Food of the Central Valley

Chifrijo

As the country’s commercial hub, the greater metropolitan area of the Central Valley unites a variety of Costa Rica’s regional influences. This, of course, is reflected in their local food. Nearly all of the country’s fresh produce and provisions find their way to the local farmer’s markets, restaurants, and homes. As a result, the city’s cuisine is diverse and eclectic. Chifrijo, Arroz con Pollo, and Empanadas are all staples that can be found in every kitchen.

Food of the Northern Plains

Pepito

Small family-owned farms, outdoor wood-burning stoves, homegrown food, and a strong emphasis on tradition characterize the food of the Northern Plains of Costa Rica. This region’s hills and grasslands are home to large herds of animals, which in turn produce meat for most of the country. The Sabaneros, who work with the grazing animals in this area, know how to give these animals the best quality of life possible in order to honor nature’s cycle of life.

Food of the Pacific Coast

Casado con Tilapia

Fishing communities in small coastal towns can be found all along Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast. This allows for a wide selection of fresh and locally sourced seafood, which can make it to every household by lunchtime. This great assortment of seafood, often times referred to as “fruits of the ocean”, includes a colorful array of red snapper, sea bass, clams, shrimp, tuna, octopus, and a variety of other fish and seafood from the Pacific.

Food of the Caribbean Coast

Patacones and Shake

Due to the blending of cultures along the Caribbean Coast, Limón has a strong Afro-Caribbean heritage. This cultural fusion is strongly evidenced in their local food and cuisine. Coconut milk has become a staple in many dishes, along with other spices such as cinnamon, ginger, curry, and thyme brought to the Caribbean by Dutch spice traders. The integration of local tropical produce such as bananas, plantains, and pineapple also play a big part in their distinguished flavors.

This content and photos were provided by Henry Cerdas at Irazu Chicago. All of these regional and bold flavors are featured on Irazu’s menu, which you can visit in Wicker Park, Chicago!

Henry Cerdas has always had his feet firmly planted in his dual citizen, bi-cultural roots. As a Chicago-born, Cubs-loving, Tico (Costa Rican), he spoke English at school and Spanish in his childhood home, enjoyed a good Chicago hot dog, and daily was fed the aromatic and savory Costa Rican dishes cooked by his mother. In 1990, his mother channeled her desire to work independently and opened Irazu. Henry helped out at the restaurant over the years focusing much of his time traveling around the world and completing a degree in International Business Management. In 2009, Henry left his corporate job and took the restaurant over from his parents.

Although not a chef, Henry is a culinary entrepreneur who has been inspired by his mother’s cooking. He understands how to balance the desires of contemporary palates with traditionally derived recipes. Over time, he has evolved these recipes and the overall menu, appealing to vegetarian and vegan diets as well as expanding fish and seafood offerings.

Henry and Irazu have been featured on the Food Network, invited to the James Beard, Chef’s Night Out Gala, and have been recognized by Guy Fieri and others as one of the go-to restaurants in Chicago.

When not at the restaurant, Henry spends time with his wife and two children traveling to all ends of the earth where they delight in a broad range of culinary experiences from street food to fine dining and everything in between.

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Costa Rican food is simple, but ‘simple’ isn’t bland. With Latin and Caribbean influences, a wide range of sensory experiences come with a typical Costa Rican meal. We recommend all travelers sample some of the Rich Coast’s staple dishes.

Gallo Pinto

Gallo Pinto (photo from Doka Estate Coffee)

Rice and beans are the most basic element of the Costa Rican diet and Gallo Pinto is king.  Most often, it is made of black beans and white rice, cooked together until the rice soaks up all of the flavorful juices. Gallo pinto is served with many, many dishes – even breakfast!

Casado

Casado (photo from one of our returning travelers)

The Casado, which translates to “marriage”, is the ultimate traditional Costa Rican meal. These full meals include a large portion of meat (usually steak or pork), sautéed onions, rice and beans, a light cabbage or palm salad, and fried plantains. It sounds too simple to be impressive, but this hearty dish always leaves an impression. Ticos (native Costa Ricans) often accompany this with Costa Rica’s favorite condiment, Lizano sauce.

Sopa de Pejibaye

Sopa de Pejibaye (photo from Rio Celeste Hideaway Hotel)

Pejibaye is the fruit of a peach palm tree and is often consumed on its own or with a bit of mayonnaise. Alternatively, the thick fruit can be blended into a soup that offers a vast profile of nuanced Costa Rican flavors. The pejibayes are blended with a savory broth to make a creamy, delicious traditional Tico dish that will awaken your palate and give you something to talk about back home.

