Costa Rica's Culinary Landscape
One of the first things you might notice about Costa Rican cuisine is that you've never noticed it. Not unless you've traveled to Costa Rica, of course. After all, if you're in the United States, Canada, the UK, or some other North American or European country, how many Costa Rican restaurants do you know? Probably none, right? Unlike Mexican or Peruvian food, Costa Rican food—like the rest of Central America—doesn't really travel well.
That doesn't mean to say it's not any good, though. While Costa Rican food doesn't exactly excite foodies with an array of sensuous spices to tease the taste buds, it's wholesome, tasty, and, for the most part, healthy.
It's the cuisine of a basic agricultural society and there's something to be said for that. Good, honest, plain fare prepared with fresh ingredients… It's all part of a winning combination for your next culinary vacations.
For North Americans and Europeans, Costa Rica's tropical location means there are some new flavor opportunities, of course. A glance around any Costa Rican farmer's market or grocery store will prove that. You'll see all sorts of things on sale that you'd never find at home—at least outside specialist stores, anyway. Think mamón chinos, nonis, and jocotes. And that's just some of the fruit.
So while Costa Rican food won't set the world alight, if you're a foodie traveling here, ignore it at your peril. While it's certainly the good, honest, plain fare made with fresh ingredients mentioned above, that fare comes from a blend of cultures and styles that make it more exciting than you might realize. This article hopes to enthuse you about what to expect before you arrive and get you excited for the tasty treats that are in store.
Flavors Beyond Borders: The Inaugural Gastronomic Event at Casa Chameleon, Las Catalinas
Events that bring renowned international chefs to Costa Rica are rare. Here is a chance to participate in something new! "Flavors Beyond Borders," an inaugural event hosted at Casa Chameleon at Las Catalinas from March 6-10, 2024, is designed for culinary enthusiasts. This event features Culinary Institute of America (CIA) alumni chefs Dara Yu, Sophia Ruiz, Evelyn Garcia, and Sarah Thompson, who will lead master classes, offer tastings, and prepare dinners that highlight Costa Rican cuisine.
The program includes cooking classes, thematic dinners, and activities that allow guests to engage with Costa Rican culinary traditions. It is an opportunity to learn from experienced chefs and explore local flavors in a beautiful setting. Proceeds from the event will benefit CIA student scholarships, supporting the next generation of culinary professionals. This event is part of our foodie trips to Costa Rica, aimed at travelers interested in culinary arts and cultural experiences.
Enjoy A Culinary Collaboration of CIA Alumni Chefs
The event features a stellar lineup of chefs including Dara Yu, Sophia Ruiz, Evelyn Garcia, and Sarah Thompson, who will guide guests through four all-inclusive days of epicurean experiences. From master classes to special tastings and thematic dinners, the chefs will highlight their culinary expertise and the signature flavors of Costa Rica. Each chef brings a unique story and a rich background of culinary achievements, from winning seasons of renowned cooking shows to leading kitchens at top dining establishments.
What Does a “Flavors Beyond Borders” Package Include?
“Flavors Beyond Borders” offers more than just meals: it’s an invitation to explore culinary arts deeply. The day starts with a wellness activity, followed by a series of food-driven experiences. Highlights include:
- Breakfast with a barista experience, brunch with a pastry chef, or a hands-on tortilla station.
- Mid-morning cooking classes, limited to 10 guests, focusing on local and seasonal ingredients.
- Leisurely lunches at Casa Chameleon’s signature bars and restaurants, featuring breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
- Afternoon cultural immersions with activities ranging from catamaran tours to Latin dance classes.
- Sundowners on the pool deck, offering a prelude to dinner with gourmet small plates and innovative drinks.
- Thematic dinners prepared by the guest chefs, showcasing locally sourced ingredients and offering insights into culinary traditions.
Priced at $10,995 per couple, the “Flavors Beyond Borders” package includes four nights’ accommodation in a private villa with a plunge pool, all meals, evening culinary experiences, cooking demonstrations, and a range of daily activities and social programming. It's an exclusive opportunity to immerse yourself in the culinary arts while supporting the next generation of chefs through CIA scholarships.
Contact us to include this unparalleled culinary adventure in your trip.
Back to Basics: What is Costa Rican Food?
Costa Rica's food heritage, like elsewhere around the region, comes from a clash of cultures, namely (but not exclusively), indigenous, European (Spanish), and African cultures. Each of these has contributed to the overall cuisine enjoyed in Costa Rica and elsewhere around Central America.
