Why Choose Costa Rica If You're Vegan/Vegetarian?
With its stunning landscapes and strong focus on environmental preservation, Costa Rica shines as a destination for those who love nature. But did you know that it’s an equally fantastic choice for vegetarians and vegans, thanks to its rich variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, legumes, and grains?
As a lifelong vegetarian (and a part-time vegan), I can tell you that Costa Rica is a surprising gem! Even 20 or so years ago, when I first arrived in Costa Rica, I found that following a plant-based diet here was both easy and satisfying, maybe even more so than back at home. For example, I quickly stopped asking if my favorite, sopa negra, had chicken stock, a question I’d always ask in the USA and Europe. A kind elderly server chuckled “Meat is expensive, we don’t put it where it’s not needed.”
But beyond those traditional dietary options of my early days in Costa Rica, today’s food scene is evolving, reflecting the nation’s commitment to renewable energy and dedication to a sustainable lifestyle. With a wealth of fresh, inventive, and wholesome dining choices, exploring Costa Rica's culinary landscape is a breeze for vegetarians and vegans.
Vegetarian and Vegan Dietary Basics in Costa Rica
Costa Rica's cuisine thrives on a foundation of ingredients that seamlessly cater to plant-based diets. The country's dishes heavily feature legumes such as black beans ( frijoles negros ), red beans ( frijoles rojos ), and lentils ( lentejas ). These ingredients are key players in soups, stews, and side dishes, offering a solid source of plant-based protein. Rice ( arroz ) serves as the foundational element for numerous meals, complementing the protein sources beautifully. Corn ( maíz ) is essential too, forming the basis of tortillas and stuffed tamales, and being used to make the much-loved chorreadas (a sort of pancake) and other traditional dishes. Root vegetables like cassava ( yuca ), sweet potatoes, and taro add another dimension of earthy flavor and nutrition.
Of course, Costa Rica wouldn't be complete without its abundance of tropical fruits . Bananas, papayas, mangoes, pineapples, and the lesser-known soursop ( guanábana ) flood the senses with their vibrant colors, sweet aromas, and juicy flavors. Finally, there are plantains ( plátanos ). These versatile fruits, whether ripe and sweet ( maduros ) or green and savory ( patacones ), bring a fantastic layer of satisfaction to the table.
Key Spanish Phrases for Vegans and Vegetarians
Navigating Costa Rican menus as a vegetarian or vegan is surprisingly easy with a few key Spanish phrases. Start by confidently stating: “ Soy vegetariano/a ” (I am vegetarian). For a fully plant-based diet, declare: “ Soy vegano/a ” (I am vegan). To ensure your meals are completely meat-free, a simple “ Sin carne, por favor ” (No meat, please) works wonders. It's also helpful to specify “ Sin pollo ” (No chicken) and “ Sin pescado ” (No fish), as these are sometimes not considered meat. You can also specify “ Sin huevo/leche/queso ” (Without eggs/milk/cheese). Or, you could just simply say “Sin productos de animales” (without animal products). If you do include eggs and dairy, you can say “ Como huevos y lácteos ” (I eat eggs and dairy).
If you're unsure about any hidden ingredients, ask “ ¿Contiene mantequilla/huevo/leche? ” (Does it contain butter/egg/milk?). Most restaurants, especially in tourist areas, are well-versed in accommodating dietary needs, so communicating clearly will put you at ease and go a long way in making sure you enjoy your meals without concern.
Spanish Tip: if you’re a man, you use the vowel “o” at the end of some words, and if you’re a woman, you use the vowel “a.” Vegetariano if you’re a gentleman and vegetariana if you’re a lady, for example.
