Costa Rica is one of Central America’s jewels, not only for its ecological wealth, but also for its unique art of living, epitomized by the expression “Pura Vida”.
In itself, it sums up the national philosophy of optimism and gratitude for life.
This article explores in depth the meaning of Pura Vida and invites you to discover the richness of Costa Rican traditional dishes, while introducing you to chefs and restaurants that are making their mark on national gastronomy.
Costa Rican culture is not limited to this beautiful philosophy; it is also expressed through a rich cuisine that is a true mirror of its identity.
According to the Costa Rican Institute of Tourism, around 70% of tourists visiting the country consider gastronomy to be a key element of their experience, a statement that resonates particularly in picturesque destinations such as national parks and along the Pacific coast.
The Pura Vida spirit: more than an expression, an art of living in Costa Rica
Origins and significance of this Costa Rican art form
“Pura Vida” is a philosophy of life that strongly influences the attitude of Costa Ricans.
Adopted from the 1950s Mexican film “¡Pura vida!”, this expression symbolizes a positive approach to life, an acceptance of circumstances and a movement towards happiness.
You’ll hear the term “Pura Vida” a lot during your stay in Costa Rica, as it permeates the social norms and behaviours of all the country’s inhabitants.
This is reflected in a strong sense of conviviality, a strong emphasis on community and family, and a typically Latin, slower pace of life that allows you to savor every moment.
This philosophy can be seen in the country’s commitment to conserving its biodiversity.
At the end of your trip, there’s a good chance you’ll take a bit of the Pura Vida spirit home with you!
Let’s move on to the pleasures of the table…
Costa Rican cuisine: a mirror of diversity and innovation
Main dishes and ingredients
Costa Rican chefs, ambassadors of Latin American cuisine, highlight local products such as rice, beans, vegetables and exotic fruits, combining tradition and modernity.
Costa Rica’s cuisine is simply a reflection of its rich biodiversity and mixed cultural heritage, reflected in the national parks and near volcanoes like Arenal, where nature and culture meet.
Here are a few emblematic dishes:
- Gallo Pinto: considered the national dish, it is an essential breakfast item, combining rice, black beans, coriander, onions and peppers.
- Casado: a dish based on white rice, black or red beans, meat, sautéed vegetables (picadillo) and green salad, is a perfect example of what Costa Ricans eat on a daily basis, offering a balance of protein, fiber and carbohydrates, with a touch of plátano maduro for sweetness.
- Sopa de Mariscos: a rich, spicy seafood soup that illustrates the abundant use of seafood.
Innovative chefs and cooks
- José González: this chef is revolutionizing the San José culinary scene by integrating modern techniques with traditional Costa Rican recipes in his “Tierra” restaurant.
- Keilor Naranjo, considered one of San José’s finest chefs, is head chef at L’Ile de France, where he keeps French 5 recipes alive.
Restaurants not to be missed
- Restaurante Silvestre: located in the historic heart of San José, this restaurant is famous for its innovative menu that revisits classic Costa Rican dishes.
- La Luz Restaurant & Bar: offers dishes inspired by Costa Rican culinary traditions, prepared with local seasonal produce.
Focus on Chef Pablo Bonilla: back to his roots
10 years ago, chef Pablo Bonilla made a bold decision that marked a turning point in his culinary career.
After classical training at a culinary school, he chose to return to his roots, to the culinary traditions of the indigenous peoples of his country, Costa Rica.
Commitment to indigenous communities
Pablo Bonilla is deeply involved with indigenous communities, learning from their wisdom and helping to preserve and pass on their rich culinary heritage.
“What I’ve done is get involved with indigenous communities (…) so that the gastronomic culture of these peoples doesn’t die and is passed on by chefs”,
The aim is to keep alive an essential part of Costa Rican history and culture.
“Sikwa: a sanctuary of ancestral flavours
In the heart of San José, the “Sikwa” restaurant, which means “food” in the indigenous language, is the embodiment of chef Pablo Bonilla’s vision. Here, no excess or artifice detracts from the authenticity of the dishes.
The restaurant stands out for its simplicity and use of local ingredients, bringing a touch of “home” to every plate.
Local ingredients at the heart of dishes
Every day, Sikwa’s menu is renewed with fresh produce from various regions of Costa Rica: fish from the Pacific, cocoa from the Caribbean coast, corn from the northern highlands, and bananas from the southern jungle.
Chef Bonilla uses indigenous ingredients such as cassava, pumpkins and corn, faithfully processed according to ancestral recipes.
Everyday culinary arts and crafts
The atmosphere in Sikwa’s kitchen is that of a culinary art studio, where traditions are perpetuated through gestures made tirelessly over centuries.
One clerk fills empanadas with a mixture of corn and plantains, ayote (a variety of pumpkin) and carrots, while another prepares homemade ice cream with roasted plantain and roasted cocoa.
Guanacaste Nights festival chefs
If you’re in Costa Rica during the Guanacaste Nights festival, be sure to go!
This event showcases a number of talented Costa Rican chefs who offer their interpretation of the country’s traditional cuisine.
Ready for the Pura Vida experience?
Costa Rica offers a captivating blend of culture and gastronomy.
Embracing “Pura Vida” means more than living stress-free; it means embracing life with gratitude, joy and satisfaction, which you’ll inevitably feel as you explore the local cuisine and come into contact with the locals.
Whether you’re enjoying a simple Gallo Pinto or an elaborate Casado, every bite brings you closer to the essence of this magnificent country. Visiting Costa Rica means opening yourself up to an experience that nourishes both body and mind.
