If you are planning a day trip to Poás Volcano National Park in Costa Rica, chances are you will be thinking about more than just volcanic craters, cloud forests, and scenic mountain roads. After breathing in crisp highland air and exploring one of Costa Rica’s most iconic volcanoes, you will almost certainly work up an appetite. That is when knowing the right place to eat near Poás Volcano can transform a good day into a truly memorable one.One restaurant consistently stands out among travelers and locals alike: Chubascos Restaurant, a charming, family-run, open-air eatery located approximately five miles south of Poás Volcano National Park, just as you begin descending the mountain. For more than fifteen years, Chubascos has quietly built a reputation for excellent food, fresh local ingredients, and an atmosphere that perfectly complements a highland Costa Rican adventure.
A Perfect Stop After Visiting Poás Volcano National Park
Poás Volcano National Park is one of the most visited national parks in Costa Rica, thanks to its accessibility from San José and its impressive crater views. Many visitors make the trip as a half-day excursion, which means lunch or a late breakfast becomes an important part of the itinerary.
Chubascos Restaurant is ideally positioned for this purpose. Located along the scenic mountain road, it feels like a hidden gem rather than a tourist trap. The restaurant’s rustic design blends naturally into the surrounding alpine forest, making it feel as though you’ve stepped into a peaceful countryside retreat rather than a roadside stop.
A Family-Run Costa Rican Restaurant with Deep Roots
One of the most appealing aspects of Chubascos Restaurant near Poás Volcano is that it is family owned and operated. In Costa Rica, family-run sodas and restaurants are often where you’ll find the most authentic flavors, and Chubascos is no exception.
Operating in the same location for over fifteen years, the restaurant has built strong relationships with local farmers and producers. This commitment to the community is reflected in the freshness of the ingredients and the care taken in every dish.
Open-Air Dining Surrounded by Alpine Forest
At an elevation of approximately 6,000 feet above sea level, the climate around Poás Volcano is noticeably cooler than the coastal or lowland regions of Costa Rica. Chubascos takes full advantage of this refreshing mountain climate with its open-air dining area.
Surrounded by lush greenery, flowering plants, and an alpine forest backdrop, the restaurant offers a tranquil atmosphere that encourages you to slow down and enjoy the moment. The cool, clean air is especially welcome after a morning spent hiking or sightseeing.
A Hummingbird Garden Experience
One of the restaurant’s most delightful features is its hummingbird garden. While enjoying your meal, you may see several species of hummingbirds darting among the flowers. This unexpected wildlife encounter adds to the magical feeling of dining at Chubascos and makes it a favorite stop for nature lovers and photographers.
Typical Costa Rican Food with a Mountain Twist
The menu at Chubascos Restaurant focuses on traditional Costa Rican cuisine, prepared simply but skillfully. These are comforting, familiar dishes made with care and quality ingredients—exactly what you want after a day of exploration.
The Classic Casada
I ordered a casada, which is Costa Rica’s most iconic lunch plate and a staple for locals. At Chubascos, the casada was beautifully presented and generously portioned. It included:
- Fried ripe plantains
- Picadillo de papa (seasoned potatoes)
- Shredded beef cooked until tender
- A fresh cabbage salad
- Homemade corn tortillas
Each component was flavorful, well seasoned, and clearly prepared fresh. The balance of textures and flavors made it one of the better casadas I’ve had in the Central Valley region.
Strawberry Specialties: A Regional Highlight
One thing that truly sets Chubascos Restaurant apart is its use of locally grown strawberries. The surrounding region is known for strawberry production, and Chubascos proudly showcases this local specialty in both drinks and desserts.
Fresas con Leche
A standout favorite is fresas con leche—fresh strawberries served in lightly sweetened milk or cream. Simple, refreshing, and nostalgic, this dish perfectly captures Costa Rican comfort food traditions.
Strawberry Desserts Worth the Stop Alone
For dessert, I couldn’t resist the cheesecake topped with fresh strawberries, and it did not disappoint. The strawberries were vibrant, juicy, and bursting with flavor, clearly picked at peak ripeness. The combination of cool mountain air and a sweet, fruity dessert made for a perfect ending to the meal.
Prices and Value for the Experience
While prices at Chubascos are slightly higher than at smaller roadside sodas, the quality, setting, and service justify the cost.
My total bill came to $18 USD, which included:
- The main meal
- Dessert
- Costa Rica’s 13% sales tax
- A 10% service tip
Considering the generous portions, excellent food, and unforgettable atmosphere, this represents good value—especially in a popular tourist region near a national park.
Extensive Menu Options for All Travelers
Chubascos Restaurant offers an extensive menu, making it suitable for a wide range of visitors. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with family, or in a small group, there is something for everyone.
Menu highlights typically include:
- Traditional Costa Rican breakfasts
- Casadas with different protein options
- Fresh fruit drinks and juices
- Homemade desserts
- Coffee grown in Costa Rica’s highlands
Vegetarian options are often available, and the staff is generally accommodating with special requests.
Why Chubascos Is Worth the Stop
There are many places to eat near Poás Volcano, but few offer the same combination of authentic food, natural beauty, and relaxed mountain atmosphere.
Reasons Travelers Love Chubascos:
- Convenient location near Poás Volcano National Park
- Family-run with consistent quality
- Fresh, locally sourced ingredients
- Strawberry specialties unique to the region
- Open-air dining with hummingbirds
- Cool mountain climate and peaceful surroundings
Travel Tips for Visiting Chubascos Restaurant
- Best time to visit: Late morning or early afternoon after visiting Poás Volcano
- Bring a light jacket: The elevation makes temperatures cool, especially on cloudy days
- Cash or card: Credit cards are generally accepted, but having cash is helpful
- Take your time: This is a place meant for relaxed dining, not rushing
Final Thoughts: A Memorable Dining Experience in Costa Rica’s Highlands
If you’re looking for a memorable place to eat near Poás Volcano National Park, Chubascos Restaurant deserves a spot on your itinerary. It captures everything travelers love about Costa Rica: fresh food, warm hospitality, stunning natural surroundings, and a slower, more mindful pace of life.
Whether you stop for a hearty casada, indulge in fresh strawberry desserts, or simply sip coffee while watching hummingbirds, Chubascos offers more than a meal—it offers a genuine Costa Rican experience.
