Costa Rica is known for fresh tropical fruit, seafood and grass fed beef.  Rice and beans are traditional staples, not just mixed together as they are in the national dish Gallo Pinto but also as ingredients and or sides in nearly every meal.

Ethnic restaurants (beyond pizzerias which have always been hugely popular) are starting to migrate out of the tourist areas and show up more frequently in the cities and the variety has grown rapidly over the past few years.

We’ve made up a little glossary of food terms in English to Spanish and Spanish to English versions and tried to give both names on the photos so you can start learning what you’ll need to know to order in restaurants.  Another great resource is the Typical Menu that gives you both an idea of what foods are traditionally available as well as what they are called.

We’re not too big on “selfie with meal” pics but I’m usually carrying a camera and sometimes plates come out that are just picture perfect.  Enjoy the photos of Costa Rican food.