Chifrijo, chicharon

Chifrijo (photo from Hacienda Pinilla)

Considered Costa Rican “bar food”, chifrijo is not decadent but it is delicious. Combine rice, beans, meat, and chimichurri with tomato and lime juice and you have a hearty Tico snack.  The meat used in chifrijo is usually chicharrones, crispy fried pork chunks, or pork skins. Scoop it up with chips or a tortilla while you catch a fútbol match on TV.

Tiradito

Tiradito

Costa Rica enjoys the benefits of two abundant coasts, including the freshest seafood. You may be thinking “ceviche!”, but we recommend exploring the world of the tiradito.  Much like sashimi and carpaccio, a tiradito consists of thinly sliced pieces of seafood dressed in a light sauce. The combinations are endless, but we recommend starting with a salmon or sea bass selection. These spreads are often accompanied by lightly-fried cassava chips and other garnishes.

Tropical Fruit

Granadillas

Come to Costa Rica and you will enjoy a spread of colorful, tropical fruits that border the line between whimsical and exotic. Granadillas are enjoyed by puncturing the fruit’s sturdy shell and scooping out the delicious seeds inside. Mamones look like a creature straight out of science-fiction, with their fuzzy exterior and sweet, bulbous meat inside. Guanabana, or Soursop, is used in various dishes and makes a unique addition to any smoothie. The fruit is a combination of sweet, creamy, and slightly sour flavors that remind your taste buds that you’re in Central America.

Guaro Cacique

Guaro Cacique & Imperial (photo from GoPixPic)

We can’t talk about Costa Rican cuisine without recommending a drink to go with it! The country’s most popular liqueur is neutral-flavored alcohol derived from local sugar cane. Cacique is easily used in many different drinks, ensuring something for everyone. If you’ve never tasted this favorite, a Guaro Sour is a great place to start!

Thinking about a Costa Rica vacation? Check out our Vacation Packages page!

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Enter Cafe Britt.

If you’ve had the pleasure of visiting Costa Rica already, you have probably heard of Cafe Britt, a producer of gourmet coffee in Costa Rica for over 30 years. Bags of their fragrant coffee can be found in restaurants, hotels, coffee shops, and more. If you haven’t personally purchased a bag, you’ll almost certainly have tried it in the morning at your hotel or maybe at a local restaurant for an after-dinner cappuccino.

And if you haven’t had the pleasure, trust us when we say this, it’s definitely worth trying. Cafe Britt is one of the top producers of the finest coffee in the world.

Why is Costa Rican coffee the best?

Superior Growing Conditions

With high altitudes, fertile volcanic soil, warm temperatures, steady rainfall, and tropical climate, Costa Rica is uniquely positioned to produce superior coffee beans with fine aromas and flavor.

100% Arabica Coffee Beans

In fact, Costa Rica is the only country in the world where it is illegal to produce anything less than 100% Arabica coffee beans – the highest quality. Arabica beans are some of the most difficult to grow, but the result is a richer, premium blend of coffee.

Hand-picked Beans

To produce gourmet coffee, Costa Rican beans are hand-picked. Only the most mature beans are chosen and processed by an expert eye.

8 Coffee Growing Regions

Costa Rica is known for its wide-ranging microclimates and ecosystems – attracting travelers worldwide. These diverse microclimates are also idyllic for growing diverse varietals of coffee beans. For instance, the Tarrazú region is known for its heavy aromas and acidic taste. Many believe that this region most consistently produces the best coffee. Brunca has moderate flavors. Valle Occidental produces coffee with hints of peaches and apricots.

Related Article: 5 Reasons Why Costa Rican Coffee is the Best

The Work of Artisans

Costa Rican coffee production is an art, truly. And Cafe Britt treats it as such.

They source high-quality coffee beans from regions that best express the character of the terrain. They then pass along the best beans of the bunch to their expert roasters and artisans who craft exclusive coffee blends for us to enjoy.

There are so many expressions that a single cup of coffee can make, but the expertise of skilled artisans can distill the depth and complexity of the entire production process into a single cup.

So, what’s on the menu?

The single-origin Monteverde coffee (medium-dark roast) prepared using a French press

With a multitude of brews, you’re certain to find one you love from decaf to espresso, light to dark, organic, fair trade, and still more. Reminiscent of wine lists, Cafe Britt tasting menus highlight the unique flavor notes underscored in each brew like the apricot, caramel, and malt found in their light roast coffee and the apple and laurel notes found in their organic blend. The wide-ranging combinations of flavors and regions combined with local coffee culture make Costa Rican coffee tasting a culinary art.

Is it time to indulge? Try the world’s best coffee or send some to a friend. Ready to totally immerse yourself in Costa Rican coffee culture? Let’s plan your trip!

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Uvita Hotel Restaurants

Let’s start with the small town of Uvita. Located just 1 hour south of Manuel Antonio, this was my first stop. I stayed at Rancho Pacifico Hotel, which is situated up in the mountains overlooking Marino Ballena National Park.