Must-Try Vegetarian and Vegan Dishes in Costa Rica
Costa Rica offers many dishes that cater to vegetarian and vegan tastes, ranging from traditional recipes to international cuisine adapted with a local twist. Here are some of the must-try dishes:
Costa Rican Breakfast
Start your day with the iconic Gallo Pinto , a hearty mix of rice and beans seasoned with cilantro, onions, and bell peppers. Vegan by default, it's served with sides that can vary. Ask for it “Sin salsa Lizano” to avoid this traditional sauce, which sometimes contains meat traces. Add eggs (“con huevos”) for a vegetarian version, or sweet, ripe plantains (“con maduros”) for a vegan twist.
If you’ve had your fill of rice and beans, ask for chorreadas , sweet or savory corn pancakes that make the perfect partner for coffee. Enjoy them with a dollop of natilla (sour cream) or a sprinkle of sugar. Or try the thick fresh corn tortillas stuffed with cheese (tortillas con queso), ideal for vegetarians looking for a hearty start to the day.
And of course, indulge in the abundant tropical fruits, a simple yet satisfying option. If you're craving a more familiar start, pancakes and french toast are readily available too and can often (but not always) be made vegan on request.
Costa Rican Lunch and Dinner Classics
For a true taste of Costa Rica, order a casado , the quintessential lunchtime plate. It typically includes rice, beans, salad, and a protein of some kind. Casado is a breeze to customize to vegetarian or vegan tastes—simply request no meat and ask for extra veggies, avocado, or plantains, and if you are not vegan, eggs or cheese. Another satisfying choice is sopa negra , a rich and savory black bean soup served with rice and hard-boiled or poached eggs, which can be omitted for vegans. For a simple yet delicious meal, try arroz con vegetales —rice with a medley of vegetables—or arroz con palmito , where palm heart is the star.
Appetizers and Snacks
Get your snacking fix with fresh guacamole , the popular avocado dip that needs no introduction. Order a side of patacones —twice-fried green plantain slices, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside—served with a variety of dips, such as salsa or refried beans. If you love nachos , you're in luck, as the black bean and veggie versions are a common favorite. And for an added twist, they come with shredded lettuce, unlike the Tex-Mex version you find in the US.
For a cheesy treat, quesadillas filled with cheese and vegetables are a satisfying snack (vegan cheese substitutes can be found in some restaurants). Seeking something a little different? Try enyucados , cassava fritters stuffed with cheese. They have a chewy texture and subtle sweetness, and can sometimes be adapted for vegans. And for a unique appetizer, go for plantain ceviche , offering a creative vegetarian twist on a traditional dish, using plantains marinated in lime juice and spices instead of fish. In local bakeries, you'll also find yummy vegan pastries. Try the tasty enchiladas de papa (potato turnovers). They're great for a snack or a relaxed afternoon bite.
Widely Adopted International Dishes
Satisfy your international cravings with the widely available pizza and pasta , easily adaptable to a meat-free diet with a simple request to hold the cheese. Vegan cheese is also becoming more common in restaurants, so that’s an added bonus. You'll also find a growing variety of vegetarian burgers. And let’s not forget tacos, filled with beans, vegetables, or even tropical fruits, for a fresh take on this Mexican classic.
Craving something Mediterranean? Seek out restaurants serving falafel wraps and hummus platters , a popular vegan option. And for flavors of Hawaii, try a poke bowl , which can be adapted with tofu and a bounty of fresh vegetables instead of fish.
Traditional Costa Rican Desserts
Finish off your meal with a decadent treat like arroz con leche , a creamy rice pudding made with milk (vegan versions use plant-based milk), cinnamon, and sugar. Or experience the sweet indulgence of tres leches , a sponge cake soaked in three different milk varieties (ask for a dairy-free option for a vegan version). And of course, try the flan de coco , a rich, caramelized dessert that can be made vegan by substituting eggs and dairy.
Local Fruits, Veggies & Legumes to Try in Costa Rica
Explore the bounty of Costa Rica with fruits like pejibaye (peach palm fruit), often served boiled or incorporated into savory dishes. Make sure also to try the delicious varieties of squash, such as pipián and ayote , often found in soups and stews. And be sure to add root vegetables like cassava, camote (sweet potato), and tiquisque to your list of must-try foods. While most of these products are easily found in restaurants, visiting local markets is a great way to love Costa Rica's fresh, vegetarian foods more, so venture out to a feria verde (farmers’ market) if you get an opportunity.
