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The Secret Life of Mamón Chino: From Farm to Fingers

The Secret Life of Mamón Chino: From Farm to Fingers

f you've ever driven through Costa Rica in July or August, chances are you've spotted roadside vendors standing behind huge piles of spiky red fruit. Maybe you bought a plastic bag of them, bit into the soft flesh, and smiled at the burst of tart-sweet flavour. That’s...

Seasonal Sips: July’s Best Tropical Cocktails

Seasonal Sips: July’s Best Tropical Cocktails

Local bartenders share drink recipes that balance sun, humidity, and beachside bliss. What makes a perfect July cocktail in the tropics? A great July cocktail should be cooling, fruity, and easy to sip under the sun. The best drinks in Costa Rica during this time...

The Dish That Smells Like Rain—and Tastes Like Childhood

The Dish That Smells Like Rain—and Tastes Like Childhood

Costa Rica’s Olla de Carne with Ñampi and Tacacos: A Bowl of Wet-Season Nostalgia When the first rains hit the Costa Rican countryside, something magical starts simmering in kitchens across the country. It’s not just food—it’s a memory steeped in steam and firewood....

Jungle Mushrooms—And the Chefs Who Can’t Get Enough

Jungle Mushrooms—And the Chefs Who Can’t Get Enough

Costa Rica’s Rainy-Season Fungi Frenzy, From Gourmet Delights to Glow-in-the-Dark Oddities When Costa Rica’s skies open and the forest floor turns spongy, something strange and wonderful begins to stir—mushrooms. Not the sad white ones in plastic wrap. We're talking...

Pejibaye: Costa Rica’s Nutrient-Packed Tropical Treasure

Pejibaye: Costa Rica’s Nutrient-Packed Tropical Treasure

Pejibaye, also known as peach palm fruit, is a staple in Costa Rica and much of Central and South America. This small, brightly colored fruit might not look like much at first glance, but it is packed with flavor, nutrients, and history. Whether you encounter it at a...

A Taste of Tradition: The Magic of Picadillo de Papa

A Taste of Tradition: The Magic of Picadillo de Papa

Picadillo de Papa – Savoury Potato Hash There are few dishes that capture the heart of Costa Rican home cooking like Picadillo de Papa. This comforting blend of potatoes, ground beef, and vegetables is more than just a meal—it’s a beloved tradition passed down through...

Pipas and Beyond: The Many Ways Costa Ricans Enjoy Coconut

Pipas and Beyond: The Many Ways Costa Ricans Enjoy Coconut

There’s nothing quite like the satisfying thwack of a machete splitting open a fresh green coconut under the warm Costa Rican sun. Locally known as pipa fría, fresh coconut water is more than just a refreshing drink—it’s an essential part of the culture, a natural...

Casado: The Ultimate Costa Rican Plate

Casado: The Ultimate Costa Rican Plate

If you’ve ever dined in Costa Rica, you’ve likely encountered the casado. This hearty dish is the ultimate representation of Costa Rican cuisine—a balanced, affordable, and flavorful meal that locals swear by. Whether you’re grabbing lunch at a small soda (a local...

A Guide to Costa Rica’s Most Unique Food Festivals

A Guide to Costa Rica’s Most Unique Food Festivals

Costa Rica is a paradise for food lovers. Beyond the picture-perfect beaches, lush jungles, and abundant wildlife, this small but mighty country knows how to celebrate its culinary heritage. From mouthwatering pejibaye festivals to grand coffee celebrations, every...