Rancho Pacifico organic garden

Perhaps the coolest thing about the culinary scene at Rancho Pacifico is their new organic garden! If you are a health-conscious individual who likes to know exactly what goes into your food, this is the place for you. Each night, the chef prepares a gourmet 4-course dinner, blending organic and natural ingredients to create tasty and innovative dishes. Rancho Pacifico also caters to vegans, vegetarians, and those with dietary restrictions.

Rancho Pacifico tropical fruit

Other notable hotel restaurants in Uvita can be found at Kura and Oxygen Jungle Villas.  These upscale resorts offer gourmet dining in a luxury rainforest setting.

Uvita Restaurants

Now, it’s time to discuss the local food! The town of Uvita may be small, but restaurants are plentiful. One of my favorite spots is the Mosaic Wine Bar & Café, which offers fresh sushi, paninis, and cheese + charcuterie. Vegetarians and vegans will have no problem finding something to eat here, as they are very mindful about this! They also offer live music on Thursday nights.

New breakfast options at Mosaic Wine Bar & Cafe

Sibu is a centrally located restaurant and cafe that’s popular with tourists. They have excellent brownies! Bee Hive, a new Mediterranean-inspired restaurant, has a more upscale feeling than most other Uvita restaurants. Try Carlito’s, a Mexican-style restaurant way off the beaten path.  They feature great chicken enchiladas, tortilla soups, sangria and cold beer.

An assortment of dishes at Carlito’s Mexican Restaurant

If you’re looking for pizza, check out Pizzeria La Fogata, a small, local spot in a casual outdoor setting.  It’s one of Uvita’s oldest restaurants and is popular among locals and tourists. Or, head to Pizza Time for New-York style brick oven pizzas.

Dominical Restaurants

PorQueNo breakfast view

Located about 20 minutes north of Uvita is another small area called Dominical. This town is known for its laid-back vibe – and is one of the best spots to surf in Costa Rica! If you’re looking for a lively place with delicious wings, burgers, and fries, visit Bar Jolly Roger – they usually have live music. Enjoy a gorgeous view at PorQueNo, where you can eat while you watch the sun go down over the ocean.

Ojochal Restaurants

A special of salmon in orange and passion fruit sauce over caramelized apples served with salad at Heliconia Restaurant

Finally, let’s talk about the up-and-coming Ojochal, a gastronomic treasure in the South Pacific region. One might call The Bamboo Room the most popular restaurant in Ojochal – probably because of the excellent live music scene. However, there is much more to see here! Check out Heliconia, with a comfortable intimate dining room surrounded by tropical plants and trees.  The food is delicious – kind of a fusion of American and Costa Rican styles.

Culinary artistry at Restaurante Citrus

If you’re in the mood for something fancier, visit Citrus, the most famous restaurant in Ojochal. Their French cuisine is unbeatable, but a little pricey. An alternative for French food would be Exotica – but be prepared for a long meal!

While there are endless options for good food in Costa Rica, there is nowhere else like the culinary gem that is the South Pacific region. Even though I got to try a lot of the special places on this list, I’m always itching to go back for more. Whether it’s the food, rainforest, beautiful beaches, or wildlife of the country, I will never get sick of all Costa Rica has to offer. It’s only getting better!

Ready to getaway to the South Pacific? Explore our vacation packages and customize your favorite!

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Besides winning prestigious awards in international competitions, Costa Rican coffee has grown to be much more than an economic boost to the local culture. This brief guide will show you where you can enjoy this tasty tradition on your next trip. Read on for some history, faqs, and locations dedicated to Costa Rican coffee culture.

Let’s start with some historical facts about the golden grain!  

After Costa Rica declared its independence in 1821, the newly established government saw the big potential of coffee as means for economic and social development. The central authorities provided many financial incentives to coffee farmers and gradually became one of the main crops produced in the Central Valley, and often referred as “el grano de oro”, in English the golden grain (Instituto del Café de Costa Rica).  

Why is Costa Rica’s coffee so good? 

Costa Rica offers a combination of ideal conditions to produce quality coffee beans: higher altitudes, fertile soils of volcanic origin combined with cool climates and steady rainfall, produces beans with fine flavors and aroma.   

What variety of coffee is produced in Costa Rica?  

For quality control, since 1989, 100% of the coffee produced in Costa Rica is arabica beans (Promotora del Comercio Exterior de Costa Rica). 

What does coffee mean to ticos? 

Coffee has a strong connection with the Costa Rican hospitality and family traditions. These days, it is offered to guests as a welcome beverage, to socialize following your afternoon siesta, and accompanied by local pastries and corn cakes or empanadas.  – Yum cafecito time! 

Although coffee is produced throughout the country, it is much more predominant in the Central Highlands and Southern Mountain range. Our list focuses on the top coffee experiences in these regions.   

