The Best of Costa Rican Food – What to Eat in Costa Rica

Visiting Costa Rica soon? In addition to the beaches, forests, and adventure tours, make sure to double the fun with the best Costa Rican food. I have been to this amazing country a few times now, and each time I found something new and delicious.

So if you are wondering what to eat during your trip, I can guide you with the tastiest options. No guesswork needed!

I still remember my first bite of gallo pinto in a small roadside soda. It was warm and full of flavor. Later that same day, I tried tres leches cake, and honestly, I fell in love. If I ever return, I might not go for the places, I will go again just to eat these dishes.

Eric (my friend who traveled with me) liked something else. He could not stop eating ceviche and patacones. We both ended up loving different things and I think that is the beauty of Costa Rica food. There is so much variety that everyone finds their favorite.

In this blog, I have gathered all the must-try dishes in one place. So you will not have to go through trial and error like I did. Just read on and enjoy the best bites Costa Rica has to offer.

What Makes Costa Rican Food So Special

The first thing I noticed about Costa Rican food was how simple it looked but how rich it tasted. It is not full of spices like some other cuisines. Instead, it focuses on fresh ingredients that come straight from local farms.

What’s unique about Costa Rican dishes? Most of the dishes here include

• Rice
• Beans
• Plantains
• Fresh Vegetables
• Meat (especially seafood)

You will find that Costa Rican food is not heavy. It fills you up but still feels light and healthy. One big reason is that most meals are made at home or in small family-owned places called sodas.

These sodas serve the kind of food locals eat every day, and that is where you get the real taste of Costa Rica.

Some of the most common Costa Rican foods are gallo pinto, tamales, and empanadas. You will also see a lot of fresh fruits like mango, papaya, and pineapple. They are served raw or blended into fresh juices that go perfectly with your meal.

Another thing that makes Costa Rica food special is how people eat together. Meals are slow and relaxed. Food is not just food here. It is part of their culture and daily life. Every dish tells a story of the people, their land, and their way of living.

So if you are someone who enjoys fresh, home-style cooking, you are going to love the food in Costa Rica.

Traditional Ingredients Found in Costa Rica

Many traditional Costa Rican dishes are made with ingredients that grow right in the country. The warm, tropical weather in Costa Rica helps farmers grow some of the freshest food you will ever taste. From the mountains to the coasts, every region adds something special to the plate.

Here are some common ingredients used in traditional Costa Rican dishes:

• Rice: a base for breakfast, lunch, and dinner
• Red and black beans: usually served with rice
• Corn: used to make fresh tortillas and tamales
• Plantains: either fried green or soft and sweet
• Cassava (yuca): often boiled or fried like potatoes
• Cilantro and bell peppers: used to add flavor
• Tropical fruits: like mango, pineapple, and papaya
• Fresh seafood: especially near the coasts
• Cheese: often added to tortillas or fried snacks

Best Breakfast Options in Costa Rica

Skipping breakfast in Costa Rica means missing out on some of the best flavors the country has to offer.

I always look forward to breakfast when I am in Costa Rica. It is the best way to start a day full of exploring. Now let me tell you about the best breakfast dishes that truly stole my heart.

1. Gallo Pinto

You have not really eaten in Costa Rica if you have not tried gallo pinto. I know that sounds bold, but trust me, it is true. I had my first plate of gallo pinto in a small soda in La Fortuna. The woman who made it told me, “This is what we eat every morning.” And I could see why.

Gallo Pinto is translated to English as “spotted rooster”. because of how the rice and beans look when mixed together. It is also the national dish of Costa Rica that makes it even more unique.

Gallo pinto is a mix of rice and black beans, cooked with chopped onion, red pepper, and a fresh herb called cilantro. What makes it special is the seasoning. A dark sauce called Salsa Lizano that adds a little sweetness and tang. Most people eat it with scrambled eggs, fried plantains, and a slice of cheese or toast on the side.

2. Chorreadas

Now this one surprised me. Chorreadas are sweet corn pancakes, and they are honestly one of the most fun things I have eaten in Costa Rica. I had them one morning in a mountain village, and they served it hot with a thick spoon of sour cream on top. I still remember how soft and slightly sweet they were.

Chorreadas are made with fresh corn, not cornmeal. The kernels are blended into a smooth paste, then cooked on a flat grill until golden brown. Some versions are sweeter, while others are a bit savory. Locals enjoy them with coffee or even as an afternoon snack.

My travel buddy liked gallo pinto more, but for me, chorreadas were the kind of food that makes you smile without even trying. If I go back, I will look for those pancakes before anything else.

3. Tortillas with Cheese

This simple dish is something you will find almost everywhere. In Costa Rica, tortillas are thicker than usual and often grilled with a layer of fresh cheese on top. The cheese melts slightly but stays firm, giving each bite a mix of crispy and soft textures.

