More Than Beaches and Volcanoes

When most people think about Costa Rica, they picture lush rainforests, endless beaches, and volcano hikes. But for food lovers, there’s a whole other side of the country that’s just as exciting—its food. Costa Rican cuisine is simple, fresh, and full of local flavor. Whether you’re sipping coffee on a quiet mountain or trying gallo pinto in a small town, food here is part of the experience.

For couples looking to share unique meals and for travelers who care about sustainable choices, Costa Rica offers a mix of tradition and creativity that’s hard to resist. From farmers’ markets to cooking classes and food tours, Costa Rica invites you to taste its culture one plate at a time.

Start with the Basics: What Locals Eat Every Day

A good way to begin your foodie journey is by tasting the meals locals enjoy daily. One of the most iconic dishes is gallo pinto, a mix of rice and beans cooked with onion, pepper, and cilantro. It’s usually served at breakfast with eggs, tortillas, and sometimes fried plantains or fresh cheese. You’ll find it in homes, small restaurants called sodas, and even in hotels.

Another favorite is casado, a lunchtime classic made with rice, beans, a protein (like chicken, beef, pork, or fish), and sides such as salad, plantains, and sometimes spaghetti. It’s filling, affordable, and varies slightly depending on the region.

Don’t miss olla de carne, a traditional beef and vegetable stew perfect for rainy days, or chorreadas, sweet corn pancakes that go great with a bit of sour cream.

Sweet Treats and Fresh Drinks

Costa Rica also has plenty of local sweets and drinks. Try tres leches, a soft sponge cake soaked in three types of milk, or cajetas, candies made from condensed milk or coconut. Fresh fruit is everywhere, so you’ll often see smoothies (called batidos) made with papaya, pineapple, mango, or guanábana.

Coffee lovers are in for a treat too. Costa Rica is known worldwide for its high-quality coffee, and you can enjoy a cup straight from the source in the highland regions. Many coffee farms offer tours where you can learn about the process from bean to cup.

Regional Flavors to Discover

Each part of the country has its own twist on traditional flavors. On the Caribbean coast, the food takes influence from Afro-Caribbean culture. You’ll find rice and beans cooked in coconut milk, served with spicy chicken or fish. In the Nicoya Peninsula, food is often simple and includes corn-based dishes, grilled meats, and hearty soups.

In the Central Valley, near San José, you’ll find a growing number of restaurants offering modern takes on local classics, often using organic and locally grown ingredients. Many chefs are passionate about sustainability and work closely with nearby farms and markets.

Food Tours Costa Rica: Tasting with Purpose

One of the best ways to dive into the local food scene is through guided experiences. Food tours Costa Rica offer more than just a chance to try delicious dishes. They often include stops at markets, visits to local farms, and chances to meet the people who grow, cook, and serve the food.

You might walk through a small town trying fresh tortillas, taste seasonal fruits at a market, or join a cacao tour to learn how traditional chocolate is made. These experiences are perfect for couples who want something more personal and meaningful during their trip.

Cooking classes are another great option. Many are led by local families who open their homes to teach you how to make traditional recipes. You’ll not only eat well but leave with skills and stories to share.

Eat Local, Travel Smart

For travelers who care about sustainability, Costa Rican cuisine is naturally aligned with those values. Meals are often made with fresh, local ingredients. Markets are full of fruits and vegetables grown nearby, and seafood is usually caught in small batches, not industrially. Choosing small, locally-owned restaurants helps support the communities you’re visiting and reduces the environmental impact of your trip.

A Delicious Way to Explore

Eating your way through Costa Rica is a journey full of flavor, tradition, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re sharing a casado with your partner in a mountain soda or sipping coffee while watching the clouds roll by, food becomes a memory tied to place and people. It’s a way to slow down, to connect, and to taste what makes Costa Rica special.

To fully enjoy the country’s culinary stops—hidden roadside spots, mountain cafés, or coastal food shacks—it helps to have your own wheels. Renting a car in Costa Rica with Poas Rent a Car gives you the freedom to find those local places off the beaten path, take your time, and travel at your pace. With great service and reliable vehicles, it’s the best way to discover Costa Rica, one bite at a time.