The first Europeans arriving in Central America found indigenous peoples around the region relying on corn (maize), an unknown staple to them at the time. Tortillas and tamales, for example, are both indigenous corn-based foods eaten all over the region. Other indigenous contributions include tubers like yucca and potatoes, plantains, various vegetables, and fruits. Indigenous cultures also ate a lot of beans, something that remains a major staple today.
Spanish conquistadors and settlers brought new ingredients and cooking techniques with them. Cattle ranching brought meat and dairy products, giving rise to dishes like picadillo and quesillo. Spices like cumin and coriander added depth while stewing and frying methods of cooking found their place in Costa Rican kitchens. And, notably, it was the Spanish who brought rice over to the New World. Today, rice and beans are the main hallmarks of pretty much any Costa Rican meal. No household in Costa Rica will be without rice or beans.
And talking of rice and beans: although indigenous peoples had the beans and Europeans the rice, it's believed the combo of them both came to the Americas with African slaves. Africans also left their mark with influences such as coconut milk, allspice, and ginger. Rice dishes and stews incorporated these flavors, leading to creations like the Caribbean-style rice and beans and various plantain preparations.
Costa Rica's diverse geography also plays a part. The Central Valley, influenced by Spanish traditions, offers hearty stews and casados—a mix of rice, beans, meat, and salad. Guanacaste, known for cattle ranching, boasts chorizos and carne asada (grilled meat). The Caribbean coast, influenced by Afro-Caribbean traditions, features seafood delights like rondón, a coconut milk stew.
While this blend of indigenous, European, and African cuisines permeates most aspects of Costa Rican food, there are also Chinese and American influences that visitors will see while traveling around.
Today, Costa Rican cuisine continues to evolve with international influences and a focus on fresh, local ingredients. While visitors might be surprised at the lack of spiciness of Costa Rican food (many automatically think it's like Mexican food), they'll still find something to love in their next culinary vacations.
Gourmet Dining: Costa Rica's Top Restaurants
Before we talk about individual restaurants, it's worth pointing something out. If you're looking for the best authentic Costa Rican food, you won't find it in most gourmet restaurants. The best way to eat Costa Rican food is like Costa Ricans do: at home or in small, local mom-and-pop restaurants called sodas. These places won't win awards or have famous chefs. They won't have websites and many of them won't find their way onto TripAdvisor. But if you're looking for a typical meal in this country, ask us and we'll be happy to help!
That said, we also know that Costa Rica has many great restaurants. Over recent years, more than ever. San José in particular has become something of a foodie paradise, with new places popping up all the time. What was once quite a culinary desert is now home to some excellent restaurants and eating spots serving up delicious food from around the world, often incorporating local twists. Let's take a look at some of our favorite restaurants around Costa Rica.
Grano de Oro Restaurant, San José
Located in the boutique Grano de Oro Hotel, this restaurant stands out for its sophisticated ambiance and a menu that blends international flavors with Costa Rican classics. Known for its commitment to quality, the Grano de Oro Restaurant prides itself on using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients to create dishes that tantalize the palate. True to the coffee culture that gives this place its name, it's the desserts that stand out here, particularly the chocolate mousse. Recent reviews showcase the sentiments of Grano de Oro patrons:
"Exquisite food and service, very elegant... Everything a perfect five stars, from the amuse Bouche to the after dinner drinks. Worth the money. Hands down our favorite restaurant in San Jose."
"We are at the restaurant for six consecutive days, for breakfast, lunch and dinner. We were never disappointed, we tried to eat everything on the menu, every dish was fantastic. The eggs Benedict was amazing, truffle eggs also, beef tenderloin, lamb shank, ravioli, on and on. Everything was excellent. The Caprese salad was the best we have ever had. Cocktails are amazing."
Restaurante Sikwa, San José
Consistently praised by food critics, Chef Pablo Bonilla's Restaurante Sikwa is a culinary masterpiece celebrating indigenous Costa Rican traditions. By skillfully integrating local ingredients and traditional cooking methods, Chef Bonilla creates an inviting, cozy atmosphere where each dish is a celebration of Costa Rican gastronomy which holds its own against other Latin American countries.