It is usually eaten for breakfast or as a quick snack. I loved having it with a cup of local coffee in the morning. It is one of those common Costa Rican foods that fills you up without being too heavy.

4. Costa Rican Coffee

If you enjoy coffee, Costa Rica will feel like paradise. The country grows some of the best beans in the world thanks to its rich soil and cool mountain air. Locals drink it black, hot, and strong. They usually take it without milk or sugar and I would prefer to try it the same to fully enjoy the local vibe.

I had my best cup in a small cafe near Monteverde. It was bold but smooth, and it went perfectly with sweet pastries. Costa Rican food culture is not complete without this drink.

Lunch and Midday Snacks You Should Not Miss

If you ask me, skipping lunch in Costa Rica is almost a mistake. If you ask me, I often found myself eating at small roadside spots, and those turned out to be the best meals of my trip.

Here are a few traditional Costa Rican dishes that made my afternoons unforgettable.

5. Casado

You do not really understand Costa Rican food until you have a casado. I still remember my first one. A plate full of rice, black beans, salad, fried plantains, and grilled chicken. It felt like five meals in one.

Some versions come with fish, beef, or even eggs. The name “casado” means married, and it refers to how all the foods are served together like a family. If you want to try common Costa Rican foods in one go, this is it.

6. Tamales

No trip is complete without trying Costa Rican tamales. I had mine during a festival, wrapped in banana leaves and served hot. They are made with:

• Corn dough
• Pork Filling
• Rice
• Vegetables
• Spices

Every family has its own version. People even freeze them and eat them over time. They reminded me of home-cooked meals and warm holidays. This is one of the traditional Costa Rican dishes you should not skip, especially around Christmas or special events.

7. Empanadas

Biting into a Costa Rican empanada is pure joy. I found them everywhere. Like literally everywhere, from bus stops, markets, and tiny food stalls. You will find two types of them.

• One filled with cheese
• One with black beans or meat

Both the versions are deep-fried until golden and usually eaten with a bit of hot sauce or ketchup. These snacks are cheap, quick, and full of flavor. When it comes to Costa Rica food, empanadas are the real street heroes. I grabbed one almost every afternoon while exploring towns.

8. Ceviche

If you are near the coast, you have to try ceviche. I first had it in a beach town and still think about it. It is made with fresh fish or shrimp. The fish or shrimp are soaked in lime juice and then mixed with onions, peppers, and cilantro.

The result is cold and super fresh. It is often served with crackers or plantain chips. For seafood lovers, this is the best food in Costa Rica to cool off in the afternoon. Every bite tastes like the ocean.

9. Chifrijo

Now this one was a surprise favorite. A local friend told me to try chifrijo, and I am glad I listened. It is a bowl filled with:

• Rice
• Beans
• Crispy pork
• Pico de gallo

Sometimes it is topped with avocado or tortilla chips. I had it with an ice-cold drink while watching a football game, and the whole vibe was perfect. It is one of the newer Costa Rican dishes but has quickly become a must-try.

Costa Rican Dinner Classics to Try

Dinner in Costa Rica is not just a meal. It feels like a reward after a long, sunny day. I often ended my evenings in a small soda with a plate of hot, homemade food. Here are a few traditional Costa Rican dishes that I still think about even now.

10. Arroz con Pollo or Camarones

It should be illegal to leave Costa Rica without trying arroz con pollo. I had it once at a family gathering, and the smell alone made me hungry. The rice is cooked with chicken, bell peppers, onions, and spices.

It is colorful and soft which makes it quite unique. Some places offer arroz con camarones, which is the same dish but with shrimp. Both versions are popular and can be found at most local restaurants. This is one of the best foods in Costa Rica to enjoy with salad and sweet plantains on the side.

11. Olla de Carne

This dish is for those who love beef. Olla de carne is a beef stew made with:

• Slow-cooked meat
• Carrots
• Corn
• Potatoes
• Root vegetables

I had a bowl on a rainy evening in the hills, and it warmed me from the inside. It is not spicy but it feels like something a grandma would make. This dish shows the real heart of Costa rican food. I found many locals often cooking it on weekends for big family meals.

12. Picadillo de Papa or Arracache

You may not hear about this dish on travel sites, but locals love it and I suggest do not leave without trying this.

Picadillo is made with chopped vegetables and meat, cooked in a pan with garlic, onion, and peppers. The most common one is picadillo de papa. It uses potatoes. But there is also picadillo de arracache — a local root that tastes a little nutty.

I tried both, and while I liked the potato more, my guide said arracache is his childhood favorite. These are true traditional Costa Rican dishes served with tortillas or rice.

13. Patacones

If you skip patacones, you are missing out on one of the best snacks in Costa Rica. These are green plantains which are fried until golden and crispy.

I first ate them with black bean dip in a beach bar, and they became my favorite evening snacks. Sometimes they add cheese or meat on top. Some locations also serve plain with salt. This is one of those Costa Rican dishes that works with almost anything.

