Traditional Costa Rican Food: What You Should Try

Food is an important part of traveling through Costa Rica. Traditional cuisine is generally fresh, comforting and based on ingredients such as rice, beans, plantains, vegetables, corn, seafood and locally raised meats.

You will find everything from simple roadside sodas to elegant restaurants overlooking the ocean, mountains or tropical forest.

Gallo pinto is one of Costa Rica's best-known dishes. It combines rice and beans with seasonings and is commonly served for breakfast.

It is usually accompanied by eggs, cheese, sour cream, tortillas and sweet plantains.

A casado is a complete meal that normally includes rice, beans, salad, plantains and a choice of chicken, beef, pork, fish or vegetables.

The ingredients vary by region and restaurant, making it an excellent meal to try more than once during your trip.

AnyPlace can help you include a local restaurant, market, coffee shop or scenic dining stop as part of your private transportation itinerary.

Tell us what kind of food you would like to try, where you are staying and the places you plan to visit.