Costa Rica
Food Safety Tips
Essential food safety information to help you enjoy Costa Rica's cuisine safely and confidently.
Check food hygiene standards in Costa Rica
While Costa Rica generally has good food hygiene standards, it's always wise to choose restaurants that appear clean and well-maintained.
Drink bottled water in Costa Rica
In Costa Rica, it's recommended to drink bottled water, especially in rural areas where water quality may vary.
Be cautious with street food in Costa Rica
Street food in Costa Rica can be delicious and safe, but choose vendors with high turnover and good hygiene practices.
Dietary Options
vegetarian
MEDIUM AVAILABILITYVegetarian options are increasingly available in Costa Rica, particularly in urban areas and tourist destinations.
vegan
LOW AVAILABILITYVegan options can be limited in Costa Rica, as many traditional dishes include animal products. However, major cities may have specialized restaurants.
gluten-free
LOW AVAILABILITYFinding gluten-free options in Costa Rica can be challenging. Consider learning key phrases to explain your dietary needs.
Common Allergens
Nuts
MEDIUM PREVALENCEVarious nuts are common in Costa Rica's cuisine, particularly in desserts and some savory dishes.
COMMONLY FOUND IN:
Dairy
HIGH PREVALENCEDairy products are widely used in Costa Rica, featuring in many traditional dishes.
COMMONLY FOUND IN:
Wheat
HIGH PREVALENCEWheat is a staple in Costa Rica's cuisine, used in bread, pastries, and many other foods.
COMMONLY FOUND IN:
Essential Food Experiences
These iconic dishes represent the must-have culinary experiences that define Costa Rica's food culture for travelers.
Gallo Pinto (Rice and Beans)
Gallo Pinto, a mix of rice and beans cooked with onions, peppers, and spices, is a national dish of Costa Rica, often eaten for breakfast with eggs, tortillas, and sour cream.
Casado (Married Man)
A typical Costa Rican lunch plate, Casado consists of rice, beans, plantains, a salad, and a choice of meat (chicken, fish, or beef), offering a balanced and flavorful meal.
Chifrijo (Fried Pork with Rice and Beans)
Chifrijo is a hearty dish featuring layers of rice, beans, fried pork, pico de gallo, and avocado, often served in a bowl or on a tostada.
Regional Specialties & Local Favorites
Discover the authentic regional dishes and local favorites that showcase Costa Rica's diverse culinary traditions.
Olla de Carne (Beef Stew)
A hearty and flavorful stew made with beef, vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and yucca, often enjoyed during colder months or special occasions.
Patacones (Fried Plantains)
Twice-fried plantains, often served as a side dish or snack, can be topped with various ingredients like beans, cheese, or pico de gallo.
Arroz con Leche (Rice Pudding)
A creamy rice pudding flavored with cinnamon, cloves, and sometimes raisins, often enjoyed as a dessert or afternoon snack.
Allergens:
Regional Cuisine Highlights
Explore the diverse culinary landscapes across different regions of Costa Rica.
Guanacaste
Known for its corn-based dishes, hearty stews, and use of local ingredients like pipian and ayote squash.
Cultural Significance:
Reflects the region's agricultural heritage and traditional cooking methods.
Signature Dishes:
- Arroz de Maíz
- Sopa de Albóndigas
- Vigorón
Key Ingredients:
Limón
Influenced by Afro-Caribbean traditions, featuring coconut milk, spices, and seafood in dishes like rice and beans with coconut milk and Rondón.
Cultural Significance:
Showcases the region's unique cultural blend and culinary heritage.
Signature Dishes:
- Rice and Beans with Coconut Milk
- Rondón
- Pati
Key Ingredients:
Central Valley
Home to many traditional Costa Rican dishes, emphasizing fresh ingredients and simple preparations.
Cultural Significance:
Represents the heart of Costa Rican cuisine and its focus on fresh, local ingredients.
Signature Dishes:
- Gallo Pinto
- Casado
- Olla de Carne
Key Ingredients:
Sweet Delights & Desserts
Indulge in Costa Rica's traditional sweet treats and desserts.
Tres Leches (Three Milks Cake)
A sponge cake soaked in three types of milk – evaporated, condensed, and heavy cream – creating a rich and moist dessert.
Cajeta de Coco (Coconut Fudge)
A sweet and chewy fudge made with coconut milk, sugar, and spices, often enjoyed during holidays and special occasions.
Arroz con Leche (Rice Pudding)
A creamy rice pudding flavored with cinnamon, cloves, and sometimes raisins, often enjoyed as a dessert or afternoon snack.
Traditional Beverages
Discover Costa Rica's traditional drinks, from locally produced spirits to regional wines.
Guaro Cacique
A popular sugarcane-based liquor, often consumed neat or in cocktails.
Imperial
A widely consumed lager beer, known for its refreshing taste.
Soft Beverages
Discover Costa Rica's traditional non-alcoholic drinks, from local teas to refreshing juices.
Refresco Natural (Fresh Fruit Juice)
Freshly squeezed juices made from a variety of tropical fruits like mango, pineapple, and watermelon, often served chilled.
Café Chorreado (Costa Rican Coffee)
Traditional Costa Rican coffee, brewed using a chorreador, a cloth filter suspended on a wooden stand.
Agua Dulce (Sweetened Water)
A refreshing drink made with water and panela (unrefined cane sugar), often flavored with fruits or spices.