This coffee journey begins in the Central Highlands: 

Hacienda Espíritu Santo

Located in the town of Naranjo, right outside of San Jose, this 600 plus acre coffee plantation offers an immersive, detailed tour of Hacienda Espíritu Santo facilities. The journey is divided into 7 stations, from the very first steps of maintaining the coffee crops to their showroom or casita where you will see the traditional Costa Rican way of brewing coffee – or café chorreado.  

Continue to learn the process of harvesting and roasting and all the work involved in the production of their beans. You will also take a look at the evolution of its production process, as well as the role of the national symbol, the oxcart, and how it was used as a mean of transporting coffee.

Finca Rosa Blanca Coffee Plantation Tour

Finca Rosa Blanca is a boutique style property offering its guest the chance to discover their renowned coffee plantation. This is a fun activity, located in the greater Central Valley area and less than 1 hour from the international airport in San Jose. With views of the nearby volcanoes, the beautiful green surroundings make this a great easy-breezy way to enhance your authentic Costa Rica vacation.

Learn how organic coffee is grown, harvested, dried, and processed. During the harvest season – from October to January – you can even participate in the picking! If you want to take your love for coffee to the next level, this tour involves a demonstration of how experts test and rate gourmet coffee. Practice your skills at the coffee bar and make your favorite! After so much learning, relax and claim your spot in one of the spacious decks while you take in the fresh air of the central valley. Provecho! 

*This tour is exclusively for guests staying at Finca Rosa Blanca Inn.

Doka Estate

Doka Estate

Located on the slopes of Póas Volcano, Doka Estate is one of the largest coffee and sugarcane plantations in Costa Rica. This family-owned business represents the agricultural heritage and country’s history, here you will find the oldest wet mill in the country according to UNESCO. Enjoy a guided walk around the charming property and take your mental notes about all the process involved in making a quality cup of coffee.

Expert Recommendation: This is a great choice for those who choose the San Jose area has a hub between destinations. Use your free day and add this activity.   

*This tour is typically combined with a visit to La Paz Waterfall & Gardens, and a visit to the oxcart factories in Sarchí. Inquiry for more details. 

Hacienda Alsacia

Situated in the foothills of a volcano in Costa Rica, Hacienda Alsacia is Starbucks’ first and only coffee farm. Despite its large corporate structure, Starbucks aims to make coffee growing more profitable for small-scale farms, learn more about the day-to-day struggles coffee farmers are facing, develop the next generation of disease-resistant high-quality coffee, and share resources and information with farmers worldwide. They are also hoping to lead the way in sustainable farming practices.

Take a tour of the farm, discover the process of brewing from bean to cup, taste fresh cafe, and explore the visitors center for souvenirs.

Let’s move Northwest to the next tour on our checklist! 

Don Juan Coffee Tour

Don Juan Coffee & Chocolate

Whether it is part of your morning routine or you simply love the taste, there are many reasons to get a good cup of coffee. But, when you wake up surrounded by one of the most famous cloud forests in the world, breathing in the crisp-clean air outside your eco-lodge, a craving for a warm cup of coffee is only natural. If you haven’t guessed, we are talking about the Monteverde Cloud Forest. In addition the obligatory nature hikes, this mystifying destination offers much more to travelers in the form of local coffee culture.  

On your next visit to Monteverde, book a visit to Don Juan’s Coffee Farm. This tour gives you a closer look of the production of Don Juan’s coffee. After learning the drying and roasting process of the beans, explore other food staples of Costa Rica. Embark on a culinary journey. Discover the history of cocoa pods and make your own chocolate using traditional Costa Rican recipes. Yes, you will get to try your creations! This sweet experience continues to the “El Trapiche” (a mill made of wooden rollers), which is used as a tool to extract sugarcane juice and make tasty sweets and much more. This visit wouldn’t be complete without the chance to buy an authentic cup of Costa Rican coffee at the souvenir shop. 

We’ll turn around and head to the South Pacific region: 

Santa María de Dota Coffee Plantation

Santa Maria de Dota Coffee Plantation is a full day experience starting from the Santa Juana Lodge, in the South Pacific Coast. Board a 4×4 vehicle and awake your adventurous side! Travel up over the mountain ridge of Fila Chonta, in Tarrazú. Arrive at the coffee plantations of Los Santos region, considered to be the finest coffee in Costa Rica.  

Go behind-the-scenes and discover what it takes to make a world-renowned, gourmet coffee at Dota. Get to know the rural charms of Costa Rica as your guide takes you inside the local cooperative and explains its role in the community. After learning all the fun facts, take a break – a typical Costa Rican lunch will be waiting for you after the tour.  

*This tour is accessible for guests staying at Santa Juana Lodge. 

