and drink become an essential part of the Arenal experience, no matter which property you choose.

 

Amor Loco | Our Signature Fine Dining

Reservations Required, Adults Only

Executive Chef Gianluca Re Fraschini and his team invite you on a culinary journey across Costa Rica’s diverse provinces with a distinctive seven-course tasting experience. Each dish showcases iconic local ingredients, elevated through a refined fusion of French and Japanese techniques artfully reimagined through the lens of Costa Rican cuisine.

 

Mis Amores | Italian Fine Dining

Reservations Required

Mis Amores brings the refined flavors of Northern Italy to Arenal, with a menu that reflects Italy’s passion for authentic ingredients, traditional flavors, and a local twist on classic recipes. 

Set outdoors with stunning modern decor, every table offers breathtaking views of the Arenal Volcano. Drawing from cherished northern Italian traditions, the menu blends regional favorites with playful touches. Highlights include wood-fired pizzas, handmade pastas, and a showstopping cheese dish finished tableside.

 

Besame Mucho | Romantic Private Dinner 

Reservations required in with 24 hours advance notice

Step into an intimate, storybook setting designed for a night to remember. In your own private dining room, a dedicated chef and personal server curate every detail to create an experience tailored just for you and your date. Enjoy a candlelight, romantic meal with outstanding cuisine and excellent attention.

 

La Terraza de Arenal | Al Fresco Dining

Reservations Suggested

Our open-air family restaurant offers à la carte Latin American cuisine, paired with unmatched views of the Arenal Volcano. 

Indulge in gourmet dishes that put a modern twist on classic Costa Rican favorites, made with fresh, local produce, and expertly sourced fish and meats. With a wine selection featuring hundreds of bottles from around the world, there’s something for every palate. 

Be sure to sit at the "Bar Azul," where the bartender will craft a personalized tropical cocktail just for you. Live local music is scheduled every night, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.

 

Asia-Luna | Costa Rican — Asian Fusion

Reservations Required

At the heart of the rainforest, Asia-Luna cuisine offers a unique take on traditional Asian flavors, blending local Costa Rican ingredients with refined Asian techniques. This restaurant celebrates a fusion of cultures, highlighting Asian haute cuisine. 

Don’t miss the Chef’s signature Nayara Roll, made with sweet plantains and tender chicken, or the grilled Yellowfin Tuna paired with sautéed vegetables enjoyed in an intimate, stylish setting with an outdoor terrace and an indoor sushi bar.

 

Ayla | Elevated Mediterranean 

Reservations Suggested

Modern Mediterranean cuisine with a Middle Eastern flair is the draw at Ayla Restaurant. Set within an elegant tent overlooking an infinity pool, the lush rainforest, and the breathtaking Arenal Volcano, the views are fantastic.

If you’re on the lookout for a cocktail, just next door and unwind with classic cocktails or spirit at Henry’s Bar, with a cozy fireplace and curated library, perfect for a rainy evening. Or, simply relax in La Plaza, sipping one of our signature drinks as you soak in the music and the moment.

 

Bars and Beverage-Forward Concepts

Nostalgia Wine Bar | An Intimate Bar

Indulge in the finest Latin American and European wines with our exclusive wine dispensing system, imported directly from Italy. Nostalgia offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, featuring rich wood and leather accents for a cozy, intimate setting. Seating is available at the bar or on the balcony, with a curated selection of bites and drinks offered to pair with each glass of wine.

 

Cielito Lindo | Swim-Up Bar

At Nayara Springs, the 'Cielito Lindo' bar and pool offer the perfect setting to unwind. Enjoy a wide range of cocktails and house specialties, crafted by our talented mixologists while you go for a dip. Choose from an array of traditional snacks and light bites, or indulge in a delicious wood-fired pizza.

 

Mi Cafecito | Espresso Bar

'Mi Cafecito' was created to offer a new dimension to Costa Rican coffee. The towering trees and the sounds of nature around the café welcome guests along with the enticing aromas of freshly roasted coffee, thanks to our talented baristas. 

The rustic charm of wooden floors and high ceilings sets the perfect backdrop for a morning cup. Grab a book to enjoy the calm morning or strike up a game of pool while observing the rainforest from the balcony. 

Want to learn more about one of Costa Rica’s most important exports? Dive deeper into the journey behind this beloved beverage with a class from our expert baristas, who are eager to share the art of coffee with you.

 

Lapas Bar | Swim-Up And Poolside Cocktails

Located at Nayara Tented Camp, this swim-up bar serves signature cocktails, offers exceptional views, and features poolside bites, making it perfect for a relaxing moment in paradise.

 

Henry’s Bar | Breezy, Lively, and Welcoming

As you arrive at Nayara Tented Camp, Henry’s Bar welcomes you with effortless luxury and a breezy, tropical design. It’s the perfect spot to unwind with a cocktail, whether you’re transitioning from your journey or preparing for the next adventure.

 

Ready to Taste It All?

All of these dining options await on your visit to Nayara Resorts in Arenal. As you’re exploring Costa Rica’s most iconic destination, you can also experience numerous ways that Costa Rica’s fresh ingredients come to life with styles and techniques from around the world. 

Curious for more details about a Nayara adventure, whether that’s culinary, outdoor, or otherwise? Reach out to us, we’d love to chat about how to make it a reality.