Food is a reflection of the identity and tradition of a place, and in Costa Rica we are not only rich in nature but in flavors as well. Discover which are the typical Costa Rican foods that you cannot miss on your next trip.

We start with a classic, and how could it not be? It is part of the identity of the Ticos. Gallo Pinto accompanies the breakfast of many Costa Ricans every day!

This dish consists of rice and beans sautéed with sweet pepper, onion and other spices. The preparation varies from family to family. In addition, gallo pinto is eaten accompanied by a delicious portion of Cuajada (artisanal Costa Rican cheese), ripe plantains, egg, or any other accompaniment you desire.

You can try this dish in any Soda (a type of small restaurant or informal cafeteria that serves typical homemade food at affordable prices), in hotel restaurants, or prepare it yourself at home.

And now moving on to lunch, Casado, similar to gallo pinto, the main ingredient of this dish is rice and beans; however, on this occasion they are served individually.

Casado is very popular at lunchtime, served with a salad, some meat and ripe plantain. You should definitely accompany it with some natural drink, you will feel satisfied once you finish this delicacy.

You can try this dish at any soda shop, traditional food restaurants, some hotel restaurants, or you can try to prepare it at home.

Ideal for dinner or lunch, Olla de carne is a stew prepared with beef and vegetables such as yuca, yam, plantain and carrots. A strong and filling dish.

Olla de carne is popular in places such as the central market in San José. Olla de carne, unlike the previous dishes, is not usually consumed daily by Costa Ricans, however, they love it.

When Christmas is approaching, the smell of tamales is too! Each tamale has a look that makes it different from another. Costa Rican families prepare their tamales according to their family recipes, so their preparation, ingredients and flavors can vary from region to region.

However, tamales usually consist of a corn dough roll wrapped in banana leaves, filled with meat (sometimes beef, pork or chicken), vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, and a variety of other fillings.

Try them at any traditional food and soda restaurant, as they are prepared there throughout the year.

And finally, how about a dessert? Churchill is one of the most popular desserts in Costa Rica, very refreshing and sweet, which you can try almost anywhere in the country, especially in coastal areas.

Churchill consists of a granita (which you can choose the flavor of), a scoop of vanilla ice cream, tropical fruits and sometimes cookies. It’s like a tropical sundae that will transport you to paradise!

You can try it in ice cream parlors and in some restaurants in coastal areas. Imagine tasting one in the calm seaside.

There are many more dishes in Costa Rican cuisine, and many that are local to some provinces, so if you are traveling through Costa Rica, do not hesitate to try them, because the variety of flavors and colors will delight your palate and your eyes.

And if you want to experience these flavors everyday, and live your Costa Rica experience, do not hesitate to consult with our advisors to find a home that fits your needs.