Café Cedral

With this tour, you will visit another gem in the South Pacific region, Hacienda AltaGracia. This hotel combines high-end accommodations with authentic experiences and only 3 ½ hour drive from San Jose. It offers one of the best off-the-beaten-path, boutique-style accommodations and activities.  

Don’t miss out, and immerse in the countryside cowboy culture of the Pérez Zeledón region. “Shop local” and add the Café Cedral Tour to your stay. This a great way to contribute to the economic growth of a small community. Run by several families of the area, the organized cooperative is located in the foothill of the Talamanca mountain range. 

The tour starts at the stables. Begin your horseback ride through unpaved roads, cross small creeks, and enjoy scenic-picture perfect views. Arrive at the town of Cedral and experience a great example of sustainable rural-tourism. Learn about their coffee plantation and quality beans. Grab your own delicious gift-worthy bag of coffee on your way out.

*This tour is exclusively for guests staying at  Hacienda Alta Gracia. You can choose to access Cedral by horse or car.

So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your coffee adventure with a Costa Rica Expert.

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Casco Viejo, Panama City‘s historic district, is an uncommon blend of old and new. It is one of Panama City’s most recent upgrades, renovated at hyper speed to welcome countless new hotels and restaurants in the last 5 years.

Breakfast at the new American Trade Hotel overlooking Casco Viejo historic district

The rapidly changing area is still home to many locals, but Casco Viejo now also hosts world travelers, entrepreneurs, artists, musicians, and anybody looking for the most convenient way to access Panama City. One of the best ways to get acquainted with this small historic district is by taste.

Coffee & Chocolate

Coffee Brewing at Cafe Unido (photo from @CafeUnido on Instagram)

Start with local coffee at the new American Trade Hotel’s Café Unido. If you have a sweet tooth, try some local chocolate from the Bocas del Toro region. This treasured specialty is rich and mild, with a load of cultural significance behind the flavors. Café Unido also offers a spread of ornate pastries, cookies, and muffins to satisfy your cravings.

Microbreweries

La Rana Dora Brewery Patio (Photo Credit: Roaming Around The World)

Microbreweries have popped up all over Central America in recent years, and Casco Viejo is exactly the place you’d expect to find one. La Rana Dorada brews a collection of beers in-house and offers complimentary flights (a selection of samples) so drinkers can make an informed decision on their order. You’ll be tempted to pair your beer with Rana Dorado’s signature pizzas. Sit back and watch a match with the regulars on a warm afternoon. If you’re feeling homesick this is a great place to recharge.

Sashimi and Beyond

Try Aki for the freshest Japanese cuisine in Panama. We recommend sampling the sashimi – a perfect appetizer before an intimate dinner. After you’ve had your fill of yellowtail, walk to nearby Las Clementinas Hotel, one of Casco Viejo’s veteran boutique hotels and restaurants. Madrigal and Grapes are classic sure bets, but foodies looking for something new can head to ZaZa.

Ceviche

Ceviche at The Fish Market (Photo Credit: C’est Christine)

Ceviche is a quintessential Panamanian dining experience. There’s even a sign at the international airport that says something along the lines of “welcome: please enjoy our ceviches.” That means that it’s a must! The Fish Market, right between Casco Viejo and the waterfront, will give you the authentic Panamanian food experience of your dreams. You’ll see regulars fill the small tables outside as they share food, sip beers, and catch up. There are many vendors to choose between and up to 30 different kinds of ceviche per stall. If you really want the full picture, see the market in action at 4:00am and dodge all the sea bass flying past your head.

Panama loves rum.

Grab an Abuelo No. 7 on the rocks at Tantalo Kitchen and Rooftop Bar. (photo from Tantalo’s Facebook page)

Panama loves rum. To start, sip on some Abuelo No. 7 on the rocks, an obligatory experience even for non-drinkers. Tantalo Kitchen and Rooftop Bar allows sweeping views of the glittering skyline for the ideal photo op. Many nights of the week the city’s younger crowd congregates here, holding their drinks up high as a DJ pumps beats into the balmy air. For something more low-key, check out Mojitos Sin Mojitos – a relative dive bar compared to the numerous high-energy hot spots around Casco Viejo. This is a great place for anyone who wants to avoid the party but still have a great time.

Casco Viejo Main Square

The dining scene is a huge part of Casco Viejo’s new identity. World-class food and drink give the historic district a new edge and travelers are beginning to catch on. So go on, grab a bite!

Interested in Panama? Check out our Panama Vacation Packages for trip ideas! Or browse our Culinary & Cultural Vacation Packages.

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It goes without saying that the new Andaz Resort on the Papagayo Peninsula has stirred things up in the little resort capital of Guanacaste. The Andaz is serving up a refreshing sense of personality and Costa Rican flair, attracting some of the top talent in the country. One of those fresh faces is an award-winning master mixologist. His stylish creations are unique, flavorful, and inspiring. So naturally, we got an interview for you. Meet cocktail connoisseur, Clark Jimenez… Cheers!

