Dining in Costa Rica

Local Cuisine

Costa Rican cuisine is simple and relies heavily on rice, beans, and meats.  If you were expecting Mexican style fireworks, you’ll be sorely disappointed. The food is homey, wholesome, and decidedly mild. The use of oil is a little disconcerting at times, however; and just about everything that can be deep fried is – plantains, meats, and chicken.  Other than this, the food is pretty easy on the stomach.  Avoid being unnecessarily adventurous with your food on your medical tourism vacation.  Keep away from exclusive restaurants that have empty seats, and stick to the busy eateries that locals frequent. You’re more likely to find proper hygiene and quality.   

Rice and beans aren’t just popular during lunch and dinner; they are part of all three meals served through out the day. At breakfast, the rice and beans are drizzled with oil and tossed with onions.  At lunchtime, the same rice and beans dish is dressed up with meat, some fried plantains, and salad.  Dinners offer a little more creativity with meats, vegetables, rice, and beans being fused together in a wide variety of delicious dishes.  

For a country with such an extensive coastline, sea food doesn’t feature prominently on the menu. That’s because most of the catch is packed off for exports, and the little that ends up on dining tables in the country is exorbitantly priced. With an abundance of green pasture lands for cows to graze on, it’s no surprise that the meat of choice is prime beef.  If you’re not looking to be too adventurous on your Costa Rican medical tourism holiday, stick to beef steak.  

Coffee is the beverage of choice in this land of premium coffee exports.  Don't be surprised if the local coffee doesn’t meet your expectations, however.  Most of the best coffee, like the lobster, is exported.  Foreign beers are expensive, so stick to local varieties. 

International Cuisine