Koji's
Long-running Japanese dinner spot in Santa Teresa
Koji's is a Japanese restaurant and bar in Santa Teresa, known for sushi and grilled dishes made with fresh local fish and served in a candlelit, evening setting. It's best for a special dinner; note that it closes for a break in the low season, usually reopening in November.
At a glance
- Location
- Santa Teresa south, Santa Teresa, Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica
- Type
- Restaurant
- Best for
- Sushi lovers, date nights, a special dinner out
- Food
- Japanese dishes and sushi made with local fish and Costa Rican produce
- Setting
- Candlelit, evening dining with a bar
- Season
- Closes for a low-season break, reopening in November
- Bookings
- Reservations and takeaway by WhatsApp, via the link in its Instagram profile
- Official website
- instagram.com
What it's like
Koji's has been part of Santa Teresa's dinner scene for years, and it's one of the names locals bring up when someone asks where to go for sushi. It's an evening place: low lighting, candles on the tables and a bar that takes its drinks seriously. The mood is relaxed but a step up from a post-surf burger, which makes it a popular choice for a date night or a celebration.
The restaurant runs on its own rhythm. Like a number of places on this coast, it closes for a break during the quietest part of the green season and reopens when visitors start returning. Its Instagram bio, at the time we checked in October 2026, said it was closed for a low-season break and would be back in November.
The menu
Koji's describes itself simply as Japanese food and bar. The draw is fresh fish from local waters, turned into sushi rolls, sashimi-style plates and grilled dishes, alongside Japanese starters. Diners have mentioned dishes such as grilled octopus and shrimp, avocado miso soup and okra salads, but treat those as examples rather than a fixed menu: the restaurant posts a current menu and a "tonight's specials" list through the link in its Instagram profile, and the specials change with what's available.
If you have allergies or eat vegetarian, message ahead; Japanese menus often lean on fish and soy, and the kitchen can tell you what works.
Who it suits (and who it doesn't)
Koji's suits couples and small groups who love Japanese food and want a calm, atmospheric dinner. It's also a good pick if you've had your fill of pizza and burgers and want something lighter and fresher.
It doesn't suit a spontaneous visit in September or October, when it's likely to be closed, and it's not a cheap night out. It's a dinner spot, so don't plan on it for lunch. For other options around town, see our restaurants guide.
Getting there
Koji's is in the Santa Teresa area, and directory listings don't agree on the exact spot, so use the map pin linked from the restaurant's own Instagram profile rather than an old guidebook address. Wherever you're staying, plan for a dark dirt road after dinner: bring a flashlight if you're walking, or take a taxi or tuk-tuk.
Frequently asked questions
Is Koji's open year-round?
No. It closes for a low-season break. In October 2026 its Instagram said it would reopen in November, so check the profile before you go.
How do I make a reservation?
Through WhatsApp, linked from Koji's Instagram profile. Booking ahead is wise in high season.
Does Koji's do takeaway?
Yes. Its link page lists reservations and takeaway together on WhatsApp.
Where can I see the menu?
The current menu and nightly specials are linked from the Instagram profile. Check opening dates and book on Koji's official Instagram.
