1. Gallo Pinto
A cornerstone of Costa Rican breakfast, this national dish combines rice and black beans sautéed with finely diced onions, sweet peppers, and cilantro. It is commonly served with eggs, sour cream, cheese, and fried plantains.
Top 7 Dishes to Try in Costa Rica
Costa Rican cuisine presents a delightful fusion of Indigenous, Spanish, Afro-Caribbean, and even some Asian influences, reflecting the nation's rich cultural heritage. The flavors are typically balanced and wholesome, focusing on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients such as rice, beans, corn, tropical fruits, vegetables, and abundant seafood. While not known for being overtly spicy, the dishes highlight natural sweetness from ingredients like plantains and are often enhanced by the ubiquitous local condiment, Salsa Lizano.
For those seeking authentic Costa Rican flavors across different budgets, various dining establishments are available. For budget-friendly options, 'sodas' are small, family-owned, and informal eateries that serve generous portions of traditional 'comida típica' at affordable prices, typically ranging from $5 to $10 per person for a full meal. Street food vendors also offer inexpensive snacks and dishes, often costing between $3 and $5.
Mid-range restaurants provide a more diverse menu, including international cuisines, with meals generally priced from $10 to $20 per person. For a more upscale experience, high-end and fine dining restaurants, particularly in major cities and tourist areas, offer refined dishes and fusion cuisine, with prices typically starting at $30-$50 per person for a three-course meal and potentially exceeding $100 for dinner.
2. Casado
Meaning 'married,' the Casado is a traditional lunchtime plate featuring a combination of rice, beans, a choice of protein (typically chicken, beef, or fish), a fresh salad, and fried plantains. Each establishment offers its unique variation.
3. Chifrijo
A popular bar snack or meal, Chifrijo is a flavorful bowl layered with rice, beans, crispy fried pork (chicharrón), fresh pico de gallo, and often topped with avocado. This dish originated in San José.
4. Patacones
These are thick slices of green plantain, fried twice until crispy on the outside and tender within. Patacones are frequently served as a snack or side dish, often accompanied by refried beans, guacamole, or fresh cheese.
5. Olla de Carne
This hearty traditional beef stew is a comforting choice, especially during the rainy season. It includes tender chunks of beef, typically short ribs, slow-cooked with a variety of vegetables such as corn, carrots, squash, yucca, and plantain.
6. Ceviche
A refreshing seafood appetizer, Costa Rican Ceviche features raw fish marinated in citrus juices, commonly lime or lemon, mixed with finely chopped onion, cilantro, salt, and pepper. It is often served with crackers or plantain chips.
7. Tamales
Made from a corn masa dough, these savory parcels are filled with seasoned meat, rice, and vegetables, then steamed or boiled within a plantain leaf wrapper. While especially popular during the Christmas season, they can be found throughout the year.
