National Classics

• Gallo Pinto: A classic breakfast dish of rice and black beans stir-fried together, often served with eggs, cheese, fried plantains, and sour cream.
• Casado: A lunch or dinner plate featuring rice, black beans, meat, salad, fried plantains, and corn tortillas—standard at local eateries.
• Olla de Carne: A hearty stew of slow-cooked beef and vegetables, especially common in highland regions.
• Salsa Lizano: A tangy, slightly spicy national condiment found on nearly every table, perfect with rice and eggs.

Coffee and Cocoa

• Costa Rican Coffee: Renowned for its bright acidity and clean taste, primarily from the Tarrazú and Central Valley regions, mostly washed processed.
• Coffee Plantation Tours: Hands-on experiences covering everything from picking and husking to roasting, often including tastings.
• Chocolate Workshops: Opportunities to make chocolate from cocoa beans, ideal for families and sweet lovers.

Street Food and Market Snacks

• Fried Plantains (Patacones): Smashed and twice-fried green banana slices, often served with bean paste or guacamole.
• Corn Cakes (Chorreadas): Sweet corn pancakes, commonly found at markets and street stalls.
• Ceviche: A Pacific coastal seafood snack, typically served with crackers and hot sauce.
• Tropical Fruits: Papaya, mango, pineapple, passion fruit, and soursop are widely available year-round at affordable prices.

Where to Eat and Price Range

• San José Central Market: A hub for local snacks and coffee, with casados typically costing around 3,000–5,000 colones.
• La Fortuna and Monteverde: Tourist areas with diverse restaurant options, averaging 8,000–15,000 colones per person.
• Coastal Towns: Best for seafood and ceviche, with prices varying by season.
• Local eateries, often called sodas, offer great value with generous portions—a great way to experience everyday Costa Rican meals.