Sweet Tooth? Popular Costa Rican Desserts

The sweet side of Costa Rica food is just as special as the main meals. Here are four sweet treats you should not skip.

14. Tres Leches Cake

It almost feels unfair to call this just cake. Tres leches is soft, creamy, and so moist that one bite melts in your mouth. I tried it at a small family bakery, and I still remember how light yet rich it tasted.

The cake is soaked in three types of milk:

• Evaporated
• Condensed
• Fresh

Then topped with whipped cream. It is one of the best foods in Costa Rica if you love creamy desserts. I ordered a second slice before I even finished the first.

15. Arroz con Leche

This is comfort in a bowl. Arroz con leche is rice pudding made with milk, sugar, and cinnamon. I had it warm in the highlands one evening, and it instantly reminded me of home.

Every spoon was soft and full of flavor. Some locals serve it cold too, which works well on hot days. It is one of those traditional Costa Rican dishes that every family seems to make in their own way. If you like soft desserts, do not miss this one.

16. Cajeta de Leche

Cajeta de leche is a simple treat, but it hits the spot every time. It is a kind of milk fudge made with sugar and condensed milk, cooked slowly until thick. The version I tried had a slightly caramel taste, and it came in little bite-sized pieces.

It is often sold at roadside shops or markets. If you are craving something sweet and small after a meal, this is a great option. This dessert may be lesser known, but it is still part of real Costa Rica food culture.

17. Empanadas de Chiverre

These are not your regular empanadas. Empanadas de chiverre are sweet pastries filled with a soft squash jam. I had one from a bakery near Cartago, and the filling tasted like a mix of pumpkin and figs. The pastry was flaky and warm. It goes perfect with a cup of local coffee.

Chiverre is a type of squash grown in Costa Rica and used mostly during Easter season. These empanadas are part of common Costa Rican foods during holidays, but I found them in bakeries all year round.

Refreshing Local Drinks You Will Fall in Love With

Some drinks in Costa Rica are more than just refreshments. They are memories in a glass. After hours of hiking or relaxing by the beach, these local sips became part of my daily joy. Here are four common Costa Rican drinks I truly enjoyed and I think you will too.

18. Agua Dulce (Warm Sugarcane Drink)

I had this sweet and warm drink after a rainy hike in Monteverde. Locals make it with boiled sugarcane juice and hot water. Nothing fancy and just pure comfort. It tastes like brown sugar tea, with a soft, toasty flavor. You will find it at many roadside sodas and breakfast spots. It might be simple, but it is a real part of Costa Rica food culture.

19. Refrescos Naturales (Fresh Fruit Smoothies)

You have not tasted fresh until you have tried these. I remember sipping a watermelon refresco after walking under the midday sun. It is ice-cold but not too sweet. It tastes like the fruit was just picked.

These smoothies are everywhere. They are made with mango, papaya, pineapple, or passion fruit. You can ask for water-based or milk-based versions. This is not just a drink. It is part of the best food in Costa Rica.

20. Coconut Water

You may have tried coconut water many times, so why try here? Let me tell you why. Locals call it “agua de pipa.” That is why you only get to know this is just coconut water and nothing else. But you can try it on a hot day. It is one of the healthiest common Costa Rican drinks.

Where to Find Authentic Costa Rican Dishes

It is easy to fall into tourist traps when you are hungry. I made that mistake on my first day. But things changed when a local driver told me, “Skip the fancy cafes. Eat where we eat.” And he was right, that is where the best food in Costa Rica lives.

1. Look for Local “Sodas”

Sodas are small, family-run diners found across the country. No neon signs, no English menus. These are just homemade Costa Rican dishes served with heart. I had my first casado at a soda shop in La Fortuna. It cost half the price and tasted twice as good. Rice, beans, salad, meat, and fresh juice and all made fresh.

2. Street Food & Markets

Food stalls in places like San José’s Central Market or beachside towns offer quick and tasty bites. Think empanadas, churros, or fried plantains. I once grabbed a chicken-filled tortilla at a street corner in Tamarindo. These stalls may look basic, but the food is packed with flavor and tradition.

3. Ask the Locals

Instead of getting trapped, better ask a local. The locals here are friendly and they always gave me the best tips. Whether it was my hostel host or the grocery clerk, they always pointed me to hidden gems, not even on Google Maps.

If you want to taste the best food in Costa Rica, talk to the people who live there. That is how I found a soda near Manuel Antonio that served the freshest ceviche I have ever had.

Final Bite

Costa Rica is a place with different colors and travel destinations. But do not forget to try local food here. I shared 20 local dishes including breakfast, lunch, dinner, desserts and drink options. All these options are tried and tested and right from my fav list. So, if you do not know what to eat in Costa Rica, just pick one from them and enjoy your day.

Frequently Asked Questions