One of the most enjoyable parts of traveling to Costa Rica is discovering its food culture. Visitors often ask, “How much should I budget for meals?” or “Where do locals eat?” The answer to both questions is simple: eat at a Costa Rica soda.
A soda in Costa Rica has nothing to do with soft drinks. Instead, it refers to a small, family-run restaurant that serves traditional Costa Rican food at affordable prices. These establishments are found everywhere—from busy cities to quiet rural towns—and they offer visitors an authentic and satisfying dining experience.
What Is a Costa Rican Soda?
A Costa Rican soda is usually:
- Small and informal
- Family owned and operated
- Clean and welcoming
- Focused on local, home-style cooking
The food is often prepared by the women of the family using recipes passed down through generations. Décor is simple, tables may be close together, and the atmosphere is relaxed. This is where Costa Ricans—office workers, farmers, students, and families—eat their daily meals.
If you want to experience Costa Rica beyond tourist brochures, this is where you should eat.
The Best Thing to Order: La Casada
The most popular and recommended dish at a soda is the “casada”, also known as the plate of the day. A casada typically includes:
- A choice of meat (beef, chicken, pork, or fish)
- Rice
- Black beans
- Fresh vegetables
- Cabbage slaw
- Fried plantains
- Homemade tortillas
- A natural fresh fruit drink (refresco natural)
This balanced meal reflects the traditional Costa Rican diet—nutritious, filling, and made from fresh, locally grown ingredients. Prices are modest, making it one of the best values for eating out in Costa Rica.
Other Menu Items at Sodas
In addition to casadas, many sodas serve:
- Breakfast plates (eggs, gallo pinto, tortillas, cheese)
- Sandwiches
- Hamburgers and French fries
- Soups and stews
- Buffets during lunch hours
Buffets are common in local areas and offer excellent variety at very reasonable prices. You pay a flat fee and enjoy freshly prepared Costa Rican dishes.
Types of Restaurants in Costa Rica
While sodas are the least expensive and most authentic option, Costa Rica has a wide range of restaurants to suit every budget.
Moderately Priced Restaurants
These are locally owned and cater to both Costa Ricans and tourists.
- Average price: $10–$15 and up per meal
- Not including alcoholic beverages
- Good service and quality food
- Often serve a mix of Costa Rican and international dishes
Gourmet and Fine Dining
High-end restaurants, especially in San José and tourist hotspots, offer international cuisine and elegant service.
- Prices similar to the U.S. or Europe
- Extensive wine lists
- First-class presentation and atmosphere
Tourist Area Restaurants
Restaurants in high-tourism areas often charge more.
- Prices are higher for similar food
- Quality varies
- Convenience is the main advantage
When possible, walk a few blocks away from tourist centers to find better value and more authentic meals.
Fast Food in Costa Rica
Yes, Costa Rica has fast food chains:
- McDonald’s
- Burger King
- KFC
- Pizza Hut
- Taco Bell
Prices are similar to those in the United States. While convenient, fast food misses the opportunity to experience Costa Rica’s rich culinary culture.
Street Vendors: What to Watch For
Street food can be tempting, but caution is advised:
- Make sure food is well cooked
- Avoid raw vegetables and salads
- Peel fruit before eating
- Choose vendors with high customer turnover
While many street foods are safe, it’s best to be conservative, especially if you have a sensitive stomach.
What Is Costa Rican Food Like?
Costa Rican cuisine is:
- Mildly seasoned
- Not spicy like Mexican food
- Heavy on garlic and fresh herbs
- Focused on freshness and nutrition
Common Ingredients
- Rice and beans
- Fresh vegetables
- Tropical fruits
- Beef, pork, chicken
- Seafood along the coasts
Shrimp and lobster are available but expensive. Seafood is freshest near the Pacific and Caribbean coasts.
Fresh produce is grown close to the Central Valley, meaning vegetables often reach your plate within hours of harvest.
International Cuisine
Costa Rica’s tourism has brought global flavors to its cities and beach towns. You can find:
- Italian restaurants
- Chinese and Japanese food
- Mexican cuisine
- French cafés
- German and French bakeries
Freshly baked bread, pastries, and desserts are widely available and excellent.
Desserts in Costa Rica
Costa Rican desserts are simple and homemade:
- Rice pudding (arroz con leche)
- Coconut flan
- Tres leches cake
- Fresh fruit
Many sodas prepare desserts daily, and they are often included in buffet meals.
Drinking Water in Costa Rica
Costa Rica has excellent drinking water, sourced from mountain springs. In most areas, tap water is safe to drink.
However:
- Some travelers prefer bottled water
- Bottled water is widely available and inexpensive
Both options are fine—it’s a personal choice.
Alcoholic Beverages
Beer
Costa Rican beer is very good and affordable.
- Imperial is the most popular
- Light and refreshing
- Perfect for the tropical climate
Rum
Costa Rica produces its own rum.
- Good quality
- Milder than Cuban or Puerto Rican rum
- Widely available
Wine
Costa Rica does not produce wine due to unsuitable climate.
However:
- Wines from Chile are common
- Good quality at reasonable prices
- Imported wines from Europe and the U.S. are available
Service and Patience
One important cultural tip: service is slower than in the U.S.
Costa Ricans value:
- Conversation
- Relaxation
- Enjoying the moment
Meals are not rushed. Food is prepared fresh, and servers are not in a hurry. This is part of the culture, so bring patience and enjoy the slower pace.
Paying the Bill and Credit Cards
When paying by credit card:
- Keep all receipts
- Check the bill carefully
- Cross out any blank lines before signing
- Bills are in colones, Costa Rica’s currency
- Know the exchange rate to estimate your cost in dollars
Tipping and Sales Tax
Tipping is already included in Costa Rica.
- 10% service charge is automatically added
- 13% sales tax is also included and clearly shown
- You may add extra for exceptional service, but it is not required
This system avoids confusion and ensures fair wages for restaurant staff.
Final Thoughts
Eating in Costa Rica is more than just satisfying hunger—it’s an opportunity to experience the culture, people, and rhythm of daily life. From simple sodas to fine dining, the country offers something for every taste and budget.
To truly understand Costa Rica:
- Eat where locals eat
- Order a casada
- Take your time
- Enjoy the freshness and simplicity
Costa Rican food is wholesome, affordable, and prepared with care. Once you’ve eaten at a soda, you’ll understand why so many travelers return again and again—not just for the scenery, but for the food and the people.
Buen provecho! 🇨🇷