When planning where to eat in Jericoacoara, there’s one important detail you need to know: the entire village is built on sand. This means that even when you aren’t sitting right on the main beach facing the ocean, you are still dining pé na areia (with your feet in the sand).
Many visitors arrive expecting the absolute best restaurants to be lined up along the water’s edge. In reality, the beachfront is mostly dedicated to casual bites, sunset drinks, and daytime lounging. If you’re looking for the true culinary highlights of Jeri, you’ll need to walk a few blocks inland into the charming, sandy streets of the village center.
Whether you want a cheap beachfront snack or a high-end romantic dinner, here is your guide to the best restaurants in Jericoacoara.
Best Beachfront Spots for Casual Bites and Drinks
If your main goal is an unobstructed view of the ocean, especially during sunset, these are the places you want to visit.
- Club Ventos ($$): Located right on the beach, this is the go-to spot for daytime lounging. It offers a very relaxed, breezy atmosphere where you can watch windsurfers while enjoying a cold drink and casual meals like sandwiches and salads. It’s a staple for a reason.
- Naturalmente Creperia ($): While famous for its sweet and savory crepes, its location and laid-back vibe make it a favorite for those wanting a relaxed, budget-friendly spot near the sand.
- Sunset Dune Drinks ($): While not a single restaurant, many visitors skip the formal dining at sunset and head to the dunes or the casual beachfront bars nearby. This is where you get the iconic view of the sun dipping into the ocean.
Top Rated Dining in the Sandy Village Center ($$ – $$$)
For dinner, especially if you are looking for elevated local ingredients, seafood, and a romantic atmosphere, the sandy streets of the village center are where you should go.
- Restaurante Tamarindo ($$$): Widely considered one of the top dining destinations in Jericoacoara. It’s set in a charming environment under the trees. The menu focuses on high-quality seafood and Brazilian ingredients. It is definitely not cheap, but the quality justifies the price. Reservations are highly recommended in high season.
- Éllo Restaurante ($$$): Offering a more contemporary dining experience, this is consistently rated as one of the best restaurants in the area. It is perfect for a special night out.
- Na Casa Dela ($$): If you want authentic regional food in a very cozy, welcoming environment, this is a fantastic choice. It feels like eating at a local’s home and offers great value for the quality.
- Pimenta Verde ($$): Highly recommended for its vibrant flavors and consistent service. It’s a solid mid-range option in the village.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are restaurants in Jericoacoara expensive?
Because Jericoacoara is remote, prices tend to be higher than in other parts of Ceará. However, you can still find budget-friendly options like creperies and small local spots if you step slightly away from the main tourist streets.
Do I need to make reservations?
For high-end places like Tamarindo or Éllo during the high season (July-August, December-January), making a reservation is highly recommended.
Final Tips
Jericoacoara offers great dining both on the beach and in the village. Just remember to embrace the sand—leave your fancy shoes at home! Also, while most places accept credit cards, it’s always a good idea to bring some cash, as the internet connection for card machines can occasionally fail in this remote paradise.