Pangas Beach Club in Tamarindo, Guanacaste
Set on the sands at the northern end of Tamarindo, Pangas is a beach club by day and a relaxed restaurant and bar by night. From casual afternoon beers to candlelit dinners, Pangas has something for everyone. Chill out with a refreshing blended fruit drink or sample some of the freshest seafood around.
"We had an incredible dinner at Pangas Beach Club and would highly recommend this as a must-do for a trip to Tamarindo. The location is at the far north end of the beach but easily walkable from anywhere in Tamarindo. Ambience is a 10/10, sunset views are beautiful, and the monkeys overhead all contribute to the overall dining experience! Food and drinks were fantastic; I would absolutely recommend the wahoo carpaccio and the ribeye steak on the volcanic stone…creative and delicious! Make a reservation so you don’t miss out on Pangas for dinner."
"Best restaurant in Tamarindo. We all enjoyed the blackened Mahi Mahi w 2 extra shrimp. Fish was delicious and cooked perfectly! Great service."
Huacas Restaurant at Tierra Magnifica, Nosara
Recent additon to the culinary scene in Costa Rica is certainly Tierra Maginfica's Huacas Restaurant, and one cannot discuss Huacas without mentioning its unparalleled location. The restaurant boasts an open-air setting that frames the jungle's lushness against the backdrop of the ocean, offering diners not just a meal, but an experience. Patrons rave about the diverse and fresh offerings with particular acclaim for its ceviche, BBQ ribs, paella, and mahi mahi dishes. The menu's emphasis on fresh, local ingredients, combined with a flair for presentation, sets Huacas apart. The restaurant's ability to serve up a variety of dishes, from succulent seafood to perfectly cooked steaks, caters to a wide array of tastes.
Huacas also earns accolades for its cocktail menu. From the smokey passion cocktail to unique creations like Naked Nosara and Mexican Medicine, the bar service at Huacas adds a nice touch to the dining experience, with mixologists who are celebrated for their skills and creativity.
Coyol in Nosara, Nicoya
You'll find this place in the hills above Nosara, overlooking the ocean. Coyol is known for its fusion of Mediterranean and Costa Rican cuisine with a particular emphasis on expertly grilled dishes. The restaurant's dedicated staff ensures a memorable and attentive dining experience with stunning views.
"Magical restaurant. The ambiance is awesome from the walk-in past the open fire grills with crates full of fresh veggies to the amazing view out back. We came around 3:00 PM and the view was magnificent. The service was great and the food was better. The fresh bread with the trio of homemade dips was awesome."
"We spiraled all the way up a mountain in a rental SUV for a late afternoon lunch at Coyol. New friends at the resort pool recommended the place, but we could not score a dinner reservation. The beef short ribs, braised in banana leaves, absolutely blew us away… completely worth the hype. The ceviche was served tostada style, two tuna and two shrimp, with delicate toppings and sauces for perfect-bite taste profiles... The tuna tartar was generously served in a Peruvian stack with avocado. The margaritas had mesmerizing herbal floral finishes. This was our favorite restaurant in Costa Rica."
La Luna Restaurant, Playa Pelada, Nosara
La Luna will have your eyes peeled to Playa Pelada’s mesmerizing azure waters, just steps away from your chair. Enjoy the breeze while you lounge with your favorite drink, and explore an enticing menu brimming with Greek, Mediterranean, and pizza dishes. With its chic bohemian vibe and all-day open outdoor seating, La Luna strikes the perfect balance between upscale and relaxed, making it ideal for both romantic date nights and family gatherings in Nosara.
Amara in Jacó Beach, Central Pacific
With indoor and outdoor seating, the beachfront Amara offers excellent ocean views in Jacó. The ambiance is sophisticated yet relaxed. Amara's menu features Mediterranean cuisine with a Costa Rican twist, using fresh, local ingredients for flavorful dishes.
"We loved the food, every single meal was delicious and original, very clean and with great staff. This was the first time I had avocado cheesecake. Even we went back the next day."
"Great place in Jaco, Costa Rica if you want to get dressed and have a lovely dinner in AC. The ambience is beautiful. There is also a cute outside patio. The service was really great and the food was fresh and delicious!"
Citrus in Ojochal, South Pacific
When visiting Uvita area in the South Pacific, Citrus has become a must-visit destination for those seeking a memorable dining experience. The menu's variety caters to diverse tastes, offering everything from a refreshing blue cheese salad to exotic delights like Escargot, showcasing Chef Marcella Marciano's French influence. The Pad Thai and fresh catches of the day are also among the favorites, further testament to the kitchen's prowess in delivering a world-class culinary adventure.