How did you get into mixology? Who taught you the tricks of the trade?

I started my career in food & beverage 7 years ago. I worked as a bartender for 4 years, and I have been doing mixology for 3 years. At the beginning, I looked up information on the Internet, and I put into practice everything I saw.

Andaz Papagayo Resort Lounge

In 2013 I won World Class, an International mixology contest, and I got the opportunity to attend a camp in Panama with the best gurus and mixologists in the world. I have participated in this camp twice, back then in 2013 and now in 2015.

You’ve been with the Andaz since it opened in 2013, correct? Why did you choose the Andaz?

My creations go with my personal style, and are also very native. I really like using Costa Rican ingredients, and being free to create cocktails and their service rituals.

Andaz is this and more, our philosophy is to look for the indigenous and never stop being yourself, this is the most important reason why I chose Andaz.

How has your mixology style changed since the Andaz opened? What changes have you made?

Andaz Mixology Bar at Chao Pescao Restaurant

I have learned about structure and administration, but my style has not changed. The fact that I meet guests from all over the world has helped me diversify my cocktails.

What is your favorite part about your job?

My favorite part of the job is interacting with guests, and being able to help them have a memorable experience through my service, a cocktail or a ritual. I love to be part of their vacation and learn that because of my job they had a unique and happy time.

Do you primarily work at Chao Pescao? What else can we find you doing at the resort?

Chao Pescao Restaurant

Yes, I am assistant manager in Chao Pescao. I am also behind the creation of the beverage menus of all 3 restaurants in the resort and the training of all the bartenders.

Where do you look for inspiration? What keeps you creative?

I look for inspiration in all that surrounds us, daily Costa Rican rituals, and all kinds of materials, plants, roots and fruits. I really enjoy visiting the artisans market since I always find very unique things that help me create cocktails with a national identity.

Time to brag. Tell me about your awards. Do you have plans to compete in more mixology competitions?

• Grand Marnier 2013 – 3^rd place
• World Class 2013 – 1^st place
• Angostura 2015 – 1^st place
• World Class 2015 – 1^st place

I would like to keep competing, and not for winning but for the great experience. Here in Costa Rica you can only participate twice in World Class, and unfortunately we do not have as many contests, so now I would like to concentrate in helping others win and work as an ambassador in the area to develop cocktails in Costa Rica.

What is your favorite cocktail? Can you share a recipe?

Andaz Poolside Cocktails

To me they’re all my favorite, but If I have to choose, I could say there is two that truly define my style:

The Last Word

• 1 ½ oz of gin
• ½ oz of maraschino liquor
• ½ oz of green chartreuse
• ¾ oz lemon juice

Sazerac

• 2 oz of rye whiskey
• ½ oz anise liquor
• 3 dash peychaud’s bitter
• 1 dash angostura bitter
• ½ oz sugar syrup

What’s the secret to an incredible cocktail?

First of all, the love and passion you put in the mixing, that will be the biggest difference on it. And then fresh ingredients, quality liquors and real ice.

When you’re not mixing up cocktails, what do you like to do?

I think of myself as a frustrated Chef, in fact that has helped me with the creation of special ingredients for my cocktails.

Any other tidbits you would like to share?

Cocktails in Costa Rica will continue to grow every day, and I think we are pioneers. We have a variety of ingredients, materials and culture which can impose fashion in cocktails and it is our duty to convey this to each person that visits us.

Love the Andaz? So do we. Sip on Clark’s cocktail creations at the Andaz Papagayo on our Romantic Escape or Jungle & Beach Family Adventure!

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If you’ve done any research on Costa Rica hotels, you’ve probably fallen upon the Nayara sister hotels, Arenal Nayara and Nayara Springs. These two luxury boutique hotels at Arenal Volcano consistently and easily make the Top Ten list of essentially every hotelier in the business. The Nayaras have mastered the details while maintaining their Costa Rican essence. One of our favorite details? Food. And lucky us, we’ve snagged an interview with one of Nayara’s top culinary masterminds, Chef Jack. Enjoy…

How long have you been working at Nayara?

I started working in February of last year with the Nayara Hotels. I was asked to focus on food quality and design and to bring out new flavors.

Do you work in all of Nayara’s restaurants? Which is your favorite?

I am working daily with all the food and service concepts. I think all of them are exciting concepts and individual stars in the Costa Rican jungle.

Amor Loco has great flavors and a fresh balance between mis-en-place and the final dish. It has well-picked ingredients and good technique for fine dining. It is very exciting to create new recipes and design in that kitchen. It just feels right!