Insider Tip: The only endemic fruit to Costa Rica is rather small and called tacaco . Tacaco is bitter and not often liked by most tasters, but if you want to try something that’s only found in Costa Rica and nowhere else, this would be it.
Top Vegetarian and Vegan Restaurants in Costa Rica
Costa Rica's commitment to sustainability and health-conscious living has given rise to an impressive number of vegetarian and vegan dining options. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a fine dining experience, there's no shortage of establishments catering to plant-based diets, including some fabulous Indian, Korean, Japanese, Thai, and other vegetarian and vegan-friendly cuisines.
Here are some of the top-rated vegetarian and vegan restaurants by region, highlighting the diversity and creativity of Costa Rica's green cuisine.
San José
Restaurants in San José to check out if you're vegetarian, vegan, or want some alternative cuisines.
Árbol de Seda
Árbol de Seda offers gourmet farm-to-table organic vegetarian meals that can easily be adapted to vegan preferences. Offering gourmet farm-to-table organic meals that mix local tastes with global ones, traditional options with new possibilities, Árbol de Seda creates unforgettable vegetarian dishes. A standout dish is their "Hamburguesa de Hongo Ostra Fried Chicken," a crunchy, spice-and-panko coated oyster mushroom burger served with vegan barbecue sauce and a choice of toppings. It's a top choice for those avoiding meat.
El Búho Vegetariano
El Buho Vegetariano, near the University of Costa Rica, offers fresh, healthy, and predominantly vegan cuisine. With a variety of dishes that cater to both vegetarians and vegans, this restaurant takes pride in its fresh pasta and raw vegan desserts. Try their creatively prepared Buddha Bowls with homemade tofu and roasted vegetables, or the flavor-packed Caribbean Bowl. For a Middle Eastern flair, the Falafel Bowl, with hummus and baba ganoush is a hit. Unique wraps and sandwiches, along with refreshing smoothies and satisfying raw desserts, round out their focus on nourishing and delicious plant-based fare.
Huacamole Vegan Food
Huacamole Vegan Food in Barrio Escalante is a cozy café known for its entirely vegan menu, including empanadas, pizzas, taco arepas, enchiladas, burgers, fries, soups, salads, sweets, and drinks. This vegan eaterie is praised for its variety of fresh, healthy dishes, generous portions and a friendly atmosphere.
Café Rojo
Café Rojo in San José’s historic center offers a unique dining experience with a menu inspired by Vietnamese cuisine, using the fresh produce of Costa Rica. This café is known for its vegan-friendly options, including Vietnamese noodle bowls, sandwiches, and salads, all of which can be made vegan. They also feature vegan banana bread, muffins, and a variety of coffees.
Nosara
The Nicoya area has a lot of diet varieties, and Nosara is not an exception.
Go Juice
A popular spot for breakfast and lunch, Go Juice specializes in all-natural fresh fruit and vegetable smoothies, fresh pressed juice, iced coffee, ahi tuna poke, and acai bowls topped with a generous helping of fruits and granola. A standout offering is their famous banana coffee, an innovative blend with a unique flavor.
Naked Foods
Known for its burgers and macro bowls, Naked Foods offers a variety of fun, delicious, and filling options. They're known for the creativity in their menu, including options like the Proper Whopper with coconut bacon and a variety of refreshing drinks.
La Luna
La Luna offers a dining experience right on the beachfront. It’s well known for its fantastic atmosphere and a view of the ocean, making it a perfect spot for a meal out. It features a Mediterranean-inspired menu, pizzas, and vegetarian/vegan options.
Santa Teresa
These are our recommendations in the Santa Teresa area.