Citrus is not just about food and service; it's the little extras that make a visit here unforgettable. The creative cocktails, including great pisco sours, add a unique touch to the dining experience, while the restaurant's ability to cater to dietary needs and preferences showcases its flexibility and commitment to guest satisfaction.
In summary, Citrus restaurant in Ojochal is a gem in Costa Rica's culinary crown, offering an exceptional dining experience characterized by gourmet cuisine, stellar service, and a beautiful setting. Its success is a testament to the hard work and passion of its staff, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to indulge in the best of Costa Rican hospitality and culinary artistry.
KOKi Beach Restaurant and Bar in Puerto Viejo, The Caribbean Coast
Across from the beach in Puerto Viejo is KOKi, an inviting, upscale eatery set in a beautiful wooden building. The meat and seafood dishes are unbeatable here, bursting with flavor. And let's not forget their deliciously crafted cocktails—each one a masterpiece! The combination of exceptional service and mouth-watering food makes this place a must-visit on the Caribbean coast.
"We stopped by Koki while walking around the city for dessert. I ordered the passion fruit creme brulee and my girlfriends ordered a brownie with ice cream. Creme brulee is my favorite dessert and I've made it multiple times, but this was the BEST I've ever had. The atmosphere is amazing and the place is aesthetically beautiful. I highly recommend it to anyone to try it out."
"Really outstanding, phenomenal food! Beautiful presentation and delicious meals, drinks, and dessert. Loved the fresh vegetables in the lomito salteado and pollo salteado. The banana in a box dessert was a special treat. Best meal we’ve had in Costa Rica!"
San Lucas Treetop Dining in Monteverde Cloud Forest
For an exclusive, intimate dining experience, San Lucas is a must. This unique spot in the trees of Monteverde's cloud forest invites you on a nine-course gastronomic journey, each dish crafted with the finest local ingredients. With only eight tables, an advance reservation is a must.
"We had a wonderful culinary journey about the food of the 7 provinces from Costa Rica. Everything was perfectly planned from the reception, short Golf car drive to the great view from our own dining room. Our travel agent-waiter Bryan was very knowledgeable and introduced us to a variety of perfectly prepared dishes. We had great fun and enjoyed every detail of food and Drinks. Yes, it is expensive but worth every single dollar. Don't miss it!"
"Great place for a gastronomical experience coupled with stunning views of the Nicoya peninsula. Staff were very attentive (especially given that my partner is vegetarian), the food was good, and the cocktails were delicious! My partner and I went for the 5pm seating so we got treated to stunning sunset views of the bay. We also learned a lot about the different regions of Costa Rica and the ongoing need for environmental conservation."
Don Rufino in La Fortuna, Arenal Volcano
Don Rufino in La Fortuna has been upholding its reputation for years. The menu offers something for everyone, from its famous meat selections to homemade pastas and traditional Costa Rican cuisine. The experience wouldn't be complete without their must-try cocktails and wine selections, served with exceptional hospitality.
"My husband and I enjoyed a fabulous lunch here. We sat at the bar facing out to the action on the street. I had a local beer, and my husband had an espresso martini he deemed excellent. We shared the roasted carrot salad to start which was very very tasty. I had the shrimp tagliatelle, and OMG, sooo delicious. My husband had the short rib ravioli, also excellent. We both had wine with our meals, good recommendations from the staff. Highly recommend it."
"This place is excellent! Food and drinks, everything is beyond exceptional. Service is on the spot and it was flavorful, it was a fresh and innovative way of serving. The fruit juices were fresh and made from scratch. This place is spot on for a great dining experience."
El Salto at the Origins Lodge, Bijagua
El Salto Restaurant at Origins Lodge offers a unique culinary experience, blending local Costa Rican flavors with French culinary art. Under the guidance of Michelin-starred Chef Jean-Luc L’Hourre and a skilled local team, the restaurant emphasizes haute cuisine reflective of its natural surroundings. Ingredients are sourced from the lodge's organic garden, ensuring freshness and authenticity in every dish. The restaurant, known for its stunning views and peaceful ambiance, is ideal for various events, from intimate dinners to larger celebrations.
The team's commitment to culinary excellence and innovation creates a memorable dining adventure, showcasing a fusion of Costa Rican traditions and French-inspired cuisine.
