Between experiencing the pristine wilderness, white sand beaches and rich culture found on a tour of Costa Rica, travelers will undoubtedly get a little hungry along the way. With a mixture of island flavor and Central American influences, Costa Rican cuisine is truly one of a kind, combining the best of both culinary traditions. From steamy rondon soup to fried plantains, the food here is unlike any other in either the Caribbean or the Americas.
Here are some ideas for where you can eat in Costa Rica:
Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
Lonely Planet considers the charming town of Puerto Viejo de Talamanca one of the best sports to enjoy authentic Costa Rican dishes. Most restaurants serve up a delectable rondon - coconut milk soup filled with cassava, green bananas, fish and shrimp - as well as freshly grilled seafood cooked to perfection.
At Restaurante Elena Brown, you should order the pollo a la Elena, a unique take on chicken fajitas served with a spicy coconut milk sauce.
Playa Chiquita
After a long day at the beach, those on a Costa Rica tour should go to Jungle Love, a family owned restaurant that features comfort foods fit for any appetite. Because the temperature rarely dips below 70 degrees Fahrenheit, much of the seating at Jungle Love is outdoors, letting you feel as though you're eating in the middle of a Costa Rican rainforest.
Don't be afraid to try any of the tropical beverages, including the Jungle Love Milkshakes, pina coladas and watermelon daiquiris.
Boca Vieja
Considered a hidden gem among Costa Rica's seafood restaurants, Jiuberths Marisqueria is located just outside of Boca Vieja and features the homestyle cooking of a native fisherman and his wife. Few tourists know about this charming establishment, but locals are more than willing to scoot over to accommodate visitors happening on it for the first time. With large portions, travelers can head back to their tour bus with a full and happy belly.
Puerto Viejo
If you just want a quick cup of coffee or bite to eat, you can stop by Caribeans Cafe, which boasts a simple yet impressive breakfast menu and delicious line of Costa Rican coffee. You can also purchase a few bags of rich and decadent chocolate, which, next to the coffee, Caribeans Cafe is most known for.