Good fun at Altamira Restaurant

Altamira has a great atmosphere for arranging all kinds of fun culinary experiments for grill parties and new menu items.

Altamira’s menu most strongly represents our new culinary direction: fresh, organic, pure, local and full of flavor.

Sushi Amor, on the other hand, is a beautiful restaurant for having great time in a lounge-style setting. Nice, relaxing comfort with a fusion dining concept. Just beautiful.

What inspired you to work in Costa Rica at the Nayara Hotels?

I traveled and visited many high-end boutique hotels in Costa Rica and I found Nayara a bit different. Here they don’t want to expose the beauty, it’s just here and it’s logical. It’s not stressful with super marketing projects. People are just happy! And for cuisine, it’s the perfect ambiance. The customers appreciate good quality food and service. This is what inspired me the most.

Tell me about your journey working at Nayara so far. What changes have you made? What is your favorite part?

My background and culinary school education come from Europe and Scandinavia. I have always focused and worked with products that are around me – wherever I am working.

When I started to work here at Nayara, I saw such a beautiful potential to focus only on local and organic product variations. So I changed all the menu products to a local concept. It means all the menus are created using only local food products.

First I visited all the farmers, fishermen, butchers, everyone who is growing something local and nice that I could use in my menus. We built our own green house to supply our restaurants with fresh herbs and vegetables. Then, I built up new menus and introduced them to our guests.

I have also changed some of our team building methods, creating small rotation routines on our restaurant lines. I have focused more on bread and pastry production. Now we can bake all we need ourselves.

Little by little, in short time, I have learned to love all the small corners in this journey.

My favorite part in all of this has bean finding a solid structure for seafood in our hotel. Since in Costa Rica seafood is so fresh and rich, we need to present it and give all this to our customers.

What can you tell us about Nayara’s new restaurant concept opening up next summer? What can we look forward to?

The concept will be a fine-dining gourmet restaurant. We’ll use a variety of culinary techniques like instant cooking, slow cooking, Mediterranean, Nordic, French cooking, etc. We’ll use delicate details like herbs and fresh vegetables in clearly noticeable ways. We’ll bring out every detail in the food, our presentation emphasizing design and flavor.

We’ll use fresh components like vegetables, seafood, and meat in a variety of ways, practicing No Waste Culinary.

We’ll model today’s fine-dining culinary concept, emphasizing that nothing is steady. Everything is in constant movement. Our kitchen team has to be super creative and inspired every day with new details and products to work with.

The character of the menu will remain the same, but the details around it will move and create new flavors and combinations.

We will use only the best quality fish and seafood what we can get fresh from the sea. We will use the best cuts of meat the butcher can cut for us. We will use only carefully picked vegetables and herbs from the farms around us.

With this, we are creating a limited selection of products we can work with, but creating a very creative environment in the kitchen.

What is your current culinary inspiration?

Chef Jack on the line at Altamira Restaurant

In cooking and cuisine overall, what inspires me most are challenges. The more challenging, the more energy and inspiration I have which allows me to accomplish my ideas. I would love to build up our new restaurant concept and bring it to a Michelin level

What is your favorite Nayara dish?

I think my favorite dish will be served one day in our new restaurant…

What do you miss most about Estonian cooking?

Fishing with Grandfather Herman

There is this fantastic person in Estonia who has shown me the beauty of seafood, my grandfather Herman. His recipes are amazing. My favorite is salted whitefish with whipped butter and black bread!

When you’re not cooking, what do you like to do?

I love to spend time with my family, paint, and ride my motorcycle.

And that’s a wrap…

*All photos provided by Chef Jack. Follow him on Facebook at Popup Jack.

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El Silencio Lodge | Bajos del Toro Cloud Forest

Trout from El Silencio Lodge

El Silencio Lodge is the only hotel in Central America to be recognized as a Relais and Chateux destination, but the food was good long before the accolades started rolling in. The inventive menus make use of fresh, local ingredients to add an upscale polish to cloud forest dining. Foodies seeking a hands-on experience can pick vegetables from the organic garden and fish for trout in the on-site pond before handing it off to the chef for a gourmet presentation.

Try: Trout tartare, risotto a la minute

Harmony Hotel | Guiones Beach, Nicoya Peninsula

Perfect tuna casado at Harmony

In the land of surf and wellness, the food reflects the same; ‘surf’ in the form of insanely fresh seafood, and ‘wellness’ in the fresh, local fruits and natural ingredients. Harmony Hotel‘s seemingly simple dishes are surprisingly flavorful, especially the vegetarian options. It is hard to fully understand how great the food is until you’ve tasted it for yourself.