Drift Bar
Drift Bar is a go-to spot for those looking to enjoy fresh, plant-based meals in Santa Teresa. With a diverse vegan menu, Drift is popular for its breakfast burritos, avocado toast, and unique desserts like the millionaire bar and peanut butter cup. The mushroom pesto lasagna and the Drift burger are also standout dishes.
Zwart Café
Zwart Café, doubling as an art studio, showcases local cuisine with vegan-friendly breakfast and lunch bowls, alongside fresh juices. Known for its health-focused menu, Zwart Café offers a variety of vegan and vegetarian options, including smoothie bowls, salads, and wraps. Their commitment to using organic and locally sourced ingredients is evident in every dish. The Sol Soul Bowl with brown rice, guacamole, and red beans is a popular choice.
La Fortuna, Arenal Volcano Area
The Arenal area is not only the adventure capital of Costa Rica, but also a haven for all kinds of dietary needs.
Organico Fortuna Café
Organico Fortuna Café in La Fortuna is a favorite for its extensive vegan menu and friendly service. This café and market emphasizes organic, vegetarian, and vegan food, with a menu that includes fresh salads, sandwiches, smoothies, and vegan desserts, with several raw options as well.
Chifa La Familia Feliz
A family-run Peruvian restaurant with an Asian twist offers a long menu with allergens indicated for each dish, and for every dish on the menu, it offers a vegetarian version. Try the vegetarian ceviche and the vegetarian kalu wantan with a pineapple sweet and sour sauce. Vegan options are also readily available.
Kappa Sushi
Kappa Sushi offers a delightful range of vegan sushi options. The vegan sushi rolls are creative, and the sushi bowl with a bed of rice, veggies, tofu, and fried broccoli comes highly recommended.
Monteverde
These are our recommendations in Monteverde, an area focused on sustainability.
Café Orchid
A cozy spot for health-conscious eaters, with options for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets. This café stands out for its food and ambiance, filled with small plants and friendly faces.
The Green Restaurant
Located in the heart of Monteverde, The Green Restaurant offers a menu full of creative vegetarian and vegan dishes, merging international cuisine with local flavors and specializing in healthy, organic dishes. Their use of local, sustainable ingredients shines in dishes like the vegan ceviche.
Jacó
Jacó has a ton of food options. These are our favorites!
Green Room Café
Offering a laid-back atmosphere and live music, Green Room Café has a diverse menu with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. Among its vegetarian-friendly offerings, the cauliflower tacos and the vegan nachos are crowd-pleasers, loaded with fresh toppings and homemade vegan cheese.
The Falafel Cafe
Casual vegan-friendly eatery known for its signature falafel pita sandwiches, made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and served with creamy hummus and tahini. The café also offers wraps and bowls, and a selection of homemade sauces to top your meal, including spicy chipotle and cool yogurt tzatziki.
Manuel Antonio and Uvita
The Central Pacific area (especially Manuel Antonio and Uvita) have a couple of options if you're vegan or vegetarian.
Café Milagro
Café Milagro is known for its specialty coffee and the dining experience with a focus on sustainable cuisine. The restaurant prides itself on serving dishes made with fresh, local ingredients, including vegetarian and vegan-friendly options.
Indómitos Café
Indomitos Cafe in Uvita is a must-try for its flavorful, healthy vegetarian and vegan dishes. Their falafel and creative veggie burgers—especially the one called La Montaña—are crowd favorites!
Puerto Viejo
Puerto Viejo has a selection of fantastic restaurants. For meatless options, these are our recommendations.
Como en mi Casa
Puerto Viejo’s Como en mi Casa Art Café prides itself on serving high-quality, plant-based cuisine made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. It's a go-to destination for a diverse and satisfying menu of Caribbean-inspired dishes, great for vegan pancakes, wraps, salads, and gluten-free options.
Bread & Chocolate
A quaint bakery and café known for its extensive breakfast and lunch menu, homemade baked goods, and "bean to bar" chocolates and desserts. They also offer a variety of plant-based dishes that showcase the flavors of the Caribbean. With a commitment to quality, they make everything from scratch, including their pancake and waffle mixes, mayonnaise, and jams, using locally farmed products whenever possible.