There are so many quality restaurants to choose from in Costa Rica for a culinary vacation, especially around the capital and various beach and tourist communities. It would be impossible to name them all. But the ones listed above stand out right now as some of the best, unmissable if you're visiting these places. For more info on where to eat, just ask our expert travel advisors for their favorite places. And don't forget to check out the sodas too for a more authentic, localized dining experience!
Travel Tips for Your Culinary Vacation in Costa Rica
To truly savor Costa Rica’s culinary landscape, a bit of research and planning goes a long way. Make it a point to try traditional dishes in sodas, explore local markets, sign up for cooking classes, or visit coffee, chocolate, and fruit plantations. Each region in Costa Rica offers unique flavors and experiences, so be sure to explore different areas and seek out diverse dining options.
Don’t miss out on local food festivals where you can indulge in new and exciting dishes. Be adventurous in your culinary choices and engage with locals for those hidden gems and personalized recommendations.
On a more practical level, Costa Rica doesn't have a tipping culture like you would find, say, in the United States. While tipping is common, and certainly appreciated, it's not expected, and when you tip, you're doing so because you've received great service, not because it's something you need to do. All Costa Rican restaurant and bar bills include a 10% service charge.
Most restaurants in Costa Rica don't require reservations, although if you're looking for a specific place on a specific date, booking in advance can be useful, especially in tourist areas during high season. But overall, it's not something you really need to worry about. If you do want restaurant reservations while here, our team can make them for you. Just let us know!
Costa Rica has come on leaps and bounds in recent years with the range of restaurants and eating options available. While in the past, vegetarian/vegan options might have been hard to come by, now they're not. Other dietary considerations, from Kosher to gluten-free are really no longer an issue. Speak to us if you have concerns, and we'll ensure you have nothing to worry about while here.
Costa Rica offers an opportunity to recognize the integral connection between food and culture. Take the time to understand the stories and traditions behind each dish you encounter. These tips will help you create unforgettable experiences that showcase Costa Rica’s food rich and diverse food offerings.
Ideal Itinerary for a Seven-Day Foodie Trip to Costa Rica
While Costa Rica is all about nature, rainforests, and beaches, it's now possible to center your trip around food and cuisine. For foodies seeking a Costa Rican vacation specifically for gastronomic purposes, we'd recommend something like this:
- Day 1. Arrive in San José (SJO Airport) and transfer to a local hotel.
- Day 2. Take a guided walking tour of San José, exploring local markets and enjoying different restaurants. Stay in San José.
- Day 3. Check out of your San José hotel and take a private transfer to the Arenal Volcano area. On the way, check out a coffee plantation for a tour. Stay in an Arenal area hotel.
- Day 4. Enjoy a cacao farm tour in the morning, learning about chocolate, followed by an Arenal Volcano hike in the afternoon. Stay in an Arenal area hotel.
- Day 5. Check out of your Arenal hotel and take a private transfer to Manuel Antonio on the Central Pacific coast. Stay in a Manuel Antonio area hotel.
- Day 6. Enjoy the Villa Vanilla Spice Farm Tour in the morning, while spending the afternoon relaxing on the beach or by the pool In the evening, check out one of the great restaurants in this part of Costa Rica. Stay in a Manuel Antonio area hotel.
- Day 7. Take a Manuel Antonio National Park Tour in the morning. Then enjoy lunch in a local soda before relaxing in the afternoon. Stay in a Manuel Antonio area hotel.
- Day 8. Transfer back to SJO Airport for your flight home.
The above is just a snapshot of what a foodie vacation to Costa Rica might look like. Speak to us if you're interested in something like this and we'll be happy to put together a customized itinerary to suit your needs!
Culinary Vacations in Costa Rica
The Costa Rica culinary scene is a diverse blend of indigenous, traditional, and international cuisines, all made with fresh, local ingredients. Your taste buds will revel in the rich coffee, indulgent chocolate, and an array of tropical fruits. Fresh seafood is a staple, showcasing the country's oceanic bounty.
Beyond the flavors, there's a strong emphasis on farm-to-table practices, sustainability, and an eco-friendly commitment. The warm hospitality of locals adds a special touch to dining experiences across the country. Whether it's a cozy local eatery or a restaurant with epic views, each meal is set against the backdrop of stunning natural beauty. Book your gastronomic getaway in Costa Rica today!