Try: Tuna casado, vegetarian green curry, sashimi

Andaz Papagayo Resort | Papagayo Peninsula

An adorable breakfast spread from our balcony at Andaz Papagayo Resort

Forget the buffets and head to a resort that doesn’t compromise your dining experience to serve the masses. The Andaz Papagayo Resort menu is as crafted as carefully as the rest of the artisan resort, bringing strong notes of Costa Rican culture stylishly onto your plate.

Try: Order the mouthwatering pork belly benedict and coconut French toast, and have it delivered right to your balcony for a bay-view breakfast.

Hotel Grano de Oro | San Jose City 

Hotel Grano de Oro pancakes with roasted bananas & caramelized macadamia nuts

Attention foodies: Fine dining does exist in the land of rice and beans. Just west of the Avenida Central in downtown San Jose, Grano de Oro is a mansion-turned-hotel and restaurant. You’ll find travelers seated alongside upper-crust Ticos, all enjoying refreshing cocktails and gourmet versions of local favorites. The open-air courtyard seating adds to the polished yet casual ambience.

Try: rabbit ravioli, macadamia-crusted sea bass, pancakes with roasted bananas and caramelized macadamia nuts

Lapa Rios Ecolodge | Puerto Jimenez

The catch of the day Fish Tacos and an Imperial beer at Lapa Rios Ecolodge

Despite its remote location, Lapa Rios Ecolodge has everything a foodie could crave in the Costa Rica rainforest.  This upscale eco-lodge doesn’t skimp on service and certainly not flavor. Flanked by the Pacific ocean and the Golfo Dulce, you can imagine the amount of fresh fish served daily. Dessert is a special event, too, with rich chocolate, coconut, and other tropical flavors serving as a tasty education of the region’s agricultural features.

Try: Chocolate Granita, ceviche, catch of the day

Hotel Finca Rosa Blanca | Heredia

You can’t visit Costa Rica without paying attention to its vibrant coffee culture. Even if you’re not a coffee drinker, you have to admire the care and craftsmanship that goes into preserving one of the country’s most celebrated delights. Hotel Finca Rosa Blanca has its own coffee plantation, so their dishes are noticeably java-inspired.

Try: Grilled chicken breast in Tamarindo coffee sauce, café con leche cake

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Villa Vanilla Spice Plantation

Harvesting cinnamon at Villa Vanilla Spice Plantation – photo from costarica.com

Villa Vanilla is a sustainable spice plantation near Manuel Antonio National Park. This certified organic plantation, surrounded by rainforest, grows essential oil plants and spices such as vanilla, cocoa, and ceylon (the true and rare) cinnamon. Discover the medicinal uses, ancient history, aroma, and flavors of Costa Rica.

Finca Rosa Blanca Coffee Plantation

Finca Rosa Blanca Coffee Plantation as seen in our Taste of Paradise vacation package

Finca Rosa Blanca is not only a coffee plantation, it’s also a hotel. Really immerse yourself in Costa Rican coffee culture with an overnight on the plantation. Learn how coffee is grown, cared for, harvested, and roasted to create your favorite morning beverage. Tastings are required (or they should be).

Mercadito & Olla de Carne (Beef Stew) at El Silencio Lodge

A local Costa Rican market

Get a taste of Costa Rica at the local markets on this gastro tour from El Silencio Lodge. Learn to prepare the traditional and hearty Olla de Carne or beef stew! Gather fresh ingredients at the market with your gastro guide, talk with local farmers, and prepare an authentically delicious Costa Rican meal. If you’re not staying at El Silencio Lodge, not to worry! Many hotels provide their own cooking classes and tours allowing guests to get acquainted with the many flavors of the region.

Chocolate Adventure

A Costa Rican cocoa bean

Did you know chocolate grows on trees? Discover the history and process of chocolate from the fields to the final bar. Snack on the scrumptious fruity pulp surrounding the cocoa bean before it is processed. And see what REAL chocolate tastes like after it’s processed.

El Trapiche Sugar Cane & Coffee Tour

Costa Rican sugar cane – photo from The Costa Rica News

The El Trapiche Sugar Cane & Coffee Gastro Tour can be arranged from the Monteverde Cloud Forest. Take a walk through the El Trapiche farm. Check out the sugar cane, coffee, plantains, bananas, tubers, and oranges. Learn the coffee production process, ride a traditional oxcart, and learn to make liquor and candy from sugar cane.

Coffee Scrubs, Chocolate Masks & Gallo Pinto Wraps

Chocolate face mask at Hotel Arenal Nayara

This is vacation, and there comes a point when the touring must stop. But that doesn’t mean you have to stop tantalizing your senses. Costa Rica is an organic and all natural haven. Schedule a rejuvenating spa treatment starring organic and local Costa Rican ingredients. Revel in regional flavors with a coffee scrub down or a chocolate face mask. The Andaz Papagayo Resort will even wrap you up in the ever-popular Gallo Pinto dish for a truly delicious spa experience.

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