These restaurants are just a glimpse into the rich vegetarian and vegan culinary scene in Costa Rica. Many offer unique dining experiences, from farm-to-table meals to dishes inspired by indigenous cuisine, reflecting the country's diverse cultural and natural heritage. And if you want a real taste of local cuisine at great prices, check out ubiquitous sodas. These simple yet charming places are at the heart of Costa Rican cooking, where vegetarians and vegans can enjoy meals full of fresh, local ingredients in dishes that truly reflect the country's food culture.
Top Vegan Hotels and Retreats
For those seeking a fully immersive plant-based lifestyle during their stay, Costa Rica offers several vegan hotels and retreats that promise comfort, sustainability, and gourmet vegan cuisine.
Mother Earth Vegan Hotel, Tamarindo
This boutique hotel in Tamarindo is the first of its kind in Costa Rica, offering a completely vegan experience. From the organic vegan breakfast to the cruelty-free amenities, every detail is designed with the vegan traveler in mind.
Lands in Love, San Ramón
An environmental and animal-friendly resort located in San Ramón ’s cloud forest, Lands in Love offers a vegetarian and vegan menu that doesn't compromise flavor or creativity. It also has a Kosher restaurant, offering diverse diet options and promoting eco-friendly eating in Costa Rica.
As an added bonus for animal lovers, the hotel is also involved in animal rescue efforts.
The Retreat Costa Rica, Atenas
Celebrity chef Diana Stobo runs The Retreat, a luxury wellness resort that focuses on holistic health and nutrition. With a menu of organic, plant-based meals, it combines great meals with sustainable eating. The stunning views and tranquil setting provide the perfect setting for a rejuvenating stay.
Imiloa, Dominical
Imiloa is a rustic-chic eco-retreat center that hosts a variety of wellness and yoga retreats, many of which are vegetarian or vegan. Situated in Dominical ’s jungle overlooking the Pacific Ocean, it's a place of natural beauty and peace where making sustainable choices is easy and celebrated, perfect for those on a plant-based diet.
Plan Your Trip to Costa Rica Now
Ready to taste the difference? Pack your bags, and consider reaching out to Travel Consultants who specialize in Costa Rican trips. They can guide you towards the best dining spots and ensure that your travel itinerary is filled with the finest vegetarian and vegan experiences the country has to offer. Let's make your next meal in Costa Rica an extraordinary one. ¡ Buen provecho !
FAQs about Vegetarian and Vegan Food in Costa Rica
Absolutely! Costa Rica is a delightful country for vegans and vegetarians, as well as any type of plant-based diets. You can find anything from local eateries to upscale dining with special menus.
Rice, beans, fruits, and veggies are key to the Costa Rican diet. They are perfect for vegans and vegetarians.
Knowing Spanish phrases helps a lot. Say "Soy vegetariano/a" for vegetarian or "Soy vegano/a" for vegan. Add "Sin carne" to ask for no meat,” "Sin huevo" for no eggs, and "Sin leche" for no milk. Vegans should be clear about what they can eat by saying “Sin productos de animales.”
You should try gallo pinto, vegetarian casado, sopa negra, arroz con palmito, and chorreadas. Try guacamole and patacones for starters. Enjoy local fruits like mango, papaya, and heart of palm too. These dishes offer a taste of Costa Rica's veggie and vegan options.
Yes, Costa Rica has many veggie and vegan spots. There are organic cafés and restaurants with special menus in tourist areas and beyond.
Yes, there are vegan hotels and retreats in Costa Rica. They focus on plant-based food and sustainable living. These places are perfect for those who are strictly vegan.
Pescatarians have lots of choices, including fresh seafood dishes like ceviche and arroz con camarones. Being closer to the ocean means the seafood is fresher.
Yes, many traditional foods are naturally gluten-free, like rice and beans. But it's a good idea to check at eateries to make sure they